What's Next for DSDC: Driving the Industry Adoption

As we move closer to completing the initial set of DSDC API standards, our focus will begin shifting from development to driving industry adoption.

Creating the standards is only the first step—real value is realized when they are implemented and used across the ecosystem. To support this next phase, we will be actively working on strategies to encourage, enable, and accelerate adoption across shippers, carriers, 3PLs, and technology providers. 

This includes identifying practical paths for implementation, engaging industry partners, and ensuring the standards are accessible and actionable for organizations of all sizes. 

Our goal is to move from defining a common language to seeing it widely spoken—creating a more connected, efficient, and real-time digital logistics process for the industry. 

Keith Peterson
Vice President of Operations, NMFTA
NMFTA Staff Liaison, DSDC

DSDC Returns to Manifest 2027

DSDC had a strong presence at Manifest 2026 in Las Vegas, highlighted by a standing-room-only session that demonstrated the growing momentum behind API standardization and digital connectivity across the industry. 

The session featured an outstanding panel, including:

• Joe Ohr, Chief Operating Officer, NMFTA

• Todd Florence, Chief Information Officer, Estes Express Lines

• Angelo Ventrone, Vice President of Logistics, Uline

• Keith Peterson, Vice President of Operations and DSDC Liaison, NMFTA 
  

We followed the session with a DSDC membership meeting the next morning, where discussions continued around adoption and industry collaboration. A special thank you to Greg West of CH Robinson for sharing his perspective on the importance of standards and helping reinforce the value of this work to the broader community. 

DSDC Standards Update—Full Truckload (FTL)

The DSDC Full Truckload initiative has reached an important milestone, with several key standards now available for public review, including: 

• eBOL (Electronic Bill of Lading)

• Documentation & Invoice

• In-Transit Visibility

These standards are foundational to creating a fully digital and interoperable freight lifecycle—from shipment creation through execution and billing. For example, the eBOL standard establishes a digital version of the bill of lading that improves accuracy, reduces risk, and serves as the backbone for downstream processes. 

Next up, the FTL council is preparing to release Rate Quote and Book & Tender standards for public review, further expanding the ability to digitally connect shipment planning and execution workflows. The Book & Tender standard, in particular, enables consistent digital load requests and commitments between shippers and carriers, reducing manual communication and improving speed and reliability. 

In-Transit Visibility API: Help Shape Real-Time Freight Tracking

The Full Truckload In-Transit Visibility API standardizes how shipment status events and location updates are shared from pickup through delivery. It enables real-time visibility, reduces manual check calls, and supports proactive exception management through a single, consistent data stream. Industry feedback during public review will help ensure the API delivers meaningful milestones, actionable updates, and scalable adoption for FTL shipments.

Full Truckload Invoice & Documents API: Improving Billing Through Standards

The Full Truckload Invoice & Documents API establishes a consistent way to exchange invoice data and supporting documents—such as freight bills, bills of lading, and proof of delivery—across transportation and financial systems. By standardizing these exchanges, the API aims to improve billing accuracy, speed up payment cycles, and reduce disputes. Public feedback is critical to ensure the standard supports real-world FTL billing workflows and document requirements

Manifest 2026: APIs, Innovation, and Industry Momentum

Before starting your first DSDC API integration, asking the right questions can save time, reduce risk, and set your project up for success. Read this outline of the top five considerations every organization should evaluate to ensure a smoother, more effective integration from day one.

API Implementation Checklist for Shippers, 3PLs, and Brokers

Connected Freight Blog Series Part 3

Get practical, step-by-step guidance for taking your API integration from planning to live deployment with confidence. Check out this API implementation checklist tailored for shippers, 3PLs, and brokers to help streamline your process and drive measurable results.