Interviews Archives - Page 2 of 3

Globalia Sydney creates a dedicated Customer Service Department

Posted on 14 May, 2021 | by admin

This six-member team has been specially trained for proactive and responsive communication with their clients and all internal and external stakeholders

PCFS Logistics PTY LTD, a Globalia member in Sydney, Australia, has created a dedicated customer service department. The team will be led by their Customer Service Manager, Ms. Diana Atanasovski, and Customer Service Supervisor, Mr. Daniel Mackovski. Additionally, they will be supported by their Customer Service Representatives Ms. Christine Tsanterman, Ms. Brankica Lalic, Ms. Supriya Singh and Mr. Brett Toland.

As stated by Mr. Paul Petrovski, the Managing Director of PCFS Logistics, “We trained this team to specifically work towards implementing in-depth knowledge of our customer needs, their products and supply chain, combined with pro-active and effective communication towards our customers, and sharing of this knowledge throughout the PCFS Team.”

Since April 2021, their Customer Service Team has been working towards the creation and maintenance of improving the value offered to their clients. This implies an enhanced customer experience, meeting all the service expectations, increased timely contact with internal and external stakeholders, and a structured follow-up on all customer issues, concerns and complaints.

The Customer Service Team will form their central communication hub by providing immediate response and support, whilst eliminating the pain points across their operations by resolving issues quickly at the first point of contact.

“Improving the customer service is absolutely imperative for the success of independent freight forwarders. We are confident this significant operational change will enhance our service offering, with improved role clarity and focus on quality outcomes for our partners and our clients,” adds Mr. Petrovski.

Congratulations to PCFS Logistics and all the best for their future endeavours!

Interview with Globalia Warsaw and Gdynia

Posted on 7 May, 2021 | by admin

“We carry a green ambition: Sustainability means providing what is needed for our planet to continue to exist. We have to take responsibility for ourselves and each other, our business and society – and perhaps above all – the environment.”

Today we are publishing an interview with Ms Patrycja Musiał, Key Account Manager of Greencarrier Freight Services Poland. In this interview Ms. Musial talks about the need for sustainable logistics and how her company has been working towards the goal of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050.

*Patrycja Musiał, Key Account Manager of Globalia Warsaw/Gdynia- independent freight forwarder*

Q. What is the environmental impact of logistics?

A. The transportation sector is responsible for 14% of all energy-related CO2 emissions globally and this has more than doubled since the 70’s. In the EU the transportation sector generated 25% of all transportation CO2 emissions. Without actions and measures, this could increase faster than in any other sector. The message is clear from both European Union and elsewhere – we need to become more efficient and make a shift in technology to enable all of us to reach the goals of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050.

Q. Why should freight forwarding companies be thinking about creating more sustainable supply chain operations?

A. Scientific evidences are clear, mankind is affecting the climate, we all need to rethink how we plan our logistics. We can build solutions on various lead times and services based on green transport solution. We should focus on short sea, consolidation, rail, intermodal, biofuels, and direct flight. Sustainability is a high topic on the agenda in most industries today. The transport and logistics sector is no exception. It is everyone’s responsibility and opportunity to secure the future of business and society.

Q. Your name is Greencarrier. I guess that since your foundation, you have been worried about sustainability. How did you come up with this idea?

A. The Greencarrier Group was founded in 2000 by Stefan Björk and Björn Eklund. Right from the start, they had a clear vision of their future business – a freight forwarding company built on commitment, involvement, humour, and joy. And it turned out very much as planned. Our knowledgeable and skilled staff are the building block for today’s successful company, offering our customers sustainable logistics solutions served from the heart.

Q. What does sustainability mean for Greencarrier?

A. We carry a green ambition. Sustainability means providing what is needed for our planet to continue to exist. Freight forwarding companies have to take responsibility for ourselves and each other, our business and society – and perhaps above all – the environment.

Q. What is Greencarrier doing regarding sustainability?

A. The Greencarrier Spirit – this is our view on sustainability. The Greencarrier Spirit influences everything we do – every day – with the aim to take responsibility and act in a sustainable way in the long-term. At the very centre of the Greencarrier Spirit are our core values. They define who we are and what we stand for. What incorporates our spirit is how we do business, how we treat our employees, how we see ourselves as corporate citizens, and how we contribute to environmental protection.

Q. Which has been your most important shipment in sustainability?

A. One of the most important shipments we have arranged is the intermodal transport for Scandanavian fashion retailer Varner. We used a combination of road, sea and rail freight. We loaded the trailers with the products at Istanbul, from where it was taken to a nearby port. Next, we put the trailers on a ship and sent them to Trieste, Italy. There, the cargo was unloaded and moved to railway wagons and transported to Kiel, Germany. From there, we made use of ferry carriers to move the trailers to Gothenburg, Sweden. Lastly, from Gothenburg we used road transport to carry the cargo to its final destination in the Varner central warehouse. Members can check out the details of this sustainable transport on our blog.

Q. Which are your projects for 2021 on sustainability?

A. In 2021 we would like to reduce the total CO2 equivalent per TONKM by 15% compared to 2018 and in 2025 reduce the total CO2 equivalent per TOMKM by 30% compared to 2018.

Q. Which are the challenges of meeting the sustainability objectives for Greencarrier?

A. We strive to make sustainable choices easily accessible to our customers. Our Green Solutions are options where you can reduce a lot of CO2-emissions compared to the more traditional choices. We offer short sea, consolidation, rail, intermodal, biofuels, direct flight etc. The biggest challenge in these solutions is still the price and time. I would like to stress that many sustainable solutions are actually cost-saving.

Q.How has Greencarrier improved its transportation and logistics supply chain efficiency while taking care of the environment?

A. Greencarrier Freight Services provides transport solutions with all modes of transport all over the world. We take environmental actions which include developing our Green Solutions and using optimization of goods flow to reach higher load factors, shorter lead times, and lower CO2 emissions.

‘We strive to make sustainable choices easily accessible to our customers. Our Green Solutions are options where you can reduce a lot of CO2-emissions compared to the more traditional choices.”

Q. In your opinion, how freight forwarding companies can find a balance between financial growth, environmental care, and the health of society?

A. Our ambition is to provide the best service for each customer and at the same time be able to support and guide them through different options to optimize their supply chain- both from a financial and an environmental perspective. Green is lean, but you have to look at the whole supply chain in order to make the correct choices most suitable for your business. We have products and services developed to be more sustainable than traditional alternatives and these solutions are increasingly growing and changing the logistic world.

Q. Which mode of transport do you think is the most environment friendly?

A. We firmly believe that rail transport is the most effective and sustainable mode of moving freight across long distances. It is much more environment friendly when compared to air freight. We have recently launched a rail shuttle service between China, Europe and the UK. Companies importing goods from China need to consider switching to rail freight which is quick, sustainable as well as cost-effective. I invite members to read the interview on our blog where we have talked about the importance of using rail freight solutions for increased sustainability.

Q. What is the future of sustainability for freight forwarding companies?

A. To achieve sustainable transportation, we all have to:

– Optimize: Avoid unnecessary transportation, which includes increased load factors, using appropriate transport modes at each part of the supply chain and improve further logistics planning.

-Modal shifts: Transportation modes with greater environmental impact should be changed to more environmentally smart modes and new transportation combinations should be developed.

-Improve: We should improve and develop transportation technology through innovations such as more efficient fuels and modes of transport.

Globalia members with shipments to/from Warsaw/Gdynia, Poland, are invited to get in touch with their professional team.

Interview with Globalia Seoul

Posted on 26 March, 2021 | by admin

“Military logistics is much more profitable compared to general cargoes, this is why more competitors are trying to enter into this market; in just South Korea there are more than 4,000 forwarders.”

This week we had a conversation with Mr. Willy Seong, the Executive Vice President of Heung -A Logistics, Globalia member in Seoul, South Korea. In this interview he talks about how they got into military logistics services, the challenges they face with these kinds of projects and more.

Q. Can you tell us a little about the history of Heung-A Logistics and Co?
A. Heung-A Logistics has a very complicated history. However, in brief, it was founded in 2007 as a subsidiary company of shipping line named Heung-A Shipping. It has a long record since 1961. It started its journey in 2007 when it merged with other companies under Heung-A Shipping that had been working in the logistics business since 1984.

Q. When and how did you get into the freight forwarding industry?
A. I have been working in the freight forwarding sector for 3 decades. I started my job on 1st January 1991 through open recruitment. At that time, the company name was Dongbo Express Co Ltd.

Q. What distinguishes Heung-A Logistics from other freight forwarders in your city?
A. First and foremost, we have many portfolios that are different from other forwarders in Seoul. We are one of the top service providers when it comes to ocean LCL consolidation between Korea and Japan. Furthermore, we have also specialized in certain items like pharmaceuticals, DG shipments, and several other strategic shipments both in air & ocean freight.

Q. What are the main challenges facing freight forwarders in your country at the moment?
A. The main challenge in South Korea is how to survive in the market as around 4,000 forwarders are competing there. The key to this problem is to focus on personalized customer-oriented solutions and make use of all the available software for enhancing our efficiency.

Q. How is Heung-A Logistics dealing with these challenges on a daily basis?
A. We have certain specialized operations and as I just said, offering customized and value-added services are the best way to survive in the market.

Q. What would be the most significant shipment your team has handled?
A. Over the years, we have forged great connections with brokers who deal in military equipment to Africa, Middle East, South America. We handle around 10 chartered flights annually since 2015 and we have moved several huge shipments with bulk vessels to the Middle East & Africa.

‘The key to the stiff competition is to focus on personalized customer-oriented solutions and make use of all the available software for enhancing our efficiency.

Q. What were the challenges with this shipment and how did your team overcome them?
A. While handling these kinds of goods, one needs a lot of patience as several documents & approvals are required from the government and working on them and obtaining them can be a time-consuming process. Moreover, we also need to figure out the transit points & communicate with the authorities at the destination for the smooth transfer of the shipment to the consignee’s site. Other than that, it is also difficult to get a reimbursement from the insurance companies when there is some untoward incident like theft or destruction of the military equipment.

Military logistics is much more profitable compared to general goods, this is why more competitors are trying to enter into this market and making a lower profit margin than before. This has indeed added to the challenges.

Q. Where do you see your company in 10 years?
A. Probably, a very capable junior will eventually lead my team, set a higher target, work towards achieving it and eventually make our company the number one freight forwarder not just in Seoul but in the entire country!

Interview with Simon Moore, the Membership Development Coordinator of Globalia

Posted on 5 March, 2021 | by admin

“At Globalia we are like one big family with a very positive work environment that is conducive to innovation and productivity”

This week we are publishing an interview with Simon Moore, who is the Membership Development Coordinator of Globalia Logistics Network. Simon plays a key role in researching and recruiting the best companies for membership in Globalia. His most important job consists of carefully researching the background of the members before determining if they are eligible for membership. Before joining our team, he spent five years in Italy teaching students from across the globe. With several years of experience in customer service, and results orientation, Simon believes that good communication is the key to outreach enhancement.

Q. Tell us a little bit about your experience at Globalia.
A. I have been working with the Globalia team since day one – for almost five years now – and so far my experience here has been extremely satisfying. My colleagues at Globalia are very amicable and over the years I have learned about client research, member recruitment, the significance of clear communication, and more.

Q. How were the beginnings of Globalia?
A. The first few months are always challenging, but our experience in the freight forwarding sector allowed us to resolve the initial hurdles and we started running smoothly in just a few months. Now I can confidently state that even with the pandemic and the ensuing economic crisis of 2020, we have been able to maintain the network without compromising on our quality standards.

Q. What does your job consist of? Do you find your day-to-day tasks exciting?
A. I find my task very interesting as I am usually required to do a lot of research on the applicant companies before determining their eligibility. As the Membership Development Coordinator, I am the very first point of contact between the members and the network. My job consists of contacting potential agents and inform them about the benefits of joining Globalia. Our network already counts on over 180 independent freight forwarders in 120+ countries, who work together for increased business and it is my job to keep this number growing so as to cover many more territories in the near future.

Q. Which is the most challenging part of the job?
A. As an exclusive network, our members need to go through a meticulous selection process, whereby their financial strength, market reputation, creditworthiness, competitiveness and business volume are ascertained before they are admitted within the network. That makes our job challenging since we only accept one member out of ten that applies for Globalia’s membership. We even hire the external auditor DUN & BRADSTREET whose job it is to evaluate each potential member on our behalf. We impose these strict criteria in our selection process to create the most secure environment for our agents.

Q. In your opinion, which is the best benefit for Globalia members in terms of sales?
A. The best benefit for Globalia members in sales terms is without a doubt the referral program. If members refer their trustworthy agents, they can obtain a 25% discount on their membership – up to 4 discounts (of 25%) are applicable for each new agent, meaning that they stand a chance of paying zero membership fees for the coming year.Q. What is the most important objective of the sales team?
A. It is to increase our outreach and have ‘Virtual Offices” in all the main sea/airports across all the five continents. Apart from that we always try to ensure quality above anything else which is taken care of by our strict selection process.

“I strongly believe that operational integrity is the key to customer retention. At the end of the day it all boils down to trust and it is this trust of our members which keeps us moving forward”

Q. What do you like about working at Globalia?
A. The best part about working here is that I get to be original and exercise my creativity at all times. In order to find the most reliable agents and to offer quality customer service, Globalia employees need to work as a team. We are in touch at all times and we have frequent meetings where we discuss new ideas about how to improve our services. At Globalia we are like one big family with a very positive work environment that is conducive to innovation and productivity. Succeeding as a team has allowed us to forge bonds that over the years have turned into trust and friendship. Employees who like and trust each other are more likely to communicate well with each other, work better and achieve the objectives.

Q. How are you coping with the present work from home scenario?
A. Ever since the pandemic hit us exactly one year back, our entire team has been working from home. However, nothing has changed except for the fact that now we are working remotely and online communication is being carried out instead of in-person meetings. Our team now catches up on the cloud to carry out our day-to-day activities and coordination between every department of the network is still at the highest level.

Q. What are the values that motivate you?
A. Integrity, creativity, honesty, and courage to take bold steps are a few of my driving forces. I strongly believe that operational integrity is the key to customer retention. What matters in my line of work is to show my clients how we really care about them. At the end of the day it all boils down to trust and it is this trust of our members which keeps us moving forward. In this context I would like to quote American business author and management guru Michael LeBoeuf -“A satisfied customer is the best business strategy,”- and this exactly is my work motto!

Interview with Globalia Vancouver

Posted on 15 January, 2021 | by admin

“The greatest success of our team has been our constant growth mindset throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be attributed to our management team’s consistent communications with the team on protocols”

This week we are publishing an interview with Ryan Kulasekare, the COO of KMR Global Logistics, Globalia member in Vancouver, Canada. In this interview he talks about the history of his organization, how they managed to function during the pandemic, the road to success of freight forwarders and many other things.
Q. When and how did you get into the freight forwarding industry?
A. Our President Randy entered the freight forwarding industry in 1995 after specializing in international shipments. I entered the industry in 2006 by working with my father Randy from a very young age, and naturally, as I grew older we decided to open KMR Global together.

Q. Can you tell us a little about the history of KMR?
A. KMR Global was established in 2018, as a result of many years of working in this sector. My father and I decided that it was time to establish our own company in this industry.

Q. When and how did you get into the freight forwarding industry?
A. Our President Randy entered the freight forwarding industry in 1995 after specializing in international shipments. I entered the industry in 2006 by working with my father Randy from a very young age, and naturally, as I grew older we decided to open KMR Global together.
Can you tell us a little about the history of KMR?
A. KMR Global was established in 2018, as a result of many years of working in this sector. My father and I decided that it was time to establish our own company in this industry.

Q. What were the challenges you had to face during your first years?
A. As a newly established company, we were and still are continuously aiming to improve ourselves. While we were fortunate enough to have an established customer base since the conception, our main concern was to ensure that no customers felt their service level was affected.

Q.What distinguishes KMR from other freight forwarders in your city?
A. Our main focus at KMR is not only to ensure that our customers are confident about our ability to provide the requested service but also to ensure that we are looking out for their best interest while handling their shipments. If our customers are successful, then in turn KMR will also be successful.

Q. Which are the latest improvements of your company in the last 5 years?
A. We recently launched a new website which has allowed us to build our online presence and share our knowledge of the industry with others. As we enter Year 3 of operations, we find a continual upward trajectory in our growth.

Q. From your own experience, which are the keys to success in the freight forwarding industry?
A. From my experience, I feel that there are two keys to success. First, it is important to focus on building a long-lasting relationship with our customers and continuously improving our ability to service their needs. Secondly, consistency is vital. The freight forwarding industry is fast-paced, and above all, customers seek reliability and the confidence that you are going to fulfill their requests.

Q. What has been the greatest success of your team so far?
A. The greatest success of our team so far has been our constant growth mindset throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This success can be attributed to our management team’s consistent communications with the team on protocols while ensuring that we are adhering to all precautions set forth by the WHO and Canadian health officials. Additionally, we have an open-door policy so that our employees can contact the management and discuss any issues or concerns that arise. The management ensures that they are handled appropriately and in a timely manner. At the end of the day, my team’s safety is my number one concern so we make sure that they stay informed and supported while we continue to push forward is our primary focus.

Q. What are the main challenges facing freight forwarders at the moment and how are you dealing with them?
A. Technology- trying to adapt to the continuous technological innovations can be a challenge as there is always something new. However, I do feel that these innovations ultimately enable growth and increase efficiency so we are always trying to figure out ways of implementing these new technologies to improve our services for our clients.Q. Do you think the pandemic will open new opportunities for freight forwarders in the digital field? Which ones?
A. I think freight forwarders will now have to adapt to the digital direction which the industry is moving towards. Many government documents must now be submitted digitally, and many customers are even working from their homes. This should push freight forwarders to be more virtually accessible for customers, and provide tracking, and document submission to allow ease of use for their customers. Simplifying the job for customers will allow them to be free with their time and focus on their own success.

‘‘From my experience, there are two keys to success. First, it is important to focus on building a long-lasting relationship with our customers and continuously improving our ability to service their needs.

Secondly, consistency is vital. The freight forwarding industry is fast-paced, and above all, customers seek reliability and the confidence that you are going to fulfill their requests.”

In your opinion, what does the freight forwarding industry is lacking? How would you think it should improve?
A. The freight forwarding industry lacks a customer focus. I see that many companies are only concerned with their operations rather than working with the customer’s best interest is in mind. We ensure we understand what the customers’ needs are and we always put them first. It is also my experience that the freight forwarding industry lacks friendly service so many other industries excel in. Often when calling a freight forwarder or dispatch agent customers are greeted with a flat tone and very little pleasantries, or even worse you are met with rudeness and rigidity over a small request. KMR looks to do away with this kind of behaviours and we support our customers in any way possible in a friendly and polite manner.

Q. What would be the most significant shipment your team has handled?
A. This is a difficult question for me as I believe every shipment to be significant. It is important that each and every customer, big or small, is met with the same level of attention to detail and provided with the same quality of services. It is not the size of the shipment but the quality of the service that our team holds important.

Q. How do you see your company in 10 years?
A. In ten years, I look forward to seeing my team grow as individuals as we work together to provide peace of mind to all current and future customers! It is the team that makes the KMR brand strong, so being able to watch our employees grow alongside my father and me has been and will continue to be unbelievably rewarding.Globalia members with shipments to/from Vancouver, Canada, are invited to get in touch with their professional team.

Interview with Tuan Roshan, Sales Manager of SEDRES TRADING & MARITIME SERVICES

Posted on 4 December, 2020 | by admin

“In order to mitigate the impact of delays and cancelled shipments, we are considering reducing certain dimensions of the chain. At the same time, in order to improve volumes and revenue, we are focusing on adding more value to our services and making the chain processes more efficient”

We have recently interviewed Tuan Roshan, the Freight Forwarding Manager of SEDRES MARITIME, Globalia member in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. In this interview, he explains the origin and history of his company as well as the challenges faced by freight forwarders during these difficult times of pandemic, among several other things.

Q. Can you tell us a little about the history of Sedres Maritime?
A. Sedres Maritime was established in 1993 and it has been expanding its services to currently provide complete marine and integrated logistics solutions to major clients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our services cover shipping agency, crew change, freight forwarding, land transportation, customs clearance, ship handling for deck, engine, technical and provision supplies, construction, as well as diving, engine repair, LSA/FFA servicing, etc. through our partners. We offer specialized services to meet our client requirements.

Q. When and how did you get into the freight forwarding industry?
A. We started with freight forwarding activities in 2006 with a focus on petrochemical products, along with transportation of machinery and spare parts to the industrial city of Jubail. Today, the Freight Forwarding Department acts as a backbone for the organization by supporting other divisions of Sedres while supplying other independent global clients.

Q. What distinguishes Sedres Marine from other freight forwarders in your city?
A. Our pool of expert staff has experience in the industry from 10 to 25 years. We handle DAP, DDP, Ex-works, Door to Door, Exhibition cargo, ATA Carnet and many other shipments. Our commitment to provide solutions to our esteemed clients is the motivation for every move that we make.

Q. What are the main challenges facing freight forwarders regarding the pandemic at the moment?
A. Currently, we are facing issues with regular and in-person visits to customers, meeting other stakeholders – like the authorities – for solving specific issues, and inspecting materials due to restricted/limited movements. Additionally, some orders are being delayed or cancelled.

Q. How is the freight forwarding industry tackling these challenges?
A. Technological tools are our main support in these challenging times. Physical visits are being reduced and the whole coordination is being managed through emails, videoconference calls or other apps. Government support and some initiatives they are offering are also helping us greatly.

Q. How is SEDRES dealing with these challenges on a daily basis?
A. COVID has been and is a global challenge. People around the world are adapting to new normalcy and we are also taking advantage of the opportunity to review our processes and to introduce positive changes and make the chain logistics more efficient to achieve better results. Our teams have a more pro-active attitude now to ensure there is no breakdown in the chain and we are able to anticipate to issues that we may see forthcoming.

Q. How do you think the technology is changing the freight forwarders industry?
A. Technology is certainly enabling businesses to run with minimal human resources, and it is making the chain logistics more efficient. However, several platforms need further integration and there are challenges like cybercrime and networking issues that remain unsolved.Q. What would be the most significant shipment your team has handled? What were the challenges your team had to overcome?
A. We arranged complex logistics for a few aero engines and industrial vessels. Coping with issues like route planning while COVID movement restrictions and continued quarantine requirements was a big challenge to overcome. Nevertheless, with our team’s commitment and dedication, we successfully executed them.

“Our commitment to provide solutions to our esteemed clients is the motivation for every move that we make.

Q. Where do you see SEDRES in 10 years?

A. We see ourselves working with other sectors within the maritime industry and increasing our presence globally, covering a wider geographical area of the world. Our aim is to keep expanding, and we are already working in that direction.

“FreightViewer is different than other online marketplaces. We are proud to work with Globalia in this project”

Posted on 27 November, 2020 | by admin

After establishing the partnership with Shipco, FreightViewer Department interviewed Morten Bach- Global Chief Commercial Officer at Shipco Transport- to analyse the current situation and the upcoming digital changes in logistics.

Speed in quoting is essential in a market where the difference between one quote or the other has become minimum. This means that, in some cases, who quotes the faster will have the shipment. This is one of the reasons why it’s so important to develop tools such as FreightViewer, states Mr. Morten Bach. He also adds that technology has disrupted in logistics and everything is happening amazingly fast, changing the landscape of logistics.

Mr. Bach also adds that the speed of the market is one of the other big changes in logistics, this is forcing traditional freight forwarders to change their way of thinking. They need to find the strategy to send shipments from A to B as fast as possible, achieve faster information sharing or better order management. And this can be done using different gateways than the traditional.

Under his point of view, it’s important to become global, reaching key partners and the right technology. Being part of a network, which offers a tool such as FreightViewer, means that small-medium companies will be able to become global, being much more competitive and, with the help of technology, being able to handle much more tasks along the process, optimizing their resources. Mr. Morten says: “With the pandemic the digitization process has been accelerated and those companies who didn’t have a great technology strategy have got caught by the new world-wide situation, not being able to serve their clients in the same way or the way they should”

Mr. Morten Bach pointed out the importance of visibility in logistics in order to take control over all shipments. According to his words “it’s essential to provide several options for a shipment to the client, if you don’t give various options to them, they will go somewhere else. Clients need what they need and if you don’t offer it, they will try another option”

To finalize, Mr. Morten states that, currently, there are two different sectors in logistics. Those that refuse to use digital services and those that only use digital resources. This means that we need to develop two different customer strategies, providing service to both groups, but never forgetting that digital trends will be extremely helpful in both strategies.

You are able to find Shipco rates directly through your FreightViewer profile accessing into your member area and personalize these adding your own profit margin. Please contact amartin@globalialogisticsnetwork.com to obtain further information.

Interview with Andrea Martin, Globalia’s FreightViewer Coordinator

Posted on 13 November, 2020 | by admin

Andrea Martin is the main point of contact for FreightViewer, she coordinates the Department and is in charge of training Globalia members on the use of this exclusive TMS, assisting them with any doubts plus improving the software based on their feedback and needs. Before joining Globalia, Andrea worked in customer service, acquiring the necessary skills to solve client issues, providing technical support, and gaining a wide range of knowledge in communication. In this interview, Andrea talks about the advantages and new upgrades of Globalia’s exclusive member TMS: FreightViewer.

Q. Could you explain to us a little bit more about FreightViewer?

FreightViewer is a exclusive-member TMS Globalia Logistics Network has developed to offer a digital infrastructure that allows the establishment of an automated data transfer of carrier rates and tariffs. It enhances the accuracy of the quotation while significantly reducing its processing time, from a number of days to less than a minute. To put it simply, it allows members to organize their rates with their local and transport charges on a single platform.

Q. Which do you think are the advantages of FreightViewer?

The main advantage for Globalia members is that FreightViewer will allow them to be at the cutting edge of technology and compete with the stalwarts in the industry by digitalizing the majority of business processes. All data needed for developing a shipment will be stored in the software thus helping the users to come up with an accurate door-to-door quotation and provide immediate service to their customers and generate documents ready to be sent immediately. Additionally, their clients can go almost through all the logistics processes by themselves through the website for customers where different quotes can be compared quickly and easily. Moreover, each customer can be classified into different Client Categories with different mark-ups (profit margin), meaning members can personalize quotes for each customer. And all of these complex services are included in their membership fee, at no additional cost.

Q. Which are the new updates of FreightViewer?

Our aim is to integrate the main co-loader’s buying tariffs on a global scale into FreightViewer. That is why we have signed an agreement with SHIPCO to offer their LCL buying rates online through FreightViewer and we are in the process of negotiating the same with WEBCARGONET which will enable us to upload and update more than 14 million buying airfreight rates to FreightViewer.

We have a partnership with Onus Cargo Services, an insurance broker that offers rates from different insurance companies. This means you can ensure your cargo directly through FreightViewer, saving a lot of time in double typing information. Plus, the idea we have is to reach competitive insurance rates for Globalia members.

Q. How do you think FreightViewer contributes to Globalia members?

Globalia is the first international freight forwarding network with global coverage to launch instant quoting ability for its members.

The technological impact on the logistics sector in the last few years has been considerable, most of the top players in this industry are investing in enhancing their services by implementing a well-rounded digital strategy. That is why Globalia’s management has decided to design a customized software that allows members to interchange business within the network in the easiest and quickest possible way. The main difference with our competitors is the global coverage we offer. Members from more than 120 countries can use our TMS.

Q. What can members do with FreightViewer?

A. They can manage rates, put together personalized quotations, and send them quickly or save them in pdf. They can also follow up with their customers and customize their website. And everything by using a very intuitive platform.

Q. Why do you think technology is so important in the freight forwarders industry

A. The pandemic has brought a very important fact to our attention- Freight Forwarders need to digitalize. Otherwise, they will fall behind the competition. Over the last year, many new digital freight forwarders like FLEXPORT, FREIGHTOS, FREIGHTHUB, etc. have invested millions in digitization, so now there is no turning back, it’s not the future anymore, it’s the present.

We are one of the very few international freight forwarding networks to successfully cope with the technological changes while providing our members with the opportunity to compete with the largest multinationals and everything is being done through FreightViewer.

Q. Which do you think that are the main challenges for freight forwarders to digitalize their platforms?

A. The main problem is the huge amount of information managed in one single shipment, also, the volatility of the market is an important problem. But I think there is a new market emerging with a new customer type that is much more impatient and demanding than before. So, there is no other option, freight forwarders need to go a step further in this business and try new features such as FreightViewer. With the help of technology, some of the main issues faced day by day by a freight forwarder can be minimized, and their services can be optimized. Nonetheless, we should never forget that personal contact is extremely important in this industry- technology will never replace this contact but it will help to improve customer service.

Interview with Pablo Fornos from Globalia Madrid

Posted on 17 July, 2020 | by admin

“We believe that the key to success in this industry is the customer. We need to establish a rapport with the client via trust and transparency. Transparency is a key element since your client needs to be aware of all the operations at every stage of the movement of cargo.”

This week we are publishing an interview with Pablo Fornos, the Supervisor of the Air Freight Department of Visa Global Logistics, Globalia member in Madrid, Spain. In this interview, he talks about his company and its history, the challenges of freight forwarders during the pandemic, and the importance of digitization among other things.

Q. When and how did you start in the freight forwarding industry?
A. Our company was formed back in 1982 with the objective of offering personalized logistical solutions for our clients. We realized that there was a high demand for luxury merchandise like cars or works of art coming from Italy which required special logistical and transport solutions that most companies in the industry were not capable of offering. This is what prompted us to start offering specialized services that these operations require.

Q. Could you tell us a bit about the history of your company?
A. Our Madrid office was opened in 2019 from where we offer a specialized service for perishable goods as well as project cargo services with a proficient team qualified to handle these types of products.

Q. What distinguishes you from other freight forwarders in the industry?
A. What distinguishes us from our competitors is the personal touch with comes with our services as well as the transparency we offer via track and trace systems. Our second distinguishing factor is our specialization in high-value, sensitive, and perishable shipments and our years of experience in handling these types of products.

Q. What according to you are the keys to success in our industry?
A. We believe that the key to success in this industry is the customer. We need to establish a rapport with the client via trust and transparency. Transparency is a key element since your client needs to be aware of all the operations at every stage of the movement of cargo. I believe that digitization is equally important because it allows us to offer transparency and instant data to our clients allowing them to locate their shipment, and know its status.

“We ensure environmental sustainability not just in our daily operations but also in the way we structure our work, with more efficient means, clean fuels, modern tools, work flexibility, and adaptability to the hourly needs of the different agents around the world.”

Q. Which are the biggest challenges for freight forwarders in your country at the moment?
A. Right now the most important challenge facing the sector is the COVID-19 crisis. Considering the fact that around 90% of merchandise is moved in the belly hold of passenger flights, it is easy to understand why the grounding of numerous passenger planes all over the world has led to reduced air cargo space during a time of high demand for essential items. Another challenge for freight forwarders is undoubtedly digitization. Digitization will simplify and quicken all the stages of operation while the elimination of paperwork for customs or AWB will ensure lowered cost and more agile services. Moreover, we also have to consider the challenges in developing environmentally sustainable logistics.

Q. How the freight forwarders are dealing with these challenges?

A. I think that the logistics industry is making integrated efforts and trying to go ahead with digitization and restructuring of their operations in a bid to become more efficient.

Q. How will Visa Global deal with these challenges?
A. With regard to the COVID-19 crisis, we are strictly observing all the safety precautions and constantly adapting and innovating to serve all our clients and agents through remote work and with the strictest security measures whenever physical presence is called for. As for digitization, we strongly believe that investment in this regard is absolutely important because the future is already here. Technologies such as blockchain or Artificial Intelligence are here to stay and at Visa Global Logistics we know that we have to be at the forefront of these innovations to provide quality services to our clients. As for environmental awareness, we ensure environmental sustainability not just in our daily operations but also in the way we structure our work, with more efficient means, clean fuels, modern tools, work flexibility, and adaptability.

Globalia members with shipments to/from Madrid, Spain, are invited to get in touch with their professional team.

Interview with Neena Gupta, the Agent Coordinator Assistant of Globalia Logistics Network

Posted on 27 March, 2020 | by admin

“We always encourage members to refer their trustworthy agents in order to be able to obtain a discount on their membership under Globalia’s referral program.”

Neena is the main point of contact for Globalia members daily. Her work consists of assisting members with any questions or problems they might have and ensuring that the work of our Agent Coordination Team is of the highest standards. Before joining Globalia, Neena worked in the teaching sector as an English teacher for four years. She also worked as a part-time translator for a well-known enterprise, a job that provided her with immense experience in the communication sector.

In this interview Neena talks about her experiences with Globalia members, the benefits of GLB’s referral programme, the importance of FreightViewer and significant tips about how to avoid getting scammed online.

Q. How has been your experience working with the Globalia team so far?
A. It has been a really good experience. I am learning a lot from the members and I am looking forward to assisting them in the best way possible, whatever the issue.

Q. Why do you think attending the Annual Meeting is important for the agents?
A. Forging a collaborative and profitable relationship with the partners is one of the keys in our sector and the Annual Meetings are absolutely crucial in this regard. Most of the agents who have attended the Meetings say that they have increased their business volume and created a long-term business relationship with their partners.

Q. How can Globalia’s referral programme be beneficial for the agents?
A. Existing members who refer another agent, who eventually becomes a part of our network, have a lot of gain from our referral programme. We always encourage members to refer their trustworthy agents in order to be able to obtain a discount on their membership. To begin with, the referring agent gets a 25% discount on their upcoming annual membership fee. Moreover, when members refer more than one agent they get a maximum of 4 discounts (of 25%) applicable for each new agent meaning that they stand a chance of paying zero membership fees for the coming year!

Q. Which are the most common points of contention between agents and how can it be resolved?
A. The commonest point of contention among members is invariably related to ‘who’s responsible for paying the bank fees.’ This eventually leads to intense debates as both parties believe they are in the right. However, the answer to this is very precise. The Rules and Procedures that have been agreed to by all the network members clearly state that: “All invoice payments will be made by bank transfer. All bank fees will be paid by the member ordering the transfer.” This is undoubtedly the fairest solution that all members need to bear in mind.

Q. Do you get complaints from members regarding scam emails? How are you coping with this problem?
A. Yes, scam emails are a persistent threat in the age of digital communications. Members have notified us about receiving payment related email from another member in which they were asked to make the payment to the new bank details provided. It goes without saying that, such emails are sent by scammers and not by any member of our network. This is why we always urge our members to verify the bank details of their partner to whom they are supposed to make a payment by talking to them directly over the phone.

Q. Why do you think it’s important for the agents to interact on social media?
A. I would always suggest agents to add their fellow members on their social media pages and interact with their posts whenever possible. Liking and sharing your partner’s post will encourage them to do the same which will indeed have a positive impact on your visibility. Moreover, it also keeps you updated about the recent goings-on in your partner’s organization.

“Liking and sharing your partner’s post will encourage them to do the same which will indeed have a positive impact on your visibility. Moreover, it also keeps you updated about the recent goings-on in your partner’s organization.”

Q. How’s the new tool FreightViewer helping the Globalia agents?
A. As attested by many of our members, the FreightViewer has helped to ease the workload of our agents by allowing them to digitize their businesses and offer accurate and personalized quotations to their partners and clients instantly. This game-changing tool is available for free for all our network members and the FreightViewer team is working round the clock to update and enhance the features of the software.

Q. Which is the most common question you get asked regarding the use of FreightViewer?
A. Agents often call us to find out who have access to their rates. It needs to be mentioned that we do not make available the rates of our agents to their competitors in their country. FreightViewer makes daily tasks of our agents easier without creating any discord between the network members. Moreover, members can also decide which of their customers will be able to access their FreightViewer webpage. The choice is always theirs!