Direct AI experience driving optimism among US logistics staff

New research suggests that direct experience with artificial intelligence (AI) is shifting attitudes among logistics professionals in the United States towards greater optimism about the technology. The findings point to a strong link between hands-on exposure to AI and positive perceptions of its role in freight operations.

Widespread adoption

The results show 69% of logistics professionals are now using AI tools or working with AI-generated data in their jobs to some capacity. The industry workforce is divided into three groups based on levels of use: 31% report little to no exposure, 39% interact with AI occasionally, and 30% consider themselves frequent users.

Sentiment shift

The majority of survey respondents-60%-express a positive outlook towards the use of AI in logistics, while 19% feel indifferent and 16% hold negative views. However, the data highlights a direct correlation between these sentiments and employees' practical experience with the technology.

Hands-on familiarity

Among logistics professionals who use AI frequently, 93% say they have a positive perception of its impact. Only 5% in this group feel negatively about AI. In sharp contrast, positivity drops markedly among those with little to no contact; just 25% of this group feel optimistic, with 33% expressing negative opinions. The survey suggests that increased familiarity-referred to as the 'Familiarity Principle'-is replacing uncertainty with growing confidence in AI systems.

Understanding through use

Professionals engaging actively with AI report better understanding of the technology and base their opinions more on first-hand benefits rather than theoretical concerns. This effect appears to be right across the sector, affecting operational staff as well as management and senior decision-makers. The research indicates that AI's practical application is a driving force in changing perceptions about its future in logistics.

Industry voices

"Our latest data shows that those who are actively using AI in their day to day are overwhelmingly cheerleaders for the emerging tech. Those who have yet to jump in are much more cynical, understandably, but with 93% of existing users having a positive opinion on AI, the naysayers risk getting left behind unless they embrace AI," said Jack Turner, Editor, Tech.co

Inside Lane Editor Bianca Prieto said, "Tech.co's findings highlight a familiar pattern: when logistics professionals get hands-on with AI, optimism rises. The industry doesn't just need AI adoption; it needs AI fluency."

Sector snapshot

The survey, which polled 269 professionals within the shipping and transport sector, illustrates that AI is becoming an everyday aspect of logistics work. Adoption rates are expected to increase as more employees gain exposure through day-to-day tasks.