As a freight forwarder for road freight transport in Europe, InstaFreight uses digitalization to optimize processes and increase information transparency. In contrast to the analog processes and communication channels still frequently found in the logistics industry, InstaFreight offers commercial customers a digital alternative. By digitizing the freight forwarding business, the Berlin-based company provides operational transparency and data for continuous process optimization and offers fleet operators a convenient and reliable way to get the right business, track their vehicles transporting goods across Europe and get paid quickly and reliably.

"The freight forwarding industry is already undergoing a profound upheaval, in which digital approaches are becoming more successful and increasingly prevalent. We are delighted to have Shell, such a strong, globally recognized brand, as an investor and partner. With the capital raised in this financing round, we will continue our rapid growth, further improve our technology and make our services available to even more shippers and freight forwarders across Europe," says Philipp Ortwein, Co-Founder and Managing Director of InstaFreight.

Shell, which has the world's largest fuel retail network, offers its carriers immediate and permanent access to fuel and other Shell products and services via a global fuel card. To be close to its customers' needs, Shell keeps abreast of fleet management challenges and offers solutions for safety, maintenance and fuel consumption issues through telematics and mobility services.

"Our carriers who use the Shell fuel card are facing increasing expectations from their customers in terms of digital know-how. At the same time, they are operating in a low-margin market. By partnering with InstaFreight, we can help our carriers optimize their utilization with the right business, become more profitable and provide them with the real-time visibility their customers expect," says Parminder Kohli, General Manager Business Development, Shell Fleet Solutions.

Jermaine Saaltink, Venture Principal at Shell Ventures, adds: "We invest in start-ups with technologies and business models that have the potential to revolutionize markets and create better solutions for customers. We have been impressed by the management team and the rapid growth InstaFreight has achieved in the market in a short period of time. We look forward to working with InstaFreight and sharing in their continued success."

Both companies see the cooperation as more than just a one-off financial investment. InstaFreight and Shell will work closely together to further develop services for their customers. The partnership opens up the opportunity to jointly develop new mobility solutions and services as well as expand and scale existing transportation solutions. As a result, Shell and InstaFreight will leverage synergies and accelerate growth in freight brokerage in international markets.