Three quarters of German logistics companies are already using digital freight documents. However, only a few operate entirely without paper.
Bitkom reported on October 28 that 76 percent of surveyed logistics companies use digital freight documents at least in part. However, only seven percent work exclusively digitally. A further 32 percent primarily use digital documents, while 37 percent use them only occasionally.
Implementation is not merely about replacing a form. Freight carriers, shippers, consignees, customs authorities, and driving personnel must be able to accept documents electronically and process the data ideally without media discontinuity.
According to Bitkom, 54 percent of respondents advocate for mandatory usage. At the same time, barriers exist due to missing standards and varying acceptance throughout the transport chain.
For cross-border transport, it remains important which document formats are actually supported on the affected routes and by the respective parties involved.