Standardization as the foundation for digital collaboration

Standards are an essential part of the BDI framework. When organizations want to exchange data digitally, it is not enough for systems to be able to communicate with each other. They must also be able to understand one another. This requires agreements on the meaning and structure of data.

Together with SUTC (Foundation for Uniform Transport Code), BDI is therefore working on the further development and adoption of the Open Trip Model (OTM) standard. The goal is to make digital collaboration between supply chain partners simpler, more efficient, and easier to scale.

A concrete example can be found in asphalt logistics. Here, work is underway to explore how the existing EBA standard (Electronic Waste Transfer Note) can be incorporated into the OTM model. In the long term, this could replace the current UBL-based EBA. As a result, carriers, processors, waste producers, and other supply chain partners will be able to exchange data using a single shared standard. This reduces the need for custom integrations and makes digital collaboration simpler and more cost-effective.

Further standardization efforts are also taking place within the air cargo sector. In collaboration with Schiphol, Cargonaut, and BDI, SUTC is developing a dedicated Air Cargo OTM profile for landside logistics processes at Schiphol Airport. This profile will provide the foundation for standardized API communication between freight forwarders, carriers, and handling agents operating at the airport.

These initiatives demonstrate how standardization contributes to more efficient data sharing across logistics chains. By enabling organizations to speak the same digital language, a solid foundation is created for secure, reliable, and scalable collaboration.