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.