Ocean Freight Carriers, NVOCC's and Logistics Groups Rush to Sign Up to Financial Forum

WORLDWIDE – It may be totally unacceptable to operate a cartel when it comes to container shipping or freight forwarding but with ever increasing financial pressures and demands ocean carriers and logistics providers have been hurrying to sign up to an accessible forum to discuss greater efficiency in Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment through standardization and automation.

The Ocean Freight Industry EIPP Standards Advisory Board (SAB) was established by INTTRA in 2010 and its members include a who’s who of the sea freight industry including ocean carriers, third party logistics providers (3PL), freight forwarders and NVOCCs (non-vessel operating common carriers). INTTRA is the world’s largest, multi-carrier e-commerce solution for ocean freight and last week announced that the SAB has been growing steadily as more companies sign up for their voices to be heard.

Companies that recently joined the Advisory Board include: Leschaco, Damco, Ecu Line Group of Companies and Geodis Wilson whilst the addition of Sinotrans’ membership extends the voice of the Asia logistics market. Ecu Line joined the SAB earlier this year and says it sees great value in streamlining the payment flow in global ocean shipping. Marc Stoffelen, Chief Executive Officer, Ecu Line Group of Companies remarked:

“By adopting automated bill presentment and payment, the process will be more accurate, transparent and settlements will be faster and uniform. It provides a better way to analyze payment behaviour and incorrect billing. We are excited to be part of the EIPP SAB group of companies that are involved in global logistics to discuss a solid basis for future electronic presentment and payment standardization for our sector. This will definitely benefit our niche market as a global LCL provider.”

Steen E. Larsen, Head of Requirements Management at the world’s largest box carrier Maersk Line explained why his company valued their membership saying:

“We appreciate having a forum that allows us to partner with shippers and NVOCCs in order to develop global standards and best practices that benefit the entire industry. Our diverse membership is certainly an important and welcome quality that is essential to creating industry solutions that address the needs of the various segments.”

Rod Agona, Executive Officer, EIPP Standards Advisory Board has been delighted by the steady uptake of membership throughout the industry. He commented:

“We are pleased that so many leaders are collaborating together to drive industry change. Through growth and active involvement by our members, we are driving the adoption of common standards and process improvements that will address the unique requirements of global ocean freight.”

For further information on the Ocean Freight Industry EIPP Standards Advisory Board click HERE or e mail steve.glickman@inttra.com for membership details.