Digital logistics: historical background and current key development trends

The current stage of global development is accompanied by the digital transformation of the economy, which is carried out under the influence of a significant number of digital innovations. Their result is the emergence of a new economic structure, new business practices, and new values of the business environment. This article is devoted to the study of the role and features of logistics development in the historical context and the definition of modern key trends and factors of influence in digital logistics. On this basis, a justification of the economic effects of the transformation of digital logistics is provided. The methodological bases of this research are general scientific techniques and methods. In particular, a systematic approach and the synthesis, logical and predictive methods of analysis are used. A systematic review of literature sources and historical references to the stable relationship between previous industrial revolutions and logistics allowed us to identify changes in the role of logistics in business processes and trace the stages of the formation of digital logistics (Logistics 4.0) within Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 represents today’s comprehensive digitalization of industrial production. In general, digital logistics is a complex system consisting of numerous new technologies that are interconnected and can influence each other. Its elements include cyber-physical systems, IP networks, the Internet of Things platform, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance, advanced robotics, cloud services, immersive technologies, 3D printing, and blockchain. All of these technologies play crucial roles in the functioning of modern logistics and the formation of the supply chain, and each of them has a significant number of advantages. In particular, the advantages of using the Internet of Things in logistics are determined by: the high potential of use; no losses during transportation and storage of goods; prompt prevention of damage or loss of cargo; climate control in storage areas; identification of road situation parameters; reduction of costs; and increase of economic effect. Artificial intelligence is changing the logistics market, making it more transparent, reliable, and efficient. Cost savings and high delivery speeds are two of the main factors contributing to the spread of drone applications in supply chains. The use of immersive technologies in supply chains allows suppliers to provide on-the-job training, navigation, warehouse planning, and digital interaction with customers and partners. The implementation of 3D printing provides: the acceleration of production and the simultaneous reduction of transportation, storage, import, and export costs; customer orientation; and the reduction of negative impact on the environment. The use of digital technologies by logistics companies meets not only their business interests, but also those of society and the national and international environment. Most importantly, it improves the satisfaction of consumer needs.