Reshaping logistics with data analytics, machine learning and AI for transportation

With rapid advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, companies across industries are increasingly turning to these technologies to solve complex challenges. But what does this look like in practice for the logistics industry and how can data analytics, AI and machine learning for transportation elevate your supply chain operations? 

At Infios, we help businesses move from insight to action using purpose-built, AI-powered transportation solutions. Here’s how we see these technologies transforming logistics and transportation today. 

The evolving role of data analytics, machine learning and AI in logistics

Technology has been reshaping supply chain operations for over two decades. In logistics, the focus is clear: increase transparency, improve throughput and optimize operational performance.

Let’s break down how three critical technologies...data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence...are driving that change.

1. Machine learning in transportation

Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets—from shipment histories to carrier performance metrics—to uncover patterns and predict future outcomes. These models help logistics teams:

• Predict potential delays before they happen
• Optimize delivery routes to reduce cost and time
• Forecast transportation demand based on historical trends

For example:

• A shipper can analyze past performance data to identify which carriers are most likely to deliver on time for a given lane.
• Route optimization models can suggest the most efficient delivery paths based on real-time variables and historical success rates.

Want to see how machine learning in transportation works in the real world?

Watch our webinar with Kevin LoGuidice and Steve Blough to see data-driven logistics in action.

2. Data analytics in logistics

Data analytics enables supply chains to collect, clean and interpret data for smarter, faster decisions. In a fast-moving environment like logistics, real-time insight is crucial for maintaining performance.

With the right analytics strategy, businesses can:

1. Monitor key metrics like on-time delivery rates, inventory turnover and transportation costs
2. Identify performance gaps and root causes
3. Evaluate partner and carrier reliability

However, challenges persist:

1. Data quality issues: inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated data can skew results
2. Cognitive bias: decisions may be influenced more by belief than fact .
3. System complexity: logistics systems are deeply nuanced; deriving accurate insights isn’t always straightforward
4. Mindset shift:reporting tells us what happened; analytics tell us why. Many teams are still learning to move from reporting to true analytics

3. Advancing the supply chain with artificial intelligence

AI goes a step further, enabling automation and intelligent decision-making across logistics operations. With AI-powered tools, businesses can:

1. Automate repetitive tasks, freeing up teams for strategic work
2. Forecast demand more accurately and adjust transportation plans in real time .
3. Optimize inventory levels and reduce carrying costs

Take Transportation Management Systems (TMS) as an example. When infused with AI and real-time data, modern TMS platforms can:

1. Trigger dynamic rerouting in response to disruptions
2. Provide continuous shipment tracking
3. Reduce human error and accelerate throughput

The result? A smarter, faster, more resilient logistics operation.

Case Study: how Facil avoided 12% annual LTL costs while scaling operational efficiency

A leading manufacturer, Facil, improved logistics efficiency by deploying the Infios Transportation Management System (TMS). Facing manual processes and visibility gaps in their less-than-truckload (LTL) operations, Facil used our solution to:

• Optimize route planning and carrier selection
• Improve real-time shipment tracking
• Avoid 12% in annual LTL costs while scaling operational efficiency

Why Infios? smarter logistics starts with the right partner

As machine learning and AI for transportation continue to evolve, companies that act now gain a competitive edge. At Infios, we deliver Smart Transportation solutions that help customers:

• Gain real-time visibility and control
• Automate and optimize across the transportation lifecycle
• Drive rapid ROI through predictive analytics, AI and machine learning

Infios provides Smart Transportation solutions that help customers achieve rapid time to value, avoid disruption and scale growth by integrating machine learning and AI for transportation processes.