Artificial intelligence in transport – will chat GPT replace the forwarding department

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence (AI) deals with the creation of computer systems and algorithms that can perform tasks that require human-like intelligence. These tasks include skills such as learning, reasoning, problem solving, pattern recognition, natural language processing, recognizing images and sounds as well as adapting to new situations.

Artificial intelligence is based on a variety of techniques such as machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, genetic algorithms and many others. The aim of AI is to imitate the human mind, but also to exceed its limits by using the enormous computing power of computers.

Applying artificial intelligence in transport and logistics

• optimizing routes, i.e. calculating the most efficient routes
• forecasting changes in traffic and avoiding traffic jams
• real-time cargo tracking
• monitoring vehicle technical condition as well as planning inspections and repairs
• developing autonomous vehicles
• forecasting demand for transport services
• optimizing entire supply chains
• systems for monitoring potential road hazards
• automating routine tasks in forwarding departments
• providing information to customers regarding shipment status or service availability
• intelligent parcel sorting systems in logistics centres

Artificial intelligence in Polish transport

In 2022, the report “Artificial Intelligence in transport and mobility in Poland in 2021” prepared by the New Science Technology Agency came out. It presents the goals, possible development paths, Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and threats arising from the development of AI systems in the transport industry. The report is based on information from 2021, but the vast majority of information contained therein remains applicable today.

Polish transport companies are not currently carrying out many projects with regards to implementing AI, infrastructure and warehouse integration, not to mention interconnectivity with other areas of activity. This is mainly due to the difficult economic situation. Polish companies carrying out road transport of goods face staff shortages, high fuel prices and hindrances resulting from limited trade relations with Russia. Another problem is the lack of an appropriate technological infrastructure for the development of AI-based systems. At the moment, the application of artificial intelligence in Polish transport is limited to the digitization of document circulation with the monitoring of loads and vehicles (visibility), in accordance with the EU regulation on electronic information on freight transport of July 15, 2020.

Artificial intelligence in logistics – what is missing?

Currently, there is a lack of EU and government funding for initiatives supporting the development of technology in transport and mobility. The possibility of obtaining real financial and technological support would contribute to the popularization of artificial intelligence in logistics. There is also a lack of ready-made and proven solutions dedicated to transport services, making it necessary to create one’s own systems. A great example of logistics automation that Polish companies can take advantage of is the Prilo car transport exchange. It makes it possible to manage the entire process in one place, negotiate offers, or even exchange information in real time. This is most likely the direction in which artificial intelligence in logistics will head.

Artificial intelligence in transport – what applications does Chat GPT see?

In the discussion on artificial intelligence, we had to include the opinion of Chat GPT 4.0 itself. We asked it to present the applications and possibilities of implementing AI systems in shipping companies in a few sentences. Here are the conclusions to which artificial intelligence came:

Artificial intelligence in transport, forwarding and logistics opens up new opportunities to improve and optimize these sectors. Systems such as ChatGPT have the potential to replace traditional forwarding activities through the automation of processes such as planning, monitoring and managing shipments. The use of AI can lead to greater efficiency, cost savings and better customer service by responding faster to market needs.

One of the possible applications of artificial intelligence in transport is the optimization of routes, which reduces delivery times, fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In addition, AI can support real-time monitoring of loads, enabling quick response to emergency situations or changes in road conditions. In logistics, AI can be used for demand forecasting, warehouse management and supply chain optimization.

Will artificial intelligence replace freight forwarders?

Contrary to many fears, artificial intelligence does not have to replace forwarding department staff, but it can cooperate with them. AI systems are great tools to complement the work of freight forwarders, providing ways to make better decisions. As such, the role of ChatGPT and other AI in transport, forwarding and logistics can contribute to a significant increase in the efficiency and competitiveness of companies on the global market. At this point, no shipping company would entrust the management of the supply chain to artificial intelligence, without the supervision of a living, logically thinking person.

The use of artificial intelligence in transport – a summary

Artificial intelligence is a great tool to streamline processes, generate images or simply speed up routine activities. However, it should be remembered that it needs information for optimal operation and development. At the moment, there are no appropriate systems or sensors in the transport industry that could provide this information in real time. Companies that carry out road freight transport face the challenges of the mobility package and an unstable market. We will have to wait for investments in the development of AI systems. To sum up, artificial intelligence will play a significant role in logistics and transport, however this will not happen within a few months, but rather several years.