TNT Express is set to develop its air cargo activities with a Unisys management system as it gearsup to launch China-Europe freighter services by the end of this year. Unisys announced that TNT
Express Worldwide Networks (TNT) has chosen its Logistics Management System (LMS) to manageair cargo operations.TNT Express operates a fleet of 43 aircraft in Europe for air express transport. It iscurrently preparing to launch its first own China-Europe freighter services using two 100-tonnecapacity B747-400 ERF freighters to target the strong growth in Chinese exports to Europe. Thestart of four weekly Shanghai-Liege flights with the first freighter is scheduled for December withfurther flights due to launch in June 2007 with the second aircraft.
Under a multi-year agreement, Unisys will also be providing hosting and integration servicesand will be working closely with TNT on the implementation and cut-over expected in September orOctober this year.
“We are working well with Unisys on this important implementation which will help us to growour freight business, using our existing network and the new freighters we are deploying,” saidJohn Batten, managing director, Global Network & Air Cargo Sales, TNT. “We evaluated manysystem suppliers and concluded that Unisys expertise and their proven solution was the best matchfor us today and in the future.”
TNT chose Unisys Logistics solutions and services to further secure its air cargo businessoperations for a number of reasons, the technology company said. First, as Unisys LMS is Web-based,there is no need for any software deployment by the user and the easy access allows TNT to deployit in parallel with their express network and more quickly react to changing market needs on aglobal scale. Second, the system will allow TNT to integrate process control tools such as bar codescanners and interface with automated warehouse systems. The system will also be able to integrateRFID tracking technology as it is more widely adopted. Furthermore, by using Unisys hostingservices with lower support costs coupled with operation through personal computer browsers, TNTexpects to realize lower IT costs overall and an increased return on investment.
Unisys LMS is an end-to-end solution that integrates the key aspects of freight processingfor carriers, ground-handlers and freight forwarders. These include door-to-door support for timedefinite products, space management of flight inventories, the automated processing of shipments inline with commitments, operation with yield management partner services, and powerful supply-chainmessaging tools. LMS is browser-based, uses modern open standard interfaces and includescomprehensive security measures to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive data.
“Unisys is very proud to have been selected by TNT. Their range of experience and ambitionwill be valuable additions to the industry’s foremost air cargo community,” said ChristopherShawdon, vice president, Logistics Solutions for Unisys.
