Microlise has highlighted a range of issues facing the transport and logistics sector with the publication of its first industry report.

The report ‘Standing at the Crossroads: A Crucial Moment for UK Logistics’, which is based on a survey of 250 transport and logistics managers, provides an insight into the complex landscape of jobs in the industry, with technology set to revolutionise the sector.

The report features insights into the tools transport professionals rely on to perform their roles, and how the use of these tools impacts their employers’ profitability.

It also highlights the everyday challenges they face in keeping customers satisfied and informed about the status of their orders.

The survey found that transport and logistics managers are still spending an average of 1.7 hours every day manually processing proof of delivery (POD) documents. When taking into account hourly rates, this costs businesses £51,460 per year on average.

As well as the financial and time aspects of manual POD, the study reports on customer complaints that have arisen from manual processes, including almost seven out of 10 respondents facing backlash over something as simple as a driver’s illegible handwriting.

When questioned on the strategic business advantage of transport management system integration, just 40% revealed that they used an ‘all-in-one’ interface. Those using more than one cited a range of challenges, detailed in the report. 

The survey also explored respondents’ views on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the sector, as well as the environmental impact, sustainability and compliance of their current business practices; particularly in light of looming Government deadlines to reduce emissions. The findings revealed further areas of concern.

More than 60% of respondents were not using any form of technology to monitor the environmental impact of their fleet.

Those who are monitoring their emissions are doing so using a disparate approach of minor attempts, rather than a plan that reflects a structured, holistic view.

While the report’s findings highlight the complex and often challenging role of transport and logistics managers, it also offers practical recommendations to help address the inefficiencies identified.

Nadeem Raza (pictured), CEO of Microlise, said: “We recognise that the role of a transport or logistics manager is highly complex, requiring the careful balancing of multiple stakeholder demands.

“This report was commissioned to help organisations better understand those challenges, and to show that the right support and tools are available to drive meaningful operational improvement.

“It serves as a vital resource; especially for operators who have yet to embrace new ways of working. These hauliers risk losing ground to competitors who are already adopting changes that deliver tangible, real-world benefits.

“Ours is a proud industry that plays a critical role in the UK’s economic growth. Those willing to innovate will not only keep pace but thrive in this period of transformation.”