The Ultimate Guide to Managed IT for Logistics Companies

Who is This Guide for

Although great IT should be a priority for everyone, this guide caters specifically to business owners in the logistics sector who aim to:  

• Enhance their business’ IT infrastructure; 
• Improve operational efficiency by utilizing new technologies and systems;
• Foster better communication within and outside the organization; and
• Secure their network by partnering with a dependable MSP. 

Here are some of the most common managed services offered by MSPs:

Managed Security

The onset of the pandemic in 2020 resulted in a staggering 600% increase in cybercrime, with half of the attacks targeting small businesses. This sharp surge in incidents highlighted the importance of securing your network, regardless of the size of your organization. 

With that in mind, MSPs can offer vital security services, such as managed firewalls, intrusion detection, a virtual private network (VPN), and antivirus services. They can also assist in scanning your network for vulnerabilities and suggesting remedies to enhance your cybersecurity measures and address any shortcomings. 

Data Analytics  

Data analytics is a specialized service that examines critical business data and translates it into actionable insights.   

A study by MicroStrategy found that 63% of companies that utilize data analytics reported that it enhanced their productivity and efficiency. Additionally, 57% of the participants stated that data analytics allowed quicker and more effective decision-making, resulting in improved financial performance. 

Managed Print Services  

This type of service enables you to manage the power of your IT print infrastructure remotely. Managed Print Services helps you lower the total cost of printing, improve IT efficiency, and invest in areas that can increase productivity and profitability. Some of these services include:  

• Device support 
• Device maintenance/repair 
• Printer upgrades  

Hosted Cloud  

Cloud-based services are ideal for organizations that require mobility, such as those implementing remote offices. This technology enables your team to share files and access data from any location at any time.  

Managed Wireless Networks and Mobile Computing   

In today's business environment, uninterrupted connectivity is critical. 

MSPs can maintain and safeguard two communication mediums: wireless and mobile computing. Wireless communication pertains to data transmission that does not require a phone connection, while mobile computing refers to a computing device that is not permanently connected to a central network. 

When an MSP manages your network, you can expect reduced downtime, enhanced security, and improved connection quality. Essentially, it enables your business to stay connected, minimizing disruptions and allowing you to concentrate on issues that matter most, like giving customers quality service and growing your business.  

Managed Communications Services/VoIP   

This type of service comprises email, unified communications, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

VoIP is a technology that enables individuals to make phone calls using an internet connection. It provides several capabilities analog landlines cannot offer, costing less than half the price. With features such as mobile device integration and video conferencing, VoIP has become the leading telephone solution for businesses. 

Read more on Managed Service Types

Not every business has the time, resources, or expertise to handle its IT needs in-house. That's where managed IT services come in. Hiring a managed IT service provider can bring many advantages to your logistics business, including:

1. Increased Efficiency 

By taking care of your IT issues and optimizing new technologies, an MSP can allow logistics companies to: 

• Enhance supply chain efficiency by shortening the time it takes for goods to reach their intended destination.  
• Respond quickly to any issues that may arise during shipment, minimizing the chances of delays and lost shipments. 
• Offer customers more precise and up-to-date information on the status of their shipments, boosting transparency and building trust. 

MSPs specialize in IT management and can provide businesses with expert advice and support. They can monitor systems and networks 24/7, detect and fix issues before they cause problems, and provide regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. 

2. Reduced Costs 

Another advantage of hiring managed IT services is reduced costs. IT equipment, maintenance, and support can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. MSPs can help businesses save money by providing IT services at a fraction of the cost of hiring an in-house IT team. MSPs can also help companies avoid expensive downtime by providing proactive maintenance and support. 

3. Enhanced Security and Compliance  

Security is also a significant concern in the logistics industry, as sensitive information like customer data and delivery schedules must be protected from cyber threats.  

MSPs can provide businesses with advanced security measures, such as: 

• Firewalls
• Antivirus software
• Encryption to safeguard against data breaches and cyber-attacks
• Regular security assessments  

In addition, MSPs can provide logistics companies with industry-specific knowledge and expertise, including an understanding of the regulations and compliance requirements that apply to the logistics industry. This can help logistics companies stay up-to-date with regulation changes and ensure that they comply with all relevant laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR and ISO 9001 under the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). 

4. Easier Scalability 

As businesses grow, their IT needs will also increase, and MSPs can provide scalable solutions that can adapt to changing requirements. MSPs can also offer businesses access to the latest technology and software, which can help them stay competitive in the rapidly evolving logistics industry. 

Learn More About How Managed IT Can Benefit My Logistics Company

Managed IT services may provide many benefits to logistics companies. However, there are also some potential disadvantages that you should consider: 

1. Limited Control

Logistics companies like yours may have limited control over your technology infrastructure when using managed IT services. You may need to rely on the service provider for updates, maintenance, and support, which can be frustrating if you have specific requirements or preferences. 

2. Dependency on the Service Provider

You may become dependent on your managed IT service provider for your technology needs. This can be a problem if the service provider goes out of business, experiences technical difficulties, or fails to meet the company's expectations. 

When you're not satisfied with the MSP, it can lead to misunderstandings, which may cause delays, errors, and other problems that can impact the company's operations. That is why partnering with an MSP that suits your needs and clearly understands your business is crucial. 

Read: 4 Security Benefits of Managed IT Services (& 2 Disadvantages)

Find Out If My Business is Ready for Managed IT

Once you have made the decision to partner with an MSP, the next step is to find the right one that can cater to the demands of your logistics company. So, prior to finalizing the agreement, consider the following recommendations:  

1. Check customer reviews. 

Good reviews are a sign of a company doing things right. So, first, you need to check other customers' experiences with an MSP. If there are other logistics companies partnered up with your potential MSP, then you can ask them for their client experience.  

2. Find their list of services and prices. 

Pricing should also be top of your priorities. Do they offer the services you need at a price point you can agree to? By checking this immediately, you can easily remove or add a company to your list of potential partners. 

3. Look up their technician's certifications.

One of an MSP's primary benefits is the availability of experienced and qualified IT professionals. By checking what their staff can do, you can evaluate if their claims can be backed up by their team.    

4. Schedule a meeting to talk to their representatives.   

Prepare a list of questions and set up a meeting with your MSP. If possible, try to visit your MSP's office to meet with the people who will be in charge of your network instead of having a virtual meeting. This allows you to see their work environment and verify their expertise.