Logistics automation with Open Gateway: Processes and solutions

Efficiency is essential for success in the world of logistics and transport. Companies in this sector are constantly looking for ways to optimise their operations, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction. Therefore, logistics automation is paramount to achieve these objectives and to gain significant advantages in this market.  
  
With Telefónica Open Gateway, we seek to contribute to the development of the network and provide solutions for the transport and logistics sector, as well as for many others. It is an initiative that transforms telecommunications networks into platforms and enables the creation of digital services that are optimised and adapted to the needs of today. Do you want to know some of the ways the initiative enables logistics process automation in your company?  

Automation in logistics and transport has evolved considerably in recent years, driven by various technological advances and the need to improve operational efficiency. Among the most prominent solutions are Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), software that helps companies manage and control daily warehouse operations. This allows for proper monitoring from the moment goods and materials enter a distribution centre until they leave. They provide real-time visibility of all inventory and are a key component of supply management for any business.  
  
Transport Management Systems (TMS) also play a crucial role in automation, enabling companies to plan, execute and optimise the movement of goods. As such, it helps ensure on-time delivery of goods, tracking freight between local and global routes. Previously time-consuming tasks such as trade compliance documentation and freight invoicing are automated. By integrating with other systems such as WMS and ERP, a TMS provides complete supply chain visibility, optimising routes and reducing transport costs.   
  
Another significant development is the use of robotics in warehouses. A growing number of companies are using autonomous robots to manage warehousing and picking, speeding up order picking times and reducing labour costs. In addition, autonomous vehicles are emerging as a viable solution in freight transport, using artificial intelligence technologies and advanced sensors to operate without a driver. Drones and aerial deliveries are emerging as viable solutions for fast parcel delivery, especially in densely populated urban areas and remote locations. This type of autonomous delivery enables shorter delivery times, especially in congested environments, and increases operational efficiency.  

By adopting advanced technologies and innovative solutions, companies can improve the accuracy, speed and quality of their operations. At Telefónica, we are committed to providing tools and solutions that help companies meet these challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that automation offers. Open Gateway APIs are an example of how technology can transform the logistics sector, giving companies the tools they need to innovate and grow.  
   
Ensured connectivity  
  
By integrating the QoD Mobile API, transport and logistics companies can roll out new services with advanced network capabilities, in terms of availability, security or performance. The API provides the ability to interact with the network in real time and trigger a high-performance boost if needed.  
  
This API is useful for monitoring the company's fleet of vehicles when they are on the road, in the air or at sea making deliveries. When in highly congested locations where the antenna signal is not the best, the QoD Mobile API can prevent disconnection with the central station. This becomes even more important when it comes to drones or other autonomous transport.   
   
Location verification  
  
The Device Location Verification API is also very useful in these situations, as it allows to verify whether a SIM-based device is within a requested geographic area, ensuring that vehicles are where they are supposed to be.   
  
With the API, vehicle routes can be optimised, tracked and managed in a more agile and secure way, avoiding manipulation of GPS information. This translates into greater efficiency in fleet management, increased safety in vehicle management and ensuring the integrity of deliveries.   
  
Risk planning  
  
With the latest Population Density Data API from the Telefónica Open Gateway catalogue, it is possible to obtain dynamic information on population density in a specific area and at a specific time. The number of people at risk on a given drone route is identified and early assessments are made on the ground.   
  
In addition, this API provides advanced capabilities to quickly detect unexpected concentrations of people. Operators can be alerted on the spot and select a more suitable alternative route. In this way, drones can fly their flight routes safely and avoid any mishaps along the way.  

At Telefónica Open Gateway, we are committed to innovation and supporting companies in the logistics and transport sector. Developers and companies can have the tools they need to deliver new digital solutions through our programmes.   
    
To begin with, we have the Partner Program, which offers the opportunity to collaborate directly with the Telefónica Open Gateway team. This programme makes it possible to create and offer new services designed for a wide range of sectors and applications. As we have seen, the use of APIs can unlock the potential of the network, boost business and enrich the user experience. To join and benefit from its advantages, it is necessary to sign up for the Partner Program.     
  
On the other hand, we have our own experimentation space for developers. This is the Developer Hub and offers the opportunity to explore the various APIs of the project and validate your own ideas, such as use cases. It also provides exclusive benefits and technical resources for further learning about the project. Registration is completely free and you do not need to be an experienced developer. Join now and enjoy all its benefits.  
  
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