The freight industry is looking for solutions to solve its capacity crisis and vast environmental impact. Drones, often referred to as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have seen a significant advancement in technology in recent years. The technology used within this machinery has stemmed from a concept into a reality. Several companies around the world are piloting drones for delivery services such as food and laundry.
Air freight has become a vital part of the supply chain because of its efficiency and ability to transport goods across the world. Drones offer a lightweight solution that is significantly more environmentally friendly than aircrafts. If drone manufacturers could construct a drone that is strong enough to carry cargo or even packages, the freight industry could completely shift its delivery methods.
According to CNBC News, a company in Spain is constructing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can undertake a range of tasks, from agricultural work and goods transport to firefighting, surveillance and search and rescue. This drone has the capability to carry over two tons of payload at a time. This means that drone freight could become a realistic solution to the shipping industry’s ongoing problems.
These drones are under trial in the United States as well. In fact, a company in Cincinnati, OH, is using drones to deliver packages weighing up to 10 pounds to the doorsteps of customers. This particular UAV costs only three cents per mile to operate and has a maximum speed of 50 miles per hour, according to FreightWaves. By utilizing drones, the freight industry can make cheaper, direct shipments to consumers.
SmartWay Transportation is a third-party logistics company based in Kansas City. To learn more about our shipping methods, check out our services page.