Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Inventory Management: An Overview of Current Research and Applications

Abstract

Industry 4.0 refers to the integration of digital transformation and automation within production processes, offering the potential for significant improvements in productivity, cost optimization, and production flexibility. In this framework, inventory management is recognized as one of the fundamental applications of Industry 4.0. Intelligent inventory systems and automated stock tracking technologies facilitate the real-time monitoring and management of stock levels, thereby reducing the time lost and error rates typically associated with traditional inventory methods. The advent of big data analytics and sensor technologies has revolutionized inventory management, facilitating substantial cost savings and enabling more rapid and accurate responses to customer demands. Recently, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have emerged as innovative tools for inventory counting. Drones equipped with advanced data collection capabilities are particularly effective in large warehouses and logistics centers, providing access to hard-to-reach areas and high-resolution imaging. This study presents a comprehensive literature review focusing on research conducted after 2018, aimed at examining current technologies for inventory counting. The review analyzes existing academic literature and industrial practices, revealing that drones significantly reduce error rates, shorten processing times, and facilitate real-time monitoring of stock levels. Consequently, UAV technology supports the implementation of inventory management strategies in a more dynamic and precise manner, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and accuracy. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.