Hyperautomation in Logistics: How Service Providers Work More Efficiently

The business world is evolving rapidly, and companies are constantly searching for ways to improve efficiency and remain competitive. Hyperautomation has emerged as a promising solution. By combining advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, robotic process automation (RPA), and no-code/low-code platforms, hyperautomation enables organizations to automate and optimize entire business processes. According to KPMG, this approach can reduce operational costs by up to 30%, while also helping businesses respond more quickly to market changes.

AI in Action: Inspiring Examples from the Logistics Industry

AI plays a critical role within hyperautomation, and its impact is already evident in the logistics sector. Here are some standout examples of how leading companies leverage AI to drive efficiency and improve customer experiences:

• FedEx: AI-enabled robots sort up to 1,200 parcels per hour, drastically reducing sorting times. FedEx also uses predictive analytics to forecast potential delivery delays caused by weather or traffic, improving overall customer satisfaction.

• DHL: AI supports demand forecasting and intelligent routing, enabling more efficient use of resources.

• Maersk: Predictive analytics helps Maersk optimize container logistics and proactively maintain vessels, minimizing downtime.

• C.H. Robinson: Generative AI automates the entire lifecycle of freight shipments, processing thousands of transactions daily, such as pricing requests, load acceptance, and appointment scheduling. Tasks that previously took hours are now completed in mere seconds.
  

Spotlight on C.H. Robinson: A Transformative Use Case

C.H. Robinson’s application of generative AI is a standout example that logistics service providers can learn from. Their approach highlights how advanced automation can dramatically improve efficiency. Previously, processing a single emailed load tender could take up to four hours. Now, it’s completed in just 90 seconds.

Some of the remarkable achievements include:

• Pricing Requests: 2,600 quotes are delivered daily in just 32 seconds, including truckload and LTL quotes.

• Load Tenders: AI processes 5,500 shipment orders daily, each completed in 90 seconds.

• Appointment Scheduling: For customers using email instead of a touchless platform, AI extracts and processes appointment details 3,000 times a day across 26,000+ locations in under 60 seconds.

• In-Transit Visibility: When automated carrier status updates fail, generative AI steps in to interact with the carrier, eliminating the need for manual communication.

This success story demonstrates the transformative power of AI in logistics. For a detailed look at C.H. Robinson’s journey, visit their press release.

AI Isn’t Always the Answer: The Value of a Strategic Mix of Technologies

While AI is a vital component of hyperautomation, it’s not always the best solution for every process. Some challenges can be resolved more easily and quickly with traditional data analysis or simpler automation tools.

The real strength of hyperautomation lies in its ability to combine multiple technologies, enabling businesses to evaluate which tools are most effective for specific processes—or whether a combination of tools is required to achieve the desired results.

Laying the Foundation: Data and Applications

Before businesses can reap the benefits of hyperautomation or AI, they need to ensure their foundations are solid. Many organizations struggle with fragmented data sources and inconsistent datasets, which hinder the effectiveness of AI and automation.

Key steps include:

• Organizing and cleaning data.

• Centralizing data sources by integrating systems and eliminating duplicates.
  

Additionally, rationalizing the application landscape is often necessary. Removing outdated or redundant applications reduces the number of data sources, making it easier to maintain clean and consistent data. While this “housekeeping” effort requires time and resources, it is critical for long-term success.