New airfreight wholesaler hits the market

A new airfreight wholesaler has been launched by cargo stalwart Rinaldo Vels, particularly targeting non-IATA-licenced forwarders, courier companies, trucking companies, e-commerce forwarders and digital forwarders.

The new company, Wholesale by Vels, is based near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and is fully licenced by IATA.

The company’s initial focus is on outbound services to Asia Pacific, Latin America and the US, and inbound capacity from Asia and the US.

Despite the shortage of cargo space on many key routes, Vels is confident that his company will prove successful: “Even in this digital age, it is very much a matter of contacts, reputation and trust – and we have all three.

“But for me, it is also very important to show the true buying rates to our customers. We agree on terms and conditions as well a pre-set profit margin, and this provides total transparency to the customer.”

Vels said his company’s main appeal will initially be for freight agents who do not hold IATA accreditation, and for overseas-based forwarders who have no operation in Amsterdam.

“But consolidation will also play an important role, providing a cost advantage and space for those who may be unable to access these in their own right,” he added.

He said that the company will also target customers with larger volumes that cannot easily be accommodated due to currently restricted line-haul capacity.

It has already operated three full charters out of China, even before it received IATA accreditation, he said.

Looking to the future, Vels, who has spent 20 years working with forwarders, cargo handlers, aviation truckers and a major wholesaler, said: “I am currently working on a few projects that must remain confidential for now, but I admit I am very keen to expand wherever it makes sense.

“It would not surprise me if the Wholesale by Vels brand soon goes beyond The Netherlands –perhaps as part of a joint venture, or possibly through franchising.

“We are off to a flying start, and the warm reception we have had from the market is a strong endorsement of our concept. Customers clearly like options and honesty, and that’s exactly what we are offering.”