Strategies for Developing Logistics Centres: Technological Trends and Policy Implications

Abstract

Logistics centres are currently performing a key function in the development of countries through their ability to regulate goods, markets, and transport. This is shown by the infrastructure, cost, goods flow, and quality of logistical services provided by these centres. Nevertheless, in developing nations or regions with antiquated logistics infrastructure, conventional logistics centres seem to struggle to manage the volume of commodities passing through them, resulting in persistent congestion and an unsteady flow of goods inside these facilities. This issue poses a challenge to the progress of any nation. The emergence of new technology offers a potential avenue to solve the problems inherent in traditional logistics centres. Most prominently, four technologies (the Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Big Data and Cloud computing) are widely applied in traditional logistics centres. This work has conducted a thorough analysis and evaluation of these new technologies in relation to their respective functions and roles inside a logistics centre. Furthermore, this work proposes difficulties in applying new technologies to logistics centres related to issues such as science, energy, cost, or staff qualifications. Finally, future development directions, related to expanding policies in technological applications, or combining each country's policies for the logistics industry, are carefully discussed.