Another indication that digitized services will soften impact of IMO for ocean carriers

Blume Global, a leader in global logistics and digital supply chain solutions, recently announced that Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s leading shipping companies, has selected Blume Logistics to support its entire global network of motor carrier partners, commencing in North America in January 2020. 

Hapag-Lloyd is one of the world’s largest ocean carriers operating a fleet of 231 modern container ships with a total transport capacity of 1.7 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) and a container capacity of 2.6 million TEU, including one of the most modern fleets of reefer containers. Hapag-Lloyd required a solution that could help manage and ensure the highest level of quality door-to-door service capabilities across its network of motor carrier partners.

Blume Logistics, part of the Blume Universe of solutions built on the Blume Global digital platform, will digitally connect Hapag-Lloyd’s network of motor-carrier partners, which encompasses the complete order to settlement workflow. This includes the dispatch work order, drayage rates, appointment scheduling, accessorial charges, live tracking, proof of delivery, invoicing and robust reporting capabilities.   

“Blume Logistics will help improve the quality of our door service for our customers including first and last mile visibility while enhancing the efficiencies of our motor carrier partners”, said Uffe Ostergaard, President of Hapag-Lloyd North America Region. “Our North American customers are asking for enhanced end-to-end shipment visibility to better manage their supply chains and by implementing this integrated cloud-based solution we will be able to offer that value-added service”. 

Glenn Jones, Global Vice President of Product Strategy, Blume Global , told LM in an interview that the cost of operating maritime cargo vessels will continue to rise in 2020, especially due to the impact of IMO 2020 compliance. 

“Each ocean carrier will have to figure out ways to comply to IMO 2020,” he said. “Therefore, the value of rate shopping by customers will become more valuable as there will be an increase in pricing disparity between ocean carriers. One of the things an ocean carrier can do to get ahead of the cost increase, is to become more efficient, where technology partners can come to get ocean vessels in and out of port terminals faster – and make up on days and revenue.” -