XPO Logistics uses VR to train less-than-truckload employees

Following an announcement made by XPO Logistics, the company reports that it has successfully piloted its use of Virtual Reality (VR) to train its less-than-truckload (LTL) employees in North America.

The solution used by XPO Logistics, integrates its own software with Oculus for Business headsets, which will be tested at additional LTL service centres over the next few weeks.

The use of VR for its LTL training follows XPO Logistics’ previous deployment of Augmented Reality (AR) at its key logistics sites. The headsets guide employees during inventory picking. 

During the LTL training the VR is used to train cross-dock workers in the optimal method of loading freight for delivery.

“Less-than-truckload is the latest area of our business to benefit from bringing a virtual experience into our physical operations. Our North American LTL cross-dock operations load about 25,000 trailers daily. VR is an efficient way to ensure great outcomes for our customers and the XPO employees who serve them,” Mario Harik, chief information officer of XPO Logistics.

Potential significant benefits of the VR technology identified by XPO Logistics:

• Higher productivity, lower waste and reduced errors 
• Enhanced safety and efficiency
• Better knowledge retention through a repeatable 3D experience where key tasks can be mastered through repetition
• Shorter timeframe for new employees to reach target productivity levels

Whilst this technology is currently being piloted in its LTL training, XPO Logistics expects to expand the use of VR into other areas of the business including, diversity and inclusion, training and remote selling.

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