AMI launches online door-to-door express import service in US

The US arm of airfreight and express wholesaler Air Menzies International has launched an import version of its fast-growing online door-to-door express wholesale product, Click2ship. The Click2ship Imports service went live at the start of this month following testing with five of AMI USA’s top customers.

The service offers all-inclusive import rates for shipments collected anywhere in the world, AMI said. Rates include collection, customs clearances and US delivery, but not duties or taxes.

AMI USA invested $350,000 in IT and website upgrades for the new service, which comes 12 months after the launch of its Click2ship Exports service.

The service offers online quotes, booking and tracking, but also provides a telephone booking option through the firm’s Dallas call centre.

AMI USA senior VP USA Peter Weir said since its launch, the Click2ship Exports service has seen “phenomenal” growth, up to 2,500 online quote requests a month, thanks to its speed and convenience.

Already providing 3% of the company’s business, AMI hopes the Import addition will take it up to 10%.

The Export service originally expected to attract mainly small packages has also seen average shipment weight running at 38kgs (85 lbs).

“We have been encouraging customers with minimums to try it, as it offers better rates than airport-to-airport services, but for a full door-to-door service with online track and trace,” said Weir. “We can be very competitive up to 75kgs, and we’re able to provide spot rates for larger shipments.”

Weir said the online service was making the phone booking option “obsolete”, witht he immediate quote, instant booking and shipment visibility.

“We believe the Click2ship concept is the way forward for a large part of the US market, providing better value, faster service and improved efficiency over traditional solutions, he said.