Our Goal is to Make Freight Easier, Smarter, and More Sustainable for Everyone: David Nothacker, CEO of sennder

sennder is a leading digital road freight forwarder in Europe, offering shippers access to a vast network of connected trucks. With a focus on digitization and automation, the company is modernizing traditional logistics by making road freight more efficient. Deploying over 40,000 trucks across Europe and accessing a fleet of more than 120,000 vehicles, sennder ensures efficiency and flexibility in every shipment. The company has a team of over 1,600 professionals using technology and green transport solutions to create a more transparent and sustainable freight network. Supported by top investors like Baillie Gifford, Accel, HV Capital, Lakestar, and industry leaders such as Poste Italiane and Scania, sennder continues to push the boundaries of modern logistics.

In Conversation with David Nothacker, Co-Founder & CEO of sennder 

What inspired you to start sennder?

I saw inefficiencies in the freight industry that digital solutions could fix. Too many trucks were running empty or underutilized, which wasted resources and made logistics unnecessarily expensive. I wanted to build a company that could make freight smarter, more efficient, and better for everyone involved. The goal was to replace outdated processes with technology-driven solutions that create real value for both shippers and carriers.

What makes sennder different from traditional freight companies?

We built a digital-first freight platform that connects carriers and shippers directly. Instead of relying on layers of intermediaries, we use technology to streamline operations. Real-time tracking, automated booking, and data-driven insights give our partners more control over their freight. The approach is about efficiency and reliability, ensuring that every truckload is optimized while cutting unnecessary costs.

How has sennder evolved since its early days?

In the beginning, we focused on proving that a digital approach could work in road freight. As we gained traction, we expanded our services, built strong partnerships, and integrated more advanced technology into our platform. Growth came through strategic acquisitions and collaborations that strengthened our network. The business has evolved from a startup with a vision to a major player in European logistics, but the core mission remains the same: making freight more efficient through technology.

What challenges did you face while scaling the company?

Scaling any company comes with challenges, but logistics is a particularly complex industry. Convincing traditional players to adopt a new way of working required patience and persistence. We had to prove that digitalization wasn’t just a trend but a long-term solution. Hiring the right talent, expanding into new markets, and ensuring that our technology scaled with our business were also key challenges. Each step of the way, we learned, adapted, and continued pushing forward.

How does technology shape the way sennder operates?

Technology is at the core of everything we do. Our platform uses real-time data to match shippers with the best carriers, reducing inefficiencies and improving speed. Automation simplifies bookings and invoicing, saving time for both parties. Data analytics help optimize routes and reduce empty miles, which also contributes to sustainability. We focus on continuous improvement, making sure that our technology evolves with the needs of the industry.

Sustainability is a major focus in logistics. How does sennder address this?

One of the biggest issues in freight is empty miles—trucks running without cargo. By improving route optimization and ensuring better truck utilization, we help reduce unnecessary emissions. Digitalization makes it possible to run more efficient operations, cutting waste and lowering the environmental footprint. The logistics sector has a role to play in sustainability, and we take that responsibility seriously.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs looking to enter the logistics space?

Logistics is a fast-moving industry that requires deep industry knowledge and a willingness to challenge existing models. Understanding the pain points of both shippers and carriers is crucial. Building strong partnerships, investing in technology, and staying adaptable are key to long-term success. Most importantly, persistence is necessary—changing an industry takes time, but the results are worth it.

What’s next for sennder?

We will keep driving innovation in digital freight. The focus remains on expanding our network, refining our technology, and making road logistics even more efficient. As the industry evolves, we will continue adapting, always looking for ways to bring more value to shippers and carriers. The mission to modernize road freight is far from over, and we are committed to leading the way.

David Nothacker, Co-Founder & CEO, sennder

Our platform uses real-time data to match shippers with the best carriers, reducing inefficiencies and improving speed.