November 2000

An online road freight exchange for third parties has been launched by oil giant Shell under the name Euroshell Loadbroking. It is not about oil products in particular; it is said to be intended for "companies whose principal business is the transportation of goods by road throughout Europe".

Initially it is a relatively low-key operation, under which users who successfully match cargo and capacity have to contact each other directly to arrange details and terms. As additional facilities are added, the company says it will introduce subscription fees, but for the first year there is no charge. Users have to register, and the company says efforts will be made "to ensure that bona fide transportation companies are participating in the service". However, it advises users to make their own checks as well. The service is already said to be active in several European countries including Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands.