Let’s explore the trends set to shape the logistics industry in 2025, contributing to innovation and reforming operations.
The five years spanning the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic recovery have highlighted one truth: the global supply chain is both susceptible to disruptions and ripe for innovation.
According to McKinsey research, logistics companies are increasingly investing in technology to cut costs and boost productivity in warehouses and transport networks. These efforts not only provide a competitive edge, but they also expand operational capabilities and ensure the sustainability of such transformations over time.
Let’s explore the trends set to shape the logistics industry in 2025, contributing to innovation and reforming operations.
One of the most notable trends in logistics today is the digitalization of all processes. Recent innovations in this domain have already accelerated and optimized operations, enabling companies to streamline workflows through digital technologies.
For instance, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) now monitor goods and the vehicles transporting them. Inventory is tracked via handheld RF scanners and even drones. Computers handle warehouse load planning, product placement, and employee task management. They provide up-to-date information that ensures transparency in operations, shortens delivery times, and ultimately boosts both competitiveness and customer satisfaction.
Precise inventory tracking empowers logistics providers to quickly address emerging issues, optimize operations, and identify areas for improvement. By avoiding inventory shortages or surpluses, businesses can meet customer demand year-round, securing a competitive advantage.
WMS tools are instrumental here by analyzing performance and offering demand forecasting and planning based on collected data. Modern warehouse management systems often operate in the cloud, allowing simultaneous access to up-to-date information about inventory, its origin, location, and destination — anytime, anywhere.
One of the most effective ways to speed up logistics operations is by integrating automated systems into transportation, storage, and handling processes. For example, stacker cranes and Pallet Shuttle systems can be integrated into pre-existing warehouse infrastructure to enhance efficiency.
Another powerful ally during demand peaks, such as Black Friday, is robot-assisted order assembly. Enabled by deep learning algorithms, these robots autonomously collect and pack items with precision, achieving up to 1,000 picks per hour.
While E-commerce is often associated with B2C transactions, online B2B trade is growing rapidly, driving innovation in logistics. Businesses expect the same seamless experience in B2B E-commerce as in retail, prompting wholesale traders to adopt marketplaces and subscription models.
With digital tools, companies can synchronize their logistics centers with online platforms to deliver a superior user experience.
In 2025, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will continue to play a leading role in supply chains. AI-driven software enhancements, such as autonomous code generation and the translation of outdated programming languages, will free engineers from repetitive tasks, enabling more creative work.
Advancements in generative AI will streamline access to both internal and external data. According to Gartner, over 80% of companies will use AI-powered applications in production environments by 2026, compared to just 5% in 2023.
Growing customer expectations for faster deliveries compel companies to rethink traditional logistics processes. Retailers are opening more regional warehouses and pickup points while adopting omnichannel strategies to offer customers greater flexibility.
In addition, major players like Google and Amazon are introducing drones for last-mile deliveries. Google’s Wing network, operational in Australia since 2021, is expected to scale from thousands to millions of deliveries by 2025.
AI-powered systems that autonomously purchase or sell goods, known as “machine customers,” are rising as a novel trend in commerce and industry. A household example is a printer that orders new toner cartridges when it runs low.
Gartner predicts that machine customers will have an impact even greater than the advent of E-commerce. Businesses are recommended to explore this trend to uncover new market opportunities.
The shift to cloud solutions offers the ability to manage supply chains without relying on cumbersome on-premises systems. Cloud-based tools enable real-time monitoring of transportation, inventory, and supply chain management, regardless of your location.
The scalability and seamless updates of cloud platforms reduce the need for heavy investment, allowing businesses using SaaS solutions to adapt to changing demands and swiftly integrate new features. This not only speeds up operations and saves money, but also allows companies to focus on strategic growth rather than technical maintenance.
IoT devices monitor conditions like temperature, humidity, and location, transmitting real-time data to centralized systems for analysis and route adjustments. This technology is especially critical for transporting goods with specific storage requirements, such as pharmaceuticals or perishable items.
Tracking shipments at every stage ensures accurate deliveries and minimizes potential losses or damage, which can lead to increased costs and diminished customer trust.
As logistics processes become increasingly digitized, the threat of cyberattacks grows, with sensitive data such as goods details, financial transactions, and personnel information at risk. In 2024 alone, supply chain cyberattacks affected approximately 183,000 clients globally.
However, if we compare the figure with the stats over the previous five years, we can see that the number of businesses affected by cyberattacks has significantly diminished. Perhaps, this is the result of businesses using cyber protection solutions, which become more sophisticated each year.
Indeed, solutions like encryption, access management, threat monitoring, and intrusion detection systems help safeguard information and prevent data breaches. Regular security audits and comprehensive measures are essential to avoiding data losses and reputational risks.
Digital twins — virtual replication of a real supply chain — allow businesses to simulate and test different scenarios. This technology aids in risk analysis, process optimization, and predicting potential issues before they occur.
IT experts develop platforms for simulating logistics operations, enabling the recreation of real-world conditions and assessing the outcomes of supply chain adjustments. This approach improves planning accuracy and prepares companies for various situations, reducing costs.
Blockchain technology enhances transparency in supply chain management. Every transaction is recorded in an immutable ledger, eliminating data tampering. This allows businesses to track goods at every stage, including their condition and location, with real-time updates for all stakeholders.
Between 2024 and 2032, blockchain use in logistics is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 39.19%. This growth is well-founded, as blockchain minimizes errors and fraud risks, strengthening trust among partners and customers.
Big data analytics supports logistics companies in understanding current customer needs and predicting future demands. Analytical tools provide insights into consumer behavior, trends, and accurate demand forecasting for specific products.
Big data also optimizes logistics processes by anticipating transport needs, managing inventory, and responding swiftly to market shifts.
For instance, PepsiCo uses analytics to forecast stock shortages and alert retailers to restock needs. Similarly, Pfizer employs analytics in its Digital Operations Center (DOC) project, reducing production cycle times by 10% in certain processes and ensuring consistent vaccine supplies.
Bringing together various modes of transport into a single platform is the essence of multimodal logistics. When trucks, trains, ships, and planes are unified through a digital platform, your business gains the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances, switch transportation modes, choose optimal routes, and save costs.
Integration with other operators and companies via APIs enhances process adaptability, resulting in a better and more convenient service for customers.
Modern supply chains must be well-planned and resilient to external factors and market shifts. Beyond ensuring reliable task execution, businesses must also create favorable conditions for employees, use equipment and vehicles efficiently, reduce costs, and address environmental concerns.
SAP Digital Supply Chain (DSC) is a comprehensive solution for managing digital supply chains. Powered by AI, it enhances operational flexibility and market responsiveness.
As evidenced by customers, SAP DSC delivers:
If you're looking to improve logistics processes and streamline supply chain management, LeverX's experts are ready to assist you.
LeverX implements various systems that help:
Our mission is to automate processes, making it easier for you to control every stage of delivery.
LeverX’s tailored solutions deliver results such as:
In collaboration with SAP, LeverX implemented SAP SuccessFactors in Girteka, one of Europe's largest FTL companies. Automation streamlined HR processes, improved data analysis, and boosted productivity.
The project was started with modules for HR management, recruitment, onboarding, performance, and shift planning at the Lithuanian office. The second phase extended the solution to other countries, incorporating new modules.
SAP SuccessFactors enhanced processes, improved employee mobility, and established a foundation for growth.
A European port was challenged with the need to manage increasing workloads. LeverX implemented SAP Yard Logistics with features like automated berth reservation, optimized vessel routing, and task distribution. The system was integrated with MRS and Solver for better visualization and resource management.
Outcomes included faster loading/unloading processes, reduced manual labor, and improved planning transparency. As a result, the planning efficiency increased and processes management became streamlined and transparent.
A leading European transport company faced the need to improve logistics, simplify data processing, and enhance reporting efficiency. To address these challenges, LeverX implemented SAP TM, configuring the system for ferry transportation and integrating it with truck tracking and route management solutions. This significantly improved route optimization and interaction with carriers.
After implementing the solution, the company achieved detailed reporting, increased transparency in all logistics operations, and enhanced transportation management. Additionally, transportation costs were reduced through more efficient financial resource utilization and automation of real-time event tracking with SAP Event Management.
A global logistics giant with over 300,000 employees turned to LeverX to modernize its health and safety systems. The solution included enhancing medical examination schedules, as well as managing risks and chemical substances. Our team customized SAP EHS by developing a Fiori calendar for scheduling medical appointments, introducing a new risk analysis method based on the EMKG scheme, and creating a chemical interface for importing data from external sources.
The implementation of these components helped improve employee health prevention and hazardous materials management, as well as accelerate risk assessment processes. For instance, the EMKG method enabled a more precise determination of hazard levels, while the specialized interface became a key tool for handling chemical data. Additionally, these solutions strengthened the company's image as a responsible employer.
In 2025, the logistics and supply chain industries will continue evolving under the influence of new technologies such as AI, automation, and robotics. While implementing these innovations and training staff will require significant investment, companies that adopt modern solutions now will not only adapt effectively to changes but also stand out among competitors.