At large logistics operations such as PSA Singapore, truck resource optimization and intelligent automation now go hand-in-hand with sustainability mandates
In a large-scale logistics facility involving hundreds of goods vehicles, how can technology be used to optimize scheduling to maximize the efficiency of drivers and trucking resources?
At PSA Singapore — one of the world’s busiest ports in terms of container volume — decades of experience in managing trucking efficiency had reached a plateau even with constant modernization.
A further digital transformation was needed, which would be turn-key in implementation; not labor- or training- intensive; customizable and sustainability-focused.
The solution that fit these specifications was found: a cloud-based transport management solution with features like automated scheduling and asset pooling for truck drivers. The system allocates jobs to drivers based on their location, offering real-time optimization of routes and truck assignments. This not only minimizes empty runs (i.e., truck trips without any freight loaded onboard) , but also ensures that drivers are allocated jobs in proximity to their current location.
The solution improves overall transit and waiting times, drivers’ well-being and operational efficiency, while reducing carbon emission. Firms that adopted this solution have been able to demonstrate about 50% reduction in empty runs, which translates into an annual reduction of approximately 10m kilograms of carbon emissions in a year.
Said PSA’s Assistant Vice President, Community and Digital Solutions, Sriram Ramanujam, the solution has enabled the port to “consistently push the boundaries of technology and efficiency in port logistics” and the organization is we’re thrilled by the initial results that meet “the needs of Singapore’s trucking community and set the stage for a sustainable future, transforming the logistics industry into a well-connected and resilient hub.”
According to Deon Newman, Senior Vice President and General Manager (Asia-Pacific), HERE Technologies, the vendor for the cloud-based truck operations optimization solution: “This collaboration not only enhances operational efficiency but also positions PSA at the forefront of innovation.”
