AI in the workplace: Does it suit in logistics?

The logistics industry is the heartbeat of the UK economy, with a diverse range of transportation modes, delivery requirements, and regulatory frameworks.

However, while the sector thrives on the integration of innovative technological solutions, just how suited is Artificial Intelligence technology to logistics?

In this blog, we’ll explore how AI can help to optimise logistics operations by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction.

 

Warehousing

Warehousing is a key part of the supply chain and AI can help logistics firms to operate more efficiently in this space, from assisting with sales forecasting to inventory management.

Demand forecasting

AI solutions can utilise statistical modelling to provide logistics companies with an understanding of, and ability to forecast future consumer demand so that they can allocate resources more effectively and prevent over or under-stocking.

This means firms can benefit from being able to plan for peak sales periods such as Black Friday and Christmas more effectively and therefore, be better placed to respond to high order volumes.

Improved efficiency and accuracy

Artificial intelligence can help optimise warehouse operations by automating tasks such as inventory tracking, order picking and packing, as well as optimising route planning.

This can lead to faster turnaround times, reduced labour costs, and increased overall efficiency.

AI-powered systems can also significantly reduce errors that can occur with human data entry and processing, resulting in improved inventory accuracy and order fulfilment rates.

Analytics

AI can help provide real-time visibility into warehouse inventory levels, order statuses, and other critical data, which gives managers the ability to make informed decisions about resource allocation and optimisation.

This technology can also be used to tell warehouse operators precisely the number of hours needed to complete a task, which ensures that operations can run as smoothly as possible during times of peak sales.

 

Road haulage

The hard work that takes place in the warehouse is complemented by the many thousands of HGV drivers, who travel the length and breadth of Britain to keep the supply chain moving.

Haulage operations can also benefit from the deployment of AI, with the technology capable of load optimisation, safety monitoring and maintenance.

Load optimisation

Loading a lorry is an intricate and important process in the overall supply chain that relies on effective weight distribution, while also minimising empty space.

AI can be used to determine the optimal weight distribution and load capacity for each truck, improving fuel efficiency and reducing wear and tear on the vehicle, which reduces overall costs for logistics firms.

Safety monitoring

The safety of haulage drivers is of paramount importance while they’re on the road, so it’s vital that they have the capacity to minimise any risks so that they can make deliveries on time.

Integrated artificial intelligence can take data from cameras and sensors and analyse it in order to monitor driver behaviour, detecting signs of fatigue, distraction, or other risk factors.

This technological integration can help haulage and logistics companies to identify potential safety hazards and implement corrective actions to prevent accidents, while drivers navigate some of Britain’s busy road networks.

Predictive maintenance

The algorithms within AI technology can be also used to analyse data from the sensors on trucks and trailers for the purpose of detecting mechanical problems within the lorry, itself before break downs occur.

In turn, this information can help logistics companies to proactively schedule maintenance on their haulage fleet so that they can reduce the risk of costly repairs and long-term problems while also ensuring that vehicles are readily available.

The use of AI in logistics can certainly bring significant benefits such as increased efficiency in the supply chain, reduced costs and improved ability to respond to peak sales periods.

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