The Rotterdam and Prague members of the FPS network of independent forwarders and consolidators, have launched a trade-only, temperature-controlled ocean LCL service for perishables.

The service will provide substantial savings for shipments up to 20 cbm.

The new service is targeting those commodities-typically foodstuffs, wine, medicines and chemicals used in food production-which require transportation at a constant 15 degrees C. Only commodities that can be safely mixed within a single container will be shipped together.

Initially, the service will operate fortnightly from the company's Rotterdam container freight station to Dubai and Japan. FPS plans to increase to weekly sailings when market demand permits, to add further destinations, and to increase the European catchment area.

The service is aimed squarely at forwarders throughout Europe, many of whom already use FPS as an NVOCC for other commodity traffic. Customers will be encouraged to deliver cargo to the FPS temperature-controlled facility as close as possible to closing and sailing time, although the company can store goods at the required temperature for an additional period if necessary.

FPS is using reefer boxes belonging to its chosen lines, and utilising only direct sailings in order to minimise transit times.

Jean Paul van Munster, CEO of Famous Pacific Shipping in Rotterdam and Prague, said: "Using our consolidation service will create a saving for shippers up to 15 cbm and, on some trades, up to 20 cbm.

"We are not only looking at the Rotterdam market, but also the Dutch hinterland and France. With the established reputation of FPS Rotterdam and Prague in the consolidation industry, and with the help of our European partners, our goal is to establish weekly services to all destinations that require temperature controlled consolidation. These may be in the tropics, but also in cold climates."
FPS Rotterdam and Prague plans to work with all partners at destination that are experienced in handling temperature-controlled cargo. The company has a history of launching innovative niche services, such as its recent Rotterdam-Fiji direct consolidation service operated in partnership with its Fiji counterpart.