Rollzi, a new Seattle startup led by a former Convoy director, raised $8 million to help truckload carriers deliver freight shipments using a “Single Lane” approach that the company says increases efficiency for both truckers and shippers.
The Seattle-based startup was founded by Damien Hutchins, CEO, and Jonathan Epstein, CFO. Epstein owns Equo Investments and was previously VP of Acquisitions at Lutz Real Estate Investments. Hutchins was previously director of brokerage operations at Convoy, a Seattle startup that operates a digital marketplace connecting shippers and truckers. Hutchins said his experience there helped him understand the market and inspire the idea for Rollzi.
Rollzi’s business model revolves around its “Single Lane” relay strategy. The idea is to increase utilization of trucks. Most trucks run loaded only 50-to-60% of the time, according to Hutchins.
Rollzi matches drivers and trucks to each load by modeling the most efficient relay with its technology, which uses data such as truck telematics, driver location, fuel prices, and traffic. The fully loaded trucks then transport freight along a single trucking lane: Interstate 5, from Seattle to Los Angeles. This relay approach allows drivers to switch loads with other drivers along the route, enabling them to return to their home terminal sooner while keeping trucks loads moving.
Hutchins said this approach drives more revenue per truck, increases customer satisfaction, and improves work-life balance for drivers. Rollzi provides data and visibility to the owners of the freight throughout the route. Its customers primarily consist of major food and beverage companies, but also include consumer packaged goods, home-furnishing retailers, and spot market shipments.
The company owned three trucks in 2021 and now has more than 20. Rollzi plans to expand into other lanes, starting with an additional lane from Los Angeles to Atlanta by the end of the year.
Hutchins said revenue has remained stable despite the turbulent economy. He did not provide specific metrics.
Participating angel investors included leaders at AJM Packaging, Belfor, and Smile Direct Club. Along with seed equity funding, the company raised capital through credit financing.
Rollzi currently has 13 employees and has raised a total of $8 million to date.
