If AI agents are the sous chefs of the kitchen, machine learning is the executive chef.
That’s the analogy used to describe how different levels of Artificial Intelligence (AI) work together to optimize logistics operations. In this episode of Loaded and Rolling, our CEO, Prasad Gollapalli, sits down with Thomas Wasson to talk about how AI is changing logistics strategy.
AI Agents vs. Machine Learning
Here’s how they differ:
- AI agents can follow instructions and book appointments automatically. They’re reactive and helpful, but they’re not the whole picture.
- Machine learning, on the other hand, learns from past behavior and interactions to make the best decision–like identifying which appointment slot will minimize detention and reduce dwell time across a network.
Automation is just the first layer of AI to impact scheduling. Early adopters who embrace advanced technology will find that machine learning is going a step further to optimize scheduling operations and impact team productivity.
To put some numbers to it, our customers are cutting scheduling efforts by up to 95% and reducing missed or poor-quality appointments by more than 80%.
The Logistics Legacy Tech Problem
Appointment scheduling can be messy. Everyone’s trying to get the best slot, avoid penalties, and make sure freight moves on time. But the systems are still stuck in the past.
A surprising number of logistics companies still run on technology that dates back decades, relying on multiple web portals, manual entries, and spreadsheets. That kind of setup might have been acceptable before, but today’s supply chains are too complex and too fast-moving.
AI is a hot topic everywhere, but logistics hasn’t always been quick to adopt it. Unlike big tech companies that can spend years building something before seeing returns, logistics needs results now.
Appointment Scheduling: The Underdog Problem
Big logistics buzzwords are visibility, capacity, or automation. It doesn’t come up as often with appointment scheduling, but it should.
When appointment times are missed or poorly selected, it creates a cascade of problems:
- Detention fees
- OTIF (On-Time In-Full) penalties
- Late deliveries
- Frustrated carriers and warehouse teams
It’s not just a calendar problem. It’s a supply chain performance problem.
What’s Next? A New Standard for Scheduling
In an industry where every minute counts, appointment scheduling is evolving from a behind-the-scenes task to a strategic priority.
Manual coordination and outdated systems simply can’t keep pace with today’s industry demands. AI scheduling is setting the foundation for what could become a new industry standard.
Tune into the full Loaded and Rolling episode with Prasad and Thomas to learn more about this shift and what this means for the future of logistics.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NKG6NEtJ1E
If you’re ready to rethink how your team handles scheduling, reach out to us at contact@qued.com.