Will Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers be replaced by AI & Robots?

Key findings

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is not likely to impact the work of laborers and freight, stock, and material movers, hand.

These workers move items by hand and perform general labor tasks.

GenAI’s inability to perform physical tasks ensures that blue-collar workers in this category will remain unaffected by major AI disruption.

The unique automation wave driven by GenAI may even increase the demand for blue-collar workers, particularly in handling premium goods and services.

How could AI or automation replace or complement job activities?

AI and automation could be used to assist Laborers and Freight Movers by optimizing inventory management, tracking shipments, and suggesting efficient routes.

However, the physical tasks of moving, stacking, and packing materials may not be easily automated.

For example, AI could analyze data to improve loading schedules, but human workers are still needed to physically handle and secure the cargo.

Job description

Move items by hand, such as freight, stock, luggage, or other materials. Perform various general labor tasks. This category includes all workers who perform manual labor that does not fall under other classifications.