Trucking news · industry · Aug 15, 2026 · 2 min read

Freight Tech Origins

FreightWaves looks back at the founding class of freight tech from 2018-2020, with nominations for the 2027 FreightTech 100 now open.

Reported by Ekjot Singh, founder of EK Dispatch Academy and an active North American motor carrier (EK Freight Lines, operating since 2014). Primary source: FreightWaves.

Ekjot's take — working-carrier commentaryThe rise of freight tech has been a game-changer for dispatchers and drivers, but it's up to us to use it effectively.

The freight industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the rise of freight tech being a major factor. As nominations for the 2027 FreightTech 100 close on August 31, it's interesting to look back at the early days of freight tech.

## What happened In 2018, the term 'freight tech' was not widely recognized, and the industry was still in its infancy. However, between 2018 and 2020, the sector experienced rapid growth, with the emergence of new companies and technologies that disrupted traditional shipping and logistics practices. This period is often referred to as the founding class of freight tech.

## Why it matters for dispatchers/drivers The growth of freight tech has had a significant impact on dispatchers and drivers, with many companies now relying on digital platforms to manage their operations. At EK Dispatch Academy, we recognize the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in the industry, which is why we include cutting-edge training on freight tech in our curriculum.

## My take As someone who has been in the industry for a long time, I believe that the rise of freight tech has been a game-changer for dispatchers and drivers. However, it's also important to remember that technology is only a tool, and it's up to us to use it effectively. - Ekjot

## What you should do - Stay informed about the latest developments in freight tech - Consider investing in digital platforms to streamline your operations - Take advantage of training programs, such as those offered by EK Dispatch Academy, to stay ahead of the curve

Primary source: FreightWaves

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