PostNord Logistics | Linehaul Transport Efficiency with SpaceInvader

PostNord Logistics A/S is one of the largest logistics operators in the Nordic region, managing high-volume, high-frequency linehaul operations between terminals. In an environment where every kilometre, every trip and every tonne of CO₂ matter, PostNord identified the need to significantly increase truck load efficiency without investing in fleet modifications or introducing operational complexity.

The core challenge was the limited average load factor in hub-to-hub transport, typical of palletised freight, irregular cargo and ADR goods. This constraint resulted in underutilised trailer capacity and an unnecessarily high number of truck movements. The objective was clear: transport more per trip, safely and consistently, while reducing both cost and environmental impact.

In the autumn of 2019, PostNord launched a structured pilot programme with SpaceInvader to test the patented double stacking rack system in real linehaul operations in Denmark. The pilot was carefully planned and executed in close collaboration between both organisations, initially involving three terminals and later expanding to five.

The modular rack system enabled safe double stacking of palletised goods within standard trailers, including non-standard and dangerous goods, without any physical modification to trucks or infrastructure. The availability of racks in multiple heights proved critical to adapting the solution to different cargo profiles and operational constraints.

As the pilot progressed and operational teams became more familiar with the system, the efficiency gains increased steadily and measurably:

• Elimination of 1 out of every 8 hub-to-hub truck trips
• Approximately 200 truck trips avoided, equivalent to around 30,000 km not driven
• Average reduction of 12.79% in CO₂ and NOx emissions
• Operational savings equivalent to approximately six truck trips per day during the pilot period

These results confirmed that the impact was not only driven by the technology itself, but by its correct integration into transport planning and daily operations.

From a financial perspective, the outcomes were equally robust. During the pilot phase, PostNord achieved net savings of approximately DKK 1.4 million, after deducting the costs associated with using the system. With just 300 racks in circulation across five Danish terminals, PostNord estimates annual savings of DKK 4–6 million, corresponding to a return on investment (ROI) of approximately 2.4x.

A key insight from the analysis was the strong correlation between route length and savings potential. On longer linehaul routes, where the cost per pallet is higher, the economic impact of increased load utilisation becomes even more significant, making the solution particularly attractive for long-distance transport flows.

Following the successful pilot, PostNord and SpaceInvader entered into a Group-wide agreement, allowing the solution to be rolled out across other PostNord entities and geographies, including operations in Norway, Sweden and Germany. In parallel, additional opportunities were identified within distribution operations, where the potential efficiency gains are expected to be even greater.

This case clearly demonstrates that sustainability is a direct consequence of operational efficiency. Fewer trucks on the road, fewer kilometres driven and better utilisation of existing assets translate simultaneously into lower costs, reduced emissions and improved operational performance, without compromising flexibility or service levels.

In Portugal, KronoLog Solutions, as the official representative of SpaceInvader, supports logistics operators and companies with regular pallet flows in assessing feasibility, structuring pilot programmes, quantifying financial and operational gains and supporting implementation, always based on real transport data and objective performance metrics.

If you would like to learn more or test the SpaceInvader system in your operation, please contact KronoLog Solutions at: spaceinvader@kronolog-solutions.pt

Case video
https://www.spaceinvader.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/SpaceInvader-PostNord-ENGtxt-090920.mp4?id=3

Source: Official SpaceInvader customer case – PostNord Logistics
https://www.spaceinvader.com/customer-cases/