Matchbox is based in Durban and was launched back in 2016. The startup got its name from its ability to match containers or “boxes” with transporters.
Matchbox’s app is designed to help owner-operators as well as local and regional fleets to increase the loads they carry and expand their business.
Transporters can fill up empty space by signing up for alerts to nearby jobs in their area. The jobs that are offered will be issued to the top bidders; in return the shippers will be given a lower rate than the normal industry standards.
“We’re industry insiders and could clearly see the gap in the market. We started Matchbox to simplify the current process to find, book, track and pay for road transport in Africa,” said the founder of Matchbox, Anton Potgieter.
There is already similar technology that is functioning well in the US and in Asia. This proves that this technology can also be efficient in South Africa. Using this technology that is new to south Africa will also reduce the cost of logistics for all of Africa.
The app that the company has developed includes a TMS or Transport Management System. This TMS aids transporters with managing their fleet and assign their drivers to respond to certain jobs.
The Transport Management System also enables shippers to choose their transporters from a certified database. The database gives a detailed review of each transporter based on what their former customers think of them.
The platform also allows its users to track their shipments live.