Data Privacy in Logistics: When Information Becomes the Cargo

In today’s hyperconnected world, logistics is no longer just about moving goods from one place to another it is about managing vast streams of digital information that flow alongside every shipment. Real-time tracking systems, cloud-based transport management platforms, and networks of IoT sensors have transformed logistics into a data-driven industry. Yet, this digital progress comes with a cost: as companies collect, share, and store more data than ever before, they also face increasing challenges in ensuring data privacy and data protection. A single breach or misconfiguration can expose sensitive customer, employee, or shipment information and paralyze entire supply chains.


A powerful illustration of this risk came in June 2017, when the NotPetya ransomware attack spread globally, striking major logistics providers such as A.P. Møller – Maersk and FedEx’s subsidiary TNT Express. According to A.P. Møller – Maersk’s official report, the attack forced a complete rebuild of 4 000 servers and 45 000 PCs, leading to losses of around $300 million. The incident demonstrated how deeply interconnected logistics networks are and how a single cyber event can ripple across global supply chains, crippling both operations and trust.

Common Data Privacy Challenges

Logistics companies face multiple privacy challenges:

• Data sharing across too many hands

Modern logistics relies on constant data exchange between carriers, warehouses, customs agencies, and end clients. Each handoff adds a new layer of risk. Studies show that the complexity of supply chain networks and differing data-sovereignty laws make privacy compliance extremely difficult across partners.

A single weak link, for instance, a subcontractor with lax data practices can compromise the security of the entire supply chain network.

• Cross-border data transfers and compliance differences

Supply chains span the globe, but privacy regulations don’t. Laws like the GDPR in Europe, CCPA in California, and PIPL in China each impose unique rules on how personal and operational data can be shared. This fragmented legal landscape makes compliance a constant challenge, especially as logistics providers exchange information across borders every day.

Global operations call for equally global approaches to data privacy.

• Data quality, interoperability, and traceability

Poor data quality or incompatible systems often lead to duplication, misinformation, or accidental disclosure. As logistics firms rush to digitize, many find that disconnected IT systems and inconsistent data standards create inefficiencies and security blind spots.

In short, not all data should move faster – some must move smarter.

• IoT devices & real-time tracking risks

From RFID tags to vehicle telematics, IoT has revolutionized logistics visibility but also multiplied exposure points. IoT devices used in logistics networks often lack standardized security protocols, making them attractive targets for intrusion, data manipulation, and unauthorized access. Research shows that insecure IoT devices and real-time data streams can open the door to cyberattacks and privacy breaches.

Smart logistics only works when smart security comes with it.

• The human factor

According to Kaspersky’s 2023 report, 77% of companies worldwide experienced at least one cybersecurity incident over the past two years, and 64% of these breaches were caused by human error from misconfigured systems and accidental data sharing to successful phishing attacks. These figures underscore that even the most advanced technical defenses can be undone by a single careless click or overlooked security policy.

Lesson: data protection starts with training, not just firewalls.

Best Practices for Ensuring Supply Chain Data Privacy Compliance

To stay compliant with global data privacy regulations, logistics and supply chain organizations should adopt a proactive, multi-layered approach to managing and protecting information:

• Set clear rules for data handling

Define how data is collected, shared, and stored across your partner network. Share only what’s truly necessary – minimizing data reduces exposure and risk.

• Build privacy into supplier contracts

Make sure your vendor agreements clearly outline each partner’s data-protection responsibilities. Include accountability clauses and penalties for any privacy violations.

• Audit regularly, not reactively

Routine third-party and supplier audits help uncover weaknesses before they turn into breaches. Continuous assessment builds resilience and trust.

• Secure data everywhere it travels

Use strong encryption and cybersecurity tools to protect data both in transit and at rest – especially during cross-border operations where risks are higher.

• Increase visibility across the chain

Adopt data-management platforms that offer real-time insight into privacy practices across regions and partners. Transparency strengthens governance and compliance.

• Explore blockchain for secure data traceability

Blockchain technology can enhance transparency and trust across multi-party logistics networks. By recording transactions on a tamper-resistant ledger, blockchain enables immutable audit trails and verifiable data sharing between partners without exposing sensitive information.

How COREX Keeps Data Private

COREX also adheres to global privacy standards such as GDPR and ISO/IEC 27001, conducts regular security audits, and implements data minimization collecting only what’s necessary for service delivery. Continuous monitoring and employee awareness programs help prevent unauthorized access or data misuse.

Final Thought

In modern logistics, information is the new cargo – valuable, powerful, and vulnerable.

Protecting it requires more than compliance checkboxes – it demands a culture of privacy, secure technology, and shared accountability across every link in the chain.

Those who master that balance will lead the next era of trusted, data-driven logistics.

Share this article with your colleagues and join the discussion below together, we can build safer, smarter, and more trusted supply chains.

Back to the list