Europe is not pursuing autonomous trucks simply because driverless vehicles look futuristic. The immediate problem is freight capacity. The latest IRU data indicate that around 502,000 professional driving positions are unfilled across Europe. Sixty-five per cent of operators identify the shortage as their main business concern, while roughly two-thirds have rejected new contracts because they […]
When a truck is late, the invoice is late, the warehouse plan slips, and production starts improvising. Road still carries a big slice of Europe’s freight performance – in 2023 it accounted for about 25.3% of total EU freight transport (tonne-km), with roughly 1,807 billion tonne-km attributed to road in that modal-split view. Where problems […]
The energy transition for heavy-duty vehicles just received an unexpected boost. On 27 June 2025, the European Commission proposed to prolong the full toll waiver for battery-electric and hydrogen trucks from 31 December 2025 all the way to 30 June 2031 - an extra five-and-a-half years to recover the higher purchase price of a zero-emission tractor. […]
Summer 2025 has put hydrogen back in the fast lane. A 17-member consortium under the EU-funded H2Haul project has begun running 40-tonne fuel-cell tractor-trailers on real, daily line-haul work across Germany and neighbouring states, giving logistics managers their first sustained look at how the technology copes with the grind of motorway freight. Here is what […]
In road freight operations, pallet exchanges often create inefficiencies and disruptions across the supply chain in Europe. Typical problems include overly strict acceptance rules at unloading sites, limited availability of suitable return units, absence of signed confirmation documents, and the return of incorrect or incompatible pallet types. Stricter Acceptance Criteria Standards like the EUR/EPAL […]
Some of the most challenging European routes for international freight services are found in regions where terrain and weather create obstacles to transportation. The Massif Central in France, the Mediterranean coast, the Trans-Pyrenean routes, and Northern Scandinavia each present unique difficulties which require skill and experience to navigate safely. Massif Central, France The Massif […]
Freight forwarders must stay updated on scheduled road maintenance because of several destabilizing factors that disrupt normal driving conditions. Challenges such as narrowed lanes, sudden stops, unclear temporary signage, visual distractions, and changed traffic patterns each contribute to the complexities of navigating construction zones for freight drivers. Narrow Lanes During road maintenance, lanes often […]
International freight forwarding ensures that specialized cargo is delivered safely and efficiently to support various special events. These range from trade shows, academic conferences, and film productions to high-value auctions, musical festivals, and major sporting competitions. Exhibitions Tade shows, expos, and conferences require the transportation of varied cargo, including exhibit boots and stands, shelving […]
Navigating the challenges of poor road infrastructure presents hurdles for cargo transportation across various regions in Europe. Key issues include inadequate road signage, a scarcity of alternative routes, and the frequent absence of essential services, each contributing to increased risks and operational costs for freight forwarders. Poor Road Signage Inadequate road signage can pose […]
Transporting forestry products involves navigating a variety of challenges to ensure the safety and integrity of goods. Effective transportation in Europe requires careful selection of vehicles, moisture and temperature control, pest and disease management, and strategic route planning to avoid physical obstacles. Types of Vehicles The choice of vehicles depends largely on the type […]
Navigating the complexities of freight forwarding requires an understanding of how to strategically set prices to remain competitive while ensuring profitability. From cost-plus and value-based to tiered and subscription-based pricing, each strategy enables forwarders to align service offerings with market demands and customer expectations. Cost-Plus Pricing This is a straightforward strategy where a markup […]
Securing road cargo involves a blend of sophisticated technology and expert strategies. Measures like enhanced locking systems, geofencing and advanced surveillance are key to protecting goods across diverse transit routes. Enhanced Locking Systems Enhanced locking systems stand as the first line of defense against theft. These systems include high-strength padlocks, electronic locking mechanisms, and […]
Toll systems exert a significant influence on the logistics and road freight sector in Europe, often shaping the route selection, operational overheads, and even the vehicle choices of freight forwarders. Understanding these toll systems and their subsequent implications is essential for efficient freight operations. Time-Based Vignettes Time-based vignettes are stickers that vehicles display to […]
Regardless of the sector you operate in, delivering your products to clients safely, in good condition, and on time is key to your reputation and bottom line. Yet, with a range of equipment and modes to consider, choosing the best option is not always easy. From power-only, refrigerated, and dry vans to straight trucks and […]