Conqueror revamps its intranet and greets its newest members with a personalized online tour reception

The renovated members area includes a welcome tour for the new members performed by a member from Conqueror team

The modernization of Conqueror’s intranet will help to transform the Members Area into a more useful space for the agents. “In keeping with the digital strategy Conqueror has adopted for the last two years, we have redesigned our format for enhancing traceability and the use of the intranet,” says Antonio Torres, the President and Founder of Conqueror Freight Network.

 

Conqueror_new members area_digitization

 

 

The revamped Members Area will allow the members to easily access all the essential tools such as FreightViewer or the Network Directory. Furthermore, they have also made two important additions to the Members Area. Firstly the section for newest Conqueror members which will keep all agents updated with the latest addtions to the Network. Secondly, members will get a direct access to the news section.  Thus they will be able to access interesting information about the sector and interviews with agents.

Additionally, from now on, new members will be welcomed through an online tour reception. This tour will be performed by a member of the team. The online tour will allow the new members to get acquainted with all the features and protocols of Conqueror Network. It will also facilitate the interaction between the agents and CQR Head Office.

The welcome tour is also offered to those agents who have recently joined the Network and those who would like to know more about the features offered inside the members area. don’t hesitate to contact amartin@conquerornetwork.com for further details.

Conqueror Freight Network partners Future of Digital SCM 3.0 Webinar

Conqueror Freight Network has established a partnership with Group Futurista for the Future of Digital SCM 3.0 Webinar

Supply Chain is going through tremendous changes all in a year, the pandemic has laid bare the underlying vulnerabilities and problems in the organization’s business models. This has led to reveal the incompetence of most companies in managing their supply chain networks in a digitally integrated frame.

Usage of Data Analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), etc. Has opened opportunities for growth, innovation, and gaining competitive advantage by leading the change to build an interconnected supply chain network for the organizations.

To lead the initiative of Digital overhaul in the Supply Chain, Group Futurista, the leading Global Events, and PR Company are ready to bring the third edition of the ‘Future of Digital Supply Chain in a Post-COVID World’ webinar #FODS3.0 on 21st January 2021 at 10:00 EST / 15:00 GMT.

#FODS3.0, a unique platform with 150+ Key Decision-makers that brings together collective knowledge sharing and networking amongst the leading Supply Chain & Logistic Players, Retail Giants, Warehousing Solution providers, Startups, Tech Providers, Government, and Investors to enable all across Europe and North America.

 A special mention our Platinum Sponsors Kinaxis, Concentric, Project44, Elementum INC as well as our Gold Sponsor Instafreight supporting our webinar.

 

Keynote Speakers:

Pierre Perdoux – Senior Vice President, Procurement Operations, Airbus

Topic: How Digital Solutions can support performance improvement within the Supply Chain?

 

Greg I. Silverman – Founder & CEO, Perspective Analytics Software Company, Concentric INC

Topic: Augmenting Demand Planning with Prescriptive Analytics

 

Patrick Van Hull – Industry Thought Leader, Kinaxis

Topic: Today’s Decisions are the basis for tomorrow’s Supply Chain

 

Saurabh Verma – Director, Value Chain Excellence, Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, Johnson & Johnson

Topic: Digital Twins – Enabling Transparency & Accuracy across the Value Chain processes

 

Michele Stekelnburg – Director of Strategic Accounts EMEA, Project44

Topic: COVID-19: Managing Supply Chain risk and disruption

 

If you are interested in sponsoring or speaking at our future events, check out their website, or directly contact them at jennifer@groupfuturis

Conqueror establishes a media partnership with Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria

This cooperation will increase their visibility within the logistics arena

Conqueror Freight Network, the largest exclusive network in the world which has a coverage of more than 250 cities and 140 countries, has established a cooperation partnership with Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria in in order to boost their brand awareness in the logistics sector.

Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria is an online newspaper (covering the shipping sector) which was created back in 2009 as an initiative from both teachers and students of the International Master in Maritime and Port Administration developed by IMBS (nternational Maritime Business School), in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Navigation and Services of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

“We are delighted to establish a media partnership with Conqueror Freight Network and we are quite sure that that partnership will help to increase the reach and visibility of both our teams.”, states Arturo Pastrana, Technical Director of Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria.

The Spanish language digital journal aims to cover a leading space for news related to maritime, port and logistics activities– its reach has extended to the Latin American countries, where it has already established itself as one of the leading professional and specialized media in the port and maritime sector.

Additionally, Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria takes on board the most important logistics Events, Conferences and Meetings, as well as publishes regular job offers with the scope of the maritime, port and logistics sectors.

“The qualification of our writing collaborators can be proven by the quality of the information pieces and opinion articles we publish, both at an academic and professional level,” continues Mr Pastrana.

Finally, in close collaboration with the International Maritime Business School, Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria makes available to its readers all the information about a recognized training in the form of educating, recycling, and improving the courses in the maritime, port and logistics sectors.

In order to know further information about Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria:

best freight forwarder network
best freight forwarder network

    Actualidad Marítima y Portuaria:

    

 

Conqueror Freight Network’s 1st Virtual Meeting gets coverage from several logistics webzines

Conqueror’s 1st Virtual Meeting conducted over their exclusive meeting platform ensured that members get to network and collaborate even amidst the pandemic

best freight forwarder network
best freight forwarder network

The news of Conqueror’s 1st Virtual Meeting of freight forwarders which was attended by 75 members from more than 50 countries has been published a number of websites of the transportation and supply chain sector. The online conference of independent forwarders which took place on the 27th and 28th of October, allowed the members to  discuss new businesses, consolidate their relationships and prepare for concerted projects. The event has been covered by Actualidad Maritma y Portuaria, Veinte Pies, MLC-ITS and DC Velocity.

Actualidad Maritma y Portuaria is a digital diary of the logistics and maritime sector published from Spain. This web magazine is published by the students and professors of the IMBS (International Maritime Business School).

Veinte Pies is a renowned Spanish language digital magazine serving the informational needs of professionals in the logistics and supply chain industry. It provides a comprehensive coverage of all supply chain related topics.

DC Velocity is one of the pioneering multi-media magazines providing a substantial coverage of all aspects of the logistics industry.

MLC ITS is a website dedicated to the logistics, transportation, and supply chain industry in Spain and beyond.

The report published in the above mentioned shipping and maritime websites touches on the successful outcome of the meeting, and the way in which it allowed the members to pursue their networking activities in light of the absence of an in-person annual meeting like every year. The report also mentions the FreightViewer workshops held during the meeting when all the delegates were given an online demonstration of the latest features of Conqueror’s member-exclusive TMS.

To find out more about their coverage of our Virtual Meeting just click on the above links.

 

CQR Bangkok confronts the global pandemic by sending out over 600 tons of PPE

In the last few months, they have moved over 120,000 boxes of cargo to Europe, North America and several Asian countries

Trans Air Cargo, Conqueror member in Bangkok, Thailand, has transported more than 120,000 boxes of PPE totalling over 600 tons. The shipments were mostly consigned to UK, several countries in the EU, USA, and some Asian destinations. According to Mr. Keree Chaichanavong, the Managing Director of Trans Air Cargo, “Presently there is a high demand for nitrile gloves, facial masks and medical supplies shipment. Thailand being one of the key rubber producers in the world, we are trying our best to get these items delivered to countries where it is most required.”

independent freight agent
independent freight agent

They are closely working with the airlines and utilizing the cabin load on the passenger aircrafts in addition to the regular cargo space whenever possible in order to serve the demands of their customers. To this end, they have teamed up with several carriers including AF, KLM, Finnair, Swiss Air, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines.

independent freight agent
independent freight agent

It has been a difficult time as we are all facing the COVID-19 pandemic situation for the last few months. The available capacity is very limited on almost all the carriers while the rates are skyrocketing and flight schedules are unstable and mostly at short notice. I appreciate the perseverance of our entire team which has managed to get this important job done almost seamlessly.” adds Mr. Chaichanavong. Presently CQR Bangkok is working on another 3 flights with PPE shipments to UK.

Congratulations to Trans Air Cargo and all the best for their future endeavours!

World’s logistics scenario during COVID-19

Due to the Coronavirus expansion, many ports, airports and customs duties worldwide have been affected by the lockdowns in several countries. In order to keep you posted about the world’s logistics scenario during COVID-19, we have compiled the below information about the situation in the ports, airports and Customs Duties.

*Please note that the information comes from the data members have provided us with. If you notice that there is something wrong or that there is information that needs to be updated, please send us an email at mserrano@conquerornetwork.com.

You can also find useful information about the worldwide COVID-19 Global Port Restrictions Situation that Wilhelmsen has created here.

LAST UPDATE: 24th April 2020

 COUNTRY  WHEN  LOCKDOWN
DATES
 PORTS  AIRPORTS  CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
 ARGENTINA NOW
  • Originally from March 20th till March 31st. Extended till April 26th.
  • Ports are operating normally.
  • Import and Export cargoes are being delivered and loaded as usual.
  • Shipping lines are working with limited staff and they have reduced operation hours which could cause some delays for cargoes release. In Argentina original BL are mandatory.
  • Only aircraft flights are authorized to operate, passenger flights are not allowed.
  • Lufthansa, Qatar, Lan Airlines, Avianca, Qatar, Atlas and Martinair are operating regular aircrafts to Buenos Aires.
  • Our customs is working with limited staff so the focus is on essential items (pharma, foods and perishable).
  • The other products are being released but could suffer delays in customs procedures.
EXPECTED
  • Government could extend the lockdown but it´s not official yet. On the other hand, it´s expected other industries will be authorized to restart operations.
  • Some Shipping lines are starting to release cargoes online.
  • Aerolineas Argentinas is also coordinating sanitary flights with cargoes.
  • Regular flights will not operate during this month.
  • After April 26 customs should increase the available staff to avoid more delays.

 AUSTRALIA
NOW
  • No lockdowns
  • All Australian ports are operating for import/export, LCL/FCL.
  • Airports are still open for import/export cargo
  • Customs offices are working normally
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 BANGLADESH NOW
  • Started from 26th March, extended till 25th April.
  • Chattogram & Mongla ports are working partially, as a result of huge congestion of vessels waiting berthing.
  • In Dhaka & Chattogram, the commercial flights operations have been suspended till 30th April.
  • Freighters are operated on demand basis.
  • They are working partially.
EXPECTED
  • The government considers further extension
  • Port operation may come to halt due to space constraints to store containers.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • This situation may continue till lockdown is eased.
 BELGIUM NOW
  • Until 19/04
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational – less capacity due to no passenger flights
  •  Fully operational (electronic)
EXPECTED
  • An extension is foreseen until 03/05 or 11/05
  • It will remain fully operational
  • It will remain fully operational, however, limited due to less capacity.
  • It will remain the same (paperless).
 BRAZIL NOW
  • Brazil does not have a lockdown declared by the Federal Government itself.
  • The provinces/states are delivering each order for the lockdown. Till now, the lockdown is declared until April, 22nd.
  • Santa Catarina state decreed Emergency situation up to May 30th.
  • Several Airlines’ services were canceled – which caused a huge backlog of cargo waiting to be exported.
  • Prices of services have increased a lot, space is decreasing on a daily basis. To receive imports, airport facilities are working properly.
  • PAX flights have severely been reduced and some Airlines cancelled 100% of its calls in April.
  • Several Airlines’ services were canceled – which caused a huge backlog of cargoes waiting to be exported.
  • Prices of services have increased a lot, space is decreasing on a daily basis. To receive imports, airport facilities are working properly.
  • Working properly without big changes. Some small delays can happen but the release of cargo is still happening normally.
  • Additionally, there have been some small changes when dealing with customers, in order to avoid physical contact, but this is not affecting the customer service.
EXPECTED
  • Brazil has not reached the peak of contamination yet. If it so happens, most probably this lockdown will be extended until middle of May, or maybe until the end of the month.
  • Probably this situation may continue until the end of April. Airlines are trying to figure out how to manage this situation without being more affected.
  • Some airlines estimates they will be able to come back operating PAX flights on May but it will be followed in the coming weeks
  • Medical, pharma and PPE products used to avoid the spread of Covid are top priority on customs releases.
 CAMBODIA NOW
  • No lockdown currently. Most companies (50%) are working from home.
  • Fully operational, but a little bit slower
  • Fully operational, but a little bit slower
  • The scenario is similar with 50% of the staff working from home
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 CAMEROON NOW
  • From 18th March, until new open  order.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed.
  • Customs agents  are focusing on clearance of all commodities.
EXPECTED
 CHILE NOW
  • National lockdowns and local sanitary measures are set.
  • The ports are working normally
  • Container depots are working with less staff than usual, so the process is slower.
  • Shipping companies are working from home and documentation is processed online.
  • Customers have successfully removed their loads.
  • The international flights do not have a fixed itinerary anymore, so they need to be checked regularly.
  • Customs Clearance is working normally
  • Warehouses are working with limited schedule.
EXPECTED
  • Every week, the government establishes the regulation according to the pandemic situation
 COLOMBIA NOW
  • From 14th to 27th April
  • Buenaventura, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, are working normally, taking all the safety precautions for human resource working on all the process.
  • Bogota International Airport is only operating local flights for cargo shipments.
  • All passenger flights are cancelled.
  • Customs systems are working normally, since the main processes are done under government platform and all involved companies are able to work virtually.
EXPECTED
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths, as well as the increased capacity for immediate attention in clinics, with special equipments.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
 EGYPT NOW
  •  Lockdown until April 26.
  •  All ports are working normally
  • Only 4 airlines are active with limited destination for cargo freighters. Passenger freighters are completely shut down.
  •  Active with limited time and employee capacity
EXPECTED
  • No vision to extend or decline
  • No possibility of lockdown
  • No changes
  • Till now it is till end of April with no vision to extend or decline.
 FRANCE NOW
  • From 17th March to 13th April
  • Extended from 13th Apr to 11th May
  •  French ports are working
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed.
  • Due to limited staff, all the customs offices are focussing on the clearance of essential items (pharma and perishable).
  • They can still declare other products but delays are to be expected.
EXPECTED
  • For the moment, no more information after 11th May
  • Rates given shipment per shipment only
  • ***WARNING : INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM AIRLINES => RATES  ARE SUBJECT TO THE EVOLUTION OF THE CAPACITY AND PRICING CONDITIONS TO ACCESS CAPACITY***
 GERMANY NOW
  • From 20/03/2020 to 19/04/2020
  • Today it has been extended until 3rd of May.
  • Everyone from abroad who comes to Germany has to be under quarantine for 14 days before they are allowed to enter the country.
  • Most ports are working normally without any restriction, but few delays may happen due to less manpower
  • All German airports have been operating regularly throughout this period.
  • The only restriction is that some airlines don’t accept road feeder services from Frankfurt/Main to other national airports.
  • It’s very difficult to get space from China to Germany and the rates may increase. Furthermore it’s very difficult to get space from Germany to the US and to Oceania. Therefore these rates may also increased.
  • Almost normal, due to the digital process. Most of the officers are working from home and it’s even faster than before.
  • Only customs clearance of some medical equipment is sometimes difficult and takes additional time, especially for face masks, medical gloves etc.
EXPECTED
  • Partial lockdown: safety distance between persons 1.5m; not more than 2 persons in one group inside and outside; all shops, bars, restaurants are closed. Only supermarkets, pharmacies and hospitals are opened. Limited entrance in stores, pharmacies and supermarkets.
  • On 15/04 the government  announced the first steps in undoing the coronavirus lockdown up to 4th May
  • Lack of empty containers, a few blank sailings. No other restrictions to be expected.
  • There are no restrictions to be expected and hopefully after the 4th of May the situation from China and to the US and Oceania will relax.
  • Import clearance seems to be working a bit faster, physical inspection of cargo by customs authorities is down to a minimum
 GREECE NOW
  • For the general public, the present end-of-lockdown date is 27/04.
  • Most offices operate with emergency staff and services are working remotely from home.
  • Operating normally, but operations take more time, due to the Covid protection measurements.
  • Flight suspensions until 15th May for the countries from/to; Italy, Spain, Turkey, UK, Netherlands and Germany.
  • Only freighter aircrafts and Turkish Airlines are allowed due to lack of cargo and just limited freighters are coming in.
  • Operating normally, with some delays due to limited staff and Eastern (working in shifts):
  • Thessaloniki customs : Import from 08.00 till 13.00 & exports from 08.00 till 15.00.
  • Piraeus customs: Imports from 08.00 till 15.30 & exports from 08.00 till 15.30.
EXPECTED
  • Given that the cases aren’t tremendously high, there is no further information regarding extension. In fact, there is a preliminary government plan for a gradual restart as of 3rd May / 10th May
  • Vessel congestion & delays in vessels arrivals, berthings and departure.
  • No changes
  • No changes
 GUATEMALA NOW
  • From March 17th to April 19th.
  • Curfew from 16:00 hrs to 04:00 A.M.
  • Applied to civilians, not to transport of import and export cargo.
  • However, there is a big traffic restriction within Guatemala city, limited from 04:00 am to 9:00 am and from 14:00 to 16:00 pm
  • Operating normally with enhanced safety precautions
  • Passenger flights are suspended.
  • Cargo flights operating normally with enhance safety precautions.
  • Customs Clearance at ports continues operating normally with enhanced safety precautions.
  • Customs at airport and fiscal warehouse at Guatemala city are working with a special schedule.
EXPECTED
  • On sunday 19th, new actions will be annouced.
  • No expected changes
  • No expected changes
  • No expected changes
 INDIA NOW
  • From 24/03 to 14/04
  • Extended until 3rd May
  • Most of Indian ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving from infected areas are being subjected to 14 days quarantine.
  • Except for those activities that can be made online, there is a lack of manpower.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • Emirates will start operating its passenger flights as freighters.
  • Qatar has announced an enhanced passenger freighter schedule but the amount of cargo available is still uncertain.
  • Turkish Airlines has the maximum number of freighters in India.
  • Due to the limited staff, all the customs offices are focusing only on clearance of essential items (pharma and perishable); very few officials are reporting for duty; only the containers with factory stuffing permission or those containing emergency items are allowed to be cleared; and, even if the clearances are done, there is no transportation available.
  • The local administration is not permitting the staff to reach the ports, airports, CFSs or ICDs to carry out the clearance.
  • Export LCL consoles are deferred to later vessels
EXPECTED
  • Possible extension
  • The ports are expected to work with the government officials and the local police administrations to ensure that staff engaged in supply chain activities are given special permits and can report to duty.
  • The transportation embargo needs to be lifted, in order to be able to  get the freighters announced by the various airlines, since the air cargo complexes will not have the space to receive the cargo.
  • Airlines are also cancelling freighters because they do not have enough outbound cargo from India.
  • In order to improve this situation, the transportation embargo needs to be lifted
 IRELAND NOW
  • Working and travel restrictions in place until the 5th of May for all non-essential services
  • Transportation is classed as an essential service and remains fully operational
  • For further information, see list of essential services/businesses allowed to operate
  • All Major Ports and Ferry/Container Freight services continue to operate for cargo
  • Associated domestic Road Freight & Drayage services continue to operate as normal
  • Passenger flights have been significantly reduced affecting cargo capacity
  • Cargo flights continue to operate
  • Cargo into or out of Ireland can be routed via other European Airports by truck
  • Associated Road Freight services, including Express pickup & delivery, continue to operate as normal
  • Customs Clearance processes operating as normal
  • “Critical pharmaceutical products and medicines will be given a Customs ‘green routing’ to facilitate uninterrupted importation and supply” according to Department of Revenue (Irish Customs Authority) on 08/04/2020
EXPECTED
  • By the 5th of May it is expected Irish Government will announce either continuation or easing of current restrictions, along with an indication of what to expect in the near future
  • At present we expect Sea Ports, Sea Freight services and associated Drayage/Road Freight services to continue to operate as normal
  • We hope to have an update regarding cargo capacity after the 5th of May
  • If Travel restrictions are lifted or eased, flights may increase along with cargo capacity.
  • We expect associated Road Freight services, including Express pickup & delivery, to continue to operate as normal
  • At present we expect Customs Clearance processes to continue as normal
 ITALY NOW
  • March 9th, until May 3rd.
  • All Italian ports are operative. No specific handling is required due to Covid-19. After some strikes incurred, situation got to normality. Main problems come from vessels’ delays.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are operating.
  • Rates are still high, and spaces limited.
  • Customs is operating as usual. The possible delays are caused by lack of workers, even if the average timing for arranging clearance is on standard.
EXPECTED
  • The government may open some activities before May 3rd.
  • The ports are expected to get more workers back to improve the operations. Government is supposed to provide a list of accepted and mandatory procedures to be followed during the workflow.
  • In order to get cargo and improve the situation, some airlines are partially operating by using their passenger flights as freighters. This reduces the waiting and makes tariffs slightly less expensive.
  • In order to improve this situation, some workers may get back to work. Possible delays may be caused by lack of trucking services which are missing due to lack of imports.
 KENYA NOW  No lockdown.
  • Mombasa port is working normally from 8.00 am to 3:00 pm
  • JKIA working hours are: 8.00 am to 3:00pm. Hours have been reduced due to the curfew at night from 7:00pm to 5:00 am.
  • Inbound passenger flights have been cancelled due to huge drop in cargo volume.
  • Export: Due to the absence of passenger flights and the drop in demand for flowers, very few carriers are landing at JKIA, and as a result, freight rates have skyrocketed.
  • Therefore, because of high rates, the volume of inbound cargo has been reduced tremendously.
  • Working normally but with time limitation from 8.00 am to 3:00 pm
EXPECTED Not expected.
 MALAYSIA NOW
  • From 14th April to 28th April.
  • Most of Malaysian ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving from infected areas are being subjected to 14 days quarantine.
  • Except for those activities that can be made online, there is a lack of manpower
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • All passenger flights both inbound and outbound are not allowed.
  • Our customs offices work as normal from 8.30am until 8.30pm and are focusing  and priority for essential cargo. Those importers and exporters for non-essential must have approval from MITI.
EXPECTED
  • The government will consider for extension if the cases still increase by end of CMO.
  • The ports are expected to work with the government officials and the local police administrations to ensure that staff engaged in supply chain activities are given special permits and can report to duty.
  • The transportation embargo needs to be lifted, in order to be able to get the freighters announced by the various airlines, since the air cargo complexes will not have the space to receive the cargo.
  • Airlines are also cancelling freighters because they do not have enough outbound cargo from PEN & KUL.
  • In order to improve this situation, the transportation and the manufacture  sector requested to obtain approval from Government.
 MAURITIUS NOW
  • From 20th March till 15th April. It has been extended till 04th May.
  •  Mauritius’ ports are working. Suspected vessels are kept 14 days in quarantine, but most of the manpower is working from home.
  • Mauritian boundaries are closed due to lock down. There is no flight due to lockdown.
  • Work permit has been approved by the government for essential services. Due to shortage of staff , customs clearance is focusing on essential items.
EXPECTED
  • The government has extended the lockdown because the number of cases has increased. The government does not rule out a possible extension.
  • The government has issued work permit for essential services so that employees can report to duty. Sanitary precaution is being taken.There is assistance of police officers.
  • Possible extension is not ruled out by the government
  • Situation will be same until lockdown is over.
 MEXICO NOW
  • Government has declared a “contingency” period. All essential activities – such as logistics and transportation – must keep working on regular basis.
  • Many companies are working from home, while operations at ports & airports are operating with their respective protection recommendations.
  • Some non-essential industries have not stopped any activities, some of them have only reduced their operations by 50%.
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
EXPECTED
  • No changes,  keep working as usual.
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 OMAN NOW
  • From 15/03/2020 – complete lock down of capital (Muscat Area) partial lockdown in other parts of the governorates.
  • Only essential services will be allowed to function viz hospitals, pharmacy, foodstuff, cargo and logistics.
  • No lockdown – all sea ports are working normally with reduced work force – hence there are delays in cargo movements.
  • All Airports shut on 23/03/2020 for passenger flights including for domestic flights.  However cargo aircrafts are still operating.
  •  Normal  – with reduced work force
EXPECTED
  • Expected to continue until the end of April or may go up to 1st week of May.
  • As per the Ministry of Transport, sea ports will not be included in the lock down and therefore no hindrance is expected in cargo movements.
  • Current arrangements  will be maintained unless situation demands.
  • No lockdown
 PANAMA

NOW
  • Total quarantine indefinitely since March 24th, 2020.
  • The government has placed limited movement on several business sectors. The shipping industry is still able to operate as imports are needed for food and medical supplies.
 

  • Panama Maritime Authority has raised the level of protection of the ports from NP1 to NP2, but they are working normally.
  • Shipping companies are working in their home office, but their departures and arrivals remain problem-free.

 

  • Export:
    • Passenger flights are not allowed.
    • Only cargo flights such as DHL, UPS, AVIANCA, FEDEX, KLM are still in operation, but their schedules have been adjusted.
  • Import:
    • Only freighter aircraft are allowed, the operation and warehouse in the airport have reduced hours from 8:00 am to 15:00.
    • Arrangements must be made in advance
  • All the customs offices are working with few officers in reduced hours of 8:00 am to 15:00.
EXPECTED
  • The government will take the necessary measures depending on how things develop
  • There will be s reduction in demand and consequently, there will be adjustments to sailings on some of their services.
  • Some shipping companies will be implementing digital “Release”.
  • Some airlines could be closing their operation if they don’t have enough inbound and outbound cargo.
  • Passenger flights will be opening again on April 22nd until further notice
  • Customs will be implementing new payment services.
  • All special permits and approvals of entities will be processed by email.
 POLAND
NOW
  • Originally from March 13th till further notice. 
  • Some branches of businesses and some factories are closed. Some are working with limited staff (for example customs and port authorities) or are working online (like the shipping lines, forwarders). 
  • Ports are operating normally.
  • Import and Export cargoes are being delivered and loaded as usual.
  • Shipping lines are working with limited staff and they have reduced operation hours which could cause some delays for cargoes release.
  • Only cargo flights are authorized to operate but in very limited volume.
  • Passenger flights are not allowed.
  • Majority of cargo is going by road from hub airports in Germany.
  • Our customs is working with limited staff.
  • Delays may occur in customs procedures.
EXPECTED
  • Government will lift the lockdown but it’s not told when exactly – it will depend on the pandemic situation
  • It’s expected that business will be authorized to restart operations in 4 steps. We’re now at the 1st step. Some factories are starting work now.
  • In the next step, hotels and cultural institutions will start operating to be followed by catering shopping malls and other services.
  • Shipping lines prefer to release cargoes online.
  • Regular flights not operating yet as borders are closed till at least 3rd of May 2020.
  • Limited staff will be kept until further notice.
 PORTUGAL NOW
  • From March 24th until April 17th.
  • This week, it is expected to be extended until 3rd May.
  • Open for cargo only with some restrictions and some possible delays, but they are working normally.
  • Only opened for cargo with restrictions:
    • PAX very limited
    • Most cargo arrives and departs by truck.
    • Only freighter planes are operating.
    • Very difficult to find space for cargo.
    • Import unloading procedures for trucks can take up to 4 days.
  • Working normally with some restrictions, due to 50% of personnel working remotely.
  • Due to this limited staff, some delays can be expected.
  • Essential items have priority.
  • The local administration is not permitting the staff to reach the ports or airports.
  • Red channel inspections need special permits.
EXPECTED
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they are in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
 RUSSIA NOW
  • March 16th, until April 30th
  • Service mostly by freighter aircrafts or road feeder service to European hubs. PRG airport handles only a few flights per day
  • There is a lack of customs officers due to current situation, so we have experienced some delays in customs process
EXPECTED
  • Government will ease lockdown gradually till June
  • Depends rather on the situation in the rest of the world
  • We expect situation will be back to normal within few weeks
 SAUDI ARABIA NOW
  • March 16th 2020 untill further information.
  • All Saudi Arabia sea ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving, berthing, discharging imports & loading exports.
  • Very limited imports & exports due to flights shortage.
  • Very limited imports & exports due to flights shortage.
  • Very limited staff of customs authorities.
  • Saudi customs system is supporting the clearing agents to do the procedures very smoothly either for import or export shipments.
EXPECTED
  • No official circular so far.
  • Expecting to minimize the working hours, and providing special permits for the staffs related to supply chain & stevedores activities.
  • The future situation is unclear, as it depends on assessing the impact of COVID-19 on the general  commercial and economic sector
  • It depends on government decisions.
 SLOVENIA NOW
  • March 20.03, until TBA
  • Rail freight traffic and road traffic (Despite certain limitations in neighbouring countries and on-road border crossings) are running normally.
  • To support the road sector, the Ministry of Infrastructure has suspended the limitation for truck traffic in Slovenia – vehicles with a maximum permissible weight of more than 7,500 kg can operate on Sundays and non-working days from 8 am to 9 pM.
  • The port remains fully operational.
  • The Port of Koper is fully operational despite various safety and protective measures. The border post control and customs authorities are working 24/7 and are ensuring safe traffic of goods.
  • The logistic route through the Port of Koper and through Slovenia is working reliably without disruptions.
  • The Government has banned passenger air traffic in Slovenia until 27th April, 2020.
  • The ban doesn’t apply to cargo traffic, special air transports without passengers and specific government flights.
  • Other possible exceptions will be carried out upon permission of the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • The customs authorities are working 24/7 and in compliance with safety measures are ensuring safe traffic of goods.
EXPECTED
  • TBA
 SOUTH
AFRICA
NOW
  • Currently under full lockdown.
  • Only essential Services/Business can open. We are considered an Essential Business, so we can open warehouses, for example.
  • However, the majority of staff are working from home and can function fully.
  • Only Essential Goods such food and medicines can be transported and delivered to consignees.
  • Sea ports are working, although at reduced capacity.
  • Airports are also functioning, but NO passenger flights arriving or leaving, only Freighters.
  • Very limited airfreight capacity into, and out of, South Africa.
  • Only Essential Goods such as food and medicine can be transported and delivered to consignees.
  • All other goods can be Customs cleared but have to be placed in storage, at a cost.
  • The Non-Essential goods cannot be delivered to, or collected from, consignees/shippers.
EXPECTED
  • This lockdown is expected to continue until the end of April.
  • It could be extended but there is no official word on that yet.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
 SOUTH KOREA NOW
  • No lockdown. Due to other countries’ lockdown policies, many people are working at home.
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SPAIN

NOW
  • Lockdown extended until May 9th.
  • Factories are open (essential & non essential).
  • Working from home when possible
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
EXPECTED
  • The government has announced that this new lockdown extension will come with some ease in restrictions
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SRI LANKA NOW
  • Still the situation is under control. Thanks to the forces and health officials who’re doing their best to eradicate this pandemic from Sri Lanka.
  • To promote public safety, the government has implemented new laws and regulations for the inbound sector.
  • The Colombo port is operating normally.
  • Airports have suspended transporting passengers until further notice. However, they’re operating to bring back citizens of Sri Lankan from other countries under the direct guidance of the President.
  • Imports are really limited.They have given the green light for essential items such as fuel and medicine etc.
EXPECTED
 SWEDEN NOW
  • No lockdowns.
  •  All ports are open, there is deficit of equipment for export, some feeders are cancelled. Operations as usual.
  •  All airports are open, very few direct lines from ARN/ GOT /MMX. Quite many shipments must go down to Franktfurt or Amsterdam
  •  All good, smooth operations as usual
EXPECTED
  • No changes. Authorities  just recommend to work from home if possible.
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SWITZERLAND NOW
  • Until April 26.
  • Most passenger flights are cancelled due to COVID-19.
  • At the moment following airlines are flying to ZRH. QR / EK / SQ / TK / AF / KL / LH / AY / LX to PVG / PEK / EWR / NRT
  • RFS Service: CV / RU / LH / AF / KL and many more
  • Customs has limited staff.
  • Due to electronical submision of the declarations no delays are expected and all kind of goods can be customs cleared.
EXPECTED
  • Most factories are working as normal.
  • Sometimes late replies from our customers due to home office work or limited staff.
  • Delivery and pick up trucks are running normally
  • Normal working hours
 TAIWAN NOW
  • No lockdowns.
  • Normal situation
  • Normal situation
  • Limited route and space , import / export all OK.
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 THAILAND NOW
  • April 03rd to April 30th  or until further notice
  • Curfew: 10.00 PM – 04.00 AM
  • Normal processes at ports for import and export
  • Some borders are open
  • Thailand extends the period of ban on international flights to Thailand till 30th April.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • For export to Thailand they have limited flights.
  • Flights need to be checked case by case.
  • Working as normal process, but there might be some delays in booking and final BL, since  some carriers are working from home.
  • For export, Thailand Government has the control of priority goods, such as masks, hand sanitizers.
EXPECTED
  • Possible extension
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • It is highly advisable to book in advance
 THE
NETHERLANDS
NOW
  • Partial lockdown continues until  20th May. Schools and kinder gardens will reopen on May 11, for children below 12. High schools, sport clubs for kids below 12 and bewteen 12 and 18 (keeping the  the 1.5m distance) may reopen as well. Bars, restaurants, non-essencial shops remain closed. Festivals and soccer competitions are forbidden till September.
  • Businesses are running normally but workers are requested to home working when possible
  • Operational 24/7
  • Open for just freighters.
  • Operational 24/7, some warehouses are increasing the costs due to Covid-19 to keep the operation going as good as possible.
  • Airlines are not on schedule; all options are on request and subject to change.
  • Operational 24/07. Obviously it takes more time and delays are expected.
EXPECTED
  • A new decision will be made on 20th May
  • No changes
  • No changes reported until now.
  • No changes  are expected until April 28th, 2020.
 TUNISIA NOW
  • 20th March – 4th April. Extended to April 19
  • Suspended
Suspended
  • Suspended
EXPECTED
  • Government could extend the lockdown
 TURKEY NOW
  •  There is no lockdown dates for logistics.
  • Working normally
  • Working normally
  • Working normally
EXPECTED
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
 UAE NOW
  • Lockdown dates until 18th April on below terms:
    As per UAE government work permit is issued only for listed vital industries till 18th April with working hours from 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs.
  • From 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs
  • From 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs
  • If it can be made online – no issues.
  • If any custom inspection needs to be done, it has to be between 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs.
EXPECTED
  • The lockdown can be extended further
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
 UK NOW
  • Many companies are closed or have staff working from home. While organisations involved in essential supplies and support, such as freighting, are still working.
  • Most factories are still producing and exporting, while some importers have closed, so space for storage is now in high demand.
  • UK Ports are working normally.
  • Airports are working normally for cargo, but delays can be expected on getting cargo.
  • Most of the brokers are working as normal.
EXPECTED
  • The same scenario will continue for probably another month or more.
  • No changes.
  • More airlines are operating PAX as cargo flights, which should allow more capacity.
  • No changes.
 USA – GENERAL NOW
  • Dates vary by state. Most stay at home orders have been extended to April 30th.
  • All ports are operating normally. there are some slower response times, but overall  there are no real delays, things are moving at airports and seaports along with local trucking and warehouses too. Some ports have adjusted their schedules to accommodate CDC directive on social distancing.
  •  Other than very restricted carrier capacity, airports are not experiencing any delays in receiving or releasing goods. Some local truckers depending on the city have cut back service to and from the airports to only one morning and one evening run to collect and tender freight.
  • No issues
EXPECTED
  • In the worst hit cities the date might be extended to 2nd week of May.
  • In other less affected cities some form of normality will return by end of April for businesses.
  •  No change to current situation on moving containers to and from the ports or rail heads are anticipated.
  • Although no delays in tendering or collecting cargo at present, the truckers who have cut service should start to resume normal services by the end of April.
  • No issues
 USA – FLORIDA NOW
  • Until 30th April. No lockdown presently in Miami, Fl for Logistics / Transportation companies
  • Miami and Port Everglades Open
  • Miami International Airport open
  •  Working normally in Miami
EXPECTED
 USA – LOS
ANGELES
NOW
  • Los Angeles County Stay At Home order started on March 19th and is tentatively effective until May 15th, 2020
  • All Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach terminals are operational and we are conducting business as usual with the exception of few cancelled shifts due to lack of volume
  • Airline Cargo Terminals are heavily congested due to current high demand of Air shipments. Truckers average waiting time is between 2-6 hours to pick up cargo.
  • There are some delays in release of shipments at exam warehouses.
  • Other than the exam delays, customs entry filings and releases are currently at full strength.
EXPECTED
  •  The Governor of California is expected to gradually lift the “Stay At Home” order soon.
  • Ports are expected to be fully operational as it was classified by the government as essential service.
  • Current congestion at Airline Cargo Terminals is expected to continue as importers are using air method to move urgent cargos especially PPE products
  • There are currently no foreseeable issues with customs clearance as most customs brokers are able to file entries remotely if they work from home.
 USA – NEW
YORK
NOW
  • Currently on “work-from-home” mandate.  Dates are uncertain.
  • All major US ports are operating.  Occasional 24 hr  shut-down due to positive virus report for dock-worker.  Reduced traffic.
  • Major airports operating with very limited traffic except for cargo.  Congestion at JFK due to high NY infections and personnel shortages.
  • No interruption.  Essential medical products being provided by expedited processing.
EXPECTED
  • Continued until pandemic abates.
  • Continued operations w/periodic interruption until pandemic is under control.
  • Continuing until pandemic is under control.
  • Continuing until pandemic is under control.

 

Conqueror Cairo delivers a sensitive and high-value shipment

MGL Cargo Services was in charge of all port and custom related formalities, and port handling in Alexandria

MGL Cargo Services, the Conqueror member in Cairo, Egypt has recently moved a highly sensitive and high-value shipment to a special security site in the Desert Road of Alexandria. The most sensitive and valuable piece of cargo which weighed 24,000 Kg was moved in a 1x 40’ roll-trailer. A generator weighing 15,200 kg and a chiller weighing 6,200 kg were loaded onto 2 x 40’ FR, OH and 2 buffer tanks weighing 1,200 kg each were loaded in one 40’ flat rack container.

international logistics service provider
international logistics service provider

The trucks in which the cargo was moved were equipped with GPS and live tracking facilities and throughout the journey, the cargo was closely attended by Special Armed forces. “The entire volume of the shipment was accommodated on 3 low bed + 2 trailers while arrangements were made for special lashing and security belts were provided. Our team was in charge of port handling in Alexandria, truck transport up to the site, all related port and customs formalities and supervision of the process of unloading and installation on the site of delivery.” says Mr. Marc Gharabawi, the Executive Director of MGL Cargo Services.

Congratulations to MGL Cargo Services for the impeccable handling of this sensitive cargo!

Conqueror Cairo handles a project cargo consisting of a new production line for one of their partners

The cargo which was loaded from Hamburg, Germany, was shipped all the way to Alexandria, Egypt

MGL Cargo Services, Conqueror member in Cairo, Egypt, has recently handled a project cargo for a new production line from Hamburg to Alexandria. In order to deliver this project cargo, they used x40’ HC DC + 2 x 40’ flat racks out of gauge. They made use of special low bed trucks for transporting the flat racks and used cranes and forklifts to discharge the shipment at the destination.

logistics business partner
logistics business partner

The cargo reached the destination intact and on time, thanks to the expertise and teamwork of MGL Cargo. As stated by Mr. Wassim Magdy of MGL Cargo Services, “We were in charge of each and every aspect of the shipment including documentation, customs clearance, and transportations. The project was not an easy one and we had to make route survey to find the best and safest route from Alexandria to the point of discharge at the 10th of Ramadan Industrial Zone where the cargo was unloaded,” 

Congratulations to MGL Cargo Services for a job well done!

Conqueror Valletta works as the logistics service provider for a waste management initiative by the government

The government, through a local company had issued a tender which was awarded to a local waste management operator. CQR Valletta provided logistical and freight solutions.

Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd, Conqueror member in Valletta, Malta, worked on a waste bins project for a Malta government initiative. This year, Malta embarked on a waste management initiative to be in line with EU standards on organic recyclable waste whereby each household was provided with waste bins. Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd was appointed by the local operator awarded the tender for this waste management project. 

independent freight agent
independent freight agent

Some of the most challenging aspects of this project was loading the containers & trailers respectively from different suppliers for different parts of the bins whilst meeting the organized ship schedules. “We are very proud to be associated with this crucial project which will help our country better manage and recycle organic waste. Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd have completed their task and the majority of bins are already being utilized in households across the Maltese Islands,” says Mr. Dwayne Caruana, the Senior Logistics Manager of Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd. 


Congratulations to Carmelo Caruana and wishing them the very best for their future endeavours!

 

Conqueror partners with the International Smart Logistics & Supply Chain Congress APAC 2018

The event which will be held on the 20th and 21st of June in Singapore will be focussing on the development of smart logistics and supply chain in APAC

The International Smart Logistics & Supply Chain Congress APAC 2018 is the only international event focusing on “smart logistics and supply chain” development in APAC under the background of retail innovation, industry 4.0 and new technology revolution. With the theme of “Technologies, Empower and Supply Chain Transformation: Getting Digital, Automatic and Smart”, this conference is designed to explore the potentials of new technologies in logistics & supply chain transformation, and to share the best practices all around the world.

best freight forwarder network
best freight forwarder network

Some of the main focuses of this event are the new trends of the global smart logistics, retail revolution and its relation with smart logistics and supply chain, smart warehousing, last mile delivery, cross-border e-commerce logistics, 4PL, drones and smart cold chain. Representatives from some of the top players in the industry such as DHL, IBM, Ericsson etc. are some of the confirmed speakers for this year’s conference.

Conqueror encourages all its members to register for this premier event by clicking on this link: http://www.szwgroup.com/international-smart-logistics-and-supply-chain-congress-apac-2018