Cathay Cargo opens API connection for DB Schenker’s agents to access, book and confirm Cathay Cargo’s inventory

Cathay Cargo also launches a portal making it easier for freight forwarder developer teams to connect with the Click & Ship booking platform

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 digitalisation programme with its aim to enhance the customer experience at every touchpoint, and put more service options at customers’ fingertips.

Director Cargo Tom Owen said: “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 though this new API link, who now join our other connected forwarder partners.”

DB Schenker Executive Vice President Global Air Freight Asok Kumar said: “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.”

As part of its commitment to customer-centricity, 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. 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 Limited (GLS), which also designed Cathay Cargo’s Click & Ship booking platform and other industry-leading digitalisation projects in the carrier’s commercial and operational settings.

Owen added: “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.”