Logistics is one of the pillars of operations in large industries, and in recent years, AI has impacted this sector in countless ways. Some recurring problems, such as queues, delays, counting errors and incorrect product shipments, are still faced by many companies, especially large ones. With this in mind, AI is becoming popular due to its ability to optimize processes, reduce errors and improve the overall efficiency of the supply chain.
In this article, we’ll explore all the ways AI is impacting logistics, understand its benefits and practical outcomes, and discuss what the future holds for companies that embrace this technology. Enjoy reading!
What problems does the logistics sector still face?
Despite the advancement of many technologies in logistics operations, the sector still faces a series of challenges that directly affect the efficiency of companies. Among the main problems, we can highlight:
- Queues and delays: In distribution centers and loading yards, long queues are common, especially during peak times. These delays directly affect delivery times, generating extra costs and customer dissatisfaction;
- Counting errors: manual checking is susceptible to errors, such as counting errors or recording incorrect volumes, generating discrepancies between the order and the shipment;
- Incorrect product shipments: errors in the separation and checking of loads can lead to the shipment of incorrect products, negatively impacting the customer experience and generating rework and returns;
- Lack of traceability: many companies still do not have efficient systems to track the exact status of loads during the shipping and distribution process, which makes management and problem-solving difficult.
These challenges, common in both traditional logistics operations and large-scale industries, generate financial losses, operational inefficiencies and can compromise the company’s competitiveness in the market. However, it is now possible to overcome these obstacles, as we will see below.
How can AI solve these problems?
Artificial intelligence has proven to be the ideal option for solving many of the problems faced by the logistics sector. Being able to process large volumes of data in real time, it offers faster, more accurate and personalized solutions for companies that adopt it.
Among the main ways in which AI can be applied in logistics, the following stand out:
- Process automation: AI can automate repetitive and error-prone tasks, such as load checking and inventory control;
- Demand forecasting and route optimization: by analyzing historical and real-time data, algorithms can predict demand more accurately and suggest more efficient routes for delivering goods, optimizing the use of resources and reducing costs;
- Real-time monitoring: Smart sensors and AI-based systems can monitor the condition of loads and track their exact location, offering greater control and visibility throughout the transportation process;
- Predictive analytics: AI identifies patterns in data that point to potential failures or problems, allowing preventive measures to be taken before errors occur.
In practice: an example of the use of artificial intelligence in logistics
An example of the use of AI in logistics is the case of a company that faced challenges in checking products in distribution centers. The goal was to optimize the process, which, in addition to being time-consuming, generated discrepancies in orders and long lines in loading yards, increasing operational costs.
Thus, the solution developed by Mouts TI uses AI to automate load checking. By implementing image recognition algorithms, the system was able to automatically check the products being loaded onto the trucks, comparing them with the recorded data. In addition, the integration of the solution with the warehouse management system (WMS) allowed for immediate synchronization of information, eliminating the need for human intervention.
The results of this implementation were remarkable. The company achieved a 73% reduction in checking time and an 85% reduction in product discrepancies. Furthermore, the solution brought financial benefits, reducing truck waiting times and minimizing incorrect shipments, which impacted customer satisfaction.
These numbers demonstrate the positive impact that AI can have on large-scale logistics operations, especially those dealing with large volumes of goods.
Artificial intelligence in industrial logistics
For large-scale industries, where the scale of logistics operations is much larger, adopting AI can bring even greater benefits. These industries deal with complex logistics challenges, such as the need to manage large fleets of vehicles, move huge volumes of goods, and achieve high accuracy in product delivery.
AI can help these companies optimize their entire logistics flow, from demand forecasting to warehouse management and final transportation. In this sense, technologies such as Machine Learning can analyze historical data patterns and accurately predict the quantity of products that will be needed in certain periods, avoiding both excess and understocking.
Another important application of AI in industries is the optimization of transportation routes. By analyzing traffic and weather in real time, AI can suggest the best routes to reduce delivery times and save fuel. This results in lower operational costs and greater sustainability, a very relevant factor for industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
What does the future of logistics hold for companies that adopt AI?
The adoption of AI in logistics is just beginning, but the outlook for the future is already promising. As technology advances, AI could become even more integrated into logistics operations, with autonomous management systems operating with almost no human intervention.
Companies that adopt AI today are ahead of the curve when it comes to market competitiveness. As such, the future of logistics will be marked by full process automation, with autonomous vehicles making deliveries, AI systems predicting and resolving issues before they occur, and supply chains that are fully connected and optimized by real-time data.
Therefore, those who invest in implementing AI now, taking advantage of the already proven benefits of this technology, will be better positioned to face future challenges in the logistics sector.
Conclusion
In short, artificial intelligence has been transforming the logistics sector in recent years. Without the problems that previously impacted it, the sector is now entering a new era of efficiency and precision. Thus, large companies, especially industries that deal with complex logistics operations, can benefit enormously from adopting this technology.
The success story we present demonstrates how AI can be applied in a practical way to optimize processes, reduce errors and generate financial results. Therefore, Mouts TI can help your company stand out in the market with advanced AI solutions. Visit our website and find out how our team of experts can transform your operations and develop customized technologies for your needs.
