SA logistics tech startup heads overseas

Load matching solutions are becoming more and more prevalent and the software created by a South African tech startup company, EmptyTrips, could soon be lighting up the international stage.

EmptyTrips is heading to San Francisco, California, for the 2018 Startup World Cup, where there is the chance to win US$ 1 million (R14 million) in capital. This comes after winning the Chivas Venture Pitching Den at the 2017 SA Innovation Summit.

EmptyTrips uses smart algorithms to match spare capacity on transport vehicles with those companies that need goods transported at a lower cost. This negates the inefficiencies of empty space in transport vehicles

The technology identifies spare capacity on trucks, trains, ships, or aeroplanes. It then allows potential customers to bid anonymously and pay securely for that space.

Recognising the innovation behind EmptyTrips, the judges of the Chivas Venture Pitching Den Competition awarded it the winner’s title and an entry into the Startup World Cup finals.

“We are humbled by the recognition and this incredible opportunity,” says Benji Coetzee, CEO of EmptyTrips. “At the same time, we are so proud of the progress we have made in the few months this company has been running. We look forward to flying the South African flag at the Startup World Cup!”