Smart Containers: Trend or Future Savior?

Smart containers are conventional shipping containers. They rely on Internet of Things (IoT) technology to provide real-time information to interested parties for decision-making.

• Sensors and tracking devices for the container.

• Communication Tools.

• Data Analytics Systems.

• Location: GPS tracking to accurately determine the container's position throughout its journey.

• Environmental Conditions: Measurement of temperature, humidity, pressure, or other factors that might affect the cargo's safety, which is particularly useful for transporting perishable goods.

• Security: Detecting unusual movements or unauthorized access, enhancing the container's security.

Internet of Things (IoT): Smart containers operate by installing self-powered sensors or IoT gateways. These gateways collect data and send it to a cloud-based platform. This provides accurate information to stakeholders, helping them make informed decisions.

• Cargo tracking: provides the ability to monitor the condition and location of containers in real-time and directly.

• Data analytics: helps save time and costs by accurately predicting when containers will reach their destinations.

• Maintenance: Early detection of issues such as temperature fluctuations helps avoid shipment damage.

• Security: Enhances security by preventing theft and ensuring compliance with agreed-upon regulatory standards.

• Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA): Using smart containers allows for an accurate ETA, which aids in managing other operations that occur when the shipment arrives at the port.

• Competitive Advantage: Smart containers offer valuable information that helps in optimizing and organizing logistics operations.

• Cost: Implementing smart containers may require a significant initial investment, including the installation of sensors, connectivity infrastructure, and data analytics systems.

• Security and Data Protection: Ensuring data privacy and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information is crucial for maintaining the integrity of smart container systems.

• Integration without Disruptions: Integrating smart containers with existing logistics infrastructure requires careful planning and coordination to avoid disruptions or malfunctions.

• Availability of Smart Ports: With the growing use of smart ports, the integration between smart containers and smart ports has become increasingly effective. This seamless connection between shipments and port infrastructure facilitates the tracking of cargo and links it with customs systems, the port, and industrial zones.

Maersk was among the first companies to adopt smart containers as an essential part of its logistics operations. The company equipped its fleet with more than 270,000 refrigerated containers (reefers) featuring Remote Container Management (RCM) technology, which helped improve the supply chain and increase the efficiency of logistics operations. This technology allows Maersk to monitor containers in real-time during transportation, protecting perishable goods and providing customers with comprehensive visibility of their shipments.

In 2023, Maersk continued to expand its fleet by ordering 14,800 new smart reefers, all equipped with RCM technology, to meet the growing customer demand for precise monitoring of their sensitive shipments during transport.

Adding to the 30,000 reefers acquired in 2015, the investments lower the average age of Maersk Line’s reefer fleet to 7.9 years. This is significantly below the industry average of 12 years, as recently reported by Drewry.

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