DHL Global Forwarding launches new warehouse and headquarters at Schiphol

NETHERLANDS – DHL Global Forwarding, a leading logistics provider has opened its new warehouse and headquarters at Schiphol reinforcing its commitment to excellence in the perishables sector.

The inauguration witnessed the presence of numerous customers and associates, reflecting the anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding the state-of-the-art facility.

Ivo Koopmans, Head of Cool Chain at DHL Global Forwarding, expressed the positive reception from clients, stating, “Many of our clients had already visited, and most of those who didn’t attend had signed up for a private tour. The new facility is equipped for the future, and with this new Perishables setup, we’re elevating our customers’ products’ cold chain even higher.”

The 23,000 m2 warehouse boasts 38 docks, with two featuring 20-foot dock lifts. Noteworthy features include dedicated areas for storing hazardous substances, temperature-controlled perishables, and life science goods.

The facility also houses a modern 3,600 m2 office space, serving as the company’s headquarters in the Netherlands.

A standout feature is the 1,300 m2 special Perishables section designed for cradle-to-cradle operations. Ivo emphasized, “All work is done in temperature-controlled areas, equipped with 24/7 temperature monitoring and redundancy solutions. There are no more cross-movements with other divisions, so the cold chain is completely closed.”

The strategic location near Schiphol positions DHL Global Forwarding as the gateway to Europe, allowing for efficient import and export operations.

Sustainability played a pivotal role in the construction of the new building, adhering to Breeam Excellent Standards and incorporating 6,000 solar panels on the roof. The facility is entirely gas-free, and its cradle-to-cradle design ensures maximum reuse in case of future demolition.

Ivo Koopmans highlighted the expanded capabilities of the new building, enabling the provision of fully temperature-controlled, customer-specific solutions for both import and export.

The company is keen on tapping into the growing global perishables air and sea freight network, particularly focusing on markets like Singapore and Bahrain for flower and plant transportation.

Addressing challenges in the industry, Koopmans explained how the Red Sea situation has had little impact on air freight.

“We’re currently in many talks with airlines in the run-up to the summer season that starts on April 1, but we’re not yet noticing any effect on the destinations where we’re active.”

Reefer Manager Mario Volkers provided insights into daily challenges, stating that the transport of several shipments stopped because the transit times became too long.

“These issues are hiking rates significantly. People are opting for certainty and are sticking with their regular service providers, a trend we also saw during the pandemic.”

Despite industry challenges, DHL Global Forwarding’s Ocean Freight department is thriving, benefiting from a growing reefer network. Mario Volkers emphasized the importance of local presence, stating, “That local presence genuinely works. By working with native speakers, but above all, with short lines, you build trust, both commercially and operationally.”

The year has begun on a positive note for DHL Global Forwarding, receiving the prestigious Top Employer Award 2024 on January 18.

Mario Volkers concluded, “We’re proud of this achievement and continuously strive to improve and innovate regarding employment. We look forward to building a successful future along with our employees and clients.”

DHL Global Forwarding will showcase its capabilities at Fruit Logistica in Berlin: Hall 25-A23. The company’s commitment to excellence and innovation in logistics is evident as it positions itself as a leader in the perishables industry.

For all the latest fresh produce industry news updates from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.