Transporting hazardous materials presents unique challenges for European logistics providers that vary greatly depending on the environment. Key areas of concern include densely populated regions, areas prone to natural disasters, and regions with poor infrastructure, each presenting distinct risks for safe transport.     Densely Populated Areas In densely populated areas, vehicles transporting hazardous goods […]

Drones face unique challenges when tasked with delivering small shipments to rural areas. Key issues include extended range, unpredictable weather conditions, and wildlife interference, each necessitating specific mitigation strategies to ensure efficient and safe operations.   Extended Range In rural areas, the distances between delivery points can be extensive, far exceeding the usual flight capabilities […]

The supply chain within the logistics sector faces significant challenges due to cybersecurity threats. These threats include exploiting GPS systems, conducting cyber espionage, and executing sabotage operations against goods in transit, all of which can lead to financial losses and damage to reputation.   Exploiting GPS Systems Attackers can exploit GPS systems in a variety […]

Advancements in technology enhance the transportation and storage of perishable goods, which results in both increased freshness and improved safety. Innovations such as controlled atmosphere technology, blockchain tracking, hyperspectral imaging, and drone inspections contribute to more efficient shipping, longer shelf life, and reduced waste.   Controlled Atmosphere Technology (CA) CA technology slows down the ripening […]

Advancements in container logistics have significantly enhanced the efficiency and security of sea freight in Europe. Integrating RFID technology, real-time alert systems, and energy-efficient technologies are reshaping how cargo is monitored, protected, and conserved during transit.   RFID Technology Container tracking systems utilize RFID tags to enable real-time monitoring and information management of cargo. These […]

The world of freight forwarding is undergoing rapid change with the introduction of innovative rail forwarding equipment. These advancements, from modern railcar design to more powerful engines, promise to increase storage capacity, speed up transit times, and enhance safety, among other benefits. With these innovations, freight forwarders stand at the threshold of a revolution that […]

Europe’s maritime trade has always depended on its ports. These ports are essential for the continent’s trade today, and many of them have histories that stretch back for centuries. Here is a closer look at five of the most important ones for the European logistics industry.   Rotterdam: A Giant of the Seas Located in […]

Freight congestion in Europe has long been a challenge, particularly in densely populated areas and around major transport hubs. This congestion results from various factors, including seasonal travel, the rapid growth of e-commerce, and urbanization. As urban centers continue to grow, the demand for goods increases and often overwhelms existing transport routes. The ripple effect […]

The future of logistics is already here, with freight forwarders leveraging innovative technology to enhance their operations. Drone delivery, once a concept of science fiction, is fast becoming a game-changer in the world of freight forwarding. This cutting-edge solution offers unparalleled speed with real-world efficiency, economic benefits, access to previously challenging locations, and an eco-friendly […]

Designed to maintain a product within a specified temperature range, cold chain freight forwarding is at the heart of many industries, from pharmaceuticals to fresh produce. As the demand for such logistics grows, challenges like maintaining temperature integrity, grappling with high operational costs, and addressing limited infrastructure in emerging markets have come to the forefront, […]

The current climate of the air freight industry may appear frail at first glance, yet optimism prevails among airlines, freight forwarders, and experts. While the situation seems bleak, they believe that it is unlikely to deteriorate any further. Indeed, in spite of recent downward trends and challenges, the industry’s outlook suggests an upcoming rise in […]

Reverse logistics – the process of managing the return of products from the end customers back to the seller, has become increasingly important for companies across Europe. The retail e-commerce industry continues to grow rapidly – according to Morgan Stanley’s forecast, the global e-commerce market is expected to expand from $3.3 trillion currently to $5.4 […]

The heartbeat of Europe’s economy, logistics, is experiencing a significant disturbance: a shortage of truck drivers. According to research published in 2022, Europe currently grapples with a shortfall of 380,000 truck drivers, accounting for roughly 10% of the total demand. This scarcity, primarily fueled by demographic shifts, the gender gap, image perceptions, and stringent regulations, […]

Freight forwarding plays a key role in facilitating trade and ensuring the efficient movement of goods across borders. Within Europe, several factors influence the freight forwarding industry, including geographical location and infrastructure, regulatory framework and customs procedures, market competition, and environmental sustainability. Understanding these factors is crucial for strategic decision-making, compliance, enhanced efficiency, market expansion, […]

With multiple laws, regulations, and international trade agreements, the European logistics industry is highly regulated, meaning that certain certifications, insurance coverage, and shipping documents are required to move goods across borders. Compliance is key to avoiding reputational risks, delivery delays, and penalties. At the same time, compliance can help freight forwarders gain a competitive edge […]

The freight forwarding industry is faced with a number of logistics challenges, including cooperation with various stakeholders, customs clearance, and optimizing transportation routes, to name a few. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in implementing AI technologies to improve cost-effectiveness, safety, and efficiency and enhance the customer experience. European freight forwarders are […]

Carriers often choose to form shipping alliances to benefit from competitive prices and wider service coverage. Such alliances are cooperative agreements that seek to utilize fleet space in the most efficient way rather than operate their own fleets separately.   How do Alliances work? The main areas of cooperation are problem-solving, scheduling, vessel assignment, and […]

If it is the first time you’re shipping from a European to an African country, there can be a level of uncertainty and unfamiliarity involved. Different countries have imposed different customs rules and regulations, with some challenges like strict regulatory regimes on imported goods.   Technical Regulations A number of countries across Africa have imposed […]

Antiques are among the most valuable items that customers ship, whether bought from specialized dealers, auction houses, or flea markets or passed down through generations. As they have а financial and sentimental value, leaving them behind or selling them is usually not an option. And whether shipping for individual customers, estate distributors, auction houses, or […]

A recent survey by Deloitte reveals that 59 percent of shipping companies are in the process of acquiring new core capabilities, while a similar share (60 percent) of carriers are looking to outsource their non-core capabilities. According to the study, these processes could complement each other, with shippers outsourcing support functions while building or expanding […]