The Effects of Advances in Transportation Technology on Global Business
Transportation of goods is one of the most important issues of international trade, as the speed of delivery and preservation of products' quality are major success factors for companies. For this reason, businesses turn to reliable shipping companies that use the latest technological advancements to ensure safe and efficient delivery. From the invention of rail transport to modern tracking systems, transportation technology has brought a revolution in global business.
The term "transportation technology" refers to all advancements since the invention of the wheel. However, the invention of rail transport was the turning point for international trade. It allowed fast delivery of goods within days or weeks instead of months, as was the case with carriages. The invention of the internal combustion engine made trade possible in places not served by railway. Furthermore, modern cargo airplanes have made it possible to transport goods between continents in a matter of hours.
A major concern for businesses from the time they authorize a shipment until they receive feedback from the buyer is the condition of the products and the progress of the delivery. Digital wireless sensor telemetry technology now provides senders with information on the cargo en route, including its destination, the speed at which it is moving, and the temperature of its environment. This technology allows businesses to track shipments and communicate with a shipping company in case of delays or harmful conditions for the goods.
Faster transportation methods have made exports an important aspect for businesses seeking to expand into new markets. Companies for which domestic demand is not sufficient, such as Microsoft, Apple or Samsung in South Korea, rely on fast and reliable transportation options for continued growth. According former New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture, Charles M. Kuperus, international trade allowed agricultural businesses to contribute $68.7 billion to the U.S. economy in 2006.
Product instructions are most often written in multiple languages these days. Since technological advancements in transportation have made international trade easier and faster in recent decades, companies have focused on making their products attractive and accessible to consumers of diverse markets.