Images Captured during TMC Gathering
In the rapidly evolving world of logistics and warehousing, one question on many minds is the potential use of humanoid robots by major companies. As of mid-2025, **UPS has not been specifically reported to be using humanoid robots in its operations**.
While companies like Amazon and Tesla are pioneering the use of humanoid robots, such as Agility Robotics’ Digit and Figure AI’s models, UPS has yet to make an appearance on this front. These humanoid robots are still in testing or proof-of-concept stages, primarily handling repetitive tasks, sorting, or lifting heavy objects. However, challenges remain in battery life and full operational shift capability, with most humanoid robots able to work only 2 to 4 hours continuously.
Other forms of robotic automation powered by AI are being increasingly adopted in the logistics and warehousing sectors. For example, Amazon uses over a million traditional robots, and FedEx and Walmart are integrating robotic systems for loading, unloading, and automating distribution centers. Yet, these are not humanoid models.
Industry executives are preparing for the eventual scale-up of humanoid robotics, with manufacturing capacities ramping up and several companies planning significant production increases over the next few years. But for now, **UPS's use of humanoid robots has not been publicly documented or confirmed**, indicating that it is either not yet implemented or still in very early trial phases.
Meanwhile, UPS is in talks with Figure AI to explore the use of humanoid robots, but the details of this potential partnership remain unclear. Additionally, UPS plans to trim its workforce through Teamsters driver buyouts, signalling a shift towards automation in its operations.
In other news, Transport Topics continues to offer a newsletter for subscription, providing updates on the latest developments in the transportation industry. Crude oil, however, is not directly mentioned in relation to the Volkswagen negotiations, XPO's service centers, UPS, or the robot discussions.
Elsewhere, Nissan is recalling 480,000 vehicles due to an engine failure risk, but crude oil is not mentioned in relation to this recall. Volkswagen negotiations, on the other hand, are facing issues over layoffs and wages.
Finally, Transport Topics also offers a gift subscription option for those interested in staying informed about the transportation industry.
Artificial-intelligence powered robotics are being progressively integrated in the logistics and warehousing sectors, with companies like Amazon and Tesla deploying humanoid robots for repetitive tasks and heavy lifting. However, as of mid-2025, UPS has not been reported to use humanoid robots in its operations, suggesting that its adoption remains either absent or in trial stages.
