The furniture industry is setting a strong example for more efficient and transparent logistics. Together with TradeLink, leading companies are developing solutions in a pilot project for automated, collaborative delivery coordination that involves retailers, carriers, and suppliers alike.
Disconnected systems and unclear expectations as obstacles: Transparency, predictability, and efficiency are crucial in logistics. Yet, disconnected IT systems and inconsistent processes often stand in the way of smooth collaboration. A lack of alignment on mutual expectations leads to wait times, frustration, and unnecessary costs.

The solution: collaborative logistics where everyone involved—from suppliers and carriers to warehouse and retail companies—works together seamlessly.

TradeLink focuses on genuine collaboration rather than one-sided technology
For five years, TradeLink has been supporting logistics decision-makers with a flexible, end-to-end platform for time slot management, yard processes, and delivery coordination. Instead of introducing isolated technology, TradeLink has focused from day one on a solution that enables true partnership and fair cooperation.
The vision: smooth, increasingly automated delivery coordination that boosts efficiency, improves relationships, and delivers tangible benefits for everyone involved.

Furniture industry as a pioneer in digitalization
The furniture industry is proving to be a pioneer. In this highly interconnected sector, TradeLink’s flexible, partnership-based solution has allowed it to quickly become the largest platform since mid-2022, with 1,000 furniture companies already using TradeLink regularly for delivery coordination.
Now, a group of industry leaders has taken the next step toward collaborative coordination with TradeLink. Led by VME retailers Rieger and Dogern, the Wiemann Group, and their in-house carrier Teutofracht, the group and its partners are implementing new solutions for delivery coordination.

Jürgen Schönicke, Managing Director of Möbel Rieger, emphasizes the need for new, collaborative approaches:
“The furniture industry is steeped in tradition. But at Möbel Rieger, we don’t stick to old patterns. With TradeLink, we are sending a clear signal for collaborative delivery coordination with all stakeholders.”

The pilot group, which includes other market participants, has collectively established a collaborative framework regarding predictability and benefits in the first phase of the project, which is essential for the success of individual business models and logistics processes.

Fabian Kummle, Managing Director of Möbelmarkt Dogern, highlights the benefits:
“With TradeLink, our warehouse staff can plan, schedule, and prepare for carrier deliveries in advance. This creates less stress for everyone at the loading dock—which leads to fewer errors despite faster processes. This benefits not only us, but also carriers and manufacturers.”

Pilot phase for automated delivery coordination launched
An important milestone is the pilot phase for API integration between TMS provider Wanko and TradeLink, which will enable full automation from the leading system for companies, in addition to the flexible interface for carriers and retailers.
The new interface goes beyond simple data exchange—it concretely improves processes:

• Predictability and reliability: Time slot management that integrates carriers and accounts for logistical realities, such as varying lead times.
• Automated communication: Early notification of deviations minimizes wait times and improves coordination.
• Increased efficiency: All stakeholders receive exactly the information they need for their processes.

Alexander Wanko, Managing Director of Wanko, emphasizes the importance of the project:
"We are pleased that we have been able to implement our long-standing vision for automated, collaborative delivery coordination involving retailers, carriers, and suppliers with such a powerful partner."
Both companies, as well as representatives from suppliers, carriers, and retailers, see great potential in the project to solve these challenges technically in a way that benefits everyone.

"The idea of achieving a win-win situation for all parties through pioneering work and mutual concessions is a promising approach. With our TMS Wanko and TradeLink, we have the opportunity to reshape the use of time slot management systems and thus improve efficiency and flexibility in transport planning," says Matthias Stollberg, Managing Director of Teutofracht Spedition GmbH & part of the Wiemann Group, welcoming the partnership between the two technology companies.

Innovation in logistics requires partnership
Cooperation is required not only within the supply chain but also between technology providers.
"Our vision is completely seamless coordination of goods flow that helps all companies. That is why working with the furniture industry is a special priority for us. What applies to the supply chain also applies to us as a platform provider: we must work in partnership with other technology companies to achieve our vision. Together, we are realizing end-to-end and transparent processes in logistics," says Frederic Krahforst, founder and Managing Director of TradeLink.

For this reason, TradeLink is also involved in the Open Logistics Foundation and works with other companies to further drive innovation and promote open, collaborative digitalization in logistics.

About TradeLink:
TradeLink digitizes delivery coordination between warehouses and their suppliers. From time slot management and dock & yard solutions to load carrier management, TradeLink combines all key logistics processes in one software. Real-time data on delivery status, yard utilization, and partner performance ensures efficient management of your logistics.

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