In recent years, artificial intelligence has occupied a central role in our society. The fast adoption of machine learning and deep learning models boosted the ability of AI to evolve from some toy for geeks into a useful and powerful tool both in everyday life and business. Thus AI serves as a pivotal growth catalyst for businesses in various fields. Logistics is no exception. 

In this article, we’ll describe, how AI impacts the industry software, in the last-mile delivery sector specifically. 

Artificial intelligence in logistics

The use of AI in logistics is becoming increasingly essential in today's fast-paced business environment. It can be used to automate routine tasks to reduce costs and improve efficiency. For instance, AI can process and filter large amounts of data, placing certain items in a certain order to optimize warehouse operations or selecting routes that minimize travel time.

Among other, AI-powered systems can anticipate demand patterns, inventory fluctuations, and potential disruptions, enabling optimization of inventory levels, minimizing stockouts, and streamlining supply chain operations. By accurately forecasting demand, businesses can ensure that the right products are at the right place and time, leading to improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. This will ultimately lead to the automation of larger parts of workflows.

The use of AI in the field can go beyond the boundaries of a specific company and acquire a wider application. As Forbes writes, logistics operations are susceptible to various risks, such as natural disasters, labor shortages, geopolitical issues, etc. AI's predictive capabilities empower companies to anticipate potential risks and devise contingency plans proactively.

AI in last-mile delivery software

Last-mile delivery is the most sophisticated and challenging part of the logistics process, while its efficiency is crucial for businesses. With artificial intelligence last-mile delivery software is becoming more advanced, which sets a new standard in service quality. Some of the most common use cases are:

• Chatbots. Can improve customer interaction, provide them with real-time updates about their delivery, and handle their queries or complaints.
• Prediction algorithms. AI can predict when delivery vehicles might need maintenance or repairs, helping to prevent breakdowns and delays.
• Security systems. AI can identify patterns that may indicate fraudulent activity.
• ​​Prediction making. AI can analyze real-time data from various sources, like traffic updates or weather forecasts, and make instant adjustments to delivery routes and schedules.
  

In self-service parcel locker networks last mile software can be significantly strengthened with AI. For example, in OMNIC’s software solutions, AI plays a pivotal role in pinpointing the optimal and highly efficient locations for parcel lockers. The algorithm considers a myriad of factors, including the density of mobile signals in the area, GPS navigation data, reported foot traffic from nearby shops and organizations, the average population in the nearest residential areas, the accessibility of public transportation, and various other relevant parameters.

Andre Veskimeister, the Founder at Parcel Locker Central lists even more areas where AI influence can be lifechanging, like the implementation of autonomous vehicles and drones, IoT-enabled real-time asset tracking, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and warehouse automation, and blockchain technology for enhanced supply chain traceability. 

AI delivery - future or reality?

AI is far from being just a cool gimmick for parcel lockers and other self-service devices. Last-mile delivery software with AI employed represents a transformative innovation that is already within our reach. It's much closer to reality than the robots in every household or self-driving cars in every garage. It's a technology that we need to manufacture, develop, and harness effectively to witness a substantial impact on people's convenience and the environment.