US logistics firms turn to tech as driver shortage worsens
New data indicates that 63% of U.S. logistics businesses are implementing technology to reduce reliance on truck drivers.
The findings come from Tech.co's 2025 U.S. Logistics Report, which emphasises a significant shift towards technological solutions in response to a reportedly worsening driver shortage.
Critical workforce concerns
The report highlights concern among logistics companies regarding the supply of drivers. According to the survey, 88% of businesses experiencing workforce limitations categorise the issue as a "critical, immediate operational risk" and have seen recruitment and retention conditions deteriorate in the past year.
As a result, the logistics industry is increasingly turning to technology in hopes of mitigating these risks and securing its operations. The report shows that only 20% of U.S. logistics companies have no plans to deploy technology to address workforce challenges.
Technology adoption and satisfaction
The study identifies several technologies being used by U.S. logistics companies. Digital freight matching leads in satisfaction, with 89% of users reporting it has helped "significantly" or "somewhat" to tackle workforce challenges. Other tools achieving high marks include routing optimisation software with an 87% satisfaction rating, warehouse robotics at 86%, fuel and energy reduction technology at 85%, driver monitoring and coaching platforms at 84%, and telematics or fleet tracking at 83%.
These figures suggest that digital tools are not only being adopted but are also seen as effective in alleviating the labour shortages being felt across the sector. Digital freight matching technology stands out as the top performer, as reflected in the percentage of businesses reporting positive outcomes.
Impact on the labour shortage
Widespread adoption of technology is reported to be having a substantial effect. Three in four U.S. logistics companies say that technological advancements have helped address their workforce challenges, while just 6% indicate there has been no discernible impact.
The use of digital solutions is becoming more prominent, with a steady shift towards modern tools such as digital freight matching and logistics software. Despite not yet being universal, the move towards automation and optimisation technology is gaining traction across road freight businesses.
The report underscores that, if implemented widely, these technologies could not only ease the labour shortage but could also improve operational efficiency and the overall resilience of logistics companies in the United States.
"The recruitment crisis in logistics is nothing new, but the latest research from Tech.co shows that tech is on hand to offer a solution, and that many freight businesses, over half, are actively using it. However, the 20% that are resisting embracing tech might find that the gap between them and their competitors growing ever wider as a result."
Jack Turner, Editor at Tech.co, made this observation regarding the report's findings.
"Tech, like digital freight matching, gives companies the ability to adapt quickly, optimize routes, and stay ahead of disruption. In an industry where time and efficiency directly impact the bottom line, leveraging this kind of technology isn't just helpful, it's a competitive advantage."
This perspective from Bianca Prieto, Editor of The Inside Lane trucking newsletter, underlines the connection between technological adoption and competitiveness in the logistics industry.
Survey background
The report draws from a survey of 521 professionals in the U.S. transport and shipping sector. The data provides insights into how logistics businesses are responding to industry-wide labour shortages and the growing reliance on technological tools to ensure efficient and resilient operations.
