Cathay Cargo opens API connection for DB Schenker’s agents
Cathay Cargo also launches a portal for freight forwarder developer teams to connect with Click & Ship platform
Photo Credit: Cathay Cargo
Cathay Cargo has opened a new application programming interface (API) that provides global forwarder DB Schenker with access to Cathay Cargo’s Click & Ship booking platform on its own in-house system, enabling the forwarder to check space, make bookings and secure instant confirmation from Cathay Cargo’s inventory.
"Now Kuehne+Nagel, DHL Global Forwarding, DSV and DB Schenker have the ability to access Click & Ship through their own systems. This latest development is part of Cathay Cargo’s wider digitisation programme with its aim to enhance the customer experience at every touchpoint, and put more service options at customers’ fingertips," says an official release.
Tom Owen, Director, Cargo, Cathay Cargo says: “At Cathay Cargo, we continue to use digital technologies in order to improve the efficiency in doing business with our customers. These API links are designed to improve the freight booking experience and increase productivity by offering customers access to our inventory 24/7 via their own platforms. We are delighted to enhance our partnership with DB Schenker through this new API link, who now join our other connected forwarder partners.”
Asok Kumar, Executive Vice President, Global Air Freight, DB Schenker adds: “Having quick access to spot pricing from our air carrier partners is a critical enabler that allows us to respond to our customers’ need for competitive rates within short turnaround times. The direct API connectivity built into the Transport Management System with our preferred carrier partner Cathay Cargo is supporting our operations and procurement teams worldwide to achieve this goal. This great collaboration between DB Schenker and Cathay Cargo serves to further strengthen our already well-established relationship and cooperation.”
Cathay Cargo is making it even easier for freight forwarders to connect with the Click & Ship booking platform with the launch of the new portal, the release added. "This new portal enables forwarders’ developer teams to learn more about Cathay Cargo’s API connections, carry out testing and get a better understanding of the technical requirements before committing to actual development work, thereby simplifying the process of accessing Cathay Cargo’s inventory and booking."
Cathay Cargo’s API connection to DB Schenker and the new developer portal were powered by its innovation partner Global Logistics System (HK) Company, which also designed Cathay Cargo’s Click & Ship booking platform.
Owen says: “We’re delighted to be able to offer this developer portal, which will make the digital transition quicker and more straightforward in future. API integration is currently ongoing with a range of customers, demonstrating our commitment to embracing new technologies that materially improve the overall booking experience for them. We are committed to staying at the forefront of the industry with new digital enhancements and services in the development pipeline this year to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
