In an effort to achieve completely automated end-to-end freight transactions, Uber Freight is moving beyond automated pricing and matching to enable transactions that can take place automatically and without intervention.

Through the use of direct API integrations, when a shipper tenders a load, the Uber Freight platform automatically requests and verifies appointments, generates a price based on real-time capacity and market data, and makes the load available on the carrier marketplace, according to a recent blog from Lior Ron, head of Uber Freight.

A carrier then books the load and dispatches a driver, all through the app or web portal, with tracking events automatically sent to the shippers’ TMS, from driver arrival to departure. Drivers can then upload their proof of delivery directly through the carrier app for invoicing.

“We’ve seen a trend toward more automation within shipper operations,” wrote Ron. “Shippers are looking for partners who can also help them become touchless. Uber Freight’s pricing API lets shippers eliminate significant labor and friction in their operations.”

Uber Freight’s first touchless load was achieved last fall, with currently more than a quarter of its touchless loads moved with less than 48 hours of lead time, and 10% with less than 24 hours of lead time, according to Ron.

“We see a clear path to even greater scale, where touchless loads enable carriers to see business opportunities faster, transform shipper operations, and ultimately cut time, noise, and friction from the marketplace as a whole,” he added.