As a result of Industry 4.0, we now encounter Logistics 4.0. Conducting logistics processes purely through physical means contradicts the principle of efficiency and reduces competitive advantage. Integrating these operations with technological infrastructure reduces many costs, accelerates processes, and simplifies tracking. This leads to increased efficiency, shorter delivery times, reduced workplace accidents, lower damage rates, and easier planning.

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF LOGISTICS 4.0

The table below illustrates the evolution of the logistics concept in stages. The first stage, Logistics 1.0, began with the invention of steam engines. Thanks to steam power, goods began to be transported gradually by ships and trains from one location to another. However, during this era, road transport remained the most effective method.

By the time we reach the age of Logistics 4.0, maritime transport forms the backbone. The computer-aided systems introduced with Logistics 3.0 laid the foundation for Logistics 4.0 applications. Advancing technology enables more accurate and efficient planning, while minimizing human intervention. This also prevents human-induced errors. The majority of the system is managed through the interpretation of historical and real-time data, processed by autonomous robots.

COMPONENTS OF LOGISTICS 4.0

So, what exactly is Logistics 4.0? To answer this question thoroughly, we must understand its components and their intended purposes. Technological developments such as the Internet of Things (IoT), 3D printers, augmented reality (AR), big data, and cloud computing all influence Logistics 4.0.

1. INTERNET OF THINGS AND LOGISTICS

The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a system that enables objects to communicate with each other. Each object generates data, which becomes the input for another. By analyzing the patterns among these data, system improvements can be made.

Since all kinds of objects can communicate through IoT, the need for human intervention is reduced.

In the near future, IoT will become the cornerstone of logistics. Managing all logistics processes—from supply to consumption, including storage, transportation, inventory management, handling, etc.—with IoT will define the future of logistics. All activities will be monitored simultaneously, and all influencing factors will be controllable. Additionally, performance can be measured in real-time.

Currently, RFID is the fundamental input technology for IoT. It enables communication and integration between physical and digital components in warehouses. Products can also be categorized according to specific attributes using RFID.

Although still limited today, we will soon see smart vehicles like driverless trucks, captainless ships, and pilotless planes thanks to IoT—once again redefining logistics.

2. BIG DATA AND LOGISTICS

Big data refers to the massive datasets gathered via people, the internet, or various systems. All data is digitized and stored. The greatest advantage of big data is facilitating real-time decision-making, as data is constantly updated and ready for analysis. This agility helps prevent major losses and capture opportunities.

Big data is also crucial for system improvement. It allows storing essential data and collecting real-time market insights. It minimizes error margins in long-term demand forecasts.

In logistics, one of the most significant benefits is enabling real-time route planning. Unlike traditional methods that rely on old data, big data uses current information to make dynamic plans—boosting efficiency and profitability.

ROUTE OPTIMIZATION WITH BIG DATA

Big data can monitor traffic lights, road closures, accidents, and congestion to determine the optimal route. It can even evaluate incoming job offers after a vehicle has already departed and incorporate them into the schedule if suitable. This saves time and fuel, enhancing efficiency.

Today, the world’s leading brands enhance their products, customer relations, productivity, and sales using big data. Experts state that this technology is still in its infancy. As data storage technology advances and the number of connected devices increases, big data will offer even more opportunities.

3. ROBOTS AND LOGISTICS

Robots have enabled efficient systems, particularly in warehousing and handling processes. However, these systems are still in early stages of logistics transformation. Current robots still require human operation. But with Industry 5.0, led by Japan, production without human labor has become possible in factories. Logistics is not far from this shift. In the future, we will increasingly witness logistics operations managed entirely by autonomous robots.

Warehouse Management and Autonomous Robots

Thanks to autonomous robots, warehousing operations can be conducted without human intervention, with minimal errors and maximum efficiency. The absence of human labor eliminates factors like shifts, breaks, and holidays. It also reduces workplace accidents and cuts lighting and climate control expenses. Error rates are significantly lower compared to human-involved processes.

With the help of sensors, inventory levels can be monitored. When stock levels fall below a certain threshold, robots can notify the central system.

4. 3D PRINTERS AND LOGISTICS

3D printers, already in use across fields such as healthcare and urban planning, are impacting the logistics industry as well. Easier production of customized products and reduced storage needs are prompting a rethinking of logistics planning.

5. CLOUD COMPUTING AND LOGISTICS

Cloud systems reduce the cost and labor of physically storing data. Thanks to this technology, we can store more data at lower costs and access it from anywhere.

IoT-based data requires large data pools for storage. Cloud computing provides the infrastructure for collecting and storing machine-generated data, while also helping address security concerns.

When we examine the technologies associated with Logistics 4.0, we see that they are interconnected. Robots contain IoT systems and generate data. This data is stored via cloud systems. The cloud-stored data is analyzed using big data technologies. 3D printer codes are also stored on the cloud. Logistics operations are evolving in a way that reduces the role of humans in the system. However, the extent of this transformation will depend on the growth of cloud technology and the processing power of big data.