Category: News

The Cooperative Logistics Network Celebrates 10 Years in the Freight Forwarding Industry with more than 360 members

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The Cooperative was founded back in 2014 with the aim of empowering freight forwarders to strengthen their operations, increase business volume, and access new markets globally

10th Anniversary of The Cooperative Logistics Network

 

Since its founding in 2014, the network has played a pivotal role in enabling small and mid-sized logistics companies to expand their operations, increase business volume, and access new markets across the globe. Today, The Cooperative proudly boasts 363 members in 135 countries, a testament to its success in creating a collaborative platform that fosters global business opportunities.

“In a highly competitive world where large multinational logistics corporations dominate, and thousands of independent freight forwarders enter the market daily, trust has become one of the most critical yet challenging factors for success. That’s why I founded The Cooperative Logistics Network. The idea was to create a platform where small but reliable companies could collaborate and compete on a global scale—offering them the opportunity to grow without losing their independence. The Cooperative was designed not just as a network, but as a space where professional, dedicated businesses could thrive through shared success and mutual trust.”

Over the past decade, The Cooperative Logistics Network has grown and evolved, making significant strides to support its members. The network has organized seven in-person Annual Meetings and twoVirtual Meetings during the pandemic, offering valuable opportunities for members to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and strengthen their business ties. The 8th Annual Meeting, scheduled for May 28-30, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, will mark another key milestone in the network’s history. “The Annual Meeting is more than just a business event; it’s a celebration of the relationships we’ve built and the future we’re working towards,” says Torres.

The past 10 years have been a remarkable journey for The Cooperative. Beyond its impressive growth in membership and geographical reach, the network has spearheaded several key initiatives to support its members. In 2021, The Cooperative launched FreightViewer, an innovative online quotation tool that revolutionized how members generate instant freight quotes for global shipments. Additionally, The Cooperative developed a state-of-the-art web app, offering members an intuitive platform to seamlessly manage partnerships and contacts. The network has also forged valuable strategic alliances, including with Shipco, a leading global NVOCC, and a new agreement with CIFFA (Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association) to offer training courses designed to enhance members’ skills and knowledge in the logistics sector. These initiatives have culminated in the successful implementation of a structured membership process that ensures high-quality, trusted partnerships across the network.

As part of this special milestone, The Cooperative has unveiled a new commemorative video, reflecting on its journey and the meaningful relationships built over the years. The video celebrates the strength and resilience of The Cooperative’s community, showcasing testimonials from members and highlighting the network’s success stories.

The Coop’s 10th Anniversary Video

 

Click on the above image to watch the special video of The Coop’s 10th Anniversary

Reflecting on this journey with The Coop, Ali Kaddour from CTS- a Coop founder member in Sidney, Australia stated, “Our experience with The Cooperative has been very positive. Being part of the Coop has been crucial for CTS. As a Sidney-based member, this partnership has been instrumental in helping us build a network of reliable and trusted partners to handle our shipments. With this network’s support CTS has expanded internationally growing our business, strengthening our local operations.”

Antonio Torres, President and Founder of The Cooperative Logistics Network, has expressed his excitement and gratitude to all members who have been part of the network over the years: “Thanks to all of our members for being an integral part of this incredible journey and for becoming part of our family. Your trust, collaboration, and support have been the foundation of our success. From the very beginning, we’ve focused on fostering high-quality relationships and shared success. The future of The Cooperative is bright, and we look forward to continuing to expand and create new opportunities for all our members.”

Headway JSC Transports Over 23,000 Tons of Pangasius to Brazil in 2024’s First Nine Months

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Brazil has emerged as the top export market for Vietnamese pangasius, driving growth for Headway

Headway JSC, a Coop member in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, has achieved a remarkable milestone in the Vietnamese seafood export sector by shipping 23,310 tons of pangasius to Brazil during the first nine months of 2024. This impressive volume accounts for 30% of the company’s total exports of 76,678 tons of pangasius to global markets during this period.

Pangasius Perishable Shipment
Pangasius Perishable Shipment by Headway

The Brazilian market has shown an exceptional demand for pangasius, making it Vietnam’s third-largest export destination for the fish, after China and the US. According to Vietnam Customs, as of September 15, 2024, pangasius exports to Brazil reached a value of $81 million, marking a 26% increase over the same period last year. This growth highlights Brazil’s increasing reliance on imported pangasius to meet its domestic demand for affordable, nutritious white fish.

Headway’s success reflects its expertise in navigating Brazil’s import market, where pangasius has become a staple due to its suitability for local tastes. “The soft, white texture and mild flavor of this fish make it an ideal ingredient for traditional Brazilian dishes. This, combined with its affordability, has driven demand across the country,” said Felix Nguyen, Manager Director of Headway JSC. “Our efficient logistics network ensures that we can deliver high-quality seafood to Brazil while optimizing costs for exporters,” he added.

While Brazil leads the way, China and the EU remain critical markets for Headway’s pangasius exports. However, stricter EU import regulations could pose challenges to future growth. Despite these hurdles, Headway’s global network and extensive logistics expertise continue to position it as a leader in seafood transportation.

Congratulations to Headway JSC and all the best for their upcoming projects!

Sonic Interfreight Creates a State-of-the-Art Warehouse in Bangkok

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Their 9.000 square-meter warehousing facility is set to revolutionize e-commerce and logistics operations in their territory

Sonic Interfreight Public Company Limited, a Coop member in Bangkok, Thailand, has announced the inauguration of its brand-new 9,000-square-meter warehouse. Strategically located near Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Lat Krabang Industrial Estate, this facility is set to redefine logistics efficiency and adaptability in the region.

The warehouse features a blend of selective racking systems and non-racking areas, catering to a wide range of commodities. Moreover, with a storage capacity of 7,000 pallet locations and a height of 12 meters, the design maximizes both flexibility and functionality.

“Our new facility is equipped to support e-commerce, raw material storage, repacking, labeling, and distribution services. It’s a one-stop solution tailored to meet diverse customer needs,” said Will Unaron, Global Partner Manager of Sonic Interfreight.

Additionally, the warehouse incorporates a robust Warehouse Management System (WMS) for precise inventory tracking and fast product retrieval. The hydraulic dock levelers and loading docks ensure efficient loading and unloading, significantly reducing turnaround times.

The facility’s proximity to major transportation hubs addresses critical supply chain challenges, such as shipping bottlenecks and delays. “Being close to the airport and industrial zones gives us a strategic advantage. Our customers benefit from reduced transit times and improved reliability,”Will Unaron added.

Sonic Interfreight’s new warehouse emphasizes customization to cater to unique client requirements. Will Unaron emphasized, “We provide tailored area solutions to support all kinds of commodities, ensuring our customers have the flexibility they need to grow their operations.”

Congratulations to Sonic Interfreight on their latest endeavour and all the best with their upcoming projects!

 

JCC Shipping and Logistics Services Renews Customs Broker License, Paving the Way for Enhanced Operational Efficiency

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The license renewal reaffirms the company’s compliance with national regulations, ensuring its ongoing recognition by the Liberian government as a certified operator in the logistics sector

JCC Shipping and Logistics Services, a Coop member in Monrovia, Liberia, announced the renewal of its customs broker firm license. This renewal, obtained on August 4th, marks a milestone for the company as it continues to reinforce its standing as a trusted freight forwarder in the region.To achieve this certification, JCC Shipping and Logistics Services had to fulfill stringent requirements, including maintaining its status as an active and registered freight forwarding company.

JCC Shipping and Logistics Team

 

Stephen F. Tamba, the Logistics Manager at JCC Shipping and Logistics Services, expressed optimism about this accomplishment. “This achievement means a lot to us,” said Tamba. “Being registered and recognized by the government, despite the financial challenges faced this past year, reinforces our commitment to adhering to the rules and regulations of the country. It positions us to operate more efficiently, win new contracts, and continue providing excellent service.”

Customs Broker License of JCC Shipping and Logistics

 

The renewal of the customs broker license significantly enhances the trust potential clients can place in the company. Tamba highlighted that having the official recognition, coupled with an organized office space and a dedicated team, boosts client confidence in JCC’s services. “Knowing that we comply with national regulations and have a well-established operation strengthens our reputation in the logistics industry,” Tamba added.

Congratulations to JCC Shipping and Services and best of luck with their upcoming projects!

The Coop’s September Newsletter Comes Packed with Details about the Upcoming Annual Meeting and Insights from the Industry

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This edition of the newsletter will keep the readers updated with key news, conference details, and strategies for success in freight forwarding

The Cooperative Logistics Network is thrilled to announce the launch of its September Newsletter, an invaluable resource packed with insights and essential updates for the members. This edition features important information about The Coop’s 8th Annual Meeting, set to take place in the dynamic city of Abu Dhabi, UAE, from May 28th to 30th, 2025.

Click on the above image to read The Coop’s September Newsletter

 

Not only does the newsletter provide the dates and venue for this highly anticipated event, but it also includes a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to register for the conference. Additionally, the newsletter emphasizes the importance of attending, highlighting the numerous benefits that come with networking and learning alongside fellow industry leaders and peers.

Like always, the newsletter showcases the latest achievements of the network members, providing links to detailed news articles that celebrate their success stories. Therefore, it is a great way to stay connected and inspired by the incredible work being done by members across the globe.

In terms of industry developments, this edition dives into key changes that have shaped the logistics landscape over the past three months. A major highlight is the digital partnership between DB Schenker and Cargo One, aimed at enhancing connectivity with numerous international airlines. This collaboration underscores the growing importance of digital transformation in the logistics sector. Furthermore, there are other noteworthy headlines that are currently making waves in transportation and logistics.

Finally, the newsletter features an engaging article packed with practical tips for maintaining ISO certification for freight forwarding companies. This resource aims to equip members with the knowledge needed to uphold standards and improve operational efficiency.

Click here to check out the newsletter and empower your logistics journey!

Overseas Container Logistics (OCL) Ltd Relocates to a New Office

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The new office location offers a more convenient commute for most employees, while the modern office space supports future growth

Overseas Container Logistics (OCL) Ltd, a Coop member in Vancouver, Canada, has announced the relocation of its head office to a new address effective June 1, 2024.

Their new office is located at- 302 – 1281 Johnston Road, White Rock, BC, Canada V4B 3Y9.

The decision to move was influenced by several factors. The new location provides a more convenient commute for their employees and features modern office space designed to accommodate future expansion. Moreover, the nearby amenities are within walking distance, further enhancing convenience for the team.

Overseas Container New Office - Cooperative
Overseas Container Logistics’ New Office

“The new office features an open-concept design that encourages positive interactions among team members and includes an outdoor deck where employees can work while enjoying scenic ocean views. Furthermore, the relocation reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a productive and enjoyable work environment,” stated Jo-Anne Sheard, the Director of Operations of OCL Ltd.

Despite the move, OCL Ltd assures its clients that there will be no disruption to the high-quality service they have come to expect. To ensure smooth communication and avoid any miscommunication regarding billing and invoicing, they have requested their partners and clients to update their records with the new office address. Their contact numbers and email addresses will remain unchanged.

“We sincerely appreciate the continued support and understanding of our partners at The Coop as we embark on this exciting new chapter. Lastly, we would be delighted to welcome you to our new office if you have the opportunity to visit Canada,” adds Ms Sheard.

Congratulations to OCL Ltd and wishing them the best for their future endeavours!

Headway JSC Launches Container Support Service for Shipments from Vietnam to Australia

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To meet the needs of loading, unloading, and storing goods, they are supporting customers to purchase and renovate old 40′ HC containers into side-opening containers

Container s-Headway2
Headway JSC supports its customers in buying and renovating containers for shipments from Vietnam to Australia

Headway JSC a Coop member in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, is undertaking its latest initiative to support customers in purchasing and renovating shipping containers. They have recently converted old 40-feet high-cube containers into highly efficient side-opening containers, tailored for transporting goods from Hai Phong, Vietnam to Adelaide, Australia. This allows clients to deal with large, long-sized cargo, such as brown angle boards.

By converting traditional containers to side-opening models, Headway JSC is significantly enhancing the efficiency of loading and unloading processes. Moreover, the modification allows for a smoother, faster operation compared to conventional end-opening containers.

Container s-Headway
They help clients to purchase and renovate old 40′ HC containers into side-opening container

 

“This innovative shipping solution addresses pressing challenges such as container shortages and rising shipping costs. By repurposing old containers, we provide a cost-effective alternative tailored to specific client needs,” says Felix Nguyen, Sales & Agency Support Manager of Headway JSC. “Furthermore, the renovation approach contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the amount of metal waste and limiting adverse ecological impacts,” he adds.

During the modification process, Headway and its technical team carefully calculated the opening of eight side doors for the 40-feet container, creating two sturdy pillars to increase load-bearing capacity. This helped to limit the risk of collapse and deformation due to changes in the container structure.

Congratulations to Headway JSC and all the best with their upcoming projects!

All Set for The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 8th Annual Meeting

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The international freight forwarders conference will take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 28th to 30th May 2025

The Cooperative Logistics Network’s 8th Annual Meeting will in the dynamic city of Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 28th to 30th May 2025. The highly anticipated event will take place at the Intercontinental Hotel Abu Dhabi, a stunning beachfront property just a short drive from the international airport. This annual conference provides a premier platform for freight forwarders to connect, collaborate, and explore new business opportunities. With a focus on boosting project opportunities for its members, the conference will help participants maximize the full potential of their network membership.

freight forwarders conference
The Coop’s 8th Annual Meeting

 

The event will kick off with a Corporate Day Trip, followed by a Welcome Cocktail Reception, allowing delegates to break the ice and network in a relaxed setting before the intensive one-to-one business meetings begin the next day. During the conference, each participant will have the opportunity to engage in up to 32 pre-arranged one-to-one meetings with fellow network partners. These face-to-face meetings are the cornerstone of the event, playing a crucial role in fostering business collaboration and creating lasting professional relationships. Additionally, attendees will benefit from FreightViewer workshops, where they will learn about the latest tools and features of The Coop’s exclusive freight rate management platform.

Additionally, the conference provides numerous opportunities for delegates to socialize, develop trust, and form stronger working relationships. Social events such as the group tour, the Welcome Cocktail Reception, and the Gala Dinner Party will ensure a perfect balance between business and leisure throughout the conference.

Antonio Torres, President and Founder of The Cooperative Logistics Network, emphasized the network’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled experience: “We’ve put significant effort into making sure our annual meetings provide maximum value to our members. Our team is dedicated to creating a seamless, productive, and rewarding networking experience. This event will act as a dynamic hub where members can forge long-term partnerships with reliable logistics partners worldwide.”

To streamline the experience, The Cooperative will once again provide a dedicated web app that consolidates all essential event information, ensuring that attendees have easy access to meeting schedules and other important updates at their fingertips.

Stay tuned for more information on The Cooperative’s Annual Meeting page.

Navigating complexities: A report on the challenges of specialized logistics services through Spedition’s insights

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Spedition is now delivering specialized logistics solutions, expertly handling hazardous materials, livestock, batteries, and cold chain packing for the secure transport of unique commodities

In the dynamic landscape of modern commerce, the movement of specialized commodities demands meticulous attention to detail and expert logistical solutions. Spedition, a Coop member in New Delhi, India, stands at the forefront, offering a comprehensive array of specialized logistics services tailored to the secure transport of unique commodities. With a focus on handling hazardous materials, livestock, pet relocation, batteries, and implementing cold chain packing, they ensure the safe and efficient movement of cargo as per the requirements of the customers. This report delves into the strategies, challenges, and innovations employed by Spedition in navigating the complexities of specialized logistics, shedding light on the crucial role played in safeguarding the integrity and viability of these valuable commodities throughout the supply chain.

Spedition- freight forwarder in Delhi
Spedition- freight forwarder in Delhi

Dangerous goods handling and the challenges associated with it

Handling dangerous goods presents a array of challenges, ranging from regulatory compliance to ensuring the safety of personnel and the environment. One of the foremost hurdles is navigating the complex web of international, national, and industry-specific regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials.

“Compliance with these regulations demands meticulous attention to detail and continuous monitoring to mitigate the risk of fines, penalties, or even legal consequences. Additionally, the diverse nature of dangerous goods, ranging from flammable liquids to radioactive materials, requires specialized training and expertise for their safe handling and transportation,” explain Priyanka Bali from Spedition.

Ensuring the integrity of packaging and labeling, as well as implementing stringent safety protocols throughout the supply chain, further compounds the challenges.”Our expertise extends to managing a wide range of hazardous goods worldwide, encompassing services such as Dangerous Goods Documentation (DGD), packaging, and DGR handling. We also offer support with Customs clearance and consultation for the safe transportation of dangerous merchandise,” she added.

Moreover, the dynamic nature of the global logistics landscape introduces additional complexities such as varying regulations across borders, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need for emergency response preparedness in the event of accidents or spills. Effective management of these challenges is imperative to safeguarding not only the goods being transported but also the well-being of individuals and the environment.

 

Live animals
Spedition- Logistics company in New Delhi

Handling battery with equipment

Handling batteries with equipment involves unique challenges due to the potential risks associated with battery technologies, as well as the complexities of managing accompanying equipment. The Spedition team is well-versed in categorizing, managing shipments, ensuring compliance, handling documentation, and labeling and marking independent batteries and battery-equipped items. This includes a wide range of products such as cell phones, IT equipment, medical devices, and toys. Ensuring compatibility between batteries and their equipment, as well as implementing proper safety measures during handling and transportation, are essential to mitigate the risk of accidents and ensure the secure transport of these critical components.

Clearance and handling of pets and livestock

Live stock clearance and handling entail a delicate balance between animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and logistical efficiency. Whether transporting cattle, poultry, or other live animal, ensuring their well-being throughout the entire process is paramount. From loading and unloading to transport and temporary holding, factors such as proper ventilation, temperature control, and adequate space are critical to minimize stress and ensure the animals arrive at their destination safely. Ms Bali highlights that effective coordination between stakeholders, including animal owners, transporters, and regulatory authorities, is essential to uphold animal welfare standards and maintain the integrity of the supply chain.

She further adds, “We prioritize top-tier care and welfare standards while strictly complying with national import regulations. Our comprehensive services encompass liaising with airlines, managing customs procedures, supplying appropriate cages, and delivering expert consultancy.”

The intricacies of shipping temperature-sensitive goods

Shipping temperature-sensitive goods presents a host of challenges that demand meticulous attention throughout the logistics process. Whether it’s pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, or perishable food items, maintaining the optimal temperature range is critical to preserving product quality and integrity. Ms Bali highlights the importance of pre-cooling products prior to shipment to selecting appropriate packaging materials and monitoring temperature conditions during transit, to ensure the safe handling of perishable goods.

Live animals Spedition
Live animals Spedition

 

In her words, “Our robust system for managing temperature-sensitive products encompasses a range of solutions, including cold chain packing, temperature-controlled trucks, dry ice and transporters, information loggers, and the booking of envirotainers. With this system in place, we adeptly handle goods requiring temperatures spanning from 2°C to 8°C or 15°C to 25°C, along with frozen commodities, ensuring their integrity throughout the supply chain.”

Additionally, factors such as varying climates, transportation delays, and potential equipment malfunctions further complicate the task. Effective coordination between stakeholders, advanced monitoring technologies, and contingency planning are essential to ensure the successful transportation of temperature-sensitive goods while upholding quality standards and meeting customer expectations.

A visit to IMUPESA Terminal enhances Top Cargo Peru SAC’s operational insights

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The three hours visit of their team members included tours of IMUPESA’s FCL and LCL container yards, import and export zones, and refrigerated product areas

Top Cargo Peru SAC, a Coop member in Lima, Peru, recently embarked on a visit to IMUPESA, a key storage terminal under the Agunsa group in Callao, Lima. IMUPESA is a storage terminal, that has been helping them with cargo consolidation/deconsolidation, storage, simple customs warehouse, customs inspections, for import or export cargo. This visit aimed to reinforce their strategic partnership, focusing on consolidation, storage, customs inspections, and related services crucial for import and export operations.

Melissa Helou, General Manager of Top Cargo Peru SAC, highlighted the significance of this visit, stating, “Our team had an enriching experience exploring IMUPESA’s facilities and operational processes. Our collaboration spans approximately four years and the purpose of this visit was to make our team know the facilities and discover the processes of a storage terminal in the supply chain.”

IMUPESA's visit to Top Cargo
Top Cargo’s visit to IMPUESA

 

Melissa further emphasized the operational insights gained during the visit stating, “Understanding their operational flow enhanced our operational efficiency and positioned us to negotiate more competitive rates, particularly amidst the increased cargo volumes we anticipate in 2024.”

All the best to Top Cargo Peru with their upcoming projects!