Transport, one of the main branches of logistics, is used to make products available on time where there is potential demand.
Moving the largest number of goods for the least possible cost and time is the central idea of ??logistics, which, if strategically worked, can guarantee the maintenance and even the prosperity of the company in the market. But all the advancement in technology has not yet replaced the need to transport goods to customers.
Looking carefully at transport logistics, therefore, can make the difference between success and failure for organizations. After all, freight transport represents the largest share of logistics costs for most of them, around 60% of expenses, which, in some cases, can translate into two or three times the profit of a company.
What is transport logistics?
Transport logistics is the branch of logistics responsible for defining the best modal to transport a certain amount of goods safely at the lowest cost and time, be it rail, air, road, waterway and pipeline (via pipelines).
For more efficiency in this operation, becoming a competitive differential, companies constantly invest in information technology, aiming to improve the planning and control of operations in the search for intermodal solutions that reduce costs.
Transport logistics also contribute to building a positive image of the company towards its customers, favoring the loyalty process by enabling fast and safe deliveries.
The challenges of transport logistics in Brazil
There is no doubt that the choice of modal can affect logistics performance. Therefore, it is the job of transport logistics to ensure that the chosen modal or multimodals reduce distribution costs and improve profit margins. However, the predominance of road transport in the country leaves companies at the mercy of the lack of infrastructure and road safety.
To circumvent these obstacles, many companies opt for distribution centers in strategic regions, close to customers. In addition, they use routing tools and tracking applications to optimize operations. Integrated software or outsourced services can also bring great business results.
Another way to improve performance is to choose modes according to the company's transport logistics strategy. For faster deliveries, air transport is the solution, albeit at higher costs. The mining market, for example, is better adapted to rail transport. The maritime modality, on the other hand, helps with exports and imports, and the goods reach the most remote regions via rivers.
Whatever the modal chosen for distribution, it is important that the company has efficient control of its fleet. For this, it is necessary to have a qualified management, with updated knowledge about transport, in addition to a permanent care with the safety of the fleet, the transported goods and the operators. There is also a need for continuous updating and qualification of those responsible for each stage of the logistics process.
Thus, transport logistics is, in short, one of the main activities linked to the supply chain. If well planned and with good investments, it makes it possible to follow the entire path of a product, from shipping to delivery to the buyer, which brings more security to companies and contributes to a great relationship of trust with the customer.
