FAQs

Load carriers are containers or devices used for the transport, storage, and handling of goods in logistics. These include pallets, mesh boxes, containers, IBCs, small load carriers (SLCs), and special load carriers. Because there are so many different types of objects, at Logistikbude, we also refer to them collectively as "reusable objects."

Returnable asset tracking refers to the digital recording and tracking of reusable objects along the supply chain. The goal is to always know where each returnable asset is, who had it last, and what condition it is in – to reduce loss, shorten cycle times, and utilize capital more efficiently.

Our system is applicable across industries and manages all types of reusable assets: Euro pallets, industrial pallets, pallet cages, IBCs, CC containers, small load carriers (KLTs), large load carriers, special load carriers, swap bodies, and even industry-specific containers such as pharmaceutical containers or battery containers.

Based on our experience with over 40 companies, the value of the reusable asset has proven to be a good indicator:

• 0 to 30 Euros: Quantity booking (e.g., Euro pallets)
• 30 to 500 Euros: Track & Trace with barcode or QR code (e.g., mesh boxes, special load carriers)
• From 500 Euros: IoT tracking with active sensors (e.g., swap bodies, special containers) For specific requirements – such as temperature monitoring in the pharmaceutical sector – IoT can also be beneficial for lower asset values.

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With Track & Trace, each load carrier is uniquely identified with a 1D or 2D barcode. Scans allow statuses to be assigned (full, empty, defective, in repair), locations to be recorded, and load carriers to be virtually assigned to customers or suppliers. This creates a complete digital record for each object – including cycle times, repair history, and lifespan.

IoT tracking is particularly worthwhile for high-value load carriers with an object value of approximately 500 Euros or more, or when special requirements such as temperature monitoring, shock sensors, or real-time location data are needed. The trackers report their location autonomously via the mobile network – without anyone needing to scan them. Depending on the solution, costs are approximately 3–4 Euros per tracker per month.

With quantity booking, load carriers are recorded as quantities – simple, but error-prone and without object history. In contrast, with Track & Trace, each object is individually marked and scanned. This generates accurate metrics on cycle times, repairs, and shrinkage per partner. For open pools like Euro pallets, quantity booking is usually the only option, but for individual load carriers, Track & Trace is significantly more informative.

Real-time data allows everyone in the company to immediately see where load carriers are and who last had them. Automatic reminders ("This container has been with you for 14 days – please return it") and transparent balances with business partners demonstrably reduce shrinkage by up to 40%. In high-value use cases with IoT trackers, shrinkage can even be almost entirely eliminated.

Typically, the introduction of Loopario pays off just a few months after go-live. The biggest savings come from reduced shrinkage (up to 40%), reduced staff time for documentation and coordination (up to 80%), and avoiding unnecessary new purchases of load carriers.

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Load carrier management comprises all processes for planning, managing and monitoring load carriers within the supply chain. This includes the procurement, distribution, tracking and return of load carriers as well as inventory management. Effective load carrier management minimizes losses, optimizes turnaround times and reduces costs through transparent processes. We understand load carriers as synonymous with the terms packaging, loading or transport aids and many other terms.

Our SaaS platform records, manages and analyses all movements of pallets, containers, racks, etc. in real time — automatically, transparently and across locations. Manual paperwork or Excel lists are completely omitted.

Less shrinkage, fewer discussions with exchange partners, lower repurchase costs — but more transparency, control and time savings for your team. Particularly helpful: the auto reconciliation, the web link function, the digital exchange logic and the real-time overview of flows and inventories.

Thanks to cloud technology and SaaS pricing model, the solution is immediately ready for use. The modern cloud architecture makes the system correspondingly scalable even for large quantities of load carriers. Implementation usually takes just a few weeks — including interface connection, training and data migration. Our team will guide you closely through the entire process.

For everyone who has reusable assets in circulation — whether manufacturer, freight forwarder, logistics service provider or trading company. Particularly useful when locations are spread out, tracking is difficult, or discussions with exchange partners are the order of the day.

Logistikbude uses AI-supported technologies, including:

• Automatic processing of PDF documents for data collection
• A chatbot to answer questions about load carriers, such as inventory overview and pallet liabilities
• AI-supported matching to optimize pallet exchange processes and avoid empty runs

Our platform runs GDPR-compliant on servers in Western Europe. Data security and system stability are our top priorities — including regular backups, rights and role concepts, and encrypted data transfer.