Deploying artificial intelligence in logistics should focus on productivity and resilience rather than chasing cutting-edge technology, opines New York's Forbes magazine.

Satish Natarajan, chief executive of DispatchTrack, said companies like Walmart are using AI to strengthen supply chains holistically. He noted that productivity gains can come from simple deployments, such as AI chat agents reducing customer calls by 75 per cent or voice briefings enabling drivers to complete one extra delivery per day.

Mr Natarajan stressed that success depends on aligning AI with operational priorities. He advised shippers not to hunt for problems but to target areas such as driver productivity, paperwork reduction and customer experience. Clear handovers between AI and humans are also vital to avoid stagnation.

He urged firms to choose technology partners carefully, deploy with scalability in mind and set clear KPIs. User experience should be prioritised so AI tools fit seamlessly into existing workflows without adding friction.

Other logistics leaders are adopting similar strategies. Unilever is using AI to improve food supply chain consistency, while McKinsey found 95 per cent of distributors are considering AI. Connectivity and visibility remain crucial foundations for effective deployments.

Mr Natarajan said people-first AI empowers staff to identify and address productivity obstacles quickly. As reporting tools improve, AI agents will help bridge gaps between productivity goals and technology. He added that expectations are shifting toward practical, scalable gains rather than inflated promises.