Strong through community: How Elvis connects and strengthens the logistics industry

The European Freight Forwarders' Association – Elvis for short – sees itself not just as a network, but as a movement. Around 250 medium-sized freight forwarders work together here to find solutions that they would struggle to implement on their own. The goal: to join forces, leverage synergies, and remain fit for the future in a dynamic market environment.

A logistics network with conviction: Better together than alone

Elvis' roots go back to a vision of founder Jochen Eschborn, who not only has a penchant for abbreviations, but also for effective cooperation. The association sees itself as a “community of belief” – driven by the conviction that medium-sized logistics companies can achieve more together than alone. The strength of the network lies in its practical benefits: Elvis develops targeted solutions for problems that freight forwarders face in their everyday work – from purchasing and operational processes to strategic consulting.

Diversity in the portfolio: From part loads to portable forklifts

The network's portfolio is as diverse as the challenges facing the industry itself. One of its best-known projects is its comprehensive part load network, which enables freight forwarders to efficiently consolidate smaller shipments via a central hub system. Especially in view of declining batch sizes and scarce resources, this model offers a powerful alternative to the classic milk run.

In addition, Elvis operates a specialized network for portable forklifts that responds to the requirements of modern shipping structures—for example, in online retail with bulky goods such as awnings or garden fences. This gives freight forwarders access to a growing market segment that would be difficult to serve with conventional means.

Paneco and European perspectives: Cross-border cooperation

With “Paneco” – the Pan European Cooperation – Elvis is taking another step toward European integration. Close partnerships with logistics partners in over 30 countries have now been established. The aim is to give small and medium-sized businesses access to international transport solutions that were once taken for granted. Whereas in the past many companies employed experts for specific target markets such as Scandinavia or Southern Europe, Elvis now offers structured solutions that members can access at any time.

Knowledge transfer and operational expertise from a single source

A central concern of the network is not only to provide operational services, but also to transfer the associated expertise. This is because many freight forwarders have regional expertise but reach their limits when it comes to specialized customer requirements. Elvis closes this gap: on request, specialist staff from the network accompany members to customer appointments and provide support in the sale of complex services, such as international sea shipments or special technical solutions.

This combines theoretical knowledge with operational practice – an approach that sets Elvis apart from many other service providers. Because this is not just about mediation, but about genuine partnership on an equal footing.

New paths for SMEs: between specialization and diversification

While many freight forwarders have focused on specialization in the past, a different picture is increasingly emerging within the network: expanding their own portfolios to include multiple pillars enables them to cushion market fluctuations and be more broadly positioned. Elvis actively promotes this approach by providing platforms and tools that open up new business areas – even for smaller companies with limited resources.

Change as a principle: standing still is not an option

The logistics industry is changing rapidly. Digitalization, skills shortages, customer requirements—all of these factors are forcing companies to rethink their strategies. Elvis sees itself as a catalyst that helps develop new structures and shape change processes. This is not just about technical solutions, but also about new forms of collaboration, dealing with staff and customers, and a willingness to ask uncomfortable questions.

Because only those who continue to develop will remain relevant. Elvis not only provides the tools for this, but also a functioning network that combines experience and practical knowledge.

Final thought: finding answers – together

The challenges facing the logistics industry are complex – but by working together, we can find answers that go beyond the capabilities of any individual. That is exactly what Elvis stands for: jointly developed solutions, knowledge transfer, and high-level operational support. A network that not only connects, but also moves.