US-based maruFreight has launched a new online platform for the maritime and logistics industries, aiming to facilitate the exchange of information on available vessels and cargoes, and streamline communication between stakeholders in every phase of freight exchange.
The first live version of maruFreight is expected to be introduced in January 2019, with its core functionalities focused on providing an open marketplace for matching cargoes with suitable vessels, with all relevant stakeholders able to connect, communicate and view information within the centralised platform.
The system also aims to leverage the expertise of its strategic investors, Mitsui & Co, Ltd and Weathernews Inc, as it rolls out the product, with the companies expected to provide input in the areas of commodity trading and scientific data collection and weather routing respectively.
“maruFreight’s goal is to help companies to improve efficiency and decision-making in chartering by leveraging technology and data. We focus on product development and technology to provide more data and insight in a much more organised and structured way,” said Kazuyuki Shimozono, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of maruFreight.
“Following the digital freight service, maruFreight envisions the platform to broaden its functions and evolve as a more comprehensive solution for the chartering and trading. Our partnership with leading investors will accelerate this.”
