Operational efficiency is the main goal of modern logistics chains, but there is one link still overlooked: communication in the yard. In increasingly connected distribution centers, the internal flow of vehicles and interaction with drivers remain dependent on flawed and often manual processes. This disconnect, which seems like an operational detail, is actually a critical point that undermines productivity and increases costs.
Poor management of communication between teams, drivers of own or outsourced fleets and operators can generate significant delays and financial losses. When a driver does not know where to go, the dock does not know who has arrived, and the operator is not clear about the status of the queue, the entire system becomes vulnerable. The waiting time of vehicles in the yards is a common problem, which causes considerable losses and, most importantly, is completely avoidable.
Technology alone is not able to solve all challenges. Although digitization is a path of no return, the adoption of tools needs to be accompanied by a change in culture and processes. Many drivers already use navigation and personal communication applications, which shows that the obstacle is not access to technology, but rather the lack of familiarity with corporate platforms and the absence of training. Digital inclusion in the yard requires intuitive interfaces and continuous, practical and accessible training.
Although there are criticisms about the time and cost of investing in new systems and training, it is important to highlight that this view ignores the hidden expenses that arise with the maintenance of inefficient processes.The costs of a vehicle stopped for hours, added to the impacts on productivity and delivery schedule, demonstrate that investment in technology and training is actually a strategic decision.
More than simply adopting tools, it is essential to establish clear routines, standardized communication channels and encourage a culture based on transparency. Each participant must understand their role in the operation, with autonomy to report, respond and adjust routes based on real-time information. Specific training for each profile, from operators to drivers, is essential for the digital transformation to work effectively in practice.
The yard is the first physical contact of the driver with the operation and often is where the perception of efficiency of the company is defined. Optimizing this environment is more than a matter of productivity: it is an investment that connects technology, people and processes to create real and sustainable efficiency.
*Vitor Rocha is a marketing expert and analyst at LogPyx.
