Logistics never takes a break. It operates 24/7. We’re talking about a sector where every second and every real-time data point is worth gold. In such a demanding environment, introducing new technologies and ways of working is a refreshing breath of fresh air. And more often than not, it’s logistics startups that revitalize and optimize the industry with fresh ideas and more effective solutions.

Thanks to these innovative companies, the supply chain is becoming smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.

Let’s look at some examples.

Diffo Solutions  (Finland). The key innovation it brings to the logistics sector is the ability to calculate CO₂ emissions for each individual shipment, even when a truck is transporting goods for multiple clients. This level of precision is essential to show the environmental footprint with real data, not generic estimates. Diffo lets you know exactly how many emissions are generated by each route, each vehicle, and each client. And it does so without the need to install devices in the vehicles: it integrates directly with the systems the company already uses.

Forto (Germany). Its digital platform allows for international shipments to be managed in a much more agile, transparent, and centralized way. Forto gathers information from different links of the logistics chain — from the people who pick up and deliver the goods to ports, customs, and more — to provide an accurate, real-time view of the status of each shipment. The result? Fewer errors, better decisions, and more flexibility to adapt to unexpected situations. The solution has impressed the market: the company has raised $610 million through several funding rounds.

OnTruck (Spain). It has transformed road freight transport with a digital platform that connects companies directly with carriers, allowing real-time shipment tracking. Its approach relies on Artificial Intelligence to optimize routes and reduce operating costs. In 2020, the company claimed to have reduced empty kilometers — typically 44% in the sector — down to 19%. An improvement that reduces emissions, increases profitability for carriers, and enables more competitive pricing for businesses.

All of these success stories show how startups are helping the logistics sector breathe a little easier.

In an ecosystem as complex as logistics, change is not always easy. But with the right partner, innovation becomes much simpler. And the effort pays off: more agile operations, better shipment visibility, and a supply chain ready for the challenges of today… and tomorrow.