eFTI-compliant service platform for SMEs

Building a collaborative ecosystem for sustainable freight

The Piraeus Free Zone is a major gateway for trade in the Eastern Mediterranean, however, fragmented cargo flows and underutilised transport resources limit efficiency, particularly for small and medium-sized shippers. Empty returns, low load factors and complex documentation processes generate unnecessary costs and emissions.

The IKIGAI pilot of the Collaborative Matchmaking Platform aims to address these issues by creating an eFTI-compliant digital service for freight consolidation, load matching and multimodal coordination. The platform will connect diverse stakeholders within the Piraeus port ecosystem, enabling the shared use of assets, smarter routing and more sustainable freight flows.

A collaborative model for the port ecosystem

Rather than relying on ad hoc arrangements, the platform will provide a structured environment in which shippers, logistics providers and terminal operators can work together towards shared goals. This approach is built around the following:

• • Pooling capacity for value: cargo from multiple shippers is consolidated into standardised transport units, improving utilisation and lowering costs.
  • Data-driven orchestration: a central platform supports transparent load planning, route optimisation and emissions estimation.
  • Digital compliance: the solution integrates with eFTI CDS and eCMR processes, reducing paperwork and speeding up clearance.

A notable feature of the pilot is the planned use of smart insulated containers as an alternative to energy-intensive refrigerated units. This could reduce cold-chain energy consumption by up to 25%, while ensuring product quality is maintained

From port operations to a scalable European solution

Initially, the platform will serve shippers and logistics service providers within the Piraeus Free Zone, supporting:

• • Freight consolidation and cargo matchmaking
  • Dynamic routing and scheduling
  • CO₂ emissions estimation

In line with IKIGAI’s objectives, the model will eventually be designed for replication in other ports and logistics hubs, offering a transferable, sustainable, digitally enabled solution for freight consolidation.

Business value

For shippers, the platform can:

• • Reduce transport costs through shared capacity
  • Improve service reliability and reduce lead times
  • Simplify compliance through digital documentation

For logistics service providers and terminal operators, it offers:

• • Access to consolidated demand that justifies additional services
  • Improved asset utilisation and reduced empty movements
  • Enhanced transparency for service planning and billing

Expected impacts include reducing costs and emissions from collaboration by 30%, increasing load factors for LTL shipments by 20%, and reducing empty returns.

Challenges and the way forward:

Key risks include:

• • Stakeholder commitment: sustained participation from SMEs and large shippers is essential.
  • Data quality and access: reliable operational data is critical for accurate matchmaking and reporting.

The pilot will progress in phases, beginning with stakeholder onboarding and process consolidation, followed by platform deployment in live operations and performance evaluation. The results will inform potential expansion to new regions and integration with other IKIGAI pilots.

Business value

For shippers, ALICE Express can:

• • Aggregate volumes to unlock cost-effective intermodal options
  • Contribute to corporate sustainability and compliance targets
  • Increase service reliability across long-haul routes

For logistics service providers, it offers:

• • Access to consolidated demand that justifies new service launches
  • Opportunities to improve asset utilisation and network reach

In both cases, the pilot aims to reduce empty runs, optimise pre- and end-haulage, and align procurement requirements to facilitate broader adoption.

Challenges and forward path

The key identified challenges include:

• • Cost competitiveness: On certain corridors, such as Poland – Romania, intermodal transport is more expensive than road transport.
  • Commitment and governance: Stable participation, aligned tender requirements and adherence to shared rules are critical to success.

The pilot will proceed in two phases: first, mapping the business case, governance requirements and operational gaps, and then implementing and validating the model in live operations. Successful outcomes could enable replication across other European corridors