DP World has inaugurated the latest in a string of more than 100 freight forwarding offices worldwide, which already employ 1,000 staff, adding to the company’s 108,000 team.
This number is expected to grow significantly over the next 12 months, helping move more than 10% of global trade every year, according to the statement.
DP World said in an announcement that the traditional asset-light freight forwarding model, which moves cargo via third parties, has proven to be susceptible to disruption at key chokepoints and can have knock-on effects on inventory and fulfillment planning for businesses and their customers.
With businesses seeking increased control over their supply chains, DP World has decided to expand its freight forwarding offering, with a focus on air and ocean freight. The company will deploy its “toolbox” of services or capabilities made up of ports, terminals, warehouses, trucks, rail and shipping services to increase control and resilience, supported by digital technology, whilst also working with complementary partners across the supply chain.
Miami is the latest office to open its doors, as DP World builds on its end-to-end network of port assets and specialist expertise across ports, trucking, air and ocean freight, customs and warehousing services spanning over 430 business units in 86 countries.
Beat Simon, Group Chief Commercial Officer of Logistics at DP World, said, “Our expansion in freight forwarding complements our end-to-end supply chain solutions and capabilities. Our asset – appropriate approach is a step-change for the freight forwarding industry that puts customers in the driving seat with more visibility and control and giving them confidence to trade in today’s global market.
“As we continue to grow our freight forwarding footprint, we are building a network that will cover more than 90% of global trade. We are focused on densifying our network as we build a best-in-class, strong and resilient global capability.”
DP World’s service currently spans order and origin management, port handling and freight management for ocean and air, and at-destination services such as customs, drayage, logistics, last-mile delivery, deconsolidation and bonded warehousing services. Additionally, the company offers more services including embedded trade finance, commodity-specific services, cars in containers, transload and advanced hubs among others.
This is all accessed through a single digital window that is backed by an integrated Global Services Centre that centralises back-end processes, made up of over 500 IT specialists. The advanced digital system means customers can track their goods in real time and easily manage their cargo journey.
