GAC Launches Global Logistics Service

GAC Group (GAC) has launched its new global supply chain management service to meet the demand for fast and efficient delivery of ship spares and marine parts. By leveraging on the group's combined infrastructure and core expertise in logistics, ship agency and marine services, GAC has created GAC Marine Logistics Inc (GML), a company dedicated to offering ship owners and spares suppliers an integrated and seamless door-to-vessel solution. "GAC has traditionally been involved in the delivery of ship spares since 1956 as part of our ship agency services. Now with GML, we have extended our service all the way from pick-up at the ship suppliers' door to delivery aboard ship," says Chris Steibelt, Managing Director, GAC Marine Logistics Inc. GML, by successfully bridging the various service divisions of GAC, sets a new standard in being a truly single-source service provider for ship spares logistics. GML benefits ship owners and spares suppliers seeking a reliable, faster and simpler way to deliver their ship spares and marine parts. To ensure time and cost efficiency, GML offers a wide range of transportation options such as air or sea freight, courier, or road transportation which best meets their requirements. "By leveraging GAC's strong carrier and supplier relationships, coupled with our strict compliance to global security standards, customers are assured of timely delivery of ship spares and marine parts. What's more, GAC's global buying power will enable us to provide the service at competitive rates, " adds Mr Steibelt. Another feature of GML, says Mr Steibelt, is that it eliminates the complexity of using multiple service providers with multiple invoices. By centralising shipment information and operation in the GML Hub, customers have the benefits of a single-point contact and billing. The process is simple: the customer confirms purchase order details either by email, fax or phone to the GML Hub, or through direct input into the GML web-based tracking system. Instructions are then automatically relayed to the GML network partner for delivery co-ordination with spares supplier and destination agent. The customer will also receive email alerts as the spare part is moved along the supply chain, as well as confirmation once the spare part arrives at the vessel. This state-of-the-art online system will be launched on 1 July 2003. "With complete visibility from source to destination, the customer remains at all times in full control of the operation and communication throughout the supply chain," Mr Steibelt adds. The launch of GML is in line with GAC's Vision X - Global Reach business plan unveiled earlier this year, to integrate its unique combination of services, not only across business divisions but also across geographical regions, thus creating a 'one world - one partner' value proposition for its customers.