HG Logistics LLC attended the 2026 Food Shippers of America Conference held March 1-3 in Orlando, FL. This annual conference has proven to be an excellent venue in which to connect and network with supply chain professionals and food providers from all over the United States. Together, these professionals addressed topics affecting the food industry, including the state of the economy, the need for collaboration between shippers and providers, and the challenges of preventing fraud and cargo theft.

Another topic addressed at the FSA Conference and one many have been avoiding is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI has been gradually filtering into the workplace and is something that can no longer be ignored. AI is here and it is going to play a role in how we orchestrate our daily work tasks. Forecasts indicate that organizations must adopt AI if they want to remain competitive.

Some are under the impression that AI is going to eliminate jobs, but it exists to improve processes. AI is a tool that has its pluses and its downfalls, but once leaders come to understand where AI excels and where it falters, it can be used to one’s benefit. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association summed it up best by stating that AI is acting as a “co-pilot” rather than a replacement.

Benefits of AI in the Trucking Industry:

• AI is keeping drivers safer. Through AI powered cameras and sensors, these devices alert drivers of their surroundings and warn them of possible collisions and can even automatically brake or steer the truck back into a lane to prevent an accident. Cameras inside the cab can detect and warn the driver when he is showing signs of fatigue or distractions.
• AI can also prevent truck breakdowns by detecting mechanical issues with the truck. If the truck does have a mechanical failure, AI can speed up repairs by providing quick, accessible maintenance instructions.
• AI excels in the area fuel efficiency and route optimization. AI’s ability to analyze real-time traffic backups, problematic weather conditions, and road closures can help drivers to plan alternate routes which in turn reduce fuel consumption and minimize idle time.
• Fraud, unfortunately, is something all industries are having to deal with, and the shipping industry is no different. However, AI has proven beneficial in helping to detect fraudulent activity. AI uses algorithms to compare industry norms and raises red flags when deviations from the norm are detected. AI-driven platforms cross-references carrier information against multiple databases to help detect stolen identities.
• AI integrates with GPS to alert managers if a truck makes an unscheduled stop or deviates from the authorized route. This feature proves useful in preventing stolen cargo.

AI has its perks, but it also creates challenges, one being data security. AI increases data collection which increases our risk of cyberattacks. Another drawback to AI is that the high cost of advanced AI tools can be a financial burden to small carriers and owner-operators.

The Food Shippers of America found it necessary to address AI at its conference and industry leaders across the nation need to do the same. AI is here and all need to be proactive in familiarizing themselves with its use and benefits.

Change is never easy, but it is inevitable. So, instead of avoiding it, embrace it, and make the best of it.