With a reported $2.5 million in venture funding from investors including Amazon.com’s Jeff Bezos and the founders of well-known tech service companies DropBox, eBay and Expedia, Seattle-based startup Convoy today officially launched its on-demand freight marketplace for regional and local trucking. Initially centered in freight markets in and around Washington State, where the service has been undergoing a beta version test, Convoy allows shippers to connect with nearby truckers, creating efficiencies and helping to book and track loads instantly.
The Convoy app is available on both iOS and Android platforms.“Nearly every business in this country relies on trucking, so Convoy’s benefits will be widely felt,” said Howard Behar, former Starbucks President. “It is a game changer for truck drivers and companies large and small.”
Trusted carriers in Convoy’s network can receive notifications via text, email and its free mobile app, available current for Android. The app doubles as a tool for managing and growing fleets, the company says. In the system, “there is no waiting or haggling over” prices/rates, the company promises shippers and truckers, “and the result is a fast and hassle-free experience.”
The company is making its service available today following a successful beta period in Washington state.
“Convoy has enhanced our ability to deliver timely shipments in a cost-effective manner,” said Jeremiah Fleming, logistics manager at Seattle Goodwill. “We strive to stay on top of trends and evolve within the industry, and we need partners like Convoy to help us achieve mission success.”
“Technology gives an edge to companies that adopt it early, and this is happening in trucking right now,” said Convoy’s cofounder and CEO, Dan Lewis. “I’ve seen firsthand how much potential this has to improve people’s lives.”
To fully participate in the network, owner-operators must both download the Android app (an iOS-functional version is coming soon, the company says) and register with Convoy by emailing [email protected] or calling 855-5-CONVOY (855-526-6869).
