AI in logistics: more than hype 

AI is being positioned as a key solution to the current volatility in the logistic sector. But how many companies are actually using AI in their day-to-day operations? And more importantly, is it delivering results? 

To answer these questions, Alpega partnered with Boston Consulting Group to survey nearly 200 shippers and logistics service providers on the actual state of AI adoption in the industry. In this episode of Logistics Unlocked, our host Deborah Korb sits down with Denise van der Voorde from BCG to break down the key findings. As well as offer a practical lens on what the data means for logistics leaders today. 

Together, they explore where AI already is creating measurable value, why adoption remains limited despite the proven technology, and what separates companies that are successfully scaling from those still stuck in pilot mode. 

This episode at a glance: 

00:00 – 02:40 | Is AI in logistics just hype? 
Denis opens with a clear-eyed take: there is hype, but the impact is real. Drawing from the joint AlpegaxBCG survey, he explains why demand for AI solutions is actually ahead of what logistics service providers are currently delivering, and why this gap represents a major opportunity. 

02:41 – 05:25 | What is holding AI adoption back? 
From planning and forecasting to customer service and quality management, AI use cases are growing, yet most companies are still in pilot mode. Denis unpacks the real barriers: not the technology, but the difficulty of measuring ROI and the organisational challenge of scaling from proof of concept to full deployment. 

05:26 – 10:21 | Why integration into platforms like TMS is the real key 
Denis explains that the real value of AI comes not from standalone tools, but from deep integration within existing operational systems. He also states that AI won't replace logistics workers, just change what they do.  

10:21– 16:33 | Advice every logistics leader can gain from 
Denise closes with the five factors that will define the AI leaders of tomorrow: ROI measurement, system integration, data quality, people development, and building proprietary differentiation. His advice: stop piloting because the leaders of the industry are being defined right now.