Nick Fryer, Vice President of Marketing,
Sheer Logistics, explores which trends are set to have the biggest impact.

The chemical logistics industry is set to experience major growth from 2024 to 2025, with a key driver being the implementation of cutting-edge technology. From better safety practices to improved sustainability and visibility, the future of chemical logistics has never been more innovative.

Green innovations

Greener chemical transportation solutions have been linked with improved supply chain competitiveness and it’s these innovations that are leading the charge:

Alternative Fuels: The use of bio-fuels such as renewable diesel and ethanol is set to become far more widespread. Alongside electric vehicles, this is one of the most significant ways the chemical transport industry is working to cut carbon emissions.

Supply Chain Optimisation: Achieving success through logistics optimisation isn’t just about financial gains but also about sustainability. Route, load, and carrier optimisation technologies are helping to reduce fuel usage in the chemical industry, thereby limiting negative environmental impact.

AI-Powered Predictive Analytics: The implementation of AI in predictive analytics allows chemical transportation firms to forecast demand more accurately, optimise inventory levels, and plan routes that reduce fuel consumption. This smarter, data-driven approach not only cuts costs but also supports sustainability efforts.

Handling hazardous materials

Safety is yet another area where new technology and approaches are transforming chemical logistics:

VR Training: The advantage that virtual reality training offers over traditional safety training is that it allows chemical transport staff to practice handling hazardous materials while in a controlled environment. Simulations can also be run on how to respond if there’s a spill or equipment is damaged, making staff that much more prepared and more likely to maintain safety protocols under pressure. The level of participation that VR offers also means far better retention of safety information than what you’d see with traditional safety demos.

Automated Handling Systems: Robotics are fast becoming the future of chemical transport safety. They’re being used primarily for safer loading and unloading of hazardous chemicals, removing much of the risk that comes with performing these tasks manually. Mistakes are less frequent with robotics, as is the chance of accidental chemical exposure for humans.

Predictive Analytics: While the above are physical tech interventions, predictive analytics is all about data. Much of the risk in handling hazardous materials can be attributed to the failure of recognising early warning signs. Predictive analytics, however, empowers companies to spot potential issues before they become crises and take better precautions as a result.

Real-time tracking and visibility solutions

Chemical supply chain visibility has never been better and it’s all thanks to the use of real-time tracking:

GPS Tracking: It’s a relatively simple piece of technology compared to robotic handling systems, but accurate, real-time GPS tracking has ensured that shipments are properly traceable and that entire supply chains are more visible. This in turn has allowed for stronger routing and scheduling software and is supplying the data needed to make supply chain optimization so effective.

IoT: When placed on machinery, IoT sensors ensure that machinery in the chemical transport supply chain is far easier to track in terms of operational efficiency. They can help flag breakdowns and risk factors before damage or delays occur.

RFID Tags: The fear with transporting many hazardous chemicals is that a temperature shift can alter their state and make them more dangerous. RFID tags can be used to track temperature changes, etc. so that the conditions of a shipment are monitored just as accurately as its location.

The level of data and insight the above technologies provide ensures that every step of the chemical supply chain is traceable and visible. That, in turn, ensures more informed decision-making and supports even further innovations.

About the Author:

Nick Fryer has over a decade of experience in the logistics industry, spanning marketing, public relations, sales enablement, M&A and more at 3PLs and 4PLs including AFN Logistics, GlobalTranz, and Sheer Logistics.