Trans-o-flex Logistics Group, the German-based subsidiary of Austrian Post, has extended its nationwide network for active temperature-controlled transport of shipments within the 15-25°C temperature range with a seventh regional hub in Alzenau, southern Germany, and added new semi-trailers, lorries and delivery vans to its fleet.
In March this year, trans-o-flex extended its “ambient” network, which had been started in October 2014, from a central-hub system to a system of six regional hubs, thus increasing capacity. From November onwards when the new hub goes into operation, it will be possible to use seven, instead of six locations to feed the temperature-controlled shipments into the ambient network of the express delivery operator.
“In addition to the capacity adjustment, the new hub in Alzenau will help us shorten the distances especially for goods coming from the Rhine-Main area, thus making it possible for us to offer later deadlines for collections,” Christian Knoblich, Managing Director Sales & Marketing of the trans-o-flex Logistics Group, said.
The reason for the continuously growing volumes of actively temperature-controlled shipments at temperatures of 15- 25 °C is the introduction of the new EU regulations (EU-GDP = Good Distribution Practice), which require a controlled and documented transportation of pharmaceuticals, trans-o-flex explained.
To facilitate the network’s extension, trans-o-flex is also investing in its vehicle fleet. Additional vehicles have already been ordered and will then be used for collection as well as in regular traffic and for the delivery of ambient goods. By the end of the year, the trans-o-flex ambient network will operate a total of 190 actively temperature-controlled semi-trailers, 85 temperature-controlled lorries, 1,650 thermos boxes and up to 100 temperature-controlled delivery vans.
The company explained that during loading and waiting times, it must be ensured at the new hub that the temperature-controlled vehicles can switch to a temperature control based on an external power supply system. In addition, it must be ensured that the temperature data taken at the location can be correctly fed into the systems and that the necessary temperature control devices are installed on site.
The six other climate-controlled hubs are situated near Kassel, Hanover, Jena, Cologne, Weinheim and Nuremberg. All of the hubs are provided with climate-controlled closed areas, in which, for example, return shipments can be stored temporarily.
