K+N installs readers in Frankfurt to monitor AF KLM Cargo’s ULDs
22 / 05 / 2024
K+N's Frankfurt facility. Source: AFKLMP Cargo
Shipment visibility is becoming increasingly important to shippers as technology allows for greater supply chain connectivity while a volatile market places a greater emphasis on cargo visibility.
The drive to create more efficient supply chain operations through greater visibility has seen companies invest in trackable ULDs, reader devices in warehouse and software that brings the relevant information together.
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP Cargo) is one company that has been investing in the technology in partnership with ULD firm SkyCell, while forwarder Kuehne+Nagel (K+N) is also adding readers at its Frankfurt facility.
AFKLMP Cargo has installed tracking tags across its entire ULD fleet and earlier this year signed up to use SkyCell’s SkyMind platform to monitor the whereabouts and status of the ULDs.
This includes all 20,000 AFKLMP Cargo-owned ULDs – including all PMC pallets and AKH containers – and pharma ULDs. AKE containers owned by the group’s ground services department and used for both baggage and cargo are not yet in scope, a spokesperson said
Tag readers that can download information from the tracking tags are installed at various locations – for instance at handling facilities – across the supply chain to gather the information when the ULDs ass through.
The partnership, which was designed for pharmaceutical transport, was further boosted earlier this month when forwarder K+N installed gateway readers at its warehouse facility at Frankfurt am Main Airport, meaning the ULDs could be monitored further into the supply chain.
The readers now enable live tracking of SkyMind AFKLMP Cargo ULD devices, the airline explained.
K+N global head of air logistics, network and carrier, said: “Kuehne+Nagel’s installation of gateway readers at our Frankfurt facility showcases our dedication to embracing innovation and enhancing our services with the needs of our customers in mind.
“We are pleased to support Air France KLM Martinair Cargo as the first customer to utilise this highly innovative method of tracking ULDs, further reinforcing our position as an industry leader.”
Andy Newbold, global key account director at AFKLMP Cargo, added: “With SkyMind, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo will gain complete control over its ULD operations — mitigating the extensive manual efforts historically associated with ULD tracing and tracking, leading to substantial time and cost savings, as well as boosting operational efficiency.
“We are proud of this important step made by Kuehne+Nagel, showcasing their commitment to pioneering innovative solutions that ultimately benefit our mutual customers.”
