Logistics giant FedEx has found 97% of companies say visibility alone is no longer enough to stay ahead of the competition as they need to turn logistics data into actionable insights supported by analytics and AI.

Its first-ever Future of Logistics Intelligence Report reveals that while most organisations have achieved end-to-end shipment visibility, far fewer can turn those data into the insights and actions needed to stay competitive.

“Closing the gap with logistics intelligence, supported by analytics, AI and close partnerships with your carrier, will help organisations move from reacting to disruptions to anticipating them, minimising impact and delivering a leading customer experience,” said Jason Brenner, senior vice president at FedEx.

Most leaders polled express confidence in their ability to track shipments, yet the data reveal a gap between what organisations can see and what they can do. Just 59% of organisations use data proactively to predict and prevent issues, while 25% use it reactively, and 11% use it for visibility into current issues. Only 18% say their teams are always able to intervene when shipments are delayed.

Consumer expectations for reliability, transparency and proactive communication are accelerating the need for logistics intelligence at every touchpoint. Decision-makers say consumers prioritise reliable delivery windows (36%) and end-to-end shipment tracking (34%). Limited visibility and delivery delays remain the most common shipping-related complaints. Organisations see higher costs to serve (53%), increased strain on service teams (47%) and more customer complaints (46%) as a result of delays.

Only 43% of leaders strongly agree that their logistics systems are future-proof, meaning they can adapt to shifting customer expectations, compliance demands and market conditions.

The report points to modern connected systems and AI-powered insights as the foundation for future readiness, enabling organisations to predict disruptions earlier, reduce manual work, and respond with greater speed and confidence.

“Being ready for what’s next, building long-term resiliency and competitive differentiation, requires investing in systems that go beyond meeting today’s needs,” said Brenner. “Connected data, analytics and AI are essential to making that shift.”

Organisations looking to improve delivery reliability can download the report at www.fedex.com/en-us/digital/blog/2026-future-of-logistics-intelligence-report.html.

To create the report, in October 2025 FedEx (fedex.com) surveyed 700 full-time professionals at the director level and above in operations, logistics and supply chain, IT, ecommerce and customer service roles at organisations with 500 or more employees. Respondents represented companies that ship physical goods across industries including healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, ecommerce, aerospace and technology. Participants were distributed across Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America.