Not all IoT supply chain devices are created equal 

Internet of Things (IoT) solutions promise to enhance cargo visibility, compliance, and security throughout modern supply chains. These IoT-enabled devices enable shippers to continuously monitor the state and position of their in-transit goods. However, not all IoT supply chain devices are created equal, and having the wrong device can be worse than having none at all. This is why Overhaul rigorously vets devices to ensure they meet or exceed industry standards. 

How to choose the best IoT supply chain solution for your business 

When choosing your IoT systems, it’s important to determine whether a device meets your specific needs. Overhaul addresses this question through our innovative IoT Device Matrix. This strategic tool helps companies determine whether to adopt or avoid a solution. It not only considers the technical specifications of a device but also its performance in the field, the stability of the vendor’s platform, and logistical concerns related to the device. 

More specifically, we assess the following five categories:  

1. Hardware features: Are the physical and technical capabilities of the device up for the job? For example, if a company needs temperature sensing, can the device deliver? Sometimes, one device’s features will fit Company A’s needs while being insufficient for Company B.
2. Performance standards: Overhaul conducts testing to confirm that devices meet their advertised specifications and performance standards. A device might look promising but fail to deliver on those promises. We make sure each device does what it says while also meeting our expectations. 
3. Commercial viability: Is the device ready to go to market, and is it a financially feasible solution? If the device isn’t scalable, or if it only satisfies an incredibly niche need, it might not make sense to work with it.  
4. Platform integrations: Overhaul is device agnostic, meaning we can easily and quickly integrate with all devices. However, that doesn’t mean all devices can integrate with all other platforms. To prevent delays or lost insights, we ensure your current devices can work with the systems you need or else recommend ones that can. 
5. IoT productization: All devices should be ready for widespread deployment and use in commercial environments. This means ensuring that the proper support systems are in play and that the device complies with all necessary technical specifications. 

Each device receives a score based on the categories above. Said score then determines its placement within Overhaul’s IoT Device Matrix.  

A deeper dive into Overhaul’s IoT Device Matrix 

Along with the criteria above, Overhaul’s IoT Device Matrix is primarily concerned with three critical aspects:  

1. Connectivity – Connectivity refers to the communication between a device and a central server or platform. Good connectivity is important for sending real-time data from IoT sensors to decision-makers. Type of connectivity, reporting frequency, and how far the coverage extends are all important considerations. 
2. Real-time location tracking – Real-time tracking capabilities are crucial for maintaining visibility of assets throughout the supply chain. These capabilities help manage and optimize routes while enhancing the accountability of drivers and carriers.  
3. Environmental sensing capabilities – Environmental conditions can greatly affect supply chain operations, sometimes even rendering products unusable. Fortunately, various sensors can monitor these cargo conditions. Said sensors are critical for ensuring product quality, especially for sensitive goods like medicine, perishable foods, or electronics. Key sensor types include temperature, shock and vibration, and light exposure. 

By evaluating each device against these detailed criteria, Overhaul’s IoT Device Matrix ensures that the devices excel in providing the capabilities your business needs. Coupled with our intense testing processes, we’re enabling more efficient devices and real-time supply chain management.  

Our innovative approach to IoT testing 

Overhaul’s IoT device testing is an in-house and unbiased approach to investigating industry offerings that best meet our customers’ expectations. All IoT devices go through several rounds and types of testing to ensure they meet our high standards and 60 test benchmarks. These include:  

1. Bench Testing – Each IoT device undergoes a series of controlled bench tests. These tests confirm whether the technical specifications provided by the vendors hold true in a controlled environment. This initial testing phase is crucial as it verifies the foundational capabilities of the devices. 
2. Field Testing – Devices that pass the bench tests then move to the field testing phase. During this stage, the devices are tested in real-world scenarios to simulate actual operational conditions. More specifically, field tests focus on tracking and monitoring capabilities. They use various sensors and technologies to gather data on performance metrics crucial for supply chain operations. 
3. Comparative testing – During field testing, we’ll compare the new device’s capabilities with devices that are already approved and in use. This is invaluable for assessing performance under typical usage conditions. 

In 2024, Overhaul IoT engineers vetted over 130 devices. Of those devices, we adopted 18 into the production fleet of hardware. Should a device fail our test, we report that failure to the vendor. Rather than discard the device outright, it is our hope that we can collaborate and improve their IoT solutions.     

How Overhaul is changing the game for IoT in supply chains 

Overhaul’s IoT Device Matrix ensures that supply chain tracking technology works as intended. Better yet, it makes it easy to decide whether a device fits your specific needs.  

The Matrix uses data gathered over the last nine years to deliver accurate insights and suggestions. It also allows Overhaul to use various IoT vendors through a single platform to manage supply chain risk. And as new devices join the market, our Matrix will continue to update with new technology.   

By handling everything from device sourcing and deployment to the recycling of outdated equipment, Overhaul remains at the forefront of innovation in supply chain risk management. Our commitment to continuous improvement of IoT technologies sets us apart in the industry and ensures excellence in all our operations. 

IoT supply chain devices: only the start of our solutions 

Assessing, deploying, and managing IoT supply chain devices is a critical part of what Overhaul does. However, it’s only the start of how we help supply chains optimize their operations. From predictive insights to robust security measures against theft, Overhaul helps companies meet delivery times, exceed KPIs, and keep shipments secure. 

Learn how Overhaul is making a difference in supply chain logistics and risk management by reading our case studies. Then, reach out to our Sales team and schedule a demo today.