Hubble Network and Reelables have partnered to launch the 'anywhere™' tracking system, which seeks to revolutionize air cargo visibility. Traditionally, cargo tracking has relied on fixed checkpoints where shipments are scanned. This new solution integrates Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) labels, a network of distributed gateways, and satellite connectivity to offer continuous tracking capabilities, even when shipments are not passing through conventional scanning points.
This innovation addresses a long-standing challenge in logistics: the 'blind spots' that occur between major tracking milestones. By continuously broadcasting their presence, the Bluetooth-enabled labels, once within range of a gateway, transmit data that can then be relayed via satellite, ensuring that location information is available more consistently.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this technology promises significant improvements in supply chain visibility. Enhanced real-time tracking can lead to better inventory management, proactive problem-solving for delays, and improved security. It may also reduce the need for manual checks and provide more accurate estimated times of arrival, ultimately boosting operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The continuous data flow could also aid in compliance and auditing processes by providing a more complete historical record of a shipment's journey.
While the article does not specify immediate next steps, the introduction of such a system suggests a trend towards greater digitalization and real-time data integration in air cargo logistics, potentially setting a new standard for shipment visibility.
