Kuehne+Nagel is the company that organizes all airfreight for FleuraMetz. The logistics service provider offers all modes of international transportation - by sea, air and land - and manages more than seven million square meters of storage space worldwide. The exporter went to visit the airfreight export department of Kuehne+Nagel in Aalsmeer and spoke with René Barbé (Airfreight Operations Manager) and Harry van de Scheur (Senior Business Development Manager).
What does Kuehne+Nagel exactly do for FleuraMetz?
We organize all airfreight for FleuraMetz. Because we have been doing this for quite some time now, we can make a good estimate of what we can expect. In addition, we have contact on the day about exact numbers and delivery times. We also arrange everything around transportation. We reserve space on the plane, make sure the shipments arrive at the airport, send the declaration to customs and prepare the freight papers.
To what destinations do you fly?
We do both import and export airfreight for FleuraMetz. So think of flowers from Ecuador or Africa to the Netherlands, but also of flowers from the Netherlands to the US, Australia and Canada. We also fly to ‘Flying Dutch Flower' destinations like Hawaii, Beijing, Dubai or Istanbul and destinations within Europe.
You can safely assume 600 tons of pure export annually. With import you can add just over 100 tons. This amounts to seven full B747 full freighter airplanes per year.
How often are you in contact with FleuraMetz?
By phone practically every day, especially with the USA and Canada department. We also see each other regularly, for example, to discuss a new frost package or a peak time like Valentine's.
How is the cooperation with FleuraMetz?
We have an excellent cooperation with FleuraMetz. Consultation with customers is sometimes difficult. At FleuraMetz the contact is smooth, you are very flexible and professional. We do try to think along as much as possible. Shipments for New York, for example, we always route through London, because there are several flights to New York a day. This way the cargo will be only a few hours delayed instead of a whole day in the case of a missed flight.
source: FleuraMetz