Trans-Test

Professor Alan McKinnon of Herriot Watt University estimates the UK road transport industry emits 24.5million tonnes of CO2 e each year. Professor Alan Waller of Cranfield University estimates vehicle utilisation as low as 40%, and that this waste costs European business € 80 billion each year (UK £4b / yr.) Waste has always been a feature of transport because of the difficulties of forecasting the flow of goods and the subsequent placement of assets (trucks) to match the demand across a fragmented commercial road transport market where there is a huge disparity in the size, type and competence of Carrier and Shipper organisations. Transfaction is currently completing a Proof of Concept project which aims to establish the feasibility of substantially reducing this waste through the creation of a virtual fleet. With the aid of the IfM Cambridge University we have created a unique analysis tool that can measure and attribute the causes of waste or “turbulence” in transport. We have consulted with Nestle, Shell, United Biscuits and NFT Logistics, and the extension of trials is indicative that the analysis is valued. Our research has also identified opportunities to optimise the utilisation of assets (trucks) and improve communication processes between transport users and suppliers. Our intention is to bundle together these various solutions into one Visibility and Performance Product and to make this available on subscription to both Carriers, and their clients, the Shippers. We are now applying for a grant towards the cost of market assessment to establish the size of the market for such a product, the sensitivity to differing pricing models, and to confirm strategies in approaching the whole transport industry, including; those who outsource their transport, those who operate fleets, large for hire hauliers, their sub-contractors, Agents, ICT Platforms,and Consultants. The research will also enable us complete a functional specification for the final Product.