Global logistics service provider DB Schenker has introduced a new standardized product for a growing market segment: Now customers can book an exclusive onboard courier (OBC) service which provides a swift and reliable express air transport to and from any geography in the world. The new product addresses customers in need of urgent courier service solutions for small and high-value shipments. The launch of the new air freight product expands DB Schenker’s growing portfolio of white glove service solutions.
Thorsten Meincke, Global Board Member for Air & Ocean Freight, DB Schenker: “With our new OBC service, we are taking air freight to new heights. Whether urgent automotive parts need to be shipped from Germany to China to prevent a line stoppage, or a medical device from Canada is instantly needed in a hospital in South Africa – we are now able to take care of any unforeseeable and very short-term requirements of our customers. Through the new white glove service, we address new market opportunities for us as a global logistics solution provider.”
After an initial trial period, DB Schenker has set up an OBC service team that operates from three different continents to guarantee a 24/7 availability for OBC requests. Customers receive a quote within minutes at any time. A courier person is dispatched at short notice to personally accompany the cargo item(s) as a passenger on a commercial flight to minimize the risk of loss or damage and to ensure the shortest transit time.
Swift delivery, enhanced security, and global reach
The new express service of DB Schenker is characterized by a rapid response time, and includes insurance coverage and customs clearance, if required. While being available for all types of shipments except dangerous goods, demand is especially high from major corporate customers in the automotive, electronics, high-end fashion and healthcare industries. A maximum of transparency is provided via real- time tracking, inspired by the visibility known from e-commerce deliveries.
Stefan Pargfrieder, Vice President Global Air Freight Strategy & Development, DB Schenker: “We understand that every shipment is unique. As a fully integrated logistics service provider, we want to be problem solvers for our customers. Sometimes the high value of an item is not related to its purchase price but rather to the costs adding up for every minute the item is not available. While we have already taken care of individual OBC customer requests in the past, we are now rolling out a standardized product offering across all continents.”
Case studies: Further examples for editors
Spare parts: An unique technical item had to be shipped from Germany to China to prevent a line stoppage at an automotive production facility. The request came in late at night. The item was picked up by an OBC in the morning and flown to Beijing on the same day. A second courier conducted the domestic onwards flight within China. A third courier waited at the arrival airport to bring the cargo to the manufacturing site.
Medical items: A healthcare customer was asking for the urgent delivery of a few artificial hip joints from the United States to the UK and the Netherlands to conduct some important surgeries before the weekend. Within minutes, three different options were presented, including pick-up times, flight schedule and expected time of arrival at the final destinations. Two couriers were arranged to fly the precious cargo to Europe. While the couriers were still inflight, DB Schenker arranged stand-by vehicles for the fastest way from the arrival airports to the respective hospitals.
Commercial support: To meet the deadline for a business-critical product certification process ahead of a market introduction, DB Schenker transported a specific type of milk powder from Washington D.C. in the United States to Doha in Qatar.
High-end fashion: A luxury fashion brand asked for the immediate transport of a premium value dress from a catwalk in Japan to a store in France. DB Schenker arranged an OBC service from Tokio to Paris, and the affluent fashion lover received his desired apparel piece only a day later.
All of the above are actual OBC deliveries that have been carried out by DB Schenker.
