U Mobile’s enterprise division, U Business, has completed a proof of concept focused on tracking high-value air cargo using a 5G-IoT architecture. The initiative was conducted in collaboration with Qualcomm and City-Link Express, targeting improved visibility and efficiency in logistics operations. The project integrates U Business’ ULTRA IoT connectivity with Qualcomm’s positioning technology, creating a real-time tracking system designed for complex supply chain environments.
Addressing Gaps in Traditional Cargo Tracking
Air cargo shipments, especially those travelling between Peninsular and East Malaysia, typically involve multiple handoffs across airports, ground handling facilities, and airline custody transfers. Conventional tracking relies on barcode scans at checkpoints, which only provide updates at specific intervals.
This creates visibility gaps between scan points, making it difficult to pinpoint where delays or damage occur. The proof of concept aims to solve this by enabling continuous, real-time monitoring throughout the entire journey.
The solution uses trackers attached to high-value shipments, capturing not just location but also environmental conditions such as shock, tilt, temperature, and light exposure. Data is transmitted securely through ULTRA IoT connectivity and visualised via Qualcomm’s Terrestrial Positioning Service.
This system leverages Wi-Fi, cellular signals, and optional Bluetooth Low Energy support to maintain accurate positioning even in environments where GPS struggles. The result is a continuous digital audit trail, covering every stage from airport handling to final delivery.
Two-Month Trial Across Key Malaysian Routes
The proof of concept was deployed over a two-month period, focusing on shipments transported from City-Link Express’ main hub in Bandar Saujana Putra, Selangor, to cargo terminals in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
This real-world testing environment allowed the partners to evaluate performance across multiple logistics touchpoints and operational scenarios. Initial results from the pilot show measurable improvements across several key areas.
- Shipment location verification improved by up to 90%, reducing investigation times from days to hours. This enables faster incident response when issues are detected during transit.
- Operational review time was reduced by up to 70% automated logging and tracking of data, streamlining internal processes.
- The system also improved dispute handling, with digital sensor records increasing accountability by up to 50%. Instead of relying on manual reports, logistics teams can now access objective data showing the exact conditions of shipments throughout their journey.
- In addition, improved data accuracy of up to 30% supports better route optimisation and capacity planning.
Towards Smarter, Data-Driven Supply Chains
The successful proof of concept demonstrates the potential for wider deployment of 5G-enabled tracking solutions across the logistics sector. As businesses increasingly demand greater transparency and reliability, technologies like ULTRA IoT and advanced positioning systems are expected to play a central role in shaping the future of supply chain management.
With strong early results, the partnership between U Mobile, Qualcomm, and City-Link Express signals a broader shift towards smarter, data-driven logistics ecosystems in the region. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
COMMENTS