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Hirschbach Automates Driver Communications Through Partnership With Augment

Hirschbach Motor Lines has deployed an automated driver communication system across its brokerage operations, handling more than 85% of outbound driver contact on its Logistics Solutions loads. The AI agent, named Augie (referred to internally as Hirschie), manages roughly 300 pickup and delivery check-ins weekly. It automates three core interaction types: driver information requests, pickup arrivals, and delivery arrivals. These functions represent approximately 40% of the carrier's track-and-trace volume, excluding power-only freight.

The partnership with technology provider Augment came after Hirschbach spent 18 months evaluating vendors. Chief Technology Officer Ivan Ramirez noted that many vendors showed polished demos but had little built. Ramirez said the decision hinged on finding a partner with combined logistics expertise and technology depth, rather than pursuing in-house development.

Ramirez emphasized the importance of a flexible vendor relationship that allowed Hirschbach to shape product development rather than wait for fixed release schedules. "For me and our team, it was really about the team," he said. Augment's roadmap extends beyond track-and-trace into appointment scheduling, load creation, and carrier communication. According to Ramirez, the early success proves that "AI can become part of the operating model and reliably own a defined portion of the work."