Transforming Logistics Efficiency: How Fercam is Reducing Empty Miles with AI

Introduction In today’s competitive logistics landscape, efficiency isn’t just a goal—it’s a necessity. Fercam, a European logistics leader with operations across Italy and Spain, faced a common industry challenge: empty miles. These unproductive journeys not only drive up operational costs but also limit revenue potential. By integrating AI-powered automation into their spot client acquisition process, Fercam is turning these challenges into opportunities.

Tabaré Majem

3/8/20251 min read

grayscale photo of cars on road
grayscale photo of cars on road

The Challenge Facing Modern Logistics
Traditionally, Fercam relied on manual processes to identify and secure spot clients, using platforms like WTRANSNET, TIMOCOM, and TRANSPOREON. This approach, while functional, was inherently slow and error-prone. With a significant percentage of fleet mileage being traveled empty—20% in Spain and 15% in Italy—the inefficiencies were clear. These empty miles represented missed revenue opportunities and elevated costs, as every kilometer without a load directly impacted the bottom line.

The AI-Powered Transformation
Fercam’s solution was to automate the spot client acquisition process using advanced AI agents. These agents seamlessly integrate with existing logistics platforms to match available truck capacity with real-time demand. The system is designed to:

  • Reduce Empty Miles: By automatically matching truck availability with spot client requests, Fercam can cut empty kilometers by an estimated 25%.

  • Boost Revenue: Filling trips that were once empty means turning lost mileage into loaded revenue.

  • Streamline Operations: Automation minimizes manual data entry and the potential for human error, freeing up operational staff to focus on strategic decision-making.

Quantifiable Benefits
The numbers tell an impressive story. For the Spanish branch:

  • Empty Miles Saved: Approximately 1,000,000 km saved annually, leading to an estimated cost reduction of €1,000,000.

  • Additional Revenue: Turning these kilometers into loaded trips generates an extra €1,500,000.

  • Labor Savings: Automation contributes to a 30% efficiency gain, saving around €105,000 in labor costs.

For the Italian branch, similar improvements are magnified due to scale:

  • Empty Miles Saved: Approximately 3,750,000 km saved, equating to €3,750,000 in cost savings.

  • Additional Revenue: An uplift of roughly €5,625,000 from filled trips.

  • Labor Savings: Operational efficiency translates to savings of around €315,000.

Conclusion
Fercam’s journey from manual to automated processes illustrates the transformative power of AI in logistics. With a clear impact on cost savings, revenue enhancement, and operational efficiency, the AI-powered approach is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic imperative. For logistics companies looking to thrive in an increasingly competitive market, the Fercam case offers a compelling blueprint for success.