Freight forwarding and logistics giant Kuehne + Nagel International AG is continuing to expand its air freight service offerings, saying today it has taken a step toward digitalizing its operations by creating a direct, system-to-system connection with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP Cargo).
The link improves the integration of the partners' electronic booking processes by building a host-to-host connection through an application programming interface (API). That connection between computers allows for a system-based, integrated and interactive match between available capacity and demand, Kuehne + Nagel said.
According to the companies, this marks the first time that an airfreight carrier and a global logistics provider have created a direct, system-to-system connection that transforms manual quotation and capacity booking process into a digital automated solution.
Following a recently completed proof-of-concept test, both companies have agreed to further develop the solution and to start the roll-out in Europe and South Asia Pacific. Customers will now be able to access both companies' full digital offerings, including ad-hoc quotations, capacity availability inquiries, dynamic pricing, and real-time e-booking functionalities.
The launch of the new platform is a step forward in building Kuehne + Nagel's digital transformation process and initiative to offer a seamless digital customer journey, known by the company as eTouch, according to a statement from Yngve Ruud, member of the managing board of Kuehne + Nagel, responsible for air freight.
The news comes after Kuehne + Nagel said in March it had partnered with airport maintenance provider FEAM Maintenance to expand its array of air logistics services by arranging deliveries and pick-ups in airport restricted areas known as "airside."
