Even as shipment visibility has become standard across the logistics industry, cross-border logistics technology continues to deliver critical value, particularly as regulatory changes accelerate. In the Journal of Commerce 2026 Annual Review & Outlook, Alison Layfield, Vice President of Product Development at ePost Global, explained why technology remains essential in an increasingly volatile cross-border environment.

Why cross-border logistics technology still adds value

"Even if visibility has become standard, technology still adds value because of the pace at which the cross-border environment is changing," Layfield wrote in the Journal of Commerce. "New fees, shifting tariff structures and evolving de minimis rules aren't happening slowly or predictably. They're happening quickly, and sometimes with almost no advance notice."

According to Layfield, in this kind of environment, companies need the ability to adapt, not just to see what's happening, but to respond quickly and accurately.

The consequences of falling behind

"If you're not advancing your technical capabilities, you will fall behind," Layfield stated. "The volume of regulatory change alone requires systems that can adjust quickly, whether that means updating workflows, modifying how data is captured or ensuring customer communication stays accurate."

Technology allows logistics providers to be nimble enough to implement changes as soon as they're required, maintaining compliance and service quality even in volatile conditions.

How automation streamlines cross-border operations

A major part of technology's value in cross-border logistics comes from automation, according to Layfield. "We're focused on using technology to streamline work that used to be entirely manual," she explained.

AI-Powered documentation systems

"We can record our training sessions and use AI tools that can turn those recordings into clear, consistent standard operating procedures," Layfield noted. "When rules or processes shift, being able to update documentation immediately is essential."

This capability is particularly valuable in cross-border logistics, where regulatory changes can require immediate updates to operational procedures across multiple countries and carriers.

Improving data accuracy with AI

ePost Global is also using AI to improve data accuracy across critical cross-border functions. According to Layfield, this includes:

• Address validation: Ensuring accurate delivery information
• Analyzing transit patterns: Optimizing routing and delivery times
• Reviewing rate structures: Maintaining accurate pricing
• Reconciling data: Matching data received from partner vendors with internally processed data

"These tasks have become more complex as more countries consider new address requirements, import fees or adjust their customs requirements," Layfield explained. "Having tools that can identify discrepancies earlier helps us respond more effectively."

The critical distinction: Visibility vs. actionable technology

According to Layfield, understanding the difference between visibility and actionable technology is essential in today's cross-border environment.

"Ultimately, visibility tells you what's happening and technology is what allows you to act on it quickly, accurately, and in a way that keeps both retailers and consumers informed," she wrote. "In a landscape that's changing this rapidly, that ability to adapt is where technology still delivers real value."

This perspective aligns with broader industry consensus. As noted in the same Journal of Commerce feature, Markus Johannsen of Kuehne+Nagel emphasized that "once a competitive edge, end-to-end visibility is today a baseline expectation for business continuity. Yet, we have learned that visibility alone is insufficient."

Building adaptive cross-border operations

Layfield's commentary reinforces that today's cross-border environment is defined by constant change, and technology's real value lies in enabling faster, smarter responses to that change.

For businesses managing international shipping operations, key priorities include:

• Adaptable systems: Technology platforms that can be quickly updated as regulations change
• Automation: Reducing manual processes that slow response times
• Data accuracy: Using AI and validation tools to catch discrepancies early
• Clear communication: Keeping retailers and consumers informed as changes occur

To learn more about how ePost Global can help you leverage technology to navigate cross-border complexity, contact our team or explore our resources on international shipping.

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