New challenges of logistics sector
The transport and logistics sector is in the midst of a triple transition, where sustainability, digitalisation, and resilience are transforming our daily routines and processes. Development and innovation are a natural part of global evolution, but at the moment, the logistics sector seems to be experiencing an exceptionally rapid pace of change.
For most companies, and even for authorities, keeping up with this tempo can be challenging. Typically, larger companies invest in new solutions and are early adopters of new processes and technologies — and, as a result, they often gain the most benefits. However, this is not always the case. Even smaller companies can also be key drivers of innovation in the sector, particularly when it comes to new technologies and digital solutions. Still, they may face difficulties in fully capitalising on these benefits due to their smaller market shares and volumes.
Does the ongoing development force all transport and logistics companies to expert in Trivial pursuit?
During the first half of 2025, Fintraffic coordinated a project in Finland called “Digital and Coordinated Future of Logistics – DiHaLoT”, funded by Sitra. In collaboration with Fintraffic, Vediafi and Solita explored ways to boost and support the logistics sector during this urgent phase of the triple transition.
The project included three main tasks:
- Mapping relevant regulations,
- Developing a logistics digitalisation demo, and
- Initiating a national logistics market discussion forum between authorities and the private sector.
From eFTI EXPERTS, Lasse and Matti were part of the project’s core team, as Vediafi was responsible for tasks 1 and 3.
Under Task 1, 51 recent EU regulations were mapped (picture below) that have a direct or indirect impact on the logistics sector. Some of these are already well known within the industry, but an increasing number originate from the sustainability and ICT domains — areas that are not yet fully understood or integrated into existing logistics processes.
51 recent EU regulations
Under Task 2, in collaboration with Solita’s team, an AI demo was developed. The AI demo showcased the potential to provide an efficient and rapid knowledge exchange and training platform. With some further fine-tuning, the AI solution could help logistics companies (and other relevant stakeholders) access key regulatory information.
In principle, the AI tool could work as follows: a company enters its business ID and a short description, and the tool then provides a list of relevant regulations and guidance tailored to that company’s profile.
Example: A user enters the company ID and indicates that the company operates in road transport, carrying waste and dangerous goods within the EU. The AI tool analyses the input and lists all applicable regulations. Within seconds, it helps the user understand how the various regulations are connected and their interdependencies. If the user wishes to explore further, the tool could suggest next steps and recommend best practices.
During the DiHaLoT project, the AI tool was piloted for use cases related to emission calculations, regulation mapping, bookings, and business-to-authority reporting (and yes, eFTI was part of it). While the tool remains a demo and still requires additional training and data validation, this is precisely the kind of development that eFTI EXPERTS and our ongoing projects focus on.
It is important to note that AI will not solve all our challenges — but it offers a powerful and effective tool to support our daily work. If such a solution sounds interesting to you, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
eFTI EXPERTS is a network of like-minded professionals. We are currently strengthening our consulting capabilities to meet diverse customer needs in the field of digital logistics and projects. If your organisation is facing challenges related to the triple transition, process development, ICT and technology adaptation, or regulatory compliance, we are ready to help — either through our in-house experts or in collaboration with our partner network.