Here at Tudor International Freight, we’re constantly looking at ways to improve our shipping services, make them more efficient, and hasten our deliveries across the world.
Often these improvements are supported with new technology featured in every step of the delivery process.
In this article, we’ll take a look at why shipping and forwarding is about to get even better, and how this will help every one of our clients and customers:
The future of sea freight shipping
Now more than ever we’re hearing about the wonders of automation.
From cars, right through to customer service in bars and restaurants, it seems like everything is becoming automated, and cargo ships are no different.
Only this year, Norway opened to areas for the testing of autonomous vessels, with Finland also opening testing areas in the summer.
The UK is also looking to move forward with automated vessels and launched its first unmanned vessel late in 2017.
The idea of autonomous ships is not a new one, but with much testing, scientists are hoping to increase safety standards and reduce the risk of human error for a better shipping industry for all.
Virtual reality
Although we usually associate virtual reality with computer games and movies, we’re seeing more companies in the sea freight industry take to virtual reality for engineering, training, and inspection tasks.
Virtual reality software has already helped the maritime industry adapt new learning strategies and some companies have already installed full mission simulators for training in places such as engine rooms.
Cloud technology
Cloud technology is gaining an increased presence in a range of industries and is currently being introduced to shipping companies, allowing for secure and easy data access, regardless of time and location.
Already implemented in 69 per cent of UK businesses, we’re seeing more and more companies incorporate cloudless technology in an effort to improve communication between vessels and home, save costs, and prevent data loss.
3D printing
Otherwise known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing is looking to reshape the industry as we know it.
Currently finding use in automotive and aircraft-manufacturing industries, 3D printing allows for lightweight parts and the shortening of manufacturing times.
The US Navy has already started testing 3D printing on its ships to evaluate the potential of spare parts for breakdowns and mechanical issues.
It is hoped that such devices will make their way onto shipping containers, with spare parts being instantly available in the unlikely event of a breakdown.
Alternative fuels
Currently, 80 per cent of trade utilises shipping to transport goods to and from different countries.
Despite only contributing around 2.5 per cent of global greenhouse emissions, companies throughout the industry are looking to cleaner and more efficient fuels.
Many shipping companies for example, are turning to LNG, which leads to a reduction in local particle emissions and other pollutants as it contains the lowest CO2 emissions per unit of energy.
Do you have any questions about sea freight shipping or the future of the industry? Check out our FAQ page, or contact us here.