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Supply chain tracking is a key component of supply chain visibility. It allows shippers and 3PLs to monitor the movement of their shipments while in transit. By accessing real time location information, companies can reduce delays, preserve product integrity, and more generally improve supply chain operations. However, this track and trace system comes with several hurdles that shippers need to prepare for.
How does supply chain tracking work?
Supply chain trackers enable the real time tracking of goods, which in turn provides access to real time data. Shippers can track via ELD (electronic logging devices), telematics, carrier milestones, or GPS (global positioning systems). They can then identify delays and other threats that could prevent their cargo from arriving on time. As a result, they can make more informed decisions, prevent theft, improve efficiency, and better meet their goals.
Although integral to supply chain visibility, tracking the movement of shipments isn’t always easy. In fact, companies can face multiple difficulties when trying to determine their shipment’s location.
4 common hurdles for supply chain tracking
Inaccurate data and difficult integration
Supply chain data can help companies meet and improve KPIs, but only if that data is accurate and easy to access. Issues with software integration can make this process tedious or outright impossible by creating unnecessary silos and complications. Data inaccuracies, or lack of data, can cause further issues, which in turn can lead to delays or influence ineffective responses.
At Overhaul, our data is reliable, expansive, and easy to integrate across various devices. In fact, because we’re device and data agnostic, we can work with any and all systems. We’re also able to provide global, real-time supply chain insights wherever, whenever. Additionally, our all-in-one platform allows you to holistically analyze and improve your supply chain ecosystem.
Lackluster security
If a supply chain tracker alerts you to a delay, it could possibly be a security risk. In this case, you’ll need reliable support to quickly and decisively respond. Additionally, without proper security tools and protocols, track and trace devices can easily break or be stolen. Unfortunately, while many track and trace systems can alert users against risk, they’re unable to help them respond to it.
Overhaul’s risk monitoring platform can help you swiftly intervene against theft and other threats. Our law enforcement connections ensure quick support in cases of recovery, and our insurance provides financial security in worst-case scenarios. Additionally, we take a preventative approach to risk to help you spot threats in advance. This way, you can optimize your routes and better prepare your shipments so that they’ll safely arrive on time and in full.
Lack of scalability
An effective track and trace solution should be one that grows with your company. For example, if you plan to ship across various modes or regions in the future, your solution needs to be able to adapt. Unfortunately, many track and trace solutions may be geo-restricted or otherwise only provide the functionalities a company needs in the present. A good provider should always have one eye on the future and be ready to help your company evolve.
Overhaul utilizes global control towers and law enforcement connections around the world. We’re also able to support tracking across road, rail, ocean, and air. Should your operations and goals change, we’re able to offer the data and insights you need to scale your business.
Expensive upfront costs
Track and trace tools can be expensive, which sometimes prevents companies from investing in them. Unfortunately, failing to invest in these tools can result in even more expensive delays or disruptions. For this reason, a visibility provider must work with a company to offer support at an affordable price. They should also consider that company’s unique risks in order to establish their unique support solution.
To help reduce costs, Overhaul offers several tiers of support to help companies balance their security goals with their budgets. Before suggesting a solution, we’ll consider what products a company ships, what modes they use, where they ship, and several other factors. This way, the company is able to take advantage of our solution without breaking the bank. In turn, they’ll be better prepared to prevent costlier issues down the line.
Overhaul’s holistic approach to supply chain tracking
All companies benefit from enhanced track and trace capabilities. However, this is only one piece of the puzzle for effective supply chain management. Companies also need security and compliance support in order to safely and efficiently transport goods. With Overhaul’s holistic solution, that’s exactly what they get.
Overhaul offers in-depth, supply chain track and trace capabilities alongside risk management, compliance support, and optional insurance. From asset tracking to multimodal visibility, we’re able to enhance customer satisfaction while also ensuring KPIs are met. We can evolve and scale with your company regardless of budget, goals, or overall needs. In short, we’re the comprehensive, customizable solution to meet your supply chain tracking needs and beyond.
Learn more about why it’s critical to control your tracking device solution. And for more information about our risk and visibility offerings, check out Overhaul’s latest client success stories.
