Handler WFS deploys Descartes Bluetooth ULD readers

Cargo handler Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) is deploying Descartes’ Core Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) readers across its operations to increase shipment visibility.

The readers are already live at WFS’ airport locations in Paris, London, Brussels, Frankfurt, Madrid, New York and Houston and will be introduced at other international stations in the company’s network in line with customer demand.

The Descartes readers capture the movement of shipments and ULDs that have either Descartes or third-party BLE tags attached allowing shipments to be tracked in real time.

The solution also improves ULD asset management by identifying the locations of containers, helping optimise ULD inventory and reduce the costs associated with misplaced equipment or the requirement to lease additional ULDs.

John Batten, executive vice president cargo – EMEAA at WFS, said: “In today’s challenging market conditions, it is more important than ever to implement new technologies that support the efficiency of our worldwide operations and which give our customers greater visibility of their cargo and assets to either generate new revenue opportunities or achieve business efficiencies.”

Scott Sangster, vice president, global logistics network at Descartes, added: “With greater transparency into the location and condition of ULDs and ground handling equipment through innovations in IoT and network technology, Descartes is helping the air cargo community deliver end-to-end shipment visibility and more secure and efficient air cargo logistics operations.”