The verdict in three sentences
A custom freight platform costs FCFA 15,000,000 to 50,000,000 (approx. USD 25,000-85,000) depending on scope: matching, mobile payment, tracking and rating. The business model rests on an 8 to 15 % commission per transaction, collected via mobile money (Wave, Orange Money). Start with an MVP (matching + payment + basic tracking) around FCFA 15,000,000 before investing in the full platform.
MVP or full platform: where to start
The classic mistake is building everything at once. An MVP validates the market (freight supply, transport demand, commission capture) before advanced modules (insurance, advanced rating, partner API). Here is the budget breakdown.
| Scope | Features | 2026 range (FCFA) |
|---|---|---|
| MVP | Shipper-carrier matching, mobile payment, basic tracking | 15,000,000 - 22,000,000 |
| Growth version | Rating, disputes, dashboard, notifications | 25,000,000 - 35,000,000 |
| Full platform | Insurance, partner API, multi-country, AI matching | 40,000,000 - 50,000,000 |
| Native mobile app | Shipper + carrier | +8,000,000 - 15,000,000 |
| Customs/document integration | Waybills, e-CMR | +6,000,000 - 12,000,000 |
The commission model and mobile payment
The platform takes a commission on each transaction and pays the balance to the carrier. Mobile money integration (Wave, Orange Money) is decisive: it secures collection and automates the platform/carrier split.
| Element | Parameter | 2026 order of magnitude |
|---|---|---|
| Platform commission | Per transaction | 8 - 15 % |
| Example on one freight | FCFA 500,000 billed | FCFA 60,000 commission (12 %) |
| Carrier payout | Balance after commission | FCFA 440,000 |
| Mobile money fees | On collection | 1 - 2 % |
| Carrier payout | Frequency | Weekly, automated |
| Carrier premium subscription | Optional | FCFA 10,000 - 25,000/month |
The ROI of freight digitalisation
Digitalising freight cuts empty-running trucks, speeds carrier payment and creates recurring revenue for the platform. Here is the typical impact after 12 months of operation.
| Indicator | Before platform | After 12 months | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empty-truck rate | 35 % | 22 % | -13 pts |
| Carrier payment delay | 45 days | 7 days | cash flow |
| Transactions/month | — | 400 | volume |
| Monthly commission (12 %) | — | FCFA 24,000,000 | recurring revenue |
| Dispute rate | — | 2.5 % | rating + proof |
Mini case study
Koffi, founder of a logistics venture, wanted to connect 300 independent carriers with industrial shippers. Rather than a full platform at FCFA 45,000,000, he launched an MVP at FCFA 18,000,000 (matching + mobile money + basic tracking). By month 8, the platform handled 400 transactions/month averaging FCFA 500,000, i.e. FCFA 24,000,000 monthly commission at 12 %. The MVP paid for itself in under 3 months of operation, and he reinvested in rating and a native mobile app.
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FAQ
Should I start with an MVP or a full platform?
Always an MVP: FCFA 15,000,000 to 22,000,000 is enough to validate supply, demand and commission capture. You invest in advanced modules once volume is proven, sharply reducing risk.
Why integrate mobile money?
Mobile money is the dominant payment method in this market. It lets you collect commission, pay carriers automatically and ensure a reliable weekly payout, which a classic bank transfer cannot guarantee.
What commission should I apply?
Between 8 and 15 % depending on added value (matching, insurance, payment guarantee). A 12 % commission on 400 transactions at FCFA 500,000 generates FCFA 24,000,000/month, enough to fund operations and growth.
How long to deliver the MVP?
Allow 3 to 5 months for a functional MVP (matching, mobile payment, basic tracking). The growth version adds 3 to 4 months, and the native mobile app another 2 to 3 months.
How to manage disputes and trust?
A rating system, digital proof of delivery and a dispute module with arbitration protect both sides. A payment guarantee via mobile escrow is a powerful adoption driver.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your market, your commission model and your target (shippers, carriers): we will price an MVP then a full platform with mobile money. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
