Uber Freight heralds strong growth in its European Managed Transportation business

Earlier today, San Francisco-based Uber Freight, a subsidiary of the ubiquitous, ride-sharing service Uber, whose proprietary app matches trucking companies with loads to haul, and a non-asset-based third-party logistics services provider, issued an update on the strong growth it is seeing in its European Managed Transportation business.

The company said that this business unit now has more than $200 million euro ($218.2 million USD) in freight under management and is on track for $2 billion ($2.18 billion USD) by 2028. What’s more, the company added that it now has more than $18 billion in freight under management on a global basis, while also noting that its investment and momentum across the continent positions it to be what it called a “breakout leader in 4PL services across Europe and lays the foundation for continued growth and expansion.

This strong growth comes at a time when the European logistics market is estimated to hit $1.17 trillion euros ($1.26 trillion USD) by 2029, according to data from Mordor Intelligence.

“With logistics becoming more globalized, it’s essential for shippers to find partners that can provide a comprehensive and flexible suite of services that meet them exactly where they are and can grow with them,” said Lior Ron, Founder and CEO of Uber Freight. “Our European business is accelerating because we’re dedicated to offering precisely that. We bring the optionality and expertise needed to keep pace in a rapidly evolving landscape and, as we continue to invest in the region, we plan on cementing our role as the premier logistics partner in Europe.”

Etienne Visser, Uber Freight Vice President of Operations in Europe, told LM that there are various drivers leading Uber Freight’s growth in its European Managed Transportation Business.

“In the rapidly evolving landscape of global logistics, achieving consistency and efficiency across supply chain operations is paramount,” said Visser. “This trend towards globalization is particularly pronounced in Europe, where logistics operations face unique challenges driven by sustainability demands, driver shortages, and legislative pressures. Amidst this backdrop, Uber Freight is poised for significant growth in the European Managed Transportation business. Leveraging our connection to Uber and shared commitment to technological innovation, we have developed advanced logistics solutions tailored to the European market. Our ability to address the region's distinct needs, including offerings that are non-asset and carrier agnostic, and their challenges, such as navigating diverse regulatory environments and optimizing complex transportation networks, has resonated well with European shippers.

Visser added that Uber Freight’s focus on delivering exceptional customer service and offering flexible, scalable transportation solutions has cemented its position as a trusted partner in the European logistics landscape. And he added that through strategic partnerships and collaborations with leading European brands, Uber Freight has expanded its presence and enhanced its offerings, driving further growth in the region.

“Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to continued innovation and expansion in Europe,” noted Visser. “By staying attuned to market dynamics and evolving customer needs, we are well-positioned to deliver value and drive sustainable growth in the European Managed Transportation sector.”

When asked about Uber Freight’s key services for its European shipper customers through its European Managed Transportation business, Visser explained that its services allow shippers to outsource their entire transportation management to Uber Freight, benefiting from its expertise and technology to streamline operations and drive efficiencies. With an eye on the future, he said that Uber Freight’s strategic direction is focused on the further development of some niche components in the platform that require Europeanization before launching those in Europe as well, such as Parcel/PTMS (Parcel Transportation Management Solution).

Main benefits of Uber Freight’s European Managed Transportation business, for shippers, cited by Visser, included:

• increased efficiency, with its advanced technology and data-driven approach enabling European customers to optimize their supply chain operations, reduce costs, and improve productivity;
• enhanced visibility, with its real-time tracking and visibility into their shipments, European customers can make informed decisions and proactively address any issues that may arise.
• flexible and scalable transportation solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of European customers, allowing them to adapt to changing market conditions and demand fluctuations;
• strategic partnerships through which European customers gain access to a network of carriers and industry expertise, enabling them to unlock new opportunities and drive growth in their business; and
• Sustainability insights through helping shippers meet their transportation carbon footprint reporting requirements and provide insights into reduction opportunities

While Uber Freight does not disclose specific figures for the number of customers it serves, Visser said that the company serves a diverse range of customers across various industries, including multinational corporations and small businesses, across all countries in Europe.

“Our strategy includes operating from our Centre of Excellence in the Netherlands, strategically located close to our current customer base,” he said. “Additionally, future expansions will include office locations in Eastern and/or Central Europe, aligning with our strategic objectives to serve customers efficiently across the region. Our operations extend throughout all countries in Europe, facilitating shipments between thousands of locations. Our dedicated team consists of 26 professionals representing 11 countries and proficient in 12 languages. At Uber Freight, we prioritize diversity and linguistic proficiency to effectively serve our clientele across Europe, ensuring a seamless experience for our customers in a multicultural and multilingual environment.”