A recently expanded free access, open tender freight trading platform has seen a fourfold increase in its membership and usage in the last quarter. Freightfull, which provides an online auction system for transport operators, carriers, freight forwarders and end customers, recently launched its second generation website, www.freightfull.com. The new site is fully interactive and user-friendly - and includes an extensive user guide and FAQ section.
The open tender, load optimising and freight movement system enables transport operators to register and pre-qualify for access - and then bid for full or part loads offered by shippers and customers. Likewise, companies, agencies and even individuals with goods to move can 'post' consignments on the site - to allow operators to bid to collect, carry and deliver them.
Registration and access to the site is free - carriers and transporters are invoiced for an online payable handling charge - but only when they complete a successful tender transaction. The consignee pays the transport costs direct to the carrier. There is an incentive package for customers to use the system - based on a dividend for completed auctions and tenders - and a referral dividend for customers who recommend new business.
Importantly, transport operators registering with Freightfull are fully screened for credentials and compliance, including 'O'-licence information and goods-in-transit insurance. Similarly, goods offering customers can pre-select the type of operator or vehicle required for their consignment. This can include specialist categories such as temperature controlled, express delivery, timed delivery, and other requirements. Freightfull has already attracted new business in a number of specialist sectors - including groceries, vehicle recovery and inter-dealership stock movements.
Founding directors of Freightfull, Mark Duncan and George Orr, believe that their 'next generation' online open tender trading platform will bring about a step change in the way shippers and customers place goods to move - whilst offering beleaguered transport operators a welcome opportunity to optimise vehicle usage and reduce costs. The pair state, "Our original site was fully fit for purpose and has proved the concept as effective and user friendly. Our new site however, which has been in development for almost two years, has been fully and robustly tested ahead of going live. It is written in a computer language which is compatible with worldwide internet trading - which correctly indicates where we see the international scope for the system's future.
"Within the platform infrastructure, we are able to create 'closed user groups' to accommodate secure and specialist market requirements - for instance, where a manufacturer of high value goods will only ship via a pre-selected group of transporters. In addition, we can host, customise and 'white page' an online trading room for third-parties - which can be protected and gated for exclusive use", say the directors.