The ongoing freight recession has carriers facing intense pressure to protect margins, find consistent loads, and operate efficiently. Many are rethinking business models, trimming costs, and seeking ways to keep trucks rolling without leaving money on the table. Every minute spent waiting, every mile driven empty, and every missed opportunity can directly impact the bottom line.
In challenging markets like this, tools and insights that help carriers work smarter—not harder—are more important than ever. By combining real-world data with technology designed for the road, carriers can gain efficiency, reduce downtime, and make more informed decisions that keep their business moving forward.
That’s where C.H. Robinson comes in. With millions of shipments managed annually and AI-enhanced tools built around carrier needs, we’re focused on giving drivers and carriers the edge to turn today’s freight challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities. From smarter load matching to automated tracking and scheduling, these innovations are designed to make life on the road easier and more profitable.
A big boost for carrier efficiency
Carriers don’t have time to waste on administrative tasks or searching for the next load. That’s why technology that actually works for them, rather than adding extra steps, can make a real difference.
But AI is only as good as the data it is trained on. Thanks to our scale, we have the biggest real-world dataset in the industry, and we’re using it to automate millions of shipping tasks and create smart, adaptable Agentic Supply Chains. For carriers, this means more time on the road, fewer empty miles, and faster access to the loads that keep their business moving.
Here’s how C.H. Robinson AI capabilities are helping carriers get more productive:
Navisphere® Carrier
Our AI-infused platform connects carriers with 83,000 shippers. Through the website, the app, or their C.H. Robinson representative, carriers can find, negotiate, and book loads 24/7; send automated tracking updates; and get recommendations for nearby reloads. Navisphere used advanced algorithms and machine learning long before the current AI boom and is constantly adding new AI capabilities.
Optimized appointments
Scheduled within a minute, our AI-determined appointments help us offer loads to our carriers faster, which helps minimize downtime between hauls. Our AI sets up pickup and delivery windows that work best for the carrier. It knows the lanes and docks involved, which helps ensure on-time arrivals and avoids time spent idling.
Freight matching
AI matches carriers with the best loads for their equipment and location, reducing empty miles and maximizing trailer utilization.
Load recommendations
Hyper-customized, single load recommendations are sent directly to almost 20,000 carriers each week. Carriers don’t have to search at all. As soon as they accept the incoming notification, they’re good to go.
Missed pickup agents
One AI agent contacts carriers about missed LTL (less-than-truckload) pickups, another decides which steps to take next, increasing efficiency for carriers and reducing unnecessary return trips by 42%.
AI tracking check-ins
In case of potential delays or when a vehicle’s tracking signal is lost, an AI agent calls the driver in English or Spanish, helping them get the credit they deserve for being on time.
The human touch: Our rep is still your advocate
Despite all the technology, one thing hasn’t changed: Carriers can still count on C.H. Robinson representatives. This relationship is at the heart of the C.H. Robinson carrier commitment: More loads, smarter solutions, and better support.
What’s different today is that our reps are backed by an array of AI algorithms and agents. These handle repetitive tasks so your rep can focus on what matters most: solving problems, optimizing routes, and building long-term relationships.
No need to be tech savvy
Carriers don’t have to learn new systems or apps to benefit from AI. Whether you prefer to call, text, or email us, you’ll still get the advantages of faster service, smarter load matching, and automated recommendations.
Personalized support
Our reps know your business, understand your preferences, and can advocate for you when things get complicated. AI simply makes them faster, smarter, and more responsive.
Why this matters right now
In a freight recession, carriers need every advantage they can get. C.H. Robinson AI capabilities help you maximize these advantages:
- Work more efficiently: Because manual tasks behind the scenes are automated, you spend less time waiting and more on the road.
- Protect margins: Access more freight, book loads faster and reduce empty miles.
- Stay competitive: Get personalized support and market insights from reps who know your business.
The Robinson Way: People and technology working together
The C.H. Robinson operating model is built on continuous improvement. We’re systematically adding technology in a smart, targeted manner, so we can free up people to work with you. Our tech powers our people, and our people power our tech. This approach ensures that carriers get the best of both worlds—cutting-edge technology and the human relationships that make logistics work.
Start hauling with C.H. Robinson
