In recent decades, the world of haulage and cargo delivery has been going through a series of somewhat impactful changes which, for better or worse, have helped shape the current state of the industry. From an increase in mechanization to mechanical innovations in the lorries themselves, these measures have helped bring the field to the next level, preparing it for the impending technological revolution that has been threatening to happen for a while now.

Among these more ‘visible’ innovations, however, sits one slightly more forgotten one: the freight exchange. While this service is still by and large misunderstood by a large portion of industry professionals, the fact remains that it has been helping the field in a number of small but significant ways. Below are only a few of these changes, along with some observations on how each of them helped improve the industry as a whole.

Back Loads Made Easy

The main innovation brought about by the rise of freight exchange services is, of course, the increase in the number of back loads drivers have access to. Back loads – or return loads, as they are also known – are one of the most important aspects of the transport industry, as they not only help drivers make some much-appreciated extra income, but also help companies reduce the number of lorries with empty cargo holds circulating amongst their fleet. They are, however, a coveted and much sought-after commodity, and not always that easy to come by.

That is where a freight exchange comes in. The very purpose of this service is to put drivers circulating in a certain area into contact with customers in the immediate vicinity who may need loads delivered to the general area the lorry is coming from. In a nutshell, these services help drivers pick up extra work in a quick, efficient and real-time way – thereby increasing their opportunities for income and helping them, their company, and the customer who needs loads hauled.

Forming Ties

Another potential way freight exchange services may help the industry, although one that is not yet in place, has to do with the forming of community bonds. Although it may be a long shot, it just might be possible that, by using the same service multiple times, drivers will begin to ‘know’ one another – either in real life or through the virtual exchange system – and end up forming a community. Should a situation like this come to pass, it would obviously benefit the industry, or at least that small hub of it, by having these drivers cooperate with one another to improve everyone’s professional performance.

It is clear, then, that this type of service has the potential to help grow and strengthen the haulage industry in the long run – provided it continues to be implemented correctly.