Frankfurt a. M., June 13, 2025 — Federal Express Corporation, the world’s largest express transportation company, has introduced an AI-powered sorting robot at its air network location in Cologne. This innovative robot is the first of its kind in the European FedEx network and highlights the company’s commitment to digitizing operations and developing a smart logistics network.
The Cologne air network location is the largest of seven FedEx air network facilities in Germany, employing over 900 team members. The robotic arm, manufactured by Hellebrekers B.V., is mounted inside a protective cage on the small package sort where incoming parcels are inducted. It assists team members in the sorting process, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. It primarily sorts documents and smaller parcels up to 4kg, processing up to 1,000 pieces per hour and managing around 90 destinations simultaneously.
“AI-supported technologies like this help us manage shipments more effectively, enhance customer experience, and boost our competitive edge as ecommerce continues to drive growth in the market,” said Boris Stoffer, managing director network operations Germany at FedEx. “These technologies are also supporting our employees by reducing physical straight by taking over repetitive, high-volume tasks.”
“This robotic in-feeding system is proof of our commitment to innovation, “said Georgiana Constantin, manager planning & engineering innovation & properties design at FedEx. “Delivering best-in-class service is our ambition, driven by a passion for innovation that puts our customers first.”
FedEx focus on automation in its Cologne air network location echoes broader industry trends. Logistics players are optimizing operational efficiencies, from warehouse management to last-mile delivery[1]. According to Statista, the global warehouse automation market is projected to exceed USD 51 billion by 2030[2].
In 2020, FedEx started with the installation of four robotic arms at its Memphis Hub in Tennessee to automate its small package sorting. In 2022, FedEx deployed further sorting robots at its South China E-Commerce Shipment Sorting Center in Guangzhou and its Singapore Hub. Furthermore the company makes use of robotic product sortation and Identification systems at 17 U.S. sorting facilities including New York, Las Vegas, and Ohio.
