Steering AI Adoption In Logistics: Why Building On Your Existing Tech Stack Is Key

Guest commentary by Michael Hane (Descartes) on why companies should strategically integrate AI into their existing logistics systems and workflows.

Sep 18, 2025

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most talked-about topics in transportation and logistics. Shippers, brokers, and third-party logistics services providers (3PLs) are eager to harness it for efficiency and cost savings. Descartes’ 9^th Annual Global Transportation Management Benchmark Survey found that 96% of companies surveyed are using generative AI in some parts of their operations, but only 17% say they are fully automated and optimized (see Figure 1).

So why should companies invest in generative AI and automation? The study found that companies that have reached a high level of automation are also better…

Using Robots to Load/Unload Trucks

A recent Wall Street Journal article highlighted how “new advances in robotics are [enabling the automation of truck loading and unloading]. Improved sensors and algorithms, advancements in AI and faster image-processing technology are making these robots proficient players in tasks that are like a game of 3-D Tetris.” This survey sought to understand industry readiness, key challenges, and opportunities associated with using robots to load or unload trucks.

Download the Report

Subscribe to "Be Uncommon" Newsletter