By Jamila Rharssisse, Managing Director, Star Concord The Netherlands B.V
Although the role of the Netherlands is often underestimated in global trade discussions, the country is an indispensable link in worldwide logistics especially for NVOCCs (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers). For companies entering Europe, the Netherlands offers not only a physical gateway but also an efficient and reliable network for consolidating and handling international shipments.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
The Dutch logistics sector boasts one of the most densely connected networks of seaports and airports in Europe. The Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest, handles over 220 million tons of goods annually. Schiphol Airport plays a crucial role in air freight with more than 1.5 million tons of cargo per year.
As an NVOCC, we make optimal use of this infrastructure by providing consolidation services that give our clients mainly small and medium sized freight forwarders access to cost effective and flexible transport options via both sea and air freight. By consolidating shipments, we also actively contribute to the environment by reducing the number of transport movements and thereby lowering CO2 emissions per shipment.
Capacity Management and Own Documentation
The capacity of Dutch ports and airports continues to grow thanks to ongoing investments, including the expansion of Schiphol’s cargo facilities. This enables NVOCCs like Star Concord to deliver reliable and timely services, even during peak periods.
As an NVOCC, we issue our own House Bills of Lading (HBL), giving our customers full control and transparency over their shipments. Thanks to close cooperation with carriers worldwide, we can offer competitive rates and respond quickly to changing market conditions.
Unique Network and Global Presence
What truly sets Star Concord apart in the NVOCC market is our near-global presence with our own offices. This allows us to deliver consistent and reliable service, be locally engaged, and respond quickly to inquiries or issues.
Where we are not represented by our own office, we work exclusively with carefully selected agencies with whom we maintain strong, long-term relationships. This combination of own offices and exclusive agencies gives our customers confidence that their shipments are in good hands worldwide and that we can provide full control and transparency throughout the supply chain.
Economic Impact and Trade Flows
The logistics sector in the Netherlands accounts for approximately 9.2% of GDP, emphasizing the importance of value-added services within the supply chain. For NVOCCs, this means not only organizing transport but also creating value through smart consolidation, customs handling, and track & trace solutions.
Favorable trade agreements within the EU and the Netherlands’ role as a transit hub post-Brexit make it an ideal node for efficiently organizing European distribution.
Challenges and Solutions for NVOCCs
- ‣ Sustainability: Strict Dutch environmental regulations continuously push us to invest in sustainable logistics solutions and climate friendly transport chains. By applying consolidation as an NVOCC, we actively contribute to the environment by significantly reducing CO2 emissions per shipment. By combining shipments, we optimize load factors and reduce the number of transport movements, leading to a smaller ecological footprint.
- ‣ Competition: The saturated market landscape requires service excellence and innovative logistics concepts to strengthen our position.
- ‣ Flexibility: Geopolitical uncertainties demand agility; as an NVOCC, we can quickly offer alternative routes and transport modes.
The Netherlands is more than just a geographic gateway to Europe. It is a strategic hub where NVOCCs can leverage their strengths by providing integrated and customer-focused logistics solutions. By combining excellent infrastructure, extensive networks, and own documentation, Star Concord is able to offer our customers reliable, flexible, and cost-efficient services essential for success in international trade.
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