The Role of Drones in Logistics

As automation becomes the darling of the logistics world for its applications in reducing risk to human workers and improving efficiency, so too have companies experimented with the usage of drones in deliveries. The definition of “drone” can vary, but includes any aerial vehicle, either autonomously following a flight path or controlled by a human operator. Land-based drones are also being used to help facilitate some local deliveries. And, for any kind of drone, the COVID pandemic presents a niche that might help elevate this technology into the mainstay of logistics companies.

Though regarded by some as glorified toy helicopters, drones have proven their versatility and unique value proposition when it comes to making otherwise-difficult deliveries. Drone technology has improved exponentially within the last decade, incorporating improved sensors and wayfinding while companies have scrambled for a way to commercialize drone-based shipping. Regulatory obstacles have stood in the way of drones becoming mainstream, but the scalability of drones has enticed logistics strategists to incorporate them into their future plans.

Given the inherently short-range nature of drones, logistics companies can deploy drones from their distribution centers to easily reach customers, particularly in urban areas where vehicular travel on the ground faces numerous obstacles. However, this comes with issues of its own; heavily populated areas may require human operators to ensure that drones are operating in compliance with safety protocols. Though some organizations have developed standards in hopes of providing some structure for drone usage, it remains to be seen what lasting regulations will affect this facet of logistics. The security of drones is also an ongoing issue, with many vulnerable to theft or destruction by criminals. 

The size of drone also plays a role in determining its function. Smaller packages can be transported by drones to remote areas, a process more efficient than using a truck. Drones also have potential applications in delivering equipment to the front lines of military engagements. Larger drones are less efficient but can also be used to help sort larger containers, particularly the kind used commonly in seaports worldwide. 

Like the seaport example above, other drones may find homes in warehouses, helping to ferry inventory. Others are used by meal delivery services to locally transport food in a safe manner. Even when it comes to long-term shipping, autonomous cargo planes could help provide improvements to existing models of air transportation.

Creative drone usage has even helped healthcare organizations and vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 crisis. In the United States, the postal service is experimenting with the use of drones to deliver prescriptions to retirement communities, retaining human operators for now but eliminating the need for face-to-face contact. Other drone operators are making forays into the field of healthcare, delivering PPE or emergency medical supplies to field professionals as a first-reponse option that, again, minimizes contact.

Even after the pandemic ends, the utility of drones offers opportunities for savvy companies and investors to take advantage of this emerging trend. However, many questions still need to be answered regarding the use of drones, largely to do with their reliability. The expansion of drone usage will also bring with it dedicated airways for drone travel, as to not impede any other aircraft. Even so, expect to see more drone deliveries as well as more regulation governing the commercial and noncommercial use of drones.