FedEx Accelerates Automation with Berkshire Grey’s AI-Powered Robotic Unloader
FedEx is deploying a new generation of robotic technology to streamline operations and enhance worker safety, signaling a major step forward in the logistics industry’s embrace of artificial intelligence.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – February 3, 2026 – FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) today announced the implementation of the Scoop™ robotic package unloader, an autonomous system developed in collaboration with Berkshire Grey, Inc., a leader in AI-enabled robotic solutions and a subsidiary of SoftBank Group. The system is designed to automate the physically demanding and often unpredictable task of trailer unloading in FedEx parcel hubs.
The multi-year partnership between FedEx and Berkshire Grey has yielded a “physical AI” solution aimed at creating safer, smarter logistics. Unloading trailers, characterized by a wide range of package types, has historically been one of the most challenging and physically strenuous jobs in parcel operations. Scoop directly addresses these issues by providing a continuous flow of packages, handling diverse package sizes, and allowing for human intervention when needed.
“Continuing to advance our network with the support of this new physical AI solution from Berkshire Grey reflects our commitment to team member safety, innovation, and operational resiliency,” said Kawal Preet, executive vice president, planning, engineering, and transformation at FedEx. “By using smart technologies for trailer unloading, we are equipping our workforce with cutting-edge technology, ultimately enhancing safety and improving operational efficiency—all while maintaining the high service standards our customers expect.”
Next-Generation Robotic Unloading: How Scoop Works
Scoop utilizes physical AI to achieve fully autonomous trailer unloading through a bulk-handling approach. This innovative solution not only improves employee safety but also significantly boosts operational efficiency, setting a new benchmark for automation in complex logistics environments. Key features of the system include:
- Enhanced safety and maintainability: The system is designed with safety as a primary concern, incorporating features that allow for human assistance in handling exceptions.
- Continuous flow: Scoop is engineered to maintain a consistent inbound flow of packages, rather than simply optimizing for individual items.
- Minimal facility impact: The system is designed for seamless integration into existing FedEx facilities, minimizing disruption during implementation.
- AI-driven autonomy: The system leverages artificial intelligence to recognize varying package mixes and make real-time decisions to safely navigate inside trailers, fully emptying them at high throughput before autonomously exiting.
A pilot program is currently underway, with the first Scoop systems slated to be operational later in 2026.
A Strategic Collaboration Driving Logistics Innovation
“Our work with FedEx focuses on delivering scalable robotic solutions that are developed to strengthen safety, improve efficiency, and reduce maintenance complexity,” said Dave Paratore, chief executive officer, Berkshire Grey. “Bringing Scoop to FedEx demonstrates how robotics can drive meaningful improvements in real world logistics operations.”
This collaboration builds upon previous successes. In 2021, FedEx deployed Berkshire Grey’s Robotic Product Sortation and Identification (RPSi) systems to automate the sorting of small packages. The companies further expanded their relationship in 2022, initiating a new development agreement focused on broadening AI robotic capabilities to enhance the safety and efficiency of FedEx’s global package handling operations.
FedEx and Berkshire Grey: A Commitment to the Future of Logistics
FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) serves customers and businesses worldwide with a comprehensive portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. Generating $90 billion in annual revenue, the company leverages a flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network to deliver integrated business solutions. Recognized as a top employer, FedEx prioritizes safety, ethical conduct, and customer satisfaction for its more than 500,000 employees. The company is dedicated to responsible and resourceful operations, aiming for carbon-neutrality by 2040.
Berkshire Grey is a global leader in AI-driven robotics, transforming warehouse and fulfillment operations for a diverse range of clients, including logistics providers, retailers, and e-commerce businesses. The company provides end-to-end automation solutions, from picking and sortation to dock automation, powered by expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence, and software. Berkshire Grey’s solutions help customers mitigate labor risks, increase throughput, and adapt to fluctuating demand.
