DHL Rolls out AI-based Software Called IDEA in Some of Its Warehouse Locations to Improve Pick Routing and Staff Utilization

DHL is deploying an AI-based software called IDEA in some of its warehouse locations to improve pick routing and staff utilization, the company announced Wednesday. The tool clusters orders "logically," optimizes picking routes and distributes workload among warehouse staff, according to Dietmar Steins, EVP of solutions design at DHL Supply Chain. The software "help[s] prioritize more time-critical shipments," Steins said in a statement. In its first deployments, the software's modeling has reduced the distance traveled by warehouse employees up to 50% while increasing productivity up to 30%. The percentages will vary from location to location depending on existing WMS capabilities.