How can you improve transportation management in humanitarian logistics?

When you work under emergency, there are three aspects to really take into account: 1. Create your delivery plan together with your MFT of experts. Take everything into account: infrastructure, accessibility, human factor. 2. Deliver your goods in multiple small batches so that in case of unforeseen events you are not loosing it all. 3. Do not rely on too many parties to deliver your goods and try to avoid goods transbordation in medium/high risk areas.

Most importantly is to take a step back and identify the route causes of the problem. Disruption in transportation or the mere lack of it may be due to warfare, conflict or social or political unrest, or simply inadequate or corrupt leaderships, besides of course natural catastrophies. Addressing these route causes is necessary, in parallel to adhoc solutions, for long lasting solutions to the problem.

In humanitarian operations, several transportation modes and routes are commonly used to deliver aid and support to affected areas. The choice of transportation depends on various factors such as the nature of the emergency, the geographical context, infrastructure availability, security considerations, and the volume and type of goods being transported. Here are some common transportation modes and routes used in humanitarian operations.

Improving transportation management in humanitarian logistics is essential for effectively delivering aid to those in need during crises. Here are several strategies to enhance transportation management in this context: 1. Prepositioning and Preparedness: Strategic Warehousing: Identify strategic locations for warehouses that are easily accessible to affected areas. 2. Technology and Data Utilization: GIS and Mapping and Tracking and Monitoring with Data Analytics 3. Collaboration and Partnerships: Public-Private Partnerships and Training and Education 4. Flexibility and Innovation 5. Risk Management and Contingency Planning 6. Feedback and Continuous Improvement:

When I quoted my customers I ran all the miles doing 45 miles per hour this allowed for any road closures as well fuel stops and meals. Once this was explained to my customers they totally understood it. With todays dispatch that no longer happens.

One thing I have found useful in transportation management in humanitarian sector is use optimizing use of technology such as GPS and other communication systems. It enhances routing and scheduling and also increases visibility of the transport assets. It also assists in security of the transportation units where the risk is high due to security issues.

1.Real-time Tracking: Implement advanced tracking systems 2.Prepositioned Assets: Strategically position supplies and equipment in areas prone to disasters to expedite. 3.Multi-Modal Transportation: Combine different modes of transportation 4.Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local transportation providers who have knowledge of the terrain and can provide valuable insights 5.Technology Integration: Utilize technologies 6.Capacity Building: Train local personnel in transportation management 7.Contingency Planning: Develop contingency plans to address various scenarios. 8.Risk Management: Assess potential risks and implement measures to mitigate them. 9.Feedback Mechanisms: Establish communication channels for feedback from beneficiaries.