ORTEC Logistics Survey Finds Alarming Efficiency Gaps Still Plaguing Supply Chain Distribution

New data reveals challenges in maximizing truck capacity, increasing delivery costs, and the need for AI-driven load planning solutions

Atlanta, GA – (March 11, 2025) — ORTEC, a leading provider of advanced analytics and optimization solutions, announced today results of its latest industry survey, revealing that 25% of companies identified poor load optimization as a primary contributor to rising delivery costs, while 40% reported that their outbound trucks depart with less than 90% capacity utilization. These findings show how inefficient load optimization is a persistent challenge for many organizations, leading to higher operational costs and delivery inefficiencies.

The survey, presented to more than 2,500 logistics, retail, manufacturing, and transportation professionals, highlights how maximizing truck capacity is becoming a major priority, as businesses navigate fluctuating fuel prices, increasing demand for faster deliveries, and mounting pressure to reduce carbon footprint. Nonetheless, organizations continue to struggle with key barriers to efficient load planning. Additionally, when asked about the biggest obstacles to optimizing truck loads, respondents cited inadequate load planning software, order processing delays, and lack of real-time visibility into warehouse operations as top concerns.

The impact of these inefficiencies is considerable, with nearly 30% of companies reporting that more than a quarter of their outbound trucks leave without being at least 90% full, resulting in wasted fuel, higher costs, and unnecessary environmental impact. Furthermore, 22% of respondents stated that inefficient truck loading directly affects their ability to meet last-mile delivery commitments, further compounding logistics challenges.

Despite these issues, many companies are still in the early stages of leveraging technology to improve load optimization. ORTEC’s findings reveal that while 25% of organizations have successfully implemented AI-powered load planning solutions, a significant portion is still relying on manual processes or outdated software, leaving room for improvement. With increasing adoption of automation and AI in logistics, businesses have a major opportunity to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline delivery operations by investing in advanced load planning technologies.

“Our survey results confirm what we’ve seen across the industry—many companies are leaving money on the table due to inefficient load optimization,” said Mat Witte, CEO of ORTEC Americas. “By utilizing AI-driven planning solutions, businesses can ensure better truck utilization, reduce empty miles, and improve delivery accuracy, ultimately leading to cost savings and greater operational efficiency.”

Through AI-powered tools and real-time data analytics, ORTEC’s solutions enable companies to maximize capacity utilization, minimize costs, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency. For more information on these survey results and ORTEC’s load optimization solutions, please click here.

About ORTEC

ORTEC is a leading provider of advanced analytics and optimization solutions, dedicated to helping organizations enhance their operational efficiency and decision-making processes. With a strong focus on innovation, ORTEC leverages cutting-edge technologies and data-driven insights to address complex challenges across various industries, including Foodservice and Beverage Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail, Energy, and Transportation. ORTEC’s commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration with clients enables businesses to optimize their resources, reduce costs, and drive sustainable growth. ORTEC solutions are trusted by some of the largest and most complex supply chains in the world, enabling businesses to proactively manage their logistics and delivery processes. By integrating advanced analytics into their operations, ORTEC empowers organizations to make informed decisions that lead to transformative outcomes and a competitive edge in the market. Discover more about ORTEC.

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