FedEx launches Berkshire Grey’s fully autonomous robotic trailer unloader

FedEx announced the implementation of a new autonomous robotic system from Berkshire Grey, a provider of AI-enabled robotic technologies that automate supply chain processes. 

FedEx said that its multi-year collaboration with Berkshire Grey created physical AI for safer, smarter logistics, and resulted in the Scoop robotic package unloader.

The delivery company added that the Scoop system has been engineered specifically for automated trailer unloading and will help optimize its operations to be safer and more efficient.

Next-generation robotic unloading  

FedEx said that it continues to prioritize innovation focused on creating systems that improve team members’ day-to-day workflow and their work safety. Unloading trailers with a wide range of package types has long been one of the most unpredictable and physically demanding tasks in parcel hubs operations. FedEx said that Scoop addresses these challenges by delivering continuous flow, handling all package types and providing operator access when required.

“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.” 

FedEx said that Scoop is powered by physical AI to deliver fully autonomous trailer unloading through a bulk-handling approach. The companies said that Scoop enhances the safety of employees, boosts operational efficiency, and establishes a new standard in automated logistics in highly complex environments. 

Robotic trailer unloading system details

FedEx said that Scoop is powered by physical AI to deliver fully autonomous trailer unloading through a bulk-handling approach. The companies said that Scoop enhances the safety of employees, boosts operational efficiency, and establishes a new standard in automated logistics in highly complex environments.

FedEx and Berkshire Grey provided the following system innovations with Scoop:

• Enhanced safety and maintainability: Built on safety-first principles, Scoop supports human assistance for handling of exceptions.
• Continuous flow: Designed to deliver consistent inbound flow, not just optimize for individual pieces.
• Minimal facility impact: Designed to be integrated seamlessly into existing FedEx facilities. 
• AI-driven autonomy: The system recognizes a variable package mix and makes real-time decisions to safely maneuver inside trailers, fully emptying them at high throughput before autonomously exiting the trailer.

The pilot program is underway, and FedEx said it will have the first Scoop systems in operation later in calendar year 2026.

“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, CEO of Berkshire Grey. “Bringing Scoop to FedEx demonstrates how robotics can drive meaningful improvements in real-world logistics operations.”

In 2021, FedEx deployed Berkshire Grey’s Robotic Product Sortation and Identification (RPSi) systems to robotically sort small packages that arrive daily and require distribution.

Then in 2022, the companies expanded their relationship, announcing an agreement for new development activities that will provide broader AI robotic capabilities to help improve the safety and efficiency of FedEx package handling operations globally.