Cross-border e-commerce between China and Europe has recovered to new heights of activity since the pandemic. Events such as the China-Europe Cross Border E-Commerce Forum, are promoting trade innovation across multinational markets. It will bring together a mix of e-commerce platforms, logistics(物流) companies and government agencies, to share ideas on trade for a post-COVID world. Artificial Intelligence(AI) automation(自动化) of warehouse fulfillment is an example of one development that is stirring a buzz ahead of the event and across the industry as a whole.
Challenges in finding suitable workers, alongside the rising cost of labor, mean that fulfillment centers have been under extreme pressure to find solutions to meet the boom in home delivery demand. AI technology is helping to overcome the challenges. Fleets of robots are equipped with sensors to avoid collisions, process packages, and avoid traffic congestion. The use of AI applications in warehouses goes beyond just robots. Throughout distribution centers, machine learning, natural language programming and computer software are all being revolutionized by AI.
AI can be combined with the human body too, to form wearable warehouse technology. Natural language processing means that voice-picking can allow workers to free up their hands and improve safety. Smart glasses can also contain cameras, which AI can use to instantly recognize barcodes, items, and even nuanced(细微差别的) situations such as how full a container is.
Despite the powerful influence of AI in warehouse logistics, the MHI Annual Industry report last year stated that just 14 percent of respondents used the technology in some form. However, it is the top minority of players controlling a dominant share of the industry that are predominantly adopting the technology. As AI becomes more mainstream in the sector, and prices fall, adoption will likely spread as logistical solutions, previously reserved for the likes of Alibaba and Amazon, become more accessible. It is estimated that this 14 percent will balloon to 73 percent by 2027.
China-Europe trade is increasingly important, given the uncertainty in many economies. There is not a single industry that supply-chain innovation does not benefit.
