Artificial Intelligence Has Its Place In Cold Chain Logistics

Some may think that with an industry as physically intensive as cold chain logistics, digital tools like artificial intelligence couldn’t make much of an impact. The truth, however, is that AI, as it can in other industries, can make a big difference in the logistics chain if it is correctly applied. It may not be driving trucks soon, but it has other uses.

AI, with its ability to discern patterns and process huge amounts of data, can still play an important role, even if it’s not self-aware or can’t drive vehicles. Here’s how AI can help the industry.

Predictive Analysis

Software already fulfills an important role in “big data,” where large sets or collections of data are analyzed to discern patterns. AI can perform the same role but with a greater range of features, allowing it to make certain predictions about how logistics patterns will play out based on past precedents and data. So, if a major disruption to a shipping route is incoming, AI can provide a warning to help plan for alternatives ahead of time.

Inventory Management

Software can be essential for keeping track of what is in inventory and ensuring that it stays organized, with locations known and accessible. However, with AI, “demand forecasting,” a variant of predictive analysis, may also be in the cards.

With AI overseeing inventory management, not only are products more easily tracked throughout a journey or when stored in a warehouse, but also available supply can be cross-referenced with marketing data. This can help retailers and manufacturers get a more accurate picture of products that may rise or fall in demand and then respond appropriately in terms of product shipping or storage based on those demands.

Visual Damage Inspection

While this will require more technology investment, AI can be extremely useful in damage inspection and assessment. With a combination of surveillance cameras and a database of packaging, AI can do a quick visual inspection of any incoming freight and quickly surmise whether the packaging has been damaged and the contents compromised in cold chain logistics.

With a proper dataset, AI can conduct these inspections much faster than humans, with no need for breaks, ensuring that cargo is still in viable condition or, if not, allowing for the possibility of reporting so that a determination can be made about where and when it happened.

This and precautions, like efficient temperature-controlled shipping, can help protect pharmaceutical shipments. If you’d like to know more about protective temperature shipping, contact Protek Pharma with your questions.