With Amazon and online shopping, the world has become increasingly reliant on a globalized supply chain. But when most of us think of overseas shipping and ports, we still envision it as old-school and out of date. That's because much of the technology used in ports hasn't changed over the years. But that doesn't mean they can't modernize. And queue management software is a great place to start.
With many trucks trying to access ports at the same time, it can get very busy. Some can see upwards of 1,000 trucks moving through the terminal per day. Trying to schedule time slots that work for them to pick up their loads can also be difficult - traffic can get in the way and severely delay or speed up their drive. Without an easy way to schedule their pickups, terminals can get congested, which decreases productivity and increases wait times.
Queue management systems, like QLESS, can help terminals deploy vehicle booking systems. By implementing this software, which can easily be accessed through mobile devices, drivers can schedule their time in the terminal. If the terminal is full, the driver can wait off-site, allowing them to turn off their engine and reduce congestion in the area. As shipments are fulfilled, the terminal employees can let the line management system know that capacity is available to let in more drivers. In order that they checked in, drivers will receive notifications on when they are able to enter the terminal, as well as updates as their turn approaches.
There are many customizable options available. For example, one QLESS client implemented a video wall in the waiting area. When it's their turn, the driver's name will appear on the board and they'll know that the terminal is ready for their arrival. This allows for a completely hands-free approach to queue management.
By reducing congestion in the terminal, QLESS clients have seen immense improvements through queue management software. For one, it can actually decrease wait times and increase productivity. Without congestion, trucks are able to quickly move through the terminal and receive their shipments. Employees at the port can concentrate on the task at hand, instead of worrying about the capacity of the terminal. They can even prepare for the trucks in advance, as they have a list of who has arrived, who is waiting and who will be next.
It also has immense environmental benefits. Before, trucks would idle as they waited in the long, congested lines. With a queue management system in place, they can easily pull over to a designated waiting space and turn off their engines. This greatly reduces the amount of carbon emissions released by the idling trucks.
For the terminal itself, using a software for queue management can also allow them greater access to data and information. It can help them track the number of trucks that move through the terminal each day, the number of shipments received or sent out, and the time it takes to process each truck. With new data and insights available, they can better manage shipments.
Modernizing the logistics industry isn't complicated. Simple solutions like line management software can go a long way to helping the environment, the employees and the industry. They're easy to implement and use which makes them the perfect first step toward modernization. And with many customizable aspects, terminals can get the perfect solution to meet their needs.
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