Transporter leaves paper trail in the dust

Martins Stock Haulage (MSH), one of Australia’s largest and most respected livestock carriers, has taken a bold step toward digitising livestock movements by integrating electronic National Vendor Declarations (eNVD) into its operations.

With support from Integrity Systems Company (ISC) and the MLA Donor Company (MDC), MSH has demonstrated that paperless consignments aren’t just possible – they’re better for business, better for compliance and better for the entire red meat supply chain.

A smooth transition 

MSH were among the first to adopt the eNVD, helping pave the way for paperless consignments to be adopted across the livestock transport industry. 

MSH’s Workplace Health and Safety, Compliance and Inductions Manager, Graeme Hoare, said the organisation saw an opportunity to lead the inevitable shift away from paper-based processes to digital systems.

“Partnering with ISC has allowed us to contribute valuable user feedback on both the web and mobile platforms, helping enhance functionality for drivers and head office alike,” he said.

“We were early adopters, so the transition came with some initial challenges, but the move from paper to digital has been relatively smooth thanks to ISC’s hands-on support and training.”

Why eNVD matters to transporters 

Many transporters still rely on handwritten NVDs supplied by the vendor. These can be prone to errors, carry the risk of being lost or damaged, or sometimes not even being available at the time of loading if producers aren’t physically in attendance.

eNVDs offer a smarter, more reliable alternative by enabling:

• Fewer errors: With guided digital forms, missed questions (such as destination and incorrect head counts) are dramatically reduced.
• Sharing capabilities: Producers can share eNVDs with transporters via QR code, email, text message or direct access using the eNVD platform.
• Real‑time corrections: Vendors can amend errors (such as head counts) instantly via the mobile app, which means no chasing paperwork or reissuing forms.
• Improved traceability: eNVDs carry critical data about livestock health, treatments and origin, as well as transporter details, all of which are essential for processors, exporters and regulators.
• Market access: Accurate eNVD data supports Australia’s eligibility for premium international markets where transparency and compliance are non-negotiable.
• eNVD comment function: This function enables transport drivers to add comments on livestock consignments, enhancing accuracy and clarity. This might include the pen number livestock were left in when delivered to a saleyard or processing facility out of hours, or even information that the animals were inspected mid-journey.

Practical support at your fingertips

One of the key success factors in MSH’s transition was the hands-on support from ISC, which included:

• Initial driver training: One-on-one and paired sessions to build confidence and capability.
• Troubleshooting: Help with connectivity, form amendments and updates and app navigation.
• Client engagement: Resources and communication strategies to help clients understand and adopt eNVD, including MSH co-branded collateral.
• Operational integration: Guidance on embedding eNVD into standard operating procedures and work plans.

This collaborative approach ensured that 95% of MSH drivers became proficient in using the eNVD app and digital consignments are now standard practice across the business.

Results 

The project outcomes speak for themselves:

• 10 pilots successfully completed with industry stakeholders.
• Fewer errors and stronger compliance.
• Increased client trust and satisfaction due to the support offered.
• eNVD now embedded in daily operations within MSH.
• Significant time savings for drivers, who no longer need to manually fill out paperwork or chase down missing details.
• Instant access to consignment records, meaning drivers can show authorities exactly what they’re carrying if pulled over en route. This not only improves transparency but also provides peace of mind, with drivers knowing they’re backed by verified digital documentation.

John Rogers, Livestock and Business Development Manager at MSH, said drivers appreciate the eNVD app.

“It’s made pick-ups and drop-offs quicker and more streamlined,” he said. “When leaving a feedlot, they can simply give the weighbridge attendant a wave, confident that all the necessary livestock documentation is readily available on their phone.”