Q2 2025

DSDC Quarterly Newsletter

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA) Digital Standards Development Council Newsletter is your one-stop shop for the latest news and insights on less-than-truckload (LTL) digitalization and supply chain transformation.

API Standard Development Update

As part of our commitment to keeping members informed, we’re excited to launch this quarterly newsletter to highlight the progress and activities of the Digital Standards Development Council (DSDC).

The Full Truckload (FTL) council is off to a strong start, actively developing new standards that will enhance efficiency and connectivity. The workshops are going strong and are working on the requirements.  They have taken on the same roadmap as the LTL council and the workshops are working together as much as possible.

Meanwhile, the Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) council has also been making progress. In December, we successfully released standards for Pickup Request and Visibility, providing greater transparency and operational efficiency. Additionally, we’ve adjusted the sequence of upcoming LTL releases in response to forthcoming classification changes, ensuring alignment with industry needs. As a result, Preliminary Freight Charges will be our next major focus, streamlining billing and cost estimation processes by providing a way to not only see the original charge for freight but also any updates to it.

Beyond development, we are actively working to drive adoption by highlighting the benefits of standardization—reducing complexity, improving data accuracy, and increasing efficiency across the supply chain. To support this effort, we are building strong use cases that demonstrate real-world value. If you have examples of how digital standards are making an impact or could solve specific challenges, we encourage you to share them with us. Your input will help us showcase the benefits and accelerate industry-wide adoption.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to more progress in the months ahead!

Keith Peterson
Director of Operations
NMFTA

Pickup Visibility

Transform Freight Pickup Efficiency with the DSDC's Newest API Standard

The Pickup Request and Visibility API Standard is here to transform how we work in the freight logistics space. This standard delivers better workflows, real-time updates, and seamless collaboration across the LTL freight ecosystem. Download the full standard, and let’s shape the future of freight logistics together.

Scopes for Future eBOL Standards

Are you interested in shaping the future of LTL operations? The Digital LTL Council is currently developing crucial API instructions to streamline pickup requests and enhance visibility into pickup schedules.

Explore the Newly-Launched DSDC Website

NMFTA is driving innovation and uniting advancements in LTL digital standards with full truckload (FTL) operations. This effort strengthens the logistics industry's digital infrastructure, improving communication and driving innovation through secure, reliable APIs.

Join us as we streamline logistics, reduce fragmentation, and create a fully digital future for freight movement.

Digital Standards Development Website
Electronic Bill of Lading

The Electronic Bill of Lading (eBOL) API Standard is transforming how the LTL industry manages shipment documentation. Developed by the Digital Standard Development Council's Digital LTL Council, this standard eliminates paper-based inefficiencies and introduces seamless, automated, and accurate bill of lading processes.

Access DSDC Resources

Access Our Range of Digital LTL Council Resources

Explore the Digital LTL Council Resources for valuable tools, reports, and insights designed to support your digital transformation journey. Looking to implement standards, stay informed, or drive innovation, this hub has what you need. 

DSDC Membership Meeting

Access Recording Inaugural DSDC Membership Meeting

This year's meeting was a milestone—it's the first time both the Digital LTL Council and the newly launched Digital Full Truckload (FTL) Council held a membership meeting together. Watch the recording to learn about the latest digital standards and industry insights.

ShipTalkers Episode 7: Navigating NMFTA Freight Class Changes for LTL Shippers and Carriers

Head to 26:12 in this episode of ShipTalkers, where Keith Peterson, Director of Operations at the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, breaks down the latest freight class changes. He explains how they might impact your business, how to avoid billing confusion and shipping delays, and how to turn these updates into opportunities. Don’t miss this part if you want clear answers and actionable strategies.

NMFTA News at Your Fingertips

Stay in the loop with the latest from the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) by following us on LinkedIn! From industry news and educational resources to upcoming events and tech updates, our LinkedIn page is your go-to source for everything NMFTA. Don’t miss out—join our growing community and stay informed!

Follow NMFTA on LinkedIn

 

Latest Blogs

 

DSDC

Digital LTL Council Releases New API Standards for Pickup Requests and Visibility

The National Motor Traffic Association, Inc.’s (NMFTA)™ Digital LTL Council has released a new digital breakthrough aimed at streamlining two critical elements of the freight transport process—pickup requests and visibility.

Learn More
Tabletop-Exercise

How the DSDC Workshops are Driving API Standardization in Trucking

Curious how the trucking industry is embracing smarter, faster data exchange? Read the article below and learn how NMFTA’s DSDC Workshops are driving API standardization to streamline operations and boost efficiency across the board.

Read More
CH Robinson Case Study

Case Study: C.H. Robinson Implements eBOL

Read to discover how C.H. Robinson is enhancing digital connectivity with their carriers.

Read More

Industry News

Commercial Carrier Journal Logo

NMFTA Turns Focus on Ensuring Digital Standards and Efforts to Digitize the Freight Industry

NMFTA is leading the charge to modernize the freight industry by driving digital standards and innovation. Read the article below and learn why these efforts are crucial for efficiency, security, and the future of freight.

FleetOwner Logo

NMFTA Establishes Digital Full Truckload Council

NMFTA's newly established Digital Full Truckload Council is bringing key industry players together to streamline and standardize digital freight operations. Read the article below to find out more about the important step toward a more connected and efficient supply chain.

DC Velocity

Giving Your Cargo Digital Wings

DC Velocity's Ben Ames recently chatted with Keith Peterson about the DSDC's efforts. By fostering the adoption of digital technologies, DSDC and NMFTA are supporting the industry's transition toward more efficient and transparent logistics operations.


Refer a Colleague

Would you like others at your company to be added to the Digital Standards Development email distribution list? Send them this link or fill out the form for them on their behalf below! 

What Is the Digital Standards Development Council?

In partnership with the National Motor Freight Traffic Association’s Digital Standards Development Council (DSDC), the Digital LTL Council and Full Truckload Council bring together shippers, carriers, logistics and freight technology companies to create a unified set of API standards that streamline the freight shipping process.

Join Us Today >