Smart Industrial Robots, AI-Driven Autonomous Vehicles, and Drones in Warehouse Logistics

Background: The rapid digitalization of warehouse logistics has accelerated the adoption of smart industrial robots, AI-driven autonomous vehicles, and drones to enhance operational coordination and supply chain performance. However, empirical evidence regarding the combined operational implications of these autonomous technologies within emerging-market logistics environments remains limited. This study examines the relationships between autonomous warehouse technologies and perceived warehouse operational performance in Morocco. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed using survey data collected from 1753 logistics professionals operating in warehouses connected to the SoftLogistics platform. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were conducted to evaluate the proposed relationships and interaction effects among the study constructs. Results: The findings indicate that smart industrial robots, AI-driven autonomous vehicles, and drones are positively associated with perceived warehouse operational efficiency, operational accuracy, and warehouse resilience. The results further suggest that technological interoperability, workforce readiness, organizational adaptation, and AI-enabled coordination mechanisms may enhance the operational contribution of autonomous warehouse systems. Conclusions: Autonomous logistics technologies are associated with smart warehouse transformation and improved operational performance within emerging logistics environments. The findings also highlight the importance of organizational and socio-technical readiness for the implementation of autonomous warehouse technologies.