Transport and logistics play a critical role in the sustainability transition. They are also among the most closely scrutinised sectors by clients and public buyers when it comes to CSR performance.
The EcoVadis assessment helps transport and logistics companies structure their ESG approach, demonstrate environmental and social commitments, and meet growing customer expectations.
Why the EcoVadis assessment is critical for transport and logistics
The transport and logistics sector faces a double challenge: reducing carbon emissions while ensuring safe and responsible supply chains.
EcoVadis assesses the maturity of a company's ESG management system across four pillars:
- Environment: CO₂ emissions, energy management, transition to alternative fuels.
- Labor & Human Rights: driver safety, working conditions in warehouses.
- Ethics: anti-corruption practices, integrity in business relationships.
- Sustainable Procurement: traceability and social compliance of subcontractors.
Good to know: Major players such as DHL, CMA CGM, Geodis, DB Schenker and La Poste now strongly encourage their suppliers and subcontractors to hold an EcoVadis assessment, which has become a reference criterion in responsible procurement.
ESG challenges specific to the transport & logistics sector
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Transition to alternative fuels (bio-CNG, electric, hydrogen).
- Route optimisation and smart fleet management.
- Preventive maintenance programmes to reduce fuel consumption.
Safety and working conditions
- Road safety and handling training.
- Working time management, fatigue and accident prevention.
- Personal protective equipment and ISO 45001 certification.
Supply chain control
- Logistics traceability and subcontractor compliance.
- Integration of ESG clauses into subcontracting contracts.
- Regular supplier assessments aligned with EcoVadis criteria.
Governance and ethics
- Code of conduct and anti-corruption policy.
- Internal audit processes for commercial practices.
- Data protection and client confidentiality.
Preparing your EcoVadis assessment: key documents
To achieve a strong EcoVadis score, transport and logistics companies must provide clear and structured evidence covering policies, actions and results.
| Area | Examples of supporting documents |
|---|---|
| Environment | Carbon footprint, ISO 14001 certificate, energy and sustainable mobility policy, environmental training materials |
| Labor & safety | HSE policy, ISO 45001 certificate, accident reports, training programmes, health & safety risk assessments |
| Ethics | Code of conduct, anti-corruption policy, whistleblowing procedure |
| Sustainable procurement | Supplier code of conduct, ESG clauses in contracts, subcontractor audits |
Good to know: Documents must clearly specify the scope of the assessed entity and remain valid (8 years for policies and actions, 2 years for reporting). ISO certifications are highly valued by EcoVadis analysts.
How to improve your EcoVadis score in transport and logistics
- Measure and reduce carbon emissions (Scopes 1, 2 and 3).
- Deploy HSE training programmes for drivers and warehouse staff.
- Update ESG policies and quantified objectives regularly.
- Obtain ISO certifications such as ISO 14001, 45001 or 50001.
- Strengthen subcontractor engagement through ESG charters and compliance monitoring.
- Centralise evidence (reports, KPIs, audits) to simplify re-assessments.
Benefits of strong EcoVadis performance for transport & logistics companies
- Improved access to public tenders and major clients.
- Higher competitiveness in procurement processes, notably thanks to an EcoVadis medal valued by your buyers.
- Lower operational costs through better energy efficiency.
- Stronger trust from clients and partners.
- Anticipation of CSRD and EU Taxonomy requirements.
Transport & Logistics: Succeeding in Your EcoVadis Assessment – Key takeaways
| Key element | Description |
|---|---|
| Objective | Structure and showcase ESG performance for transport and logistics companies |
| Main challenges | Carbon footprint, safety, supply chain responsibility, ethics |
| Core EcoVadis themes | Environment, Labor & safety, Sustainable procurement |
| Required documents | ESG policies, ISO 14001 / 45001 certificates, carbon footprints |
| Evidence validity | 8 years (policies & actions) – 2 years (reporting) |
| Business benefits | Compliance, competitiveness, client retention, responsible brand image |
| Average improvement | +16 EcoVadis points with dedicated ESG support |
