Blog Post


Pairing blockchain and IoT to cut supply chain costs

Adapt Ideations • Oct 13, 2019

Many companies are now looking at ways to use emerging technology to their benefit such as increasing automation to cut levels of wastage and unnecessary operational costs.

Blockchain technology being a shared, distributed ledger allows users to collaborate and verify transactions. The technology has companies searching for ways to deploy it in their supply chains and save money. As emerging technology continues to grow, the technology is coming together like never before to enhance benefits and revolutionise the way business is done. 

Many companies are now looking at ways to use emerging technology to their benefit such as increasing automation to cut levels of wastage and unnecessary operational costs. Deloitte's survey on blockchain conducted in 2018 revealed that 53% of companies surveyed were exploring how blockchain can be used for their supply chain while 51% were exploring how IoT can be used with blockchain. Significantly in the U.S., 41% of respondents planned to spend $1 million or more on the technology in 2019, while this number is even higher in China sitting at 85%. 

Even though the pairing of these two technologies is still in its early days, the benefits are not going unnoticed. Such benefits include companies having one source of truth allowing partnerships to be strengthened while holding those accountable when delays or issues within the supply chain are experienced and greater transparency in their supply chain. By adopting blockchain in an IoT-enabled supply chain network, a global manufacturer and supplier could save hundreds of thousands due to inefficiencies identified and corrected. 

The use of IoT and blockchain-enabled devices, allows companies to be able to create a value loop allowing affected areas of the supply chain to be managed better. Sensors, for example, can allow warehouse managers to have a clear view of products and supplies coming and going through the warehouse. Significant insights can also be drawn from implementing these emerging technologies allowing companies to better understand seasonal supply chains and consumer behaviours. The rapid feedback in real-time allows companies to act on that knowledge, directing the right variety of certain products to consumers. Not only does the use of emerging technology increase the company’s recognition and brand compared with competitors, but it also offers demonstrably better results than do undifferentiated supply chains. 

There is no right or wrong way for companies to implement emerging technology into their supply chains. A variety of uses and benefits of these technologies are still being explored and will continue to as they are further developed. The transformations that IoT can bring open up a variety of possibilities for new improvements and allow companies to explore new paths to supply chain management.

Adapt Ideations helps companies to revolutionise by automating the supply chain in order to protect their assets. Our most recent addition to the market specifically designed for the bio-pharmaceutical and food & beverage industry helps companies keep track of their assets with the use of IoT principles and can integrate into a blockchain application using an API. The asset tracker significantly increases transparency anytime anywhere through its near real-time location tracking feature. The smart asset tracker also allows companies to keep track at each stage of the supply chain not only the location of such products, but also the temperature, and exposure to light and shock. With instant notifications and near real-time data relayed, managing the supply chain and logistics has never been easier.  

Contact us at Adapt Ideations at enquiries@adaptideations.com to find out more about revolutionising your supply chain. 

Powerful and reliable, asset tracking and monitoring solutions.

Innovative monitoring solutions for high-value & temperature-sensitive assets.

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Awards & Recognition


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Best Temperature Monitoring Solution Provider


Awarded by India Biologics & Vaccines Outstanding Industry Awards 2022

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Adapt Ideations Recognised As A Supply Chain Leader


by Alcott Global on Supplify's Supply Chain Tech Map 2.0

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Technology Excellence in Cold Chain


Awarded at the 15th ELSC Leadership Awards


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Temperature-controlled logistics is a crucial aspect of global supply chains, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. Maintaining the correct temperature during transportation is not just a logistical issue but also a critical factor in ensuring the safety and efficacy of life-saving vaccines and other temperature-sensitive products. As the demand for temperature-sensitive products like vaccines and biologics continues to surge, ensuring their safe transportation is paramount. Any deviation in temperature during transit can compromise the efficacy of these products, leading to significant financial losses and potential health risks. This blog delves into the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics, critical challenges faced in this sector, and groundbreaking innovations that address these challenges. With a focus on real-time monitoring through IoT solutions, we aim to showcase the advancements that contribute to the efficiency and compliance of global pharmaceutical supply chains. Evolution of Temperature-Controlled Logistics Temperature control has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last two decades. Stringent global regulations, customer demand for new temperature ranges, emerging markets with extreme temperatures, and the growing value of drugs like biologics have been essential driving forces. These factors have spurred the evolution of temperature-controlled logistics to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. The landscape of temperature-controlled logistics is evolving, thanks to technological advancements. Trends include the growing availability of prequalified shippers simplifying the validation process, sophisticated supply chain services, a rising interest in reusable packaging, and advances in temperature-monitoring technology. These innovations contribute to the industry's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment. Temperature-controlled logistics involves managing the flow of products through a cold chain. Divided into food and pharmaceutical sectors, the global market size of cold chain logistics is projected to grow significantly. From USD 242.39 billion in 2021 to USD 647.47 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.1%, the industry is expanding rapidly, reflecting its critical role in modern commerce. 3 Key Challenges in Temperature-Controlled Logistics Compliance Issues Stringent Regulatory Standards: Global temperature-controlled logistics operates within a framework of strict regulations set by health and safety authorities. Meeting diverse regulatory requirements across international borders poses a significant challenge for companies in this sector. Documentation & Reporting: Compliance involves meticulous documentation and reporting of temperature-sensitive shipments. Keeping up with the evolving documentation standards requires streamlined processes and robust systems. Validation & Qualification: Ensuring the validation and qualification of equipment and processes according to regulatory standards is an ongoing challenge. The need for continuous validation adds complexity and time constraints to logistics operations. Risks of Temperature Deviations Product Integrity: Temperature-sensitive products, especially pharmaceuticals and biologics, are highly susceptible to temperature deviations. Even brief exposure to temperature breaches during transit can compromise the integrity and efficacy of these products. Financial Implications: Temperature deviations can lead to significant financial losses for companies. Replacing or disposing of compromised products and potential legal repercussions contribute to financial challenges. Supply Chain Disruptions: Temperature deviations can disrupt the entire supply chain, leading to delays in product availability. This not only affects businesses but can have critical implications for healthcare providers and patients relying on timely access to medications. Security & Theft Concerns Value of Cargo: Temperature-sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and high-value perishable goods, can become a target for theft. The significant value of these products heightens security concerns throughout the supply chain. Vulnerability During Transit: The vulnerability of cargo during transit, particularly in unsecured areas, poses a constant risk. The potential for theft during transportation adds complexity to securing temperature-controlled shipments. Need for Tracking & Monitoring: Ensuring the security of temperature-sensitive cargo requires robust tracking and monitoring systems. Integrating security features, such as real-time location tracking and tamper-evident technologies, is essential to mitigate theft risks. In navigating the intricate landscape of temperature-controlled logistics, companies must address these multifaceted challenges to uphold compliance, safeguard product integrity, and ensure the security of valuable shipments. Innovative solutions, such as advanced monitoring technologies and comprehensive security measures, are crucial in overcoming these challenges and fostering a resilient and efficient supply chain.
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