Annual Review & Outlook 2025
Logistics
Executive Commentary scale ; in supply chain , this technology has contributed to a marked increase in the usefulness of data analytics , transparency and automation , all critical elements for supply chain visibility and predictability .
Visibility in supply chain has far-reaching implications for businesses and customers alike . For the food supply , knowing the provenance
Banyan Technology Brian Smith of the cinnamon in a jar of flavored applesauce could equal the difference between a healthy snack and lead poisoning ; quickly pinpointing which supplier shipped the tainted onions garnishing a popular burger means stopping an E . coli outbreak before it spreads nationwide .
But AI is not just a boon for improving safety ; it also increases
CEO www . banyantechnology . com
Visibility has come a long way from the simple question of “ Where ’ s my truck ?” or “ Where ’ s my shipment ?” In today ’ s market , businesses demand full transparency across every step of their freight execution process , from vetting carriers and tracking shipment movement in real time to managing documentation and leveraging data to augment decision-making .
As the market continues to fluctuate , consolidation and shuttering of trusted carriers has created a critical need for transparency well into the process of choosing which carrier to trust with your shipments . Understanding which carriers to use for various types of shipments , routes , delivery time frames and even verification of accessorials has increased the need for full-circle transparency .
Fortunately , data is available to help shippers make informed decisions about the carriers they choose . Having access to historical data and business intelligence via system dashboards for carrier performance , carrier cost and other critical selection factors increases the likelihood that freight is handled by a provider with the appropriate mode , capabilities and qualifications minimizing the risk of delays , damage or mishandling .
Beyond carrier selection for timely delivery , it ’ s no surprise that realtime in-transit shipment tracking is becoming increasingly in demand . Many customers are requiring real-time tracking to manage their own supply chains and minimize inventories as businesses deal with increased costs and ongoing labor challenges . Real-time tracking provides visibility into precise delivery times and routes , allowing businesses to anticipate and react to any potential delays in their shipments and maintain optimal levels of inventory .
Additional requirements for visibility beyond the physical movement of goods include document management and financial reporting , which make accessing contracts to review carrier agreements , rate quotes and shipment details easier , ensuring businesses avoid billing discrepancies or payment errors to better manage costs .
Finally , having visibility into historical and real-time shipping data provides businesses with the insight they need to better manage costs and meet growing customer demands . With this enhanced visibility comes greater predictability . In the end , having the right carriers , correct shipment details and manageable costs to make informed shipping decisions is essential for maintaining efficient operations .
efficiency . Big-box stores are using AI-powered systems to better understand and predict customer behavior . “ Our [ AI ] engines are always learning , so we can optimize , increase demand or reposition inventory to higher selling regions ,” Walmart ’ s tech blog explains . In other words , supply chain managers know not only what and when customers want to buy , but where those customers are located . Amazon uses AI to right-size packaging : the data is refined based on customer feedback , prior shipments deemed successful and keywords about the item ; therefore , it ’ s not just the size of the box or mailer that can be determined , but also the amount of cushioning required . Customization reduces waste .
In 2025 , supply chain managers can employ AI-enhanced data analytics tools to create end-to-end visibility and predictability , ensuring a clear understanding of the entire chain , from raw materials to the end customer . Adopting this technology may require additional training or financial outlay , but the result — a more predictable supply chain of the future — will be well worth the investment .
Bettaway Supply Chain Services
John Vaccaro
President www . bettaway . com
Trucking companies face myriad challenges going into 2025 . Costs for everything — from trucks to tolls to tires — continue to rise . As the driver population ages , recruitment and retention require even more creativity , innovation and investment . Customers continue to demand a high level of service , and carriers must invest in modern equipment and technologies to help shippers achieve their goals .
Yet perhaps the most pressing issue for trucking firms is the insurance challenge , driven by nuclear verdicts and the rising liability premiums that result .
We are under assault by plaintiff attorneys who , when a truck is involved in an accident , look for the
“ As the market continues to fluctuate , consolidation and shuttering of trusted carriers has created a critical need for transparency well into the process of choosing which carrier to trust with your shipments . ”
Brian Smith
“ We are under assault by plaintiff attorneys who , when a truck is involved in an accident , look for the deepest pockets they can find , regardless of fault .”
John Vaccaro www . joc . com January 6 , 2025 | Journal of Commerce 87