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There is a surging demand for visibility and transparency, with consumers wanting to know where and by what means products are reaching retailers. It is not just the point of sale that matters any more, but the entirety of its journey which is now under scrutiny from perspective buyers. Retailers who can offer eco-friendly and ethically sourced products are becoming more popular, amongst an increasingly conscientious customer base.

The haulage sector has a significant part to play in addressing this shift in consumer attitudes. It is a huge player in the UK’ s economy, responsible for transporting a monumental 89 percent of all goods by land and therefore fulfilling a valuable and requisite role in the nation’ s growth. As such, it can make a pivotal contribution to help the retail industry respond to the increasing consumer demand for green logistics and to meet the growing expectations for sustainable delivery options. At HaulageHub, we operate a digital freight marketplace and leverage innovative AI technology to improve the sustainability and transparency of the supply chain. Empty running – runs made by Heavy Goods Vehicles without any cargo – account for more than 30 percent of HGV miles in the UK, producing over five million tons of needless CO₂ emissions per year and inviting substantial operational costs. This means the impact of the carbon footprint of the sector is far more profound than it needs to be and illustrates the need for retailers to embed sustainable initiatives across their operations.

Advanced AI models can help to match load opportunities with haulers, to reduce empty runs and minimize operational costs. Our technology ensures that loads are allocated to those with historically empty running routes to effectively address the issue where it is most prevalent. By continuously analyzing data in real time, AI can match haulers with available loads within their vicinity, accordingly, reducing unnecessary mileage and saving fuel, meaning an ecofriendlier journey.

We have managed to bring our average empty running rate to 19 percent, well below the industry average, and demonstrate that technology can be harnessed to improve the sustainability of the supply chain, meaning a greener product inventory for retailers. Such models also allow for load consolidation: by grouping part loads together, retailers can maximize truck capacity and increase efficiency. For all parties, this makes financial and environmental sense.

Haulage companies that can offer carbon footprint analysis of their drivers’ journeys within the retail sector are becoming even more sought-after as retailers scramble to meet sustainably targets. Data-driven insights that allow haulers to track and measure their emissions in real time empower retail

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