Robotics and AI are no longer futuristic buzzwords – they’re changing the logistics industry today. In a recent episode of the Logtech Podcast, our CEO Victor Splittgerber shares his perspective on the current state of robotics, its impact on logistics, and what companies should know when entering the world of automation.

⸻

The Rise of Mobile Robots in Logistics

Mobile robots are already widely used in warehouses – Amazon alone operates over one million of them. These robots handle tasks like transporting shelves, sorting parcels, or assisting with picking operations, dramatically reducing walking distances and increasing efficiency.

⸻

Two Types of Robotics: Stationary vs. Mobile

Robotics can be divided into two main categories:
• Stationary robots: Traditional industrial arms or collaborative robots (cobots) used in fixed positions, e.g., at picking stations or for sorting.
• Mobile robots (AMRs/AGVs): Autonomous units navigating through warehouses, now often standard in modern intralogistics.

⸻

It’s All About the Business Case

Despite labor shortages, automation only takes off if the ROI is clear. Mobile robots offer value through:
• Reduced labor dependency
• Shorter picking paths
• Flexible scaling in fluctuating environments

⸻

AI in Robotics – Hype vs. Reality

While AI enables major advancements in image recognition, object handling, and autonomous navigation, practical use cases still lag behind the hype. Victor highlights the growing potential but stresses that current applications remain limited – and integration takes time.

⸻

What About Humanoid Robots?

They’re exciting – but not ready for logistics. Humanoid robots are still in early development stages and lack the efficiency or maturity for real warehouse operations. Victor advises: focus on proven technologies first. The time for humanoids will come – just not yet.

⸻

New Challenges: Operating Robots at Scale

As companies adopt robotics, new operational needs emerge:

• Maintenance and repair management
• Knowledge retention for error resolution
• On-floor operator training

Software tools like WAKU Care help teams manage these challenges efficiently.

⸻

Strategic Implementation Matters

Victor’s advice:
1. Don’t start with the most complex process.
2. Begin small with fast ROI.
3. Work with independent consultants for vendor selection and planning.

With tools like Lots of Bots, companies can explore over 500 robots and compare solutions tailored to their needs.

⸻

Final Thoughts

Robotics will become a standard element of modern logistics. But successful adoption requires realistic expectations, process readiness, and strong change management. Companies that plan smartly today will be ready for the future of automation.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here.