Applications of Augmented Reality in Modern Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) technology is increasingly transforming supply chain and logistics management by enhancing operational efficiency, accuracy, and safety. AR overlays digital information onto the physical environment, enabling real-time interaction and visualization. This paper explores the applications of AR in various logistics activities such as warehouse management, inventory tracking, order picking, transportation, and lastmile delivery. AR facilitates better decision-making by providing workers and managers with contextual data, reducing errors and time spent on tasks. Key technologies include wearable AR devices (smart glasses, headsets), handheld devices, and AR-enabled mobile applications, all of which improve worker productivity and situational awareness. The study reviews current AR applications that integrate with warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS), highlighting benefits such as faster order processing, improved accuracy, and enhanced worker training. Challenges such as high implementation costs, technological limitations, and workforce adaptation are discussed. Methodologies involve case study analysis, simulation, and empirical evaluation of AR deployments in logistics environments. Findings indicate significant improvements in picking accuracy (up to 30%), reduction in training time, and enhanced safety compliance. The paper concludes that AR is a powerful tool that can revolutionize supply chain and logistics operations by providing interactive and intuitive interfaces for workers. Future work should focus on integrating AR with emerging technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain to create smart, adaptive supply chains. Keywords include Augmented Reality, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Warehouse Management, Order Picking, Smart Glasses, Real-time Data Visualization.