Process Automation & AI

Here are real-world use cases where UiPath is most useful in logistics and warehouse management.

Automated Purchase Order & Invoice Matching

The robot extracts PO data from incoming emails/PDFs, logs into the ERP/WMS (SAP, NetSuite, Odoo, Microsoft Dynamics, etc.), matches lines against goods receipt and vendor invoices, and flags discrepancies for approval — reducing 3-way matching time from hours to minutes.

Real-Time Inventory Reconciliation Across Systems

UiPath pulls stock levels from the WMS, compares them with the ERP and e-commerce platform (Shopify/Magento), and automatically corrects discrepancies or creates adjustment transactions — eliminating daily manual Excel reconciliation.

ASN (Advance Ship Notice) & Shipment Label Creation

When an ASN arrives via EDI/email, the robot reads it, creates inbound receipts in the WMS, generates and prints GS1-compliant labels, and updates the carrier portal — fully hands-free receiving process.

Carrier Rate Shopping & Booking

The bot logs into multiple carrier portals (DHL, FedEx, UPS, DB Schenker), requests quotes based on weight/dimensions, selects the cheapest compliant option, books the shipment, and returns the tracking number to the TMS/ERP.

Returns (RMA) Processing & Refund Workflow

Customer returns portal → robot reads return request → checks eligibility → creates return receipt in WMS → updates inventory → triggers refund in ERP → notifies customer — end-to-end automation.

Transport Management System (TMS) Data Entry

Sales order created → robot copies shipment details into the external TMS, downloads planned routes, and writes back estimated delivery dates to the ERP and customer portal.

Customs Declaration Automation (global trade)

The robot compiles commercial invoices, packing lists, and HS codes, fills out national customs portals or third-party tools, and submits declarations — reducing clearance delays.

These cases typically deliver 100–500% ROI within 6–12 months and are among the first processes logistics companies automate with UiPath.

Here are concrete UiPath use cases specifically for an import company.

Automated Customs Clearance Filing

The robot reads incoming commercial invoices and packing lists (PDF/email), extracts HS codes, values, country of origin, and incoterms, logs into Finnish Customs (Tulli) UTU portal or third-party broker system, fills and submits import declarations, and returns the MRN number to the ERP — cutting clearance time from hours to minutes.

Container & Vessel Tracking + ETA Updates

UiPath monitors carrier portals (Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, ONE) or emails, pulls latest vessel status and revised ETAs, and automatically updates the ERP/WMS and customer-facing portal with the new arrival dates — no more manual tracking spreadsheets.

Import Invoice & Duty/VAT Matching

The robot downloads customs duty and VAT invoices from Tulli or freight forwarder, matches them against the original PO and goods receipt in the ERP, posts the cost entries automatically, and flags any discrepancies for the finance team.

Supplier Document Package Automation

For every new container, the robot collects and validates the full document set (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin), combines them into one PDF, and uploads it to the correct folder in SharePoint/ERP — 100% audit-ready every time.

Freight Forwarder Rate & Booking Automation

When a purchase order is confirmed, the robot sends dimensions/weight to multiple forwarders via email or portal, collects quotes, picks the best option according to predefined rules, books the shipment, and returns booking confirmation + cost to the ERP.

Anti-Dumping & Additional Duty Checks

The robot cross-checks every HS code against the latest EU anti-dumping and countervailing duty lists (TARIC), calculates extra duties automatically, and blocks or alerts if a new regulation applies — preventing costly surprises at customs.

Arrival Notice → Warehouse Slot Booking

As soon as the Arrival Notice email arrives, the robot reads container number and ETA, books the unloading slot in the terminal system and the warehouse receiving slot in the WMS — no phone calls or manual emails needed.

These UiPath automations deliver payback typically in 3–12 months. The biggest wins are usually customs filing, document packages, and freight cost control.

Here are typical UiPath use cases specifically for spare parts supply and service logistics.

Service Order → Instant Spare Part Reservation & Allocation

A field technician creates a service order in the ERP. Today someone manually reserves and allocates parts from the warehouse. The robot does it in real time the moment the order is saved, locks the parts, updates the technician's app, and adjusts stock levels.

Backorder Monitoring & Automatic ETA Updates

Critical part is out of stock → someone maintains an Excel "when will it arrive" list and sends weekly updates. The robot monitors POs and inbound ASNs 24/7, recalculates new ETAs, and pushes updates instantly to technicians and customers via email/Teams/portal.

AOG / Critical Part Expedite (Aircraft-Vehicle-Machine on Ground)

Machine is down → spare parts coordinator spends hours calling and emailing global warehouses. The robot searches all internal and partner warehouses in seconds, checks fastest transport options, reserves the part, books urgent freight, and returns the solution in 5–15 minutes instead of hours.

Warranty Return (RMA) Processing

Customer returns a warranty part → manual inspection, eligibility check, credit note, restock decision. The robot reads the return form, validates warranty rules, creates the credit note, routes the part to repair/refurb/scrap, and updates all reports automatically.

Inter-Company Stock Transfer Automation

Another plant/sister company needs a part → email request → manual approval → transfer order. The robot auto-approves predefined requests, creates the transfer order, books internal transport, and updates inventory in both entities.

Min/Max Automatic Replenishment

Stock falls below min or exceeds max → buyer manually creates purchase orders. The robot triggers POs automatically using consumption history, sends them via EDI or vendor portal, and optimises order quantities.

Spare Parts Price List Updates

OEM sends a new price list (10,000+ rows) → someone updates prices manually in the ERP. The robot ingests the file (Excel/CSV/PDF), compares, and updates all prices in minutes.

Consignment Stock Reconciliation

Customer holds consignment stock → monthly manual consumption calculation and invoicing. The robot pulls customer stock levels, calculates usage, generates the invoice, and sends it automatically.

These processes represent the "low-hanging fruit" that spare parts organisations (OEMs, MRO providers, industrial service companies, aviation ground handlers, etc.) tend to automate.