DHL has launched direct less-than-containerload (LCL) service from Shanghai to Seattle, Wash. According to DHL, the new service will help Chinese businesses extend their presence in the U.S. market. It will focus on such major commodities from China as grain, seeds, fruit, machinery, fish and seafood. Operated by Danmar Lines, the direct weekly LCL service will cover freight moving from mainland China to Seattle and Portland on the U.S. West Coast, with a reduction of up to four days in transit time between China and the U.S. Cargo moving directly from Shanghai to Seattle will arrive in the U.S. within 12 days, DHL said. The Port of Seattle is equipped with a full range of container terminals, a foreign trade zone, and breakbulk and refrigerated storage facilities. DHL's current LCL network consists of nearly 2 million cubic meters of freight annually, via 45,000 point pairs. DHL carries more than 97 percent of its total volumes in house, the company noted. All of its LCL services include information-technology support, including DHL Track & Trace and other tools to allow for visibility throughout the supply chain.
