Technology is transforming supply chains. Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping shippers and 3PLs enhance efficiency, accuracy and resilience. Both groups are aligned on their view of AI as a tool that can automate data analysis, identify patterns, solve problems and automate repetitive, mundane tasks.
Shippers and 3PLs agree that the greatest return on investment will come from service level improvements — with 40% of shippers and 37% of 3PLs citing it — as well as data accuracy, which 34% of shippers and 39% of 3PLs cite.
3PLs deploying AI solutions are gaining a competitive advantage. Most shippers say 3PLs’ use of AI would influence their choice of a 3PL partner and that they would be very likely (13%), likely (29%) or somewhat likely (32%) to switch 3PL providers based on their AI capabilities.
As demand for AI-based solutions increases, 3PL offerings will evolve. This year's survey shows that the AI implementations shippers are demanding aren’t necessarily aligned with 3PLs offerings. For example, 33% of shippers say they are seeking implementations related to supply planning and demand forecasting. Meanwhile, 19% of 3PLs report planning implementations in this area. Similarly, 27% of shippers indicate a need for transportation and route optimization technologies while 22% of 3PLs say they are planning to implement these capabilities.
Challenges to adoption remain. Among the barriers 3PLs cite are integration with existing systems, a lack of skilled personnel and high initial investment costs.