Dachser has decided to expand its air and sea freight division, introducing new fixed Less-than-Container-Load (LCL) connections linking the port of Rotterdam to several ports across Asia, all with scheduled departure times.
Starting from late 2023, the German logistics company has been establishing weekly LCL export routes from Rotterdam to ports such as Shanghai, Nhava Sheva, and Dubai (serving as a hub for Gulf States distribution), alongside LCL import connections from Shanghai and Shenzhen to Rotterdam. Additional LCL connections are slated for introduction in 2024, all facilitated through Dachser’s consolidated container system.
Dachser’s approach involves consolidating shipments in their proprietary containers, bypassing the need for co-loaders and streamlining operations at both ports. By managing the entire logistics chain internally, the company claims it ensures seamless coordination.
Export shipments originating from Europe are collected from the sender through Dachser’s network and transported to a Container Freight Station (CFS) located within a Dachser warehouse.
Furthermore, then shipments are consolidated into containers alongside those from other customers. These containers are then dispatched to the destination continent, where Dachser’s Air & Sea Logistics office handles import operations and final delivery.
Incoming LCL shipments into Europe are directed to the nearest Dachser branch, where they undergo unloading, customs clearance, and subsequent delivery to the final recipient through the Dachser network.
“Because we manage the entire supply chain, we always know where the shipments are and when they will be shipped, which gives us sovereignty over the logistics process. In addition, the elimination of links ensures that goods get from source to market faster. This can help minimize inventory costs and can promote consumer satisfaction,” explained Wilco Versteegh, managing director of Dachser Air & Sea Logistics Benelux.