Automotive mechanic in blue overalls holding a wrench and red cloth, working on a vehicle in a workshop setting.
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Skills Shortage: Challenges and Solutions in Vehicle Logistics

May 12, 2025 Lill Haase

Vehicle logistics is facing increasingly complex challenges: an acute shortage of skilled workers and declining employee satisfaction are top concerns for many companies in the sector. This article highlights innovative approaches that enable more efficient workflows and sustainably improve the working environment.

 

Increasing Efficiency through Process Optimization

Process optimization is a key lever in addressing the skills shortage. By using advanced mathematical algorithms and artificial intelligence, processes can be improved in real time. This allows for more precise task allocation and resource utilization. Employees can be deployed more efficiently, reducing the need to increase headcount.

Example: On large parking lots, drivers can be guided more intelligently, resulting in shorter walking distances and better prioritization of movements—without increasing workload.

 

Reducing Workload through Automation

Automated planning and dispatch tools can significantly ease the burden on dispatchers in vehicle logistics. For example, transport and workshop orders can be automatically prioritized and dynamically adjusted. This increases the utilization of available resources and optimizes routes and workstations. Manual workload is significantly reduced—skilled workers can focus on value-added activities, helping reduce overtime and fatigue.

Improving Employee Satisfaction

Transparent task allocation and the automation of routine tasks noticeably reduce everyday stress. With continuous re-optimization, employees always know what needs to be done—regardless of how long individual tasks actually take. The pressure to complete everything within a fixed time frame is eliminated. This leads to a significantly lower workload, increased employee satisfaction, and demonstrably reduced turnover.

The benefits of this intelligent planning approach have become evident in numerous INFORM projects. One particularly demanding use case is the reconditioning of used vehicles: different brands and models come with diverse requirements, and unforeseen tasks are the norm. Dynamic scheduling and intelligent utilization of available production capacity have enabled productivity gains of up to 20%, as proven in multiple partner projects.

 

 

“With our software, it is always clear who is working on what, at which workstation, and whether the required materials are available. If additional defects are found, the software automatically updates the optimized schedule. This makes work much more pleasant for the employees. Satisfied employees are a critical success factor—especially in times of a skills shortage.”
Hartmut Haubrich, Senior Vice President Vehicle Logistics at INFORM


Managing Complexity in Vehicle Reconditioning

Vehicle reconditioning is particularly demanding: different brands and models have varied requirements, and unexpected tasks often arise. Dynamic scheduling and intelligent use of available production capacity can increase workshop productivity by up to 20%, as shown by projects with various partners.ne such example is ASB Logistics, who streamlined their operations using INFORM’s tailored solutions.

 

Conclusion

Innovative approaches to process optimization and automation based on Process AI can sustainably transform vehicle logistics. They not only increase efficiency but also help address the skills shortage in a targeted way. To learn more about the digital tools behind these improvements, visit our overview of INFORM’s Vehicle Logistics Software.

The targeted use of INFORM software is revolutionizing vehicle logistics. Discover how our technological solutions not only enhance your efficiency but also address the skills shortage strategically. Want to see this in action? Discover how NVD successfully digitalized its vehicle logistics with INFORM’s intelligent planning solutions. Curious about where the industry is heading? Our Trend Report explores how IT and AI are shaping the future of vehicle logistics.

About our Expert

Lill Haase

Lill Haase

Product Marketing Manager

Lill Haase has been part of INFORM since 2003. She has been focusing on Vehicle Logistics ever since – turning complex topics into clear, accessible messages. In her work, she puts strong emphasis on customer relevance, clarity, and trust.

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