Logistics sustainability has become a critical focus as the haulage industry grapples with significant challenges. According to Business Rescue Expert, 641 hauliers entered insolvency by 2023, highlighting the sector's vulnerability.
Driver shortages, rising fuel costs, changing vehicle emission regulations, and the slow adoption of EVs have all contributed to inefficiencies. These issues have not only strained businesses but also exacerbated environmental concerns. One-third of HGVs in the UK travel empty, producing dangerous emissions that harm the planet.
With 1.55 billion tonnes of goods lifted by HGV drivers in 2023, the industry urgently needs innovation to support sustainable practices and operational efficiency. This is where HaulageHub, a UK-based digital freight marketplace, enters the picture, leveraging AI to redefine logistics sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
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HaulageHub’s Innovative Approach to Sustainable Logistics
HaulageHub’s AI-powered platform helps shippers and hauliers connect more efficiently, addressing inefficiencies like empty truck runs. The technology matches loads to hauliers, ensuring optimal truck usage while reducing emissions. The platform also optimises routes, saving on fuel costs and further enhancing logistics sustainability.
Co-founder Scott Robinson explains, "HaulageHub, in its purest sense, uses AI and ML to bring load opportunities for manufacturers and large 3PLs, helping them connect with hauliers looking for work." The company has introduced a control tower solution, enabling manufacturers with hundreds of weekly loads to distribute work among multiple hauliers based on geography.
This innovation provides a single-source solution, empowering small hauliers to work directly with large brands at full rates instead of being subcontracted. Robinson notes, "Our AI platform and technology solutions enable manufacturers to operate a one-stop shop, offering flexibility and pricing benefits."
IoT Sensors and Advanced Analytics in HaulageHub’s Platform
HaulageHub integrates IoT sensors within its platform to monitor vehicle conditions and performance, ensuring that hauliers operate efficiently. By providing data-driven insights, these sensors align with the company’s mission to advance logistics sustainability and reduce unnecessary emissions.
Robinson and co-founder Craig Thompson launched HaulageHub in 2021, bringing extensive industry experience. Robinson’s background includes founding UK-based management consulting firm Perfficiency and serving as head of commercial at Stobart.
The Environmental and Economic Benefits of Sustainable Logistics
The transport sector is among the largest contributors to carbon emissions, generating 7.7 gigatonnes of CO2 in 2021, according to ISO. HaulageHub’s commitment to sustainable logistics focuses on reducing empty runs and improving overall efficiency.
“One in three trucks run on empty,” Robinson says. “Considering these vehicles achieve just nine to ten miles per gallon, the unnecessary CO2 emissions are staggering.” Beyond environmental harm, empty truck runs increase costs, which companies often pass on to customers.
The slow adoption of EVs also poses challenges for sustainability efforts. Robinson notes that only 0.3% of HGVs in the market are electric, primarily due to high costs. HaulageHub’s solutions, however, offer hauliers practical tools to enhance sustainability without requiring expensive EV investments.
Sustainability Trends Shaping the Future of Haulage
According to The Logistics Hall of Fame survey, 75% of logistics companies have made sustainability a top priority, reflecting its growing importance. Robinson emphasizes, "Though 30% of HGVs running empty is alarming, it presents an opportunity to make an impact."
HaulageHub’s data shows significant reductions in empty runs compared to the national average, showcasing the platform’s effectiveness. As more hauliers and shippers adopt the technology, emissions waste is expected to decline further.
AI-Powered Solutions for the Haulage Sector
AI plays a pivotal role in HaulageHub’s strategy, enabling carbon footprint analysis, predictive analytics, and load consolidation. By grouping partial loads, the platform maximizes truck capacity, reduces unnecessary mileage, and minimizes fuel costs, aligning perfectly with logistics sustainability goals.
Robinson highlights how HaulageHub’s technology supports hauliers operating in challenging regions. "Our AI and geographic logistics operations allocate lanes and volleys for tricky areas, ensuring efficiency across diverse regions," he explains.
The company’s innovative approach has earned recognition, including features on ITN Business Programme and accolades like Trailblazing Newcomer at the LCR Tech Climbers event in 2024.
The Future of Sustainable Logistics
As the logistics industry embraces a greener future, Robinson believes that sustainability efforts will continue to grow. "Everyone wants to become more efficient and profitable — sustainable logistics delivers that. Companies increasingly integrate sustainability into their core objectives," he says.
Robinson also acknowledges potential policy challenges but remains optimistic, particularly given the Labour government’s commitment to making Britain greener.
Revolutionising Logistics Through AI and Sustainability
HaulageHub demonstrates how technology and AI can revolutionise the haulage industry, reducing emissions and fostering logistics sustainability. "What we are doing is disruptive," Robinson concludes. "By tackling the climate crisis and leveraging AI, we are changing the game in the haulage industry."
