Zugvogel Logistics: Flexible circular system with a focus on sustainability

Ten years after its foundation, a small logistics company has become a Europe-wide enterprise with strategic vision. Zugvogel combines a partnership-based fleet with high operational flexibility and a growing commitment to renewable energies.

Founded out of conviction: From a one-man operation to a group of companies

The company was founded in 2015 by Mr Fischer – initially as a sole trader who brought his experience in the logistics industry to bear in his own business idea. After only a short time, he succeeded in building up a small team of four to five employees and gradually expanding the business.

The growth momentum started early and continued for years. 2019 marked a particular turning point: turnover doubled within a short period of time from 50 to 100 million euros. Zugvogel shifted its focus even more strongly towards direct customer business, which remains the economic basis of the company to this day.

Europe-wide transport with 850 trucks in a circular system

At the heart of the operational logistics is a network of around 850 trucks organised in a so-called circular system. Although Zugvogel does not own any vehicles, it works with permanent partners whose trucks are managed and deployed as if they were the company's own. This means that a vehicle intended for transport to Spain, for example, constantly drives the same route between Germany and Spain – without returning to the company headquarters.

Drivers are changed en route, ensuring that the trucks are in motion almost continuously. This structure enables high capacity utilisation, precise planning and flexibility in operational processes. Megatrailers, standard outliners and other vehicle types tailored to different industry requirements are used.

Wide range of industries and specialised logistics solutions

Zugvogel delivers partial and full loads (LTL and FTL) throughout Europe for a wide range of industries. Whether recycling, industry, railway technology or food – the company covers a broad spectrum and offers tailor-made solutions for a wide variety of requirements.

Standardisation and rigid structures are avoided. The philosophy: if you focus on just one industry, you lose touch. Instead, it focuses on versatility and adaptability – both key success factors in a highly competitive market.

Renewable Logistics: Complete handling for wind and solar

Another milestone in the company's development was the founding of its subsidiary Renewable Logistics three years ago. This segment specialises in projects in the field of renewable energies, in particular solar parks and wind turbines. The scope of services ranges from organising pre- and post-carriage, sea freight, air freight, storage and coordination to delivery and construction planning on the construction site.

The components – often manufactured in China – are brought to Europe via a global network, temporarily stored and distributed to their destinations. This holistic project approach is a unique selling point and also opens doors for international growth.

Network structure and partnership-based fleet management

Although the company does not own any vehicles in the traditional sense, the partner fleets are closely coordinated. The trucks are treated as if they were our own vehicles, and the circular route system ensures a continuous flow of traffic.

For example, a truck starts in Germany, drives to Spain, returns along the same route and repeats this cycle continuously. Driver changes take place en route, and the vehicles do not return to a central location. This structure saves empty runs, optimises capacities and increases predictability in international transport.

Core principle: flexibility in a dynamic market

According to the company's management, flexibility is the key to success. In a highly competitive industry, it is not only price that counts, but above all the ability to respond to individual customer requirements. Rigid processes or industry-specific specialisation would severely limit the scope for action. Instead, Zugvogel relies on adaptable structures that range from the tech industry to traditional industrial companies – always geared to specific needs.

Employee development instead of traditional logistics careers

Another special feature is that Zugvogel prefers to recruit school leavers and young talent rather than relying on long-term professional experience in logistics. Training takes place in-house, accompanied by experienced employees who pass on the necessary knowledge.

This practical approach ensures a strong sense of internal identification and particularly fast communication – a decisive factor in direct customer contact. The aim is to train employees so that they can act in line with the needs of the market.

Customer proximity and clear communication as factors for success

Fast, direct communication with customers is at the heart of our daily work. Recognising customer needs and responding flexibly to them is the standard by which the company measures itself. Internal training therefore places particular emphasis on strong communication skills and solution-oriented action. The results speak for themselves: continuous growth, high customer satisfaction and a strong position in the European market.