Managing Rising Operational Complexity in Vehicle Logistics: Key Insights from INFORM Study
As vehicle logistics progresses, it finds itself at a critical juncture where mere growth is insufficient. A recent study by INFORM illustrates that the sector is undergoing profound changes characterized by escalating operational complexities. Conducted through a survey of 111 industry experts, the 2026 IT in Vehicle Logistics report unveils a landscape where logistics operations are increasingly challenged not just by volume increases but by the intricate web of managing those volumes efficiently.
According to the results, 79% of the professionals surveyed anticipate a growth in vehicle transport volumes over the next five years. However, amidst this expectation, a disturbing trend emerges: 84% of respondents cite increasing costs as the predominant challenge, reflecting an industry under pressure. Furthermore, efficiency requirements are on the rise for 68% of participants, while 52% report fluctuating volumes as an added complexity.
Compounding these issues are the longstanding challenges related to transparency. A staggering 76% of respondents report that insufficient visibility regarding delivery times and estimated time of arrival (ETA) severely hampers operations. These logistical hurdles translate into fragmented information systems, leading to reactive rather than proactive decision-making practices.
The study highlights that vehicle logistics is evolving into a complex decision-making sphere, stressing the idea that operational complexity tends to grow at a faster rate than the volume of vehicles transported. Respondents noted an alarming lack of visibility across crucial operational aspects:
The issue is exacerbated by limitations within existing IT systems. While 95% of respondents believe that advancements in technology and information systems can enhance operational efficiency, many companies still face challenges integrating these systems with their existing processes, impacting decision-making support considerably.
As vehicle logistics systems comprise multiple independent participants—including OEMs, carriers, terminals, ports, and dealers—effective coordination has become increasingly convoluted. Dennis Feddern, Senior Vice President Vehicle Logistics at INFORM, emphasized the shift in focus, stating, "Transparency alone is not the end goal. The primary challenge is transforming operational data into enhanced decisions spanning the logistics network."
A vital part of addressing these complexities is the anticipated role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). A fantastic 94% of respondents are hopeful that AI and machine learning can significantly impact the sector by aiding in the evaluation of complex scenarios and improving decision-making capabilities. Interestingly, the general consensus is not about replacing human expertise but rather augmenting it.
Despite this optimism surrounding AI, the study identifies that immediate priorities—like ensuring better system integration, achieving real-time visibility, and fostering flexible planning—remain more pressing.
The comprehensive trend highlighted by the INFORM study from 2013 to 2026 reveals a persistent pattern: as vehicle transport volumes grow, the operational environment becomes more complex and unpredictable. Hartmut Haubrich, another Senior Vice President at INFORM, remarked on the differentiated market scenarios observed across various regions but reaffirmed a universal need for improved planning capabilities regardless of short-term fluctuations.
The INFORM study is not merely a snapshot of the current state of vehicle logistics; it represents the voice of industry professionals grappling with the pivotal challenges that lie ahead. Conducted anonymously between December 2025 and January 2026, the study reflects insights from a diverse array of participants that collectively shape the future trajectory of vehicle logistics. With continuous evolution in the industry landscape, overcoming these operational challenges is essential for future growth and success.
Key Findings of the INFORM Study
According to the results, 79% of the professionals surveyed anticipate a growth in vehicle transport volumes over the next five years. However, amidst this expectation, a disturbing trend emerges: 84% of respondents cite increasing costs as the predominant challenge, reflecting an industry under pressure. Furthermore, efficiency requirements are on the rise for 68% of participants, while 52% report fluctuating volumes as an added complexity.
Compounding these issues are the longstanding challenges related to transparency. A staggering 76% of respondents report that insufficient visibility regarding delivery times and estimated time of arrival (ETA) severely hampers operations. These logistical hurdles translate into fragmented information systems, leading to reactive rather than proactive decision-making practices.
The Complexity Challenge
The study highlights that vehicle logistics is evolving into a complex decision-making sphere, stressing the idea that operational complexity tends to grow at a faster rate than the volume of vehicles transported. Respondents noted an alarming lack of visibility across crucial operational aspects:
- - Gaps in delivery time visibility: 76%
- - Capacity transparency issues: 68%
- - Transport status visibility concerns: 66%
The issue is exacerbated by limitations within existing IT systems. While 95% of respondents believe that advancements in technology and information systems can enhance operational efficiency, many companies still face challenges integrating these systems with their existing processes, impacting decision-making support considerably.
Embracing AI for Solutions
As vehicle logistics systems comprise multiple independent participants—including OEMs, carriers, terminals, ports, and dealers—effective coordination has become increasingly convoluted. Dennis Feddern, Senior Vice President Vehicle Logistics at INFORM, emphasized the shift in focus, stating, "Transparency alone is not the end goal. The primary challenge is transforming operational data into enhanced decisions spanning the logistics network."
A vital part of addressing these complexities is the anticipated role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). A fantastic 94% of respondents are hopeful that AI and machine learning can significantly impact the sector by aiding in the evaluation of complex scenarios and improving decision-making capabilities. Interestingly, the general consensus is not about replacing human expertise but rather augmenting it.
Despite this optimism surrounding AI, the study identifies that immediate priorities—like ensuring better system integration, achieving real-time visibility, and fostering flexible planning—remain more pressing.
A Long-Term Perspective
The comprehensive trend highlighted by the INFORM study from 2013 to 2026 reveals a persistent pattern: as vehicle transport volumes grow, the operational environment becomes more complex and unpredictable. Hartmut Haubrich, another Senior Vice President at INFORM, remarked on the differentiated market scenarios observed across various regions but reaffirmed a universal need for improved planning capabilities regardless of short-term fluctuations.
Conclusion
The INFORM study is not merely a snapshot of the current state of vehicle logistics; it represents the voice of industry professionals grappling with the pivotal challenges that lie ahead. Conducted anonymously between December 2025 and January 2026, the study reflects insights from a diverse array of participants that collectively shape the future trajectory of vehicle logistics. With continuous evolution in the industry landscape, overcoming these operational challenges is essential for future growth and success.
Topics Auto & Transportation）
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