b'NEW TECHNOLOGYVirtual moving surveys: AI is powering the use of virtual moving surveys that identify household goods as well as esti- AUTONOMOUS TRUCKS mate their weight and packing needs for a move. These virtual surveys can be used to establish the inventory and pricing forAI is being used with self-driving or autonomous trucks (AT). Most experts agree the move. AI-assisted virtual surveys canthat the future of logistics is autonomous, which will increasingly include the use of generate quotes in a matter of minutesautonomous vehicles.compared to the many hours of manual work required previously. Less time meansCurrently in the pilot project phase, experts believe ATs will be on the highways less cost. by the end of the decade. Their benefits include increased safety, energy efficiency/Clients can also be involved in this processlower fuel costs and more sustainability. ATs will eliminate distracted and impaired by creating a video of the items to bedriving, reduce accidents, increase fuel efficiency, optimize routing and improve moved. AI creates the visual inventorysustainability, including the use of electric-powered trucks. Challenges include from the video as well as estimates andtraining AI so it can comprehend its surroundings and confirming the safety of ATs packing methods. Again, this results inthrough extensive road testing. As well, optimizing freight yards and upgrading time and cost savings.road and digital infrastructure. Route optimization: AI can determineWhile it would be premature to expect trucks to be driving themselves overnight, the best driver and starting point of aATs will become more prominent in the coming years and will increase produc-move based on proximity, route and avail- tivity in the moving sector. Completed test runs to date confirm that without ability. This makes the move coordinatorshuman drivers, long-haul routes will have fewer stops and accidents, labour require-job simpler for assigning responsibilitiesments will lessen and moving freight will be faster.and increases the number of clients eachOn the downside, there is concern over job loss for drivers and recently the state of coordinator can handle. Kentucky became the first jurisdiction to ban ATs from its roads. Experts contest We can use AI to optimize routesthat human truck drivers will not be made obsolete by ATs; however, some truck taken by our trucks with algorithms thatdrivers will have their responsibilities changed.consider traffic, construction, weather and road conditions to find the most efficientThe reality is that truckings future is changing to benefit industry and customers. route, as well as make changes along theIf the implementation of ATs is done the right way, it will make trucking logistics route, says Irvine. more efficient, environmental and safe.Integrated process platform: One aspect being looked at is a centralizedIrvine adds, I dont think AI will be ableAndreopulos concurs, The human factor approach to the relocation movingto empathize and relate to a personalwill always be an important part of the process. This approach is particularly valu- experience to lessen someones anxiety moving process.able for making corporate moves simpler,or listen to a clients story about aespecially when more than one employeespecial keepsake or move a couch up threeJust remember. The AI locomotive is is being relocated to the same location. Anstoreys. That human relationship is the coming. Maybe the time to jump on the integrated platform allows the companyreal connection.train is now!to closely follow multiple relocations and reduces the burden on the employees so they can stay focused on their work.HUMAN FACTORAI is reshaping how moving companies do their job and experts say it has the potential of catapulting the industry into a new stage of growth. AI makes relocation moving less stressful and more satisfying for relocating employees who will be quicker to adjust to their new location and get up to speed with theirnew responsibilities.Experts agree, however, that AI will not replace the human factor of the reloca-tion industry. AI will need significant development if it has any intentions of fully replacing the human element in what we do, says Derek Duffy, president of Armstrong Moving. While humaninteraction is still a big part of a moves success, AIs role will continue to grow Planning your next move?Contact uvl.ca to get started!and evolve.Summer 2024PERSPECTIVES15'