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Transport and logistics visibility with eSIM IoT.
Charlie Harrisson The transport and logistics industry is witnessing growth in Internet of Things (IoT)solutions as more devices are connected and linked to the cloud. Digitalization through smart sensors enables organizations to track physical assets, optimize traffic routes and increase efficiency in logistical operations on a global scale.
Cellular IoT devices provide real-time visibility across the supply chain, allowing for constant product status monitoring and proactive decision-making, improving supply chain operations. The data generated from connected devices holds immense potential that is only now starting to be recognized due to evolving connectivity options, including broader access to low-power wide access (LPWAN) technologies.
IoT security as standard
Embedded SIM (eSIM) and Integrated SIM (iSIM) are perfectly suited to user-centric asset-tracking systems that benefit from secure cellular connectivity. Both technologies enable trusted firmware and software updates over the air to ensure the device’s integrity. This ensures supply chain data is trustworthy and reliable, which improves distribution, inventory stock, and accurate forecasting.
Smart and secure connectivity
IoT devices combined with asset management software track raw materials on vehicles such as container ships, which can securely transmit vital data through embedded SIM (eSIM) or integrated SIM (iSIM) to a web-based asset-tracking platform. By strategically placing discrete trackers within crates and pallets, goods can be efficiently monitored.
The secure data exchange of interconnected devices is evolving rapidly, with connected tracking sensors ensuring high visibility of supply chain operations globally. eSIM can store multiple network operator profiles that are remotely provisioned, switch carriers, and receive firmware updates over the air (OTA).
Benefits of using eSIM IoT technology for tracking and managing assets
Improves operational visibility of assets
Cars, vans, e-bikes, and e-scooters availability can be shared with users, so they know exactly which assets are available for use, and OEMs can monitor equipment to increase efficiency through process automation.
Supply chain traceability for sensitive cargo
Sensitive cargo can be monitored with smart IoT sensors, which provide real-time insights, including pressure, humidity, temperature, and location. This avoids spoilage and ensures the integrity of sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceuticals and perishables.
Regulatory transportation compliance of goods
Asset owners in regulated industries can prove that their assets are not being used illegally or in an unsafe way through automated alerts in the event of intrusion or tampering by providing accurate traceability data.
Reduces production lead times for OEMs
IoT-enabled sensors allow supply chain managers to identify emerging trends with predictive insights. This could lead to adjustments in production volumes, optimization of inventory levels, or improvements in distribution routes.
eSIM advocacy in transport and logistics
The transport and logistics industry has been a keen advocate of eSIM; 45% of transport and logistics respondents with a current cellular IoT deployment reported using eSIM, as quoted in the Enterprise Cellular IoT Survey 2023 from Kaleido Intelligence. The main reason for adopting eSIM is to avoid operator lock-in, with 69% of users reporting this as the reason for their usage. A reduction in SKU count is close behind at 66%.
eSIM enables a rich set of IoT capabilities and is fast becoming the form factor of choice for module makers looking to instill a root of trust in asset-tracking devices with robust, scalable chip-to-cloud security. Its compact size and ability to operate in low-power devices allow it to be deployed in large quantities worldwide.
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Localized data with remote SIM provisioning
Cellular IoT devices with eSIM can be used everywhere, managed via remote SIM provisioning (RSP). This can change the network profile remotely if an asset moves to another region on a different network.
Using Kigen’s eSIM and remote SIM provisioning (RSP) solution allows cellular connectivity with a domestic network instead of relying on roaming services with higher charges. Even modest monthly savings over the device’s lifespan can more than makeup for the upfront and occasional costs incurred from IMSI switching.
A leading edge in cold chain logistics
Certain goods require critical storage conditions. This is possible through networks comprising small sensors that can be easily deployed at any required scale to monitor and regulate factors such as temperature, air quality, humidity, lighting, and pressure.
IoT tracking devices ensure their quality is maintained and benefit perishable items, sensitive medicines and high-value goods that require specific temperature conditions during shipment. eSIM and iSIM-powered devices help provide clear, trustworthy analytics to track data accurately across the cold chain logistics process. The use of an energy-efficient eSIM operating system (OS) will extend the battery life of the tracking device, maximizing the number of shipments that can be processed.
Transform operations with new IoT technologies
IoT-enabled asset tracking has been boosted thanks to the progress of mobile network technologies such as 5G with LTE, IoT RSP and Non-terrestrial Network (NTN) for satellite communication.
Some standards helping to propel eSIM to the forefront:
- Incorporating NB-IoT and CAT-1 Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWAN) in the latest 3GPP standards for 5G technologies ensures tracking devices can remain operational for extended periods, spanning multiple years, without requiring a battery replacement.
- New developments in IoT RSP eSIM SGP.32 enable configuration at various stages such as eUICC manufacturing, IoT device manufacturing, or in the field for seamless modification of eSIMs
- Non-terrestrial networks became part of the 3GPP standard in Release 17, establishing a solid foundation for direct communication between NTN satellites and cellular IoT devices to ensure reliable connectivity
Non-stop coverage with Non-terrestrial Networks for 5G IoT
The ongoing progress of mobile network technologies such as 5G with LTE and LPWAN technologies and the 3GPP Non-terrestrial Network (NTN) means OEMs can expand device coverage. Satellite communication enables continuous connectivity in remote areas where cellular and LPWA networks may experience instability.
Our partnership with Skylo, an NTN operator, makes satellite connectivity seamless for device makers by enabling a smooth transition between cellular and satellite connectivity. The combination is attractive for deployments that require continuous coverage, such as real-time asset tracking, where constant cellular connectivity is necessary.
Kigen’s eSIM and iSIM solutions and our partnerships in the module, chipset and MNO ecosystem provide the opportunity to simplify device manufacture and late-stage personalization.
Whether you are starting the eSIM and iSIM journey or looking to enhance IoT devices in your digital transformation, our team of experts can support your decisions at all stages.
