Australia’s Digital Hurdles in Transportation and Logistics: Insights from SOTI’s Latest Research
Australian T&L employees are losing an average of 16 hours per month due to mobile-device-related downtime, and nearly half of workers experience increased stress due to technology issues
Mobile technology is essential in transportation and logistics (T&L). From order to delivery, organisations must meet increasingly demanding timelines in the presence of rapid technological disruption. In addition to being on time, focusing on seamless communication, replacing bulky devices with streamlined wearables and handheld devices requiring bespoke applications is essential.
SOTI’s new research, The Road Ahead: Driving Digital Transformation in T&L, reveals that while 98% of Australian T&L workers use mobile technology daily, they lose an average of 16 hours per employee per month due to mobile-device-related downtime.
This inefficiency and limited visibility into device-related performance directly impact a company’s bottom line, employee morale and customer satisfaction. Compared to SOTI’s T&L report from 2021, which highlighted downtime as a top concern for 78% of Australian T&L providers surveyed, SOTI’s latest research shows a decrease of almost an hour of downtime per month per employee. This indicates very little progress has been made over the last three years because tech is not integrated seamlessly.
Lost Time and Security Woes: The Real Cost of Tech Issues
Tech issues, including network and connectivity problems, contribute to significant downtime and delivery delays. When something goes wrong, 32% report difficulty in identifying the issue and deciding on the next steps. Compounding this problem, 39% said drivers lack immediate access to IT support or training apps to resolve mobile device issues while on the road. These statistics highlight a critical gap in support that prolongs downtime and jeopardises timely deliveries and overall operational efficiency.
Despite around 69% saying that they feel adequately trained on mobile data security, 53% fear for the safety of their customers’ data should their devices get lost or stolen. Additionally, 54% of employees are concerned about customer data falling into the wrong hands when mobile devices are shared.
“These statistics highlight the pressing need for advanced, remote support tools that can address device and connectivity issues proactively. Implementing device analytics to monitor battery life, app functionality and network connectivity can help resolve problems before they escalate, minimising downtime and enhancing operational efficiency,” explained Michael Dyson, VP for Sales, APAC at SOTI. “Given the concerns about data security—despite adequate training—it's clear that integrating secure user logins and robust data protection measures is crucial. These steps will not only ensure timely deliveries but also protect sensitive customer information, fostering greater trust and reliability in the Australian T&L sector.”
How to Get the T&L Employee Experience Back on Track
Australian T&L providers cut costs by allowing overtime to offset downtime and delays. While more than a quarter (27%) of respondents work overtime due to delays, 30% said they lose their bonus, and 27% lose their time-off allowance. The cost of overtime is heightened by the time spent on returns/reverse logistics, with only 9% of providers outsourcing this process entirely. On average, 37% of an employee’s day is dedicated to returns.
Device downtime causes stress for nearly half (41%) of workers and 34% said it has caused them to miss their target. Globally, technical issues contribute to missed targets for 32% of workers, loss of preferred routes for 21% and lost bonuses for 17%. Additionally, global results revealed that 29% of delivery drivers admit to speeding to compensate for delays, raising safety concerns.
The inability to troubleshoot issues combined with a lack of real-time IT support is intensifying employee stress. While 96% of respondents have tracking technology on their work devices, 58% desire more. Tracking technology is seen as a key opportunity for improvement, with 61% believing it ensures timely deliveries and keeps customers informed. Furthermore, 72% feel more secure knowing high-value goods are tracked, and 73% believe vehicle tracking increases driver safety.
Balancing Green Ambitions With Operational Efficiency
The research found that 97% of global employees report their employers are taking steps toward sustainability, with Australia leading at 100%. However, 63% of respondents believe their companies could do more to protect the planet. More than half (55%) say they would leave their jobs if their employer was not doing enough to protect the environment, indicating the potential impact on employee retention.
“Given sustainability is becoming a pivotal factor for employees, integrating advanced mobile technology like the SOTI ONE Platform is essential. This platform offers real-time visibility and robust security, supporting the T&L industry in making strides toward more sustainable practices. By leveraging such solutions, companies can address the growing demand for environmental responsibility and improve both operational efficiency and employee retention,” concluded Dyson.
SOTI's latest report, The Road Ahead: Driving Digital Transformation in T&L, can be downloaded here.
