Logistics and Delivery Communications
When you place an order for goods online, send a parcel through the post or send packages via a delivery service, the chances are it will be handled by one of the major delivery logistics services such as FedEx, UPS or DHL. These companies use a range of telecommunications systems and automated logistics processes to ensure your goods arrive swiftly at the correct location. Many of these systems allocate a code to each item, which is scanned at each stage of the sorting, packing, distribution and delivery process. This enables in-transit tracking of millions of individual items every day.
As a customer it is now often possible for you to log onto a logistics provider’s website and follow the progress of your order or delivery. The companies themselves also use this tracking information in order to improve their processes and ensure all items are delivered efficiently. This is possible due to the communications devices used at each stage of the delivery process. Every time the item is handled, it is scanned and logged onto a computer system enabling its progress to be monitored at every stage.
Handheld scanner terminals are used in the warehouses and distribution centers to log and record the items as they are prepared for dispatch. The trucks which collect from these dispatch points are also connected to the tracking system via antennae and GPS systems. There is often a central hub or distribution point from which the item is sorted for the best transport option. From there the item is delivered via road, air, rail or water to either its final destination or another hub from which it can be taken by truck to the doorstep. The delivery vehicle is tracked and when the item is handed over and signed as received the details will be scanned and sent to the central logistics systems to register delivery is complete.
These complex logistical processes are supported by a range of tracking and communications systems. Those systems rely on satellite, radio and microwave technologies to ensure the package arrives safely at its destination. Systems like this are used everyday to move goods around the world and are supported by a range of communication devices to send and receive signals from the scanners, on board GPS receivers and distribution center communications. At Bracke Manufacturing the products we supply such as coaxial cables, connectors, electrical adapters and other microwave components are essential in the assembly of these radio and microwave based communication systems. So when the delivery man calls at your door there have been millions of microwave components and parts used throughout the process which made that delivery possible.
