Technology has revolutionized every industry it has touched, and the relocation industry is no exception, but there are several challenges. A majority of moving companies in the country are boutique businesses that have small pockets with customers, often limited national and regional presence. Such companies are focused on offering customers a personalized experience instead of commoditized service offerings. Hence the merit for these smaller businesses to adopt technology to build scale is limited.
With the pandemic, however, few of the larger players in the domestic relocation industry have made significant strides in leveraging technology to improve their services.
In this article, we will delve deeper into these technological advancements that are transforming the future of moving. We’ll take a closer look at how these innovations can make the moving experience smoother, faster, and even more enjoyable.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Relocation professionals possess profound understanding, enabling them to provide empathetic support and build trusting relationships with clients and this cannot be completely replaced by AI. However, AI is slowly making headways in this industry with powered tags and sensors on packed goods which need digital signage and scanners to be recognized and taxed while the goods are in transit on roads are coming into play. All this requires fast-tracking infrastructure growth at the organizational as well as national levels.
While AI enhances efficiency and provides data-driven insights, the human element remains crucial in addressing diverse needs and challenges.
Instant Quotations
In contemporary times, technology has facilitated movers and packers in maintaining a fair pricing structure, and a transparent process right from the outset. This advanced system enables customers to obtain an instant pricing quote, sans any concealed charges. Additionally, the customers have the liberty to access the price breakup while booking, making the entire process hassle-free. The quote appears online within a few clicks, thereby saving significant time and effort. The instant quotations option provides transparent pricing alternatives, which in turn, adds credibility to a company.
Virtual Surveys
This cutting-edge technology has revolutionized the conventional method of conducting at-home surveys for price estimates. Customers can participate in pre-move surveys through digital platforms, such as laptops, mobiles, or tablets, thereby making the process more convenient, efficient and cost effective.
Real-Time Tracking
Real-time tracking is a valuable asset to many industries around the world. By utilizing GPS tracking, one can easily keep track of the progress of their shipment or household items from anywhere at any time. This feature is especially useful for long-distance transportation of goods. Implementation has resulted in increased efficiency and a personalized touch to the overall customer experience.
Doc-signing Technology
Signing documents is an essential part of relocation. From job offer letters to home buying and selling documents, many crucial papers need to be signed. Thanks to technology, signing documents has become easier and more environmentally friendly. There are now numerous apps that allow companies and relocation firms to review, edit, and sign documents in a matter of minutes. This not only saves on paper but also reduces the risk of document loss or theft during mailing.
Internet of Things (IoT) & Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
The integration of IoT and RFID technologies into the transportation industry has brought about a significant transformation. By incorporating sensors into vehicles such as cabs, vans, planes, cargo trucks and trains, these technologies have facilitated more accurate tracking and monitoring, thereby minimizing the risk of error in transit. This has consequently led to reduced costs and delays, and improved visibility and delivery of goods. As such, these technologies have become invaluable tools for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of transportation logistics.
Sustainable Relocation Practices
Relocation companies today are exploring eco-friendly practices to reduce environmental impact. This includes using electric/hybrid vehicles, green packing materials, and promoting recycling/waste reduction.
With the advent of new technologies, moving can become a more efficient, stress-free, and personalized experience. As we look to the future, we can expect even more exciting innovations that will continue to transform the way we move.
Guest contributor Rahul Pillai is the Founder and CEO of Hybrid Shifting Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., a Bengaluru based transportation, logistics, supply chain and storage company. Any opinions expressed in this article are strictly those of the author.
