The logistics industry in Mexico faces a race against time: digitize or disappear . In a sector characterized by narrow margins, high operational pressure, and increasing regulatory complexity, the adoption of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer an option, but a prerequisite for competing and scaling, warned Carlos Cardini, co-founder and co-CEO of Konfront .
In an interview, the executive highlighted that more than 80% of goods in Mexico are moved by tractor-trailer , which makes logistics a pillar of economic development, but also one of the industries most exposed to error.
“It’s an unforgiving industry. The margin is so low that any operational failure directly impacts profitability,” he explained.
Based on his experience, Cardini argued that logistics is one of the sectors with the greatest potential to leverage AI in Latin America.
“Logistics is operationally intensive; there’s always something happening, often outside of working hours. Technology not only improves efficiency but also reduces human effort,” he noted.
Among the main use cases that Konfront has implemented are the digitization of operational processes , the tracking of units via GPS from the operator’s phone , the automation of the Waybill , as well as the optimization of routes and return loads , one of the major profitability problems of transport in Mexico.
“Many trucks return empty. With digital platforms, we can connect carriers with shippers who need to move cargo back, which improves asset utilization and reduces costs,” he emphasized.
Beyond basic digitization, AI allows logistics companies to anticipate critical problems . Cardini highlighted predictive models that detect route deviations in real time, which can be an early indicator of an attempted robbery.
“If a truck deviates from its planned route by more than five minutes in certain areas, it’s usually a sign of risk. With advanced analytics, we can generate immediate alerts and even intervene to prevent the incident,” he explained.
Other key benefits of using AI include dynamic routing , connected with tools like Waze or Google Maps ; more accurate delivery estimates , with predictive models ; automated customer service , through AI agents that respond in minutes and increase the conversion rate ; and automatic validation of documents and merchandise , reducing human errors and tax risks.
“An Artificial Intelligence agent can do the work of dozens of people on repetitive tasks, allowing human talent to focus on higher value activities,” he said.
Despite these advantages, technological adoption remains limited, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises. In Mexico, there are approximately 185,000 logistics companies , many of which still manage their operations using Excel.
“The level of digital maturity in Mexico is far behind what we see in the United States or Europe. Companies that don’t build a solid technological core in the next five to ten years are going to disappear,” Cardini warned.
This core, he explained, is not just about using chatbots , but about integrating data, operating systems, billing, CRM and cybersecurity into a single infrastructure , capable of supporting fast and scalable decisions.
Looking ahead, the executive identified three major trends in logistics:
- Internal hyperconnectivity of all systems.
- Differentiating technological capabilities , focused on customer experience.
- Tools to make the operation profitable , such as predictive models of routes and loads.
“Companies that manage to integrate these three layers will be the ones that capture the largest market share,” he said.
Comment and follow us on X: @jenna_GH_ / @GrupoT21
