Artificial intelligence in logistics gets a lot of attention, not all of it grounded. Stripped of the hype, there are a handful of areas where it's genuinely useful today.

Demand Forecasting

AI-assisted forecasting can spot patterns in historical order data that are hard to catch manually, helping businesses plan inventory and shipments with less guesswork.

Route and Load Planning

Software that factors in traffic, distance, and cargo constraints can suggest more efficient routes and loading arrangements than manual planning typically achieves.

Predictive Maintenance

For companies operating their own fleets, predictive maintenance tools can flag likely vehicle issues before they cause a breakdown mid-route.

Where It's Still Limited

AI tools are only as good as the data behind them, and they don't replace the judgment needed for one-off situations like customs disputes or unusual cargo. They're a useful assistant, not a replacement for experienced people.