Bi-monthly publication of CSS Group
CSS / Peters & May organized for the Radar Tower to be removed from the Formula 48 Sport Yacht in order to reduce the height of the boat and ensure its safe transportation. It was then collected, shrink-wrapped, loaded, lashed and exported to Houston Texas, USA aboard NSCSA vessel as a RORO shipment.
Foresee the Future..!! Since its inception 16 years ago as a freight forwarding company, established in Dubai, UAE, CSS has achieved several milestones over the years. By foreseeing the future prospects we have broadened our expertise to cut through new horizons in the global frontier by generating new business alliances and also introducing new products in the market, which means, we need to understand the current changes that will benefit us in the future or the risks we need to learn to avoid.
The CSS annual Sales Strategy Meet was held at the Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach on 10 and 11th of December 2011. The CSS Senior management and various department heads with overseas guests Oliver Hahn from IFS Doha, Jairam KR from CSS India, Dean Landers and Hussain from CSS Kuwait were part of the sales meet. The department heads gave presentations about the achievements and sales activities for the year 2011, which was reviewed by the senior management. They proposed ideas and strategies for the upcoming year 2012. The core purpose of analyzing the market trends and the business prospects in the market, the sales meet gives an accurate platform for the different departments to discuss and share valuable business aspects which helps in the future development of the company. There were breakout sessions with team building activities, which helped the attendees to take a break and also socialize as different groups.
Amith Horra, Chandrakala, Cheryl Annes, Deepu S Dev, Narayan and Bijesh headed the CSS Sales Strategy Meet committee. CSS extends its sincere gratitude to all attendees and are thankful for the cooperation it received to make this event a grand success.
CSS Abu Dhabi has successfully completed the export of 26 units of welding machines along with 3 containers. The cargo volume was approximately 1400 CBM and the machines were exported from Jebel Ali to Xingang for one of the most valued customers based in Abu Dhabi. The heavy equipment department at CSS Abu Dhabi with the support of Ken Dinnadge, V P Business Development and under the supervision of Sujin Asst. Manager – Sales and his team, handled these cargos. The cargo was transported using low-bed trailers whilst arranging the lashing and securing done onsite under the supervision of CSS Abu Dhabi. Strategically located throughout the world, CSS has the global expertise and business alliances that specialize in heavy equipment movements worldwide. Local Knowledge with Global Expertise.
The Projects, Oil and Energy department facilitated a challenging transport movement (due to the size / weight of the transformers) for a Power project in the recent times. They were designated to receive the 4 x 335 Tons transformers, 4 x 50 Tons reactors and accessories of about 2500 CBM directly from the heavy lift vessel at Hamriyah Port – Sharjah onto hydraulic multi axle trailers for onward movement to the Ajman site location and installation onto the foundation by jacking and skidding. CSS Projects, Oil and Energy department is known for the professionalism and expertise in the movement of the over dimensional cargos. The entire project was supervised by the CSS staff from the time it arrived at the port until the heavy pieces were installed onto its final position. The entire job was completed within the committed time frame by CSS in close coordination with port, traffic department and onsite team of professionals.
Recently, CSS Logistics completed an Air Charter operation from Sharjah, UAE and Hamburg, Germany to Kandahar, Afghanistan. The charter operation was carried out on 16 x B747 and 2 x AN124 from Sharjah to Kandahar and 2 x AN124 from Hamburg to Kandahar. The operation included vehicles, 4 wheel drives, buses, vans and included heavy equipment such as a 60 Ton crane and Reach Stackers. The entire job was facilitated under the specialist supervision of Qais Abdulla, Branch Manager CSS Logistics, Jebel Ali and his team of experts. This job was one of the principal air charter operations undertaken by CSS Logistics and it was accomplished within a limited period of time, 26 days with highest level customer satisfaction achieved.
THAILAND PAVILION – DUBAI GLOBAL VILLAGE
For the past 15 years, Global Village has been providing cultural entertainment along with an international shopping experience to millions of visitors. Breathtaking live performances, mouth-watering cuisine, authentic handicrafts and merchandise from different countries are all on display at the many national pavilions in Global Village.
Since the inauguration in 1997, Global Village has become the key entertainment and shopping destination in the region. It includes rich diverse cultures and civilizations and offers a diverse range of restaurants and shops from across the world.
There are many more attractions, including thrilling rides, games and firework displays, to complete your Global Village experience. Global Village runs from 1 November 2011 to 3 March 2012.
The CSS Air Freight and Ocean Freight division of CSS Group has been appointed yet again the exclusive agent to handle all the fresh fruits, garments, accessories and general merchandise from Thailand that will be retailed at the highly successful Thai Pavilion at the Dubai Global Village.
CSS Group will handle over 150 tons of fresh fruits, garments, accessories and general merchandise during the months of November to March 2012. Due to the perishable nature of the fruits, the cargo handler must be able to immediately process the documents required through various authorities during a short period of time, and offer clearance and refrigerated transport to the site at Dubai Global Village.
Mr. Jacob Isaac, General Manager, Air Freight Division, CSS Group commented “The CSS Air Freight team based at CSS Dubai Cargo Village, have an array of expertise and are geared to handle any specific or special need at any time to ensure our clients needs and time frames are met.” Mr. Ahmed Al Rais, Senior Vice President, Air Freight Division, CSS Group stated, “The cargo for the Thai Pavilion is an exciting opportunity for us and over the years we have met each challenge positively, which was completed successfully during the given time frames. Our professional approach in handling all queries error free has been the cornerstone of our success.”
Mr. Tony, Managing Director Vega Intertrade & Exhibitions, (The Organizer of Thailand Pavilion at Global Village) commented, “There has been a steady rise in the number of visitors to Global Village over the past 15 years. These guests come from all over the world to join in the festivities and fun featuring different countries. The number of both visitors and pavilions continues to rise. It is a testament to the immense success Global Village has achieved and plans to continue achieving for many more years to come. We are tremendously delighted with the professional service and transparency thus far received from the CSS Group staff and we look forward to continually building upon our business relationship with them.”
Ms. Mayuree (Molly) Phangphun, Managing Director-Molly Thai Tropical Fruit and Molly Spa added, “Global Village, the largest outdoor family entertainment venue in the region and member of Tecom Investments, has received 1.25 million visitors since the opening on 1st November till now. This is a substantial increase from last year’s show. Global Village is always keen on the development and modernization in all facilities. It is also the culmination of the continued success of Global Village to attract millions of visitors every year. CSS Group is always available to assist us when necessary even during weekends, which are a peak time for us here at the Global Village. The on-call service standards offered are excellent and we look forward to working with them for more projects relating to the success of the remaining months of Global Village.”
• 2010 28 country pavilions and 4.5 million visitors
• 2009 28 country pavilions and 4.4 million visitors
• 2008 28 country pavilions and 4.5 million visitors
• 2007 59 days, 39 country pavilions and 4.2 million visitors.
• 2006 129 days, 40 country pavilions and 2.1 million visitors.
• 2005 Global Village reaches its 10-year mark with a new location and longer operation period. 79 days and 5 million visitors.
• 2004 Global Village shattered records with 5.2 million visitors and 38 participating countries.
• 2003 3.1 million visitors with 31 participating countries.
• 2002 2.33 million visitors with 28 pavilions.
• 2001 1.68 million visitors with an increase of pavilions to 25.
• 2000 The number of visitors and pavilions saw increases to 1.59 million and 22, respectively.
• 1999 1.45 million visitors with a stable pavilion number of 20.
• 1998 1.2 million visitors and 20 pavilions from countries around the world.
• 1997 In it’s second year, Global village had 900,000 visitors. The number of participating countries reached 18.
• 1996 Global village was initially a small site along the Dubai Creek with small kiosks representing different countries. In it’s first year, Global village had more than 500,000 visitors.
The 3rd Green Aviation & Logistics Group Networking Event organised by Arabian Reach saw the attendance of both members and prospective ones to see how companies can involve environmental protection in their daily lives and companies.
Green Aviation & Logistics Group is a special interest group under Dubai Economic Development office, being developed solely to promote the importance of green Aviation & logistics in the Middle East. The Group has eventually developed as a collaborative network of green aviation & supply chain experts, with a general or specific expertise in the areas, where aviation & logistics companies can improve their environmental performance of the supply chain.
In the opening words of the Founding Chairman Dr Khaled Almazroui, General Manager Fujairah International Airport, “This is a good arena for everyone to join in promoting the Green initiative in the Middle East’’. Dr Khaled welcomed everyone present encouraging them in their efforts to promote this course. GALG already boasts of eminent personalities from the aviation and logistics industry, who have evinced to be a part of it; thus, a global effort to protect the environment.
The Green Aviation & Logistics Group plans to have a training centre in the near future; where in there will be in-depth transfer of research results. The GALG member companies, authorities, governments and international companies and organizations, will have regular exchanges that will cover technical innovations and other drivers, like eco-design of engines, systems, GTL technology, fuel from algae, waste management, etc.
Eng. Mahmood Al Bastaki, Director of Dubai Trade Department-Dubai World was the first presenter for the evening and his based his presentation on Dubai Trade and how it is Facilitating Trade & Logistics through Dubai as well as the Significance of Trade in UAE which revealed that Trade and Logistics is the sole business hub in UAE and Dubai especially.
Eng. Mahmood Al Bastaki also looked at the Value of Trade in Dubai as the main push to the Commitment of Dubai Government to the Trade & Logistics sector considering the fact that a lot of Evolution has occurred in the Trade sector. In early 2000, the need for efficient, transparent and secured cross border trade mandated the creation of a single window by the Ports, Customs & Free Zones Authority. ‘’This is growth and Development’’ he added
Eng. Mazen Altoukhi, General Manager of Green Car Rental-Dubai, equally gave an elaborate presentation on Green Car Rental as the present and Future way of going Green. He drew examples from the various ways at which this can be done considering the fact that we cannot do without cars ion our world of today and in the business milieu.
Eng. Mazen Altoukhi also looked at the differences between the Electric vehicle and the hybrid car, coming out with the clear distinction that the former will use the Electric motor for propulsion rather than being powered by the gasoline powered motor; while the later refers to an automobile that has both a conventional gas engine and a bank of batteries and shares the demand for power between these two sources.
Why Go Green?
‘’Charging up at home means never going to the gas station and electric cars require almost none of the maintenance, like oil changes emission checks that internal combustion cars require. Electric motors develop their highest torques from zero rpms, meaning fast (and silent) – Zero-60 acceleration times’’ he added.
To drive 36,000km with a gas engine car, compared to Hybrid and electric cars, Eng. Mazen Altoukhi emphasized that the benefits come in terms of Cost and CO2, which is the green move we are heading for.
Special invitees for the evening were Amith Horra, Marketing Manager, CSS Dubai and Deepu S Dev, Marketing Coordinator CSS Dubai.
“Attending such events is crucial in this day and age whereby Go Green initiatives are being commonly carried out by organizations from all industries worldwide. It is vital that we continue to educate ourselves on new trends and developments and share this with our colleagues. As an organization that is active in various Green initiatives across the CSS Group, Go Green is a realisation of CSS Group’s vision. I would like to thank Arabian Reach for hosting an informative and well executed event whereby we were able to network with industry leaders and innovators adopting various Go Green initiatives,” added Amith Horra, Marketing Manager, CSS Dubai.
FPS Group recently held their annual AGM (Annual General Meeting) at the Intercontinental Bali Resort in Indonesia from October 18-21st, 2011. The FPS AGM is a platform for its members around the world to participate in networking sessions with other freight forwarders from across the globe whilst discussing new trends and opportunities amongst the freight forwarding fraternity.
CSS Group was well represented during the AGM with active participation from its network offices. Dean Landers, General Manager CSS Kuwait, Jairam KR, Director CSS India, Rajesh Arora, Asst. GM Import CSS India, Narayan R T, General Manager CSS Bahrain, Siby C Kurian, General Manager Sales & Marketing, CSS Dubai & Rajagopal, Sr. General Manager Finance, CSS Dubai attended the prestigious FPS AGM 2011.
Jean-Paul van Munster, FPS Managing Director Rotterdam and Hetty Hof with the crystal memorabile, presented by T S Kaladharan, Chairman CSS Group for their engagement during the FPS annual general meet in Bali, Indonesia.
CSS Group wishes you a successful journey together.
Friends association celebrated its 7th anniversary on November 18th 2011 at Dubai Women’s College Auditorium. As the main sponsor, CSS has been continuously supporting Friends Association over the years as part of the CSR activities and its always a proud moment to be part of the auspicious event.
The event named Raag Malhar – The Musical fusion was inaugurated by the Indian Counselor with the other dignitaries and also the souvenir named SMRITHI was released by The South Indian film director Blessy. The evening comprised of musical fusion and also dance forms from various artists from South India.
THIRANOTTAM, a fraternity of art-lovers of the traditional art forms of Kerala, is a not-for-profit organization formed and functioning for the promotion of these art forms and the artistes. Thiranottam’s purpose and activities are to increase awareness and comprehension of classical performing arts of Kerala by conducting appreciation sessions, organizing stage shows of renowned professional artistes and providing a platform for the young and promising talents.
The curtain has been lifted on the 4-day cultural festival Utsavam’11, the fifth in its series, which has been showcasing the traditional and rich, classical arts of Kerala in UAE from 2007 onwards. The Indian Consul General, His Excellency Sanjay Verma, and Padma Shree Kalamandalam Gopi, the eminent Kathakali artiste, and Padma Shree Mattannoor Shankarankutty Maraar, the virtuoso chenda player, inaugurated the event on 4th November 2011. It showcased more and more classical art forms from the realms of Natya Sastra (Science of Acting) to the UAE audience. With Koodiyaattom and Kathakali being the flag bearers of this Indian Science, Thiranottam thought it appropriate to coin the term International Koodiyaattam and Kathakali Festival (IKKF). Utsavam ’11 was grander than its predecessors, with greater emphasis on Taalam and Layam. World-renowned Chenda celebrity Padma Shri Mattannoor Sankaran Kutty has kindly consented to set the right tempo for this year’s festival. Apart from Thayampaka, the four-day event showcased various art forms like Koodiyaattam, Keli, Purappadu, Melappadam and Kathakali.
CSS Group was one of the main sponsors for the event.
TEAM ALLEPPEY RIPPLES BY CSS GROUP
CSS Group is pleased to announce its purchase of Team Alleppey Ripples for the next 5 seasons of the Kerala Premier League (KPL). The investment in the team shows the continuous support of CSS towards the sporting fraternity of the United Arab Emirates offering first class facilities for all sporting events.
Dubai will stage the richest domestic Twenty20 cricket tournament in UAE history in the name of the Kerala Premier League (KPL), which is set to begin from January 20th until February 24th, 2012 at the International Cricket Council Global Cricket Academy grounds.
The tournament is organised under the auspices of the Dubai Cricket Council (DCC) and the prize money for the winners of this tournament is Dh60,000 — the highest prize to be offered to a domestic team.
The tournament will be held along the lines of the Indian Premier League and has Indian pacer Shantakumaran Sreesanth as the brand ambassador.
South Indian film superstars Bharat Suresh Gopi, along with actress Bhamaa, are also brand ambassadors.
KPL Dubai is an event in consideration to bring in the regional fire of cricket with huge Asian population in the United Arab Emirates and the game is formed in such a manner that the presence of all cricket playing nationalities involved in the game. A total of 16 teams consisting of 14 districts of Kerala and 2 zonal teams namely Malabar and Travancore with each team consisting of a minimum of 3 players from Kerala in and remaining from the local talents, with one player under the age of 22 and a maximum of 2 international players with prior approval from the Dubai Cricket Council.
For further information, please visit:
www.kpldubai.com &
www.cssgroupsite.com
CSS DUBAI VP KEN DINNADGE WINS THE BTL DESERT CHALLENGE, DUBAI CREEK GOLF AND YACHT CLUB NOVEMBER 16, 2011
Deriving its name partly from the golfing expression ‘Tiger Line’ BTL now hosts 9 regional tournaments from Dubai to Korea with the main competition being the ‘BTL Masters’ held every September in Singapore, which is well supported by the global shipping industry.
Places at these events are much sought after and what better way to host clients than a round of golf where for 4-5 hours some sunshine, fresh air and conversations can be shared by all.
CSS’s own Ken Dinnadge upon his return to competitive golf tournaments won this Year’s Desert challenge in style after an 18-month absence from the Dubai shipping fraternity’s competitions.
Ken said, “I was thrilled to have been part of this tournament taking into account the international field of players which included some well known shipping CEOs and company owners. To take gold in this event was very special and is now part of history of BTLs event.
CSS Head Office and CSS Jebel Ali offices celebrated the 40th UAE National Day by decorating the offices with balloons, flags, and various memorabilia’s, which represent the UAE (United Arab Emirates) colors and its 40th National Day.
1. DO NOT INTERFERE IN OTHERS’ BUSINESS UNLESS ASKED: Most of us create our own problems by interfering too often in others’ affairs. We do so because somehow we have convinced ourselves that our way is the best way, our logic is the perfect logic and those who do not conform to our thinking must be criticized and steered to the right direction, our direction. This thinking denies the existence of individuality. No two human beings can think or act in exactly the same way.
2. FORGIVE AND FORGET: This is the most powerful aid to peace of mind. We often develop ill feelings inside our heart for the person who insults us or harms us. We nurture grievances. Get over this bad habit. Life is too short to waste in such trifles. Forgive, Forget, and march on.
3. DO NOT CRAVE FOR RECOGNITION: This world is full of selfish people. They seldom praise anybody without selfish motives. They may praise you today because you are in power, but no sooner than you are powerless; they will forget your achievement and will start finding faults in you.
4. DO NOT BE JEALOUS: We all have experienced how jealousy can disturb our peace of mind. Remember everybody’s life is shaped by his or her destiny, which has now become his or her reality. If you are destined to be rich, nothing in the world can stop you. If you are not so destined, no one can help you either.
5. CHANGE YOURSELF ACCORDING TO THE ENVIRONMENT: If you try to change the environment single-handedly, the chances are you will fail. Instead, change yourself to suit your environment. As you do this, even the environment, which has been unfriendly to you, will mysteriously change and seem congenial and harmonious.
6. ENDURE WHAT CANNOT BE CURED: This is the best way to turn a disadvantage into an advantage. Every day we face numerous inconveniences, ailments, irritations, and accidents that are beyond our control. If we cannot control them or change them, we must learn to put up with these things. We must learn to endure them cheerfully.
7. DO NOT BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW: We often tend to take more responsibilities than we are capable of carrying out. This is done to satisfy our ego. Know your limitations. Reduce your material engagements and spend time in introspection and meditation. This will reduce those thoughts in your mind that make you restless. Uncluttered mind will produce greater peace of mind.
8. MEDITATE REGULARLY: Meditation calms the mind and gets rid of disturbing thoughts. This is the highest state of peace of mind.
9. NEVER LEAVE THE MIND VACANT: Keep your mind occupied in something positive, something worthwhile. Actively follow a hobby. Do something that holds your interest. You must decide what you value more: money or peace of mind. Your hobby, like social work or religious work, may not always earn you more money, but you will have a sense of fulfillment and achievement.
10. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE AND NEVER REGRET: Do not waste time in protracted wondering should I or shouldn’t I? days, weeks, months, and years may be wasted in that futile mental debating. You can never plan enough because you can never anticipate all future happenings. Value your time and do the things that need to be done. It does not matter if you fail the first time. You can learn from your mistakes and succeed the next time. Learn from your mistakes, but do not brood over the past. DO NOT REGRET. Whatever happened was destined to happen only that way. Why cry over split milk?
Have a wonderful 2012!!!!
The last few months have proved to be really invigorating, for all of us, as we have had opportunities to participate and interact during the Exhibitions and conferences in shipping & logistics around the globe. We have enjoyed sharing news and views about changing business patterns and concepts. At CSS we had a beneficial and enjoyable time as we were able to combine some serious business discussions, amongst top and middle management, with convivial leisure activities.
Such events prompt me to ask, “Isn’t it time for us to think about something new in our business strategies?” I believe the answer must be “yes”.
We are heading towards the CSS Group Sales strategy meet. This will be an ideal occasion to think about, discuss and develop new ideas and outcomes.
Recently, entrepreneurs and progressive businesses have started giving special spaces in their organizations for “idea-makers”. To some this may seem an unexpected designation but it is very interesting isn’t it? To be competitive, especially in the field of sales and marketing, there is a great demand for this type of professional input.
Idea-makers are people who originate and implement their ideas and passions in an entirely unique combination which invite greater results. To many their “off the wall” concepts usually challenge accepted norms. We have professionals in our company who have ideas, who thrive on challenges so as to take our business to higher levels. Their innovative thoughts are a catalyst for all of us to discover new and better ways to provide services for our customers. Idea makers know how to combine freedom of thought, the demands of business and the enjoyment of exploring. I am confident similar considerations will enable us to have a very fruitful and constructive strategy meeting.
Let new ideas emerge in our thought process so as to explore new heights of accomplishments for CSS.
T. S. Kaladharan
NVOCCs, or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers, are third-party intermediaries within the international freight transportation sector primarily serving the less-than-container load market. Over the past few years the NVOCC industry has experienced a high percentage of growth. This growth can be attributed to several factors, but at the core, NVOCCs have grown because they facilitate the international transport of relatively small shipment lots that would otherwise be less likely to move across borders in the ocean freight system.
Consolidated Shipping Services Group is one of the fastest growing NVOCC in the region where it operates. With the nature of the NVOCC business transforming itself over the past decade, the CSS NVOCC team have developed a new range of service options that have enabled them to become one of the most sought after NVOCC’s in the region. Through research and development of extremely sophisticated software that has changed the nature of the NVOCC offering, the team at CSS has also added more trade lanes to their schedules and entered into partnerships that have led to more services for global oriented customers.
This reputation has guaranteed competitive rates & space with major liners for consolidated shipments on a regular basis. CSS represents the leading NVO’s globally that have Sea Freight Import/Export consolidation to an impressive 1650 destinations on a weekly basis. CSS handles the movements of cargo through major trans-shipment hubs like Singapore, Hamburg, La Spezia, Rotterdam, Durban, Alexandria, Colombo, Felixstowe and New York. At present it features direct export consolidations to over 40 destinations, which include niche sectors like Beirut, Tunis, Port Louis etc. We also manage direct import consolidations from various origins like Australia, Asia, Africa, North and South America, Europe, and the Middle East.
While NVOCC’s keep a strong focus on servicing a specific industry or commodity, CSS’s NVOCC have a niche operation in the Middle East region with their own network in the major trading hubs of the region; Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and therefore offering their clients a sharp focus, and extremely close working relationships with individual customers.
Mr. T.S. Kaladharan, Chairman, CSS Group stated, “With each market having specific requirements, we felt it was necessary to establish CSS NVOCC network offices in order to cater to the growing demands of our clientele. Our network offices have dedicated teams who are able to provide their customers with a focussed approach of years of expertise.”
Abu Dhabi
Strategically located at the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, CSS Abu Dhabi, since its inception, has experienced phenomenal growth due to its presence in one of the Middle East’s fastest growing markets. Talking about this growth Mr. Suku Sudhakaran, Asst. General Manager, CSS Abu Dhabi, “We are focusing on key export sectors such as Europe, Hamburg, Rotterdam, United Kingdom, North America and the Far East for mainly oilfield spare parts and machinery along with personal effects and relocations movements on a regular basis. As for imports, we are targeting clients who have regular LCL imports of textiles, lighting equipment, spare parts, dry foodstuffs, healthcare, fitness equipment and electronics.” CSS Abu Dhabi has opened its new Logistics facility in Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates in a strategic move to cater for the volumes of exports and imports serving this region. Conveniently located at the Abu Dhabi Business Hub, the spacious warehouse is spread over an extensive area providing facilities for offices and workspace. With this added logistics facility taken up in Mussaffah, CSS Abu Dhabi aims to provide complete storage and logistical solutions to the Abu Dhabi marketplace. ICAD 1 is located near to Mussaffah Sea Port and is 12 minutes from the Abu Dhabi International Airport.It covers an area of 14 sq. km and is 30 km away from the heart of the City of Abu Dhabi.
P.O. Box 32454, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Tel: +971 2 6431717, Fax: +971 2 6431919, Email: info@cssabudhabi.com
Bahrain
Bahrain is a small island west of the Arabian Peninsula which is located in close proximity to Saudi Arabia, which lies to its west, and Qatar, which is to its southwest. Meaning “two seas” in Arabic, Bahrain is unique because it is an archipelago of 33 islands with Bahrain Island being the largest. CSS Bahrain’s office which was setup in 2002 has experienced steady growth through the years mainly due first to its location and secondly by the expertise its staff offers. Mr. Narayan RT, General Manager explains, “We have regular LCL Services from all around the globe, especially from China, India, Europe & USA along with regular import consols from China, United Arab Emirates, India and the United Kingdom. We operate weekly export consols to Jebel Ali & Singapore and direct consols to Antwerp every fortnight. Europe & USA are other sectors in which we have regular on going trade with. The main commodities handled by CSS Bahrain vary from industry to industry, both by way of import and export. The common imports we handle range anywhere from building materials, machinery, oil field equipment’s to project cargoes. The regular exports from Bahrain that we undertake on a consistent basis is machinery/heavy equipment’s, garments, aluminum products and petroleum products. Our dedicated and prudent workforce along with our customs bonded CFS facility within the Mina Salmaan Port has ensured successful handling of ocean freight containers coming in from various ports of the world.” CSS Bahrain has been maintaining an excellent relationship with leading carriers, thereby ensuring competitive rates and services to its valued clients.
P.O. Box 2209, Manama, Bahrain, Tel: +973 17540106, Fax: +973 17540107, Email: info@cslbahrain.com
Dubai
Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Emirate is located south of the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsula and has the largest population with the second largest land territory by area of all the emirates, after Abu Dhabi. More than 200 factories operate at the Jebel Ali complex in Dubai, which includes a deep-water port and a free trade zone for manufacturing and distribution in which all goods for re-export or transshipment enjoy a 100% duty exemption.
Its geographical location has made it an important trading hub and by the beginning of the 20th century, it was an important port. Likewise, CSS Dubai was established in 1995 with a vision to cater the ever-growing demand of trade between countries, predominantly in the areas of ocean freight. Since Dubai is a major trading hub by connecting trade from all areas of the world, it was important for CSS Dubai to meet the needs and requirements for both its local and international clientele trading in the Emirates. “Having our corporate head office based in Dubai and our state of the art CFS facilities in the Jebel Ali Freezone which has been rated among the best in the region we are able to cater for all goods being imported and exported not only from Dubai, but from the other Emirates, i.e.: Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah,” adds Mr. U.B. Prince, Vice President NVOCC Operations. “Our Ocean Freight Management team of CSS handles movement of cargoes from any global origin/destination, be it LCL or FCL and as a leading NVOCC, CSS has secured excellent relationships with leading carriers, thereby ensuring outstanding rates and services,” he explains.
Corporate Office, P.O. Box 27802, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 3248884, Fax: +971 4 3249994, Email: info@cssdubai.com
Kuwait
Looking specifically at Kuwait, Mr. Dean Landers, General Manager, CSS Kuwait, commented, “For Kuwait, China is one of the strongest markets. Chinese products form the major imports into Kuwait and CSS Kuwait has weekly imports from Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, and Guangzhou. Since Kuwait is an import-dominated market, products as small as pins and buttons to enormous machinery, all get imported into Kuwait. Due to the ideal location of the major Middle East markets, the Far East and India is able to benefit from goods that are imported into Kuwait. Our custom built state of the art warehouse at Shuwaikh which is an industrial area within the Al Asimah Governorate in the country of Kuwait is used for storage and export cargoes while our bonded warehouse facility in the Kuwait Free Trade Zone (KFTZ) is attached the Shuwaikh port and is mainly used for import cargoes. Shuwaikh port, due to its location and accessibility in the heart of the city is the most frequented port for all vessels carrying commercial cargoes.”
C/o ADC Forwarding Services Co.W., 1st floor, Suhair Commercial Centre, Al Hilali Street, Opp. Sharq Fire Station
P.O.Box 12075,Shamiya 71651, Kuwait, Tel: +965 22493957,+965 22400176, Fax: +965 22458892, Email : css@csskuwait.com
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East by land area, constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula, and the second-largest Arab country. It is bordered by Jordan and Iraq on the north and northeast, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates on the east, Oman on the southeast, and Yemen on the south. With an approximate size of 2,149,690 square kilometres, it is only natural that a number of offices were setup in Saudi Arabia to cope with client needs, currently CSS Saudi Arabia has 3 offices situated in Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh. Giving his insight into the NVOCC market in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Faisal, Director CSS Saudi Arabia.
“CSS Saudi has conveniently located its bonded warehouse facility in the Damman and Jeddah Free Zone; both locations are ideal as a hub and gateway for Saudi Arabian imports and re-exports to neighbouring Gulf & Middle East countries. The Damman bonded and Re-export Zone is situated within the confines of King Abdul Aziz complex in Dammam and provides access to 22 millions consumers in the Saudi market and 1.2 billion consumers in the markets of neighbouring countries. The many advantages offered by CSS Saudi is the easy access made by land, sea or air to any regional destination. King Fahad International Airport is just 45kms away and the advanced highways network as well as the railway network; provide practical land-transit access to Saudi Arabia’s main cities and all neighbouring countries. The main imports into Saudi Arabia are machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, chemicals, motor vehicles and textiles, while major exports from Saudi Arabia are petroleum and petroleum products. Consolidated Shipping Services – Saudi Arabia is one of the leading freight forwarders in the region and is backed by a young, energetic and professional team which provide cost effective logistical solutions for all of its customers.”
P.O.Box 9580, Dammam – 31423, Tel : + 966 3 8333636, Fax : +966 3 8320533, Email : docdmm@csssaudi.com
P.O.Box 14051, Riyadh – 11422, Tel : +966 1 2063111, Tax : +966 1 2921260, Email : docryd@csssaudi.com
P.O.Box 52143, Jeddah – 21563, Tel : +966 2 6427330, Fax : +966 2 6437220, Email : docjed@csssaudi.com
Built with the philosophy of fostering business relations that result in mutual, beneficial growth, CSS has been able to create and maintain the most enviable list of global network partners in the industry. The success of the CSS Group is attributed to these individual and group of companies that have continued to work hand in hand with us to ensure an unmatched level of service to our customers.
Providing insight and understanding the future of the global freight forwarding industry has always been the cornerstone of the CSS Group’s success. By recognizing an opportunity in the market, CSS Group set about finding global industry leaders that shared the same passion for excellence in customer service, and incomparable industry experience in their region. Today over 1650 destinations on a weekly sailing compliments CSS’ service, apart from supporting various projects and personal effects. With an unmatched list of partners, spanning the entire globe, CSS Group would like to thank each and everyone for their continued dedication, support and utmost professionalism since the inception of the partnerships.
CaroTrans – A global team that cares about its customers
CaroTrans is a leading global NVOCC and ocean freight consolidator dedicated to delivering the highest level of customer service and support. They accomplish this with committed local teams of ocean transportation experts that are positioned to provide exceptional service in key trading markets throughout the world. CaroTrans’ global offices, in combination with strategic partners, provide a strong global network of import and export operations dedicated to service excellence. They believe that well established local teams with regional market knowledge provide the highest level of customer care and service. This is the hallmark of the CaroTrans brand.
“We are very pleased to be partnering with the CSS Group in the important Middle East, Africa, and North America trade region. This alliance creates a comprehensive network of local teams dedicated to delivering superior LCL, FCL, breakbulk, out of gauge, and ro ro cargo handling services,” said Greg Howard, Global CEO, CaroTrans. Greg continued, “Our cultures are completely compatible. We are both 100% focused on the highest level of support and service for our customers.”
“CaroTrans is not new to Middle East trade. The company has been involved with the region for over 16 years. We currently offer weekly direct consolidation services to Dubai from our primary gateways of Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Charleston and New York,” added Howard.
FPS Global Logistics Pte Ltd (Singapore), started out in 1988 and partnered with CSS Group Dubai in 2003. Shortly thereafter, this mutually beneficial partnership was extended to CSS India, which has allowed for both companies to grow from strength to strength. Today, FPS is one of Singapore’s leading consolidators, providing ocean and air forwarding services to more than 50 countries with diversified businesses in warehousing, trucking and project management which have led to the enhancement of FPS’ total logistics. “We have been associated with CSS for close to a decade now and the basis of our service standards together offers our clients a personalized unparalleled shipping knowledge and competent handling of their shipments. Attributed with strong foundations and coupled with skilled and dedicated management and staff teams with a further support of IT capabilities, we are well positioned to meet the continual changes and demands in the global market place,” added Mr. Alvin Tan, CEO & Managing Director FPS Singapore.
FPS Hong Kong was founded in 1990 with a business concentration in China that specifically covers the Pearl River Delta whereby since 2005 offices have been established in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Shunde and Foshan. As one of the founding members and the driving power in the global agency network of Famous Pacific Shipping Group since 1994; FPS Hong Kong has been providing a professional service to the global marketplace. The Gulf and Middle East is one of the major business targets of the company between FPS and CSS Group since their partnership was established in 2002. “With over 10 years of coordination and a very strong business relationship with CSS Group we have been able to build upon our partnerships and further extend our reach to other CSS Network offices worldwide,” added Mr. Edmond Tong, Director, FPS Hong Kong.
FPS Logistics (Thailand) was established in 2001 as an international sea and airfreight forwarder that provides a full range of worldwide consolidation services, logistics management including air/sea freight forwarding, project cargo handling and customs formalities services. “Having partnered for over a decade with CSS Group we have witnessed both companies growing substantially whilst promising mutual growth collectively,” says Mr. Kettivit Sittisoontornwong, FPS Chairman.
FPS Rotterdam, Famous Pacific Shipping Rotterdam is one of the leading consolidators of Rotterdam. Started in 2001 with their first export consolidation container to Singapore, Famous Pacific Shipping Rotterdam has rapidly grown in the past 10 years into one of Rotterdam’s leading consolidators. Having partnered with CSS Group over 9 years ago, the friendship has rapidly led to a successful reciprocal business relationship. The commitment and dedication of the combined forces of CSS and FPS resulted to the fact that within a short period of time FPS could add the Middle East, India and East Africa to their reputation as preferred consolidator in the forwarding industry. Commenting on the excellent services provided by CSS as a destination partner, Mr. Jean-Paul van Munster, FPS Managing Director-Rotterdam, stated, “One can offer the best possible service at origin, but it is wasted if the partner at the destination does not live up to the same standard, but this is not the case with CSS which has proven to be the preferred partner at destination”.
Get Shipping Co., Ltd. is a comprehensive freight forwarder corporation that covers business from export & import sea freight / air freight / FCL & LCL shipment and corresponding logistical services especially in the area of consolidation.
The company started with clients-oriented objectives for long-term development in the freight forwarding market and appreciates the high reputation received from the industry due to excellent service quality, reliable overseas agents and competitive selling rates.
Get Shipping Co., Ltd. developed its business relationship with CSS Group in 2005 and during the past 7 years, the cooperation with CSS Group has developed exponentially. CSS Group handles the consolidation/ FCL & LCL / air freight to Jebel Ali, while providing the best service of transshipment to seaports & airports nearby in the Middle East. “Our partnership with CSS Group each year gets stronger and with the dedicated employee’s and excellent customer service offered by both companies, we look forward to continually building on our business relationship with CSS” added Ms. Elaine Yang, Director Get Shipping Co., Ltd.
Oriental Logistics Group Ltd. (OLC) was established and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan in March of 2000. After sometime it established branches in Taichung, Kaohsiung, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Wuxi, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Xiamen, Quanzhou, Putian, Fuzhou, Ningbo, Qingdao, Zibo, Weihai, Jinan, Huangdao, Zhongshan, Tianjin, Guangzhou, Dalian, Zhuhai, Ho Chi Minh and Haiphong. The staff strength has grown from 30 employees in early 2000 to over 900 by 2011. With a professional and experienced team offering excellent service quality, OLC has the honor to pass the severe competition in its marketplace and be listed on the TOP 500 Service Industries in Taiwan for consecutive years in a row.
OLC handles Sea and Air Freight, and also operates a state-of-the-art logistics business. It creates a perfectly designed global service network, and supply chain with professional agents all over the world. “It’s an honor to work with CSS for over 10 years since year 2002, and due to this excellent business relationship we are able to achieve a good business performance in the Persian Gulf area owing to CSS’ well-organized system and complete service of CFS. CSS is definitely our best partner in the Persian Gulf area and we will continue the successful, fruitful and long-term cooperation with CSS for years to come,” added Mr. Allen Tsai, President of Oriental Logistics Group Ltd.
Established in April 2000 and with its head office in Taiwan, Panda Logistics Qingdao has been a partner with CSS for over 3 years. Based on the similar culture and higher quality standards, this partnership has enabled Panda Logistics to sup¬port their customers with weekly direct consolidation services to Dubai and bring a first class service, resources and expertise to the marketplace. “Our relationship with CSS Group, has given us a strong advantage over our competitors’ as it allows us to expand our service capabilities through a seamless network of offices like Kuwait, Jeddah, Bahrain etc. in the Middle East,” commented Mr. Richard Wu, Managing Director of Panda Logistics Co, LTD Qingdao Branch.
Portever Shipping Ltd. Situated at Ningbo–a beautiful port city on the China East Coastline in Zhejiang Province, Portever Shipping Ltd. was established in 1995 and is one of the oldest NVOCC in Ningbo. With over 300 professional staff that are specialized in consolidation business, FCL and customs clearance, Portever Shipping Ltd was approved by the China Ministry of Communications in August 2002 and became an NVOCC. Afterwards it was designated to be an international freight forwarder, which allowed engaging business as customs declaration and an inspection declaration broker. Mr. Luo Zhongli, Managing Director Portever Shipping Ltd added, “We began our partnership with CSS Group in 2001 and since then we have worked well together ensuring excellent customer service for all of our worldwide clients. We look forward to continuing to grow this partnership for years to come.”
CSS Group and CaroTrans have teamed up to create a new alliance to strengthen their service offerings from North America to the Middle East and African markets. The new cooperation will offer the most comprehensive LCL and FCL service capabilities available in the market. CaroTrans and CSS are well-established service providers and collectively will offer an extensive network of offices and dedicated NVOCC experts providing excellent representation, professional user-friendly services, while catering to the North American, Middle East and African trade lanes. Through this alliance, neutral warehousing & logistics in the industry with state of the art facilities throughout North America and the Middle East will be enhanced and improved throughout the Middle Eastern and African trade routes. Today, CaroTrans and CSS are unique in their operations with their own warehouse facilities in the USA and the Middle East for the cargo receiving and forwarding as well as adding many other features such as, bar coding and specialized handling of freight within the NVOCC market space.