Route optimisation software leads tech adoption in US logistics
The latest Tech.co 2025 Logistic Report has identified route optimisation software as the most widely adopted technology among US logistics businesses.
According to the report, 51% of logistics companies in the United States have implemented route optimisation software, making it the dominant technology in the sector. This tool outpaces other popular logistic technologies, including driver monitoring and coaching platforms (46%), telematics and fleet tracking (41%), fuel and energy reduction technology (30%), digital freight matching (19%), warehouse robotics (15%), and autonomous vehicles (10%).
Sector focus
The findings indicate the US logistic industry continues to focus investment on technologies designed to streamline delivery routes and increase the efficiency of drivers. The data shows a clear preference for tools that deliver improvements in the reliability and efficiency of freight transport rather than rapidly transitioning to emerging technologies: only 10% of businesses report using autonomous vehicles, a technology which has not yet reached a level of adoption necessary to significantly influence the industry.
Jack Turner, Editor at Tech.co, commented on the report findings, stating,
Route optimization software stands out as the most popular technology used amongst businesses in the logistic sector. Our survey shows a clear industry-wide need to prioritise route inefficiencies, and ensure freight is delivered in a timely manner. A seamless and reliable delivery route can be a key component for businesses looking to maximise performance and meet their freight demands.
Addressing workforce challenges
Workforce challenges, particularly the ongoing shortage of drivers in the US logistics industry, appear to be a significant factor influencing technology adoption. Tech.co's survey reveals that 87% of route optimisation software users say the tool helps "significantly" or "somewhat" in addressing these challenges. This level of satisfaction suggests that such software is providing practical value, potentially easing the burden caused by a tight labour market.
The report further details satisfaction with other workforce challenge-focused technologies, ranking digital freight matching highest with an 89% satisfaction rate. Other tools include warehouse robotics (86%), fuel and energy reduction technology (85%), driver monitoring and coaching platforms (84%), and telematics and fleet tracking (83%). These tools, especially software-based solutions, are seen as valuable because they are scalable and relatively easy to implement, compared to capital-intensive options like autonomous vehicles or warehouse robotics.
Reducing dependency on drivers
The industry's shift toward technology to mitigate driver shortages is further underscored by the report's findings that 63% of US logistic businesses now use technology explicitly aimed at reducing their reliance on human drivers. Only one in five of the surveyed companies said they have no plans to use technology as a means of addressing workforce challenges, highlighting a clear move towards automation and efficiency gains.
The satisfaction with digital freight matching and route optimisation software indicates that smart coordination tools are not only relieving logistical bottlenecks but are increasingly important for labour and capacity planning. The software's strong adoption rate is attributed to its operational value and relatively low barriers to entry.
Survey methodology and data
The report's data is based on a survey of 521 professionals within the US transport and shipping sector, collected in mid-2025. The survey results offer a snapshot of current technology trends in logistics, suggesting technology adoption is likely to continue in the areas of route optimisation and labour-saving software as the industry seeks practical solutions for efficiency and workforce constraints.
