Digitalisation of logistics requires intensive cooperation and trust

The logistics sector is facing the challenge of far-reaching digitalisation, a process that demands openness, trust, and intensive cooperation among all parties. This is emphasised by Stephanie Wagenaar in this video. She is a member of the management team of Transport & Logistiek Nederland (TLN), the trade association dedicated to a smart, clean, and social logistics sector.

Logistics as the Engine of Society

Transport and logistics keep society running, from supplying hospitals and shops to constructing houses. "But often we don't realise that a whole world is hidden behind logistics," says Wagenaar. To get goods to the right place, at the right time, and under the right conditions, efficient logistics is crucial. And that efficiency is inextricably linked to digitalisation.

The Necessity of Data Sharing

The pressure on the sector is increasing due to developments in legislation, sustainability, and technology. This makes clear agreements on information exchange indispensable. Wagenaar points out that data sharing is essential, not only between large companies and governments but also, and crucially, with SMEs. "Data sharing is essential for the competitive position of the Netherlands and thus of Europe."

Cooperation Within and Beyond the Company

According to Wagenaar, digitalisation can only be achieved through cooperation. Many companies already work with 20 to 30 different systems from various IT suppliers, which also need to interact. This requires clear agreements, both with IT suppliers amongst themselves and throughout the entire logistics chain and sectors such as construction or waste. The goal is to jointly tackle the digitalisation process to organise logistics more efficiently and smartly.

BDI and DIL as Accelerators

This need for cross-border and standardised data exchange is also evident at a European level, where solutions such as the FT Regulation (Facility to Exchange Electronic Data) are being developed. Programmes such as Data in Logistics (DIL) and the Basic Data Infrastructure (BDI) are viewed by TLN as important accelerators and drivers for realising data sharing and the digitalisation process.

"We believe the sector must not be missing from this process, which is why TLN is involved and wholeheartedly committed to digitalising the logistics sector together," concludes Wagenaar.