DHL adds 11 countries to online trading tool
DHL has enhanced its online resource portfolio by adding a further 11 countries to its Trade Automation Services (TAS) tool. In a bid to improve international trade, the logistics firm has also simplified the importing process through DHL Import Express Online (IEO), a web-based tool that provides customers with full control over their import and third-party (country-to-country) shipments.
The company said the developments were put in place in order to “help customers better navigate the complexities of international trade, simplify online shipping and take advantage of the international express network”.
DHL’s TAS is a global online resource that provides “comprehensive trade and customs data”. The 11 countries added to this list (Algeria, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam) leaves a total of 74 where the service is in operation.
Christine Nashick, vice president of marketing for DHL Express said: “With the growing complexity of regulatory requirements, online trade and shipping tools are becoming increasingly important for ensuring customers expedite customs clearance, minimise risk and meet the ever-changing rules of international trade before they ship.
“DHL is continually enhancing its online tools to ensure our customers have full control over their import and export shipments and the most current information with respect to international trade laws.”
TAS offers many competitive advantages for global shippers, taking the guess work out of estimating duties, taxes and other import fees by calculating the total “landed costs” between countries up front. By using TAS, customers can also be assured their commodities comply with a country’s import and export regulations and can download the appropriate trade document(s) required to accompany their shipment. The TAS system also checks shipper and receiver details against government lists, embargos and sanctions so customers can ensure global compliance, the company confirmed.
The IEO web-based tool – which is available in 111 countries – has also been simplified, DHL said.
It provides customers with the ability to coordinate effective communications between Importers and Shippers via the internet. Customers can prepare import shipments through a fully automated process, including e-mail instructions for the Shipper, waybills, invoices, and arrangements of pickups.
A DHL spokesperson said: “A new feature in the IEO tool can save valuable time for customers, providing the shipper with a standing authorisation from the Import Express account holder which eliminates the approval process for each shipment. A shipper can also receive an associated login ID to create shipments using the Importer’s account number at any time. Other enhancements include the ability to import and export addresses into IEO from other applications, improved security to prevent fraudulent use, and visibility of transit time and rate quote for all available services.”
