Five Emerging Technologies Accelerating Supply Chain Digitalization in 2022

Ever-evolving technology is transforming supply chain operations at a rapid pace. At DHL Supply Chain, we work closely with established and emerging technology companies and apply a proven, systematic approach to evaluate and implement innovative solutions. Below are five supply chain technologies that are primed to deliver value for our customers in 2022.

1.) Indoor Robotic Transport
Our forklifts drive an estimated 25 million miles per year. Therefore, indoor robotic transport solutions, which include autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), provide great opportunity for automation in the warehouse. Autonomous forklifts have the capability to be used anywhere manual forklifts move pallets through a facility, using robotics technology to increase efficiency, achieve greater reliability and enhance labor utilization.

In 2021, we announced our first North American deployment of autonomous forklifts in the warehouse. This installation of autonomous forklifts has increased operational efficiency, accuracy and safety of double-deep pallet putaway and retrieval tasks without requiring any significant changes to our infrastructure. It represents a significant step in DHL Supply Chain’s efforts to accelerate the deployment of indoor robotic transport in its more than 2,200 warehouses worldwide.

2.) Wearable Devices
Wearable technology such as glasses and ring scanners are being used commercially in many warehouses around the world. Use cases range from glasses using augmented reality to enhance equipment service calls to hands-free devices providing audible and visual cues/directions to help workers perform picks faster and safer.

At DHL Supply Chain, smart glasses have become a standard feature with today’s workforce, supporting the vision picking process in warehouse operations in most geographical regions. Augmented reality in the warehouse is driving a more accurate, productive and efficient picking process. The user-friendly and intuitive, hands-free picking process provides a positive experience and high approval ratings among employees.

3.) Data Analytics
Data Analytics is quickly becoming commonplace in the business world. In logistics, artificial intelligence is critical in solving some of the most complex operational challenges. We are seeing a growing number of use cases where machine learning algorithms are used to improve operational efficiency, including predictive analytics, order picking enhancement, slotting optimization, resource planning and inventory cycle counts.

For instance, we are using advanced machine learning algorithms to reduce error rates associated with cycle counts. This cycle count predictive model has proven to ensure actual inventory counts match what is listed in the system.

4.) Robot-Assisted Picking
Robot-assisted picking has been in wide-scale production since 2018 to assist order picking of quantities less than a case, primarily in eCommerce and omni-channel fulfillment. Robotics technology has since reached levels in strength, speed and precision that can surpass purely manual human productivity. Also, with improved sensors and machine learning, robots have been able to work closer with associates, minimizing the safety buffer and enabling more collaborative work.

We continue to expand our partnership with Locus Robotics and the global deployment of the company’s LocusBots to drive efficiency in our picking operations. In early 2022, we announced a multi-year agreement with Boston Dynamics in which we will invest $15 million to equip our facilities with its Stretch® mobile robot to automate case-moving tasks, beginning with the trailer unloading process.

5.) Asset Tracking & Monitoring
More supply chain managers are beginning to understand that nothing short of end-to-end supply chain visibility – from the supplier, through the distribution center, to the end destination – will provide the agility needed to deal with unforeseen risks and unexpected disruptions. One of the most common examples of this greater visibility is shipment tracking. However, while this is the most consumer-facing piece of the puzzle, it is just one aspect of achieving complete visibility.

The proprietary MySupplyChain portal from DHL Supply Chain brings together data from various platforms to provide visibility and highlight the data needed to reach objectives and achieve a complete view of the supply chain. The platform allows customers access to track-and-trace data, inventory, operational performance and reporting, business analytics, customer service and more to identify insights that drive continuous improvement and competitive advantage.

Automation and digital technology represent the next frontier in supply chain optimization. At DHL Supply Chain, we continually assess and deploy a variety of cutting-edge, leading technologies to integrate best-in-class robotics and software solutions supported by data analytics.

Learn more about DHL Supply Chain’s commitment to accelerating digitalization across the supply chain here.

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