AI as a digital helper
DACHSER has been using artificial intelligence for over six years to increase efficiency and overcome the shortage of skilled workers. From forecasting incoming quantities to automated address identification and image recognition - AI applications support employees and ensure high quality in logistics in the long term. Thoughts on the topic of AI from CEO Burkhard Eling.
“How important is artificial intelligence (AI) for DACHSER? We asked ourselves this question over six years ago. Back then, we started developing algorithms in the DACHSER Enterprise Lab that could predict the incoming volumes of a branch. Our predictive analytics tool is now in use in many Road Logistics branches. Since then, we have developed and introduced several other applications: With the help of AI, for example, we can now identify B2C consignee addresses fully automatically and image recognition helps us to recognize, locate and measure packages in the general cargo warehouse in real time.
The practical value and potential of future AI applications are therefore obvious; AI allows us to do things that were previously impossible. It develops its greatest value as an "assistant" to our employees - as a digital helper that supports our employees' gut feeling with facts, answers questions, performs routine tasks and perhaps even compensates for a lack of professional experience. Although AI increases efficiency, it will not lead to a deserted handling terminal. However, it will help us to tackle the ongoing shortage of skilled workers and ensure our high level of quality in the long term.
People remain the measure of all things
In logistics, people are and will remain the measure of all things - this also applies to the responsible use of AI applications. They work with probabilities and can therefore also produce errors. This must be taken into account. The final decision must therefore lie with people, especially if there are business risks involved.
Yes, the use of AI is important for DACHSER to answer the question posed above. In order to position ourselves well for the future, we need to realize the potential of the new technology. Despite all the euphoria, we should not forget that we have to carefully and prudently balance the opportunities with the risks and challenges. In the interests of our customers and our partners. And, above all, in the interests of our employees - because they are the ones who matter if we want to fully exploit all the potential of AI.”