Logistics 2026 Annual Review & Outlook
Executive Commentary
Kuehne + Nagel
Markus Johannsen
Global Head of Sea Logistics Technology & Business Intelligence www. kuehne-nagel. com
Artificial intelligence is reshaping ocean shipping and logistics as we speak, excelling at predictive maintenance, route optimization and dynamic pricing. However, it faces challenges with fragmented industry data and regulatory complexity. For supply chain leaders, the question is therefore not whether to adopt AI, but rather how to do so effectively.
Once a competitive edge, end-to-end visibility is today a baseline expectation for business continuity. Yet, we have learned that visibility alone is insufficient. It is key to know, for example, where disruptions are happening. The real value is not just in having the information available but in being able to translate that knowledge into actionable decisions such as quantifying delays and recommending alternatives and mitigating risk. This requires embedding your data into the decision-making process, or visibility remains passive.
Shipping data is often unstructured, challenging the process of integrating it into operational workflows. While fragmentation is a challenge for AI tools, they will offer a solution as they get better at automating tasks, such as booking validation and shipping instructions, where they already deliver measurable benefits. AI’ s ability to autofill and sense-check can begin to improve data quality and compliance, making it a cornerstone of a resilient, intelligent supply chain that will reduce costs and support growth.
Meanwhile, venture capital in logistics technology sector is cooling. In the current environment, investors now favor startups with proven ROI, scalable models and strong data foundations, resulting in fewer speculative bets but more robust platforms well-positioned to solving industry needs in turbulent times.
AI is not a silver bullet, but it is a strategic imperative. The winners will be those who use it to anticipate, adapt and act.
“ Venture capital in logistics technology sector is cooling.”
Markus Johannsen
“ If you’ re not advancing your technical capabilities, you will fall behind.”
Alison Layfield
“ AI’ s effectiveness is directly tied to the quality of the data it leverages.”
Kirk Knauff
ePost Global Shipping
Alison Layfield
Vice President – Product Development www. epostglobalshipping. com
Even if visibility has become standard, technology still adds value because of the pace at which the cross-border environment is changing. New fees, shifting tariff structures and evolving de minimis rules aren’ t happening slowly or predictably. They’ re happening quickly, and sometimes with almost no advance notice. In that kind of environment, companies need the ability to adapt.
If you’ re not advancing your technical capabilities, you will fall behind. The volume of regulatory change alone requires systems that can adjust quickly, whether that means updating workflows, modifying how data is captured or ensuring customer communication stays accurate. Technology allows logistics providers to be nimble enough to implement changes as soon as they’ re required.
A major part of the value comes from automation. We’ re focused on using technology to streamline work that used to be entirely manual. For example, we can record our training sessions and use AI tools that can turn those recordings into clear, consistent standard operating procedures. When rules or processes shift, being able to update documentation immediately is essential.
We’ re also looking at AI to improve data accuracy. That includes address validation, analyzing transit patterns, reviewing rate structures and reconciling data we receive from partner vendors with our own processed data. These tasks have become more complex as more countries consider new address requirements, import fees or adjust their customs requirements. Having tools that can identify discrepancies earlier helps us respond more effectively.
Ultimately, visibility tells you what’ s happening and technology is what allows you to act on it quickly, accurately, and in a way that keeps both retailers and consumers informed. In a landscape that’ s changing this rapidly, that ability to adapt is where technology still delivers real value.
Kaleris
Kirk Knauff
President & CEO www. kaleris. com
Artificial intelligence is rapidly making its mark on ocean shipping and logistics, particularly at marine terminals. Forwardthinking terminals have started integrating AI tools to enable faster, more informed decision-making and anticipate operational needs, proactively addressing challenges such as yard congestion and equipment deployment with greater precision. This shift from reactive troubleshooting to proactive
planning marks a significant evolution in terminal and logistics management. AI’ s effectiveness is directly tied to the quality of the data it leverages. Before implementation, logistics leaders must identify the specific outcomes they want to address and ensure their operating systems can deliver clean, reliable data. For example, an AI agent can guide a yard planner with suggested actions, but without clear business objectives, a robust operational system of record, and user adoption, the suggestion won’ t go very far.
AI is enabling supply chain software users to achieve greater outcomes. These intelligent systems can suggest actions or automate routine tasks, making final decisions quicker and more impactful. This is especially important in dynamic environments like maritime ports and terminals.
Connectivity is also particularly important in ecosystems where data flows across the supply chain. AI cannot
86 Journal of Commerce | January 5, 2026 www. joc. com