PostNord Sweden handles an average of half a million packages daily at its package terminals across the country. At some of these terminals, AI solutions are currently being tested and developed to enable smarter package sorting and optimized loading. The goal is to streamline the entire logistics chain, reduce costs and carbon emissions, and make work easier for employees.
Among other things, a camera-based AI solution is being tested that automatically measures the load factor in each vehicle. The camera scans the cargo area of all transport vehicles at the terminals and generates an overview that is used for smarter data collection regarding the efficiency of vehicle loading. This solution replaces the previous manual data collection with a fully automated process, which will reduce the workload for employees and ensure accurate data. By optimizing shipments, the number of unnecessary trips is reduced, which in turn helps lower CO2 emissions.
– We use the latest AI technology to maximize space in our vehicles. It’s like playing Tetris, but in real life. By quickly and automatically providing our employees with information on how much we’re loading, we can minimize wasted space and increase the efficiency of each transport vehicle. Previously, the process was entirely manual, but it’s now automated, which means we can reduce costs and our carbon footprint while making things easier for our employees and management at the terminals. “It’s fantastic to see how this technology works and helps us achieve our sustainability goals,” says Mathias Krümmel, CEO of PostNord Sweden.
PostNord is also testing another AI-based solution in the form of smart glasses with built-in AI and a microphone for its employees at the terminals. The smart glasses can scan barcodes on packages and provide immediate feedback on how and where the scanned item should be sorted. The glasses replace traditional handheld tools such as scanners, which means employees have access to important information while keeping both hands free, making package handling more efficient and ergonomic.
– We are convinced that we must dare to embrace new technology in order to meet the challenges of the future. We’re constantly working to develop our business to make things easier for all our employees. We also strive to be a pioneer in sustainable logistics and see AI as a key part of achieving our goals. The solutions we choose to implement are carefully selected to address the challenges facing our industry, both now and in the future,” says Mathias Krümmel.
