Russia's freight industry embraces digital tools amid shifting demand trends

The Russian freight industry is undergoing significant changes as demand shifts and digital tools take centre stage. Businesses are adopting new technologies to streamline operations and improve efficiency in logistics. Freight demand has shown mixed trends across Russia. The overall decline slowed from 25.7% in April 2025 to just 5.8% in May 2025. Meanwhile, regions like Moscow Oblast, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, Voronezh Oblast, Volgograd Oblast, and Tatarstan reported year-on-year growth.

The industry is also formalising its processes. Electronic waybills are now essential, and registries for freight forwarders and carriers are being introduced. Companies are moving away from manual carrier searches, instead using tools to manage multiple shipments at once.

Digital transformation is accelerating. AI is automating repetitive tasks, speeding up data handling and reducing manual work. Most logistics firms are testing generative AI, with process transparency and faster decision-making becoming key priorities. Customer preferences are also evolving: 27% of business clients prioritise ratings and reviews, while 26% value carrier responsiveness and speed. Additionally, 52% of business clients and 47% of private customers now select carriers through Avito. The freight market is shifting towards greater efficiency and digital integration. New rules, AI adoption, and changing customer habits are reshaping how logistics operate. These developments are expected to define the industry’s direction in the coming years.