"AI-powered warehouse" is the slogan of the year. Some of it is real. Some of it isn't. Here's the field guide.
What's working today
- Demand forecasting � machine learning on 18+ months of sales beats human gut for 80% of SKUs.
- Anomaly detection � flagging stock variances and unusual order patterns before humans notice.
- Smart reorder points � safety stock that recalculates as lead times shift.
- Document parsing � supplier invoices and packing slips read automatically.
What's still mostly hype
- Fully autonomous picking robots � real, but cost-justified only at huge scale.
- "Conversational" warehouse assistants that replace operators.
- Predictive maintenance for racking and conveyors at SMB scale.
The honest takeaway
AI is a force multiplier for a well-run warehouse. It is not a substitute for one. Get the basics right first � accurate stock, scanned picks, real-time data � and AI features become genuinely powerful on top. Start with VasKem free.