Upgrading CSS Group Portal

CSS Group will soon have their group portal with a major facelift

The IT and design divisions of CSS Group is working on a key facelift project of the CSS Portal. The portal will soon be launched with an enhanced look and feel. Some unique features will be added on to the existing features of the portal, according to the IT department.
This portal aims at meeting the customer service requirements of the group company with more ease. The entire system is divided primarily into three different sections or modules. The first module is exclusively created to satisfy the requirements of customers/agents and shippers and is named the customer portal. The second section is exclusively for the CSS Group staff and is called the employee portal, while the third module is crafted for the system administrators and it’s called the admin portal. The CSS portal carries innumerable features in itself and is aiming at enhancing its features and incorporating new ones with this facelift.
The group portal is developed and managed by Twin Info Solutions Pvt. Ltd, an India based BPO Company specialized in IT & ITES. The portal can be accessed through the link www.cssgrouponline.com

Regional Office and New Warehouse

CSS GROUP TO INCREASE ITS STORAGE CAPACITY WITHIN JAFZA

Consolidated Shipping Group has broken ground on its new facility inside the Jebel Ali Freezone. The proud function was held recently in the presence of invited guests and dignitaries from the Shipping and Logistics community. CSS Group will have their Regional office along with a new warehouse within the new facility. This new warehouse will bring in an additional space of 47,850 Sq. ft to its existing 3PL facilities in the Middle East.

“CSS is always committed to provide first class services and facilities to our clients. The increase in the storage area with the additional new facility in Jebel Ali will put CSS Group amongst the front runners of 3PL providers in the Middle East Region”, mentioned Raj George Senior VP, Ocean Freight, CSS Group.

The new facility will have 3956 pallet positions with double deep racking facility. The storage area will be partly temperature controlled as well.

The ground breaking ceremony of the new facility in JAFZA was attended by Dr. Mohammad Al Banna, Vice President – MEA Region, Economic Zones World, Malayalam Cine actor Mr. Anoop Menon, Mr. Srinivas from Orbit engineering consultants & Mr. Ajit T P from Space Max Contracting L.L.C.

The proposed new facility will become operational in a year’s time from the commencement of the work. “The additional warehouse space which is going to emerge out of this new project will give CSS Group the capacity to handle to the maximum satisfaction of our existing clientele and to accommodate the ever increasing demand for storage within the Jebel Ali Free Zone” commented T S Kaladharan Chairman, CSS Group during the function.

The Dream Come True Destination for Business

SHARJAH AIRPORT INTERNATIONAL FREEZONE (SAIF ZONE)

SAIF Zone is adjacent to Sharjah International Airport and close to the main ports, terminals and cities of the country. Despite the short history of the free zone, it has been noted for the fast development providing state-of-the-art facilities for investors.

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF) is the first Airport Industrial Free Trade Zone in the UAE. Easily accessible to sea-ports on the Gulf of Oman (Port Khor Fakkan) and the Arabian Gulf (Port Khalid), SAIF Zone is built adjacent to the Sharjah International Airport, which has already gained the enviable reputation as leading cargo hub. With the distinction of being the world’s first ISO 9001 certified Airport Free Zone, Sharjah Airport International Free Zone offers highly developed infrastructure and extremely attractive incentives make the dream come true for the businessman.

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone provides some of the most enticing business incentives in the region, including speed of service and simplicity of process. The perception of lengthy and highly bureaucratic procedures to set up in the Middle East can be a serious barrier to potential investors but SAIF-Zone has a 24 hour licensing service which enables businesses to be up and running sooner than has ever been possible before. The customer base is among the largest in the world from one central hub, with access to more than 2 billion people within a four hour flight and as one of the most dynamic Emirates in the UAE, Sharjah accounts for over a third of the country’s industrial activity. Its links to the rest of the world are accessible and immediate and regardless of where your customers are based, SAIF-Zone provides you with all the benefits of a personal and corporate tax-free income with no import export duties.

Versatility has always been one of SAIF-Zone’s prime objectives. From a single office space to entire manufacturing facilities and everything in between, the options are designed to accommodate every business and every scenario. Warehouses, storage areas, container parking, bunkers and labour housing are all available at the lowest costs and highest quality. SAIF-Zone offers an unlimited workforce to support your business along with sponsorship and visas for in-house staff to make the transition to a new workplace as smooth as possible.

Advantages of SAIF Zone

• 100% foreign owned enterprise
• 100% repatriation of capital & profits
• 100% Corporate, personal income tax exemptions
• 100% exemption of import & export taxes
• License issued within 24 hours
• On site labor accommodation
• 25 years lease extendable to a similar period
• Sponsorship and visa’s for all staff
• Free transfer of funds & a stable Currency
• Global and regional communication facilities with excellent sea, land and air transport links
• Access to over 2 billion customers Strategic location
• 24 hour hotline for equipment and provision of labor
• Competitive structure of fee, property and management
• 24 X 7 Operations.

10000 + Likes

Social media revolution within the Face book page of CSS Group is the latest IT update from Consolidated Shipping Group. Recently the face book page of CSS Group has received 10,000 likes and is still going. Widely accepted by the entire shipping fraternity, the Face book page of CSS is a constantly updated platform connecting the company members with the Social media community. You can find the latest updates from within the company as well as interesting, must know facts happening in the logistics and freight forwarding fraternity from CSS Group Page.

Log on to https://www.facebook.com/cssgroupsite?fref=ts to know more about CSS Activities.

CSS Kingston Website Launched

CSS Kingston Logistics FZC has launched its new website recently. The website features all activities of CSS Kingston Logistics from its flagship facility at the SAIF Zone, Sharjah. The new website was designed and powered by Twin Info Solutions Pvt. Ltd, a Kerala based BPO Company. The site has been neatly decorated with the images from their warehouse and other services CSS Kingston is offering. The company is planning to add more interactive links to the website to make it more users friendly and productive, in the due course.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Stars

SCHOOL KITS DISTRIBUTED
As part of a CSS – CSR initiative, School kits which included new bags, books and pencil boxes were distributed amongst pre-primary and primary school children in and around Thrikkunnappuzha, Alleppey Dist. Kerala. Five lower primary schools which are running under the Government of Kerala aid were benefitted by this regular CSR programme of school aid distribution by CSS under the guidance of T S Kaladharan, Group Chairman. The schools were Govt. LP School Valiyaparambu, Govt. LP School Thrikkunnappuzha, Govt. LP School Panoor, Govt. LP School Pallana & Govt. LP School Atmavidya Sangham.
New bags and books brought beaming smiles on the faces of more than 900 little faces. The programme commenced with local authority members from the Panchayat wards welcoming the gathering. All the children, their parents and the school authorities were present for the occasion. The school kits were distributed by Mr. Babu Prasad, former Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly and the present member of the Kerala State Electricity Board. People’s representatives and the school authorities thanked CSS and Kala for this noble activity. Lunch was also served to more than 500 people that included the children and parents on this auspicious occasion.
G Unnikrishnan, Head of Marketing & Corporate communications, CSS Group and Hareendran, Manager, Devas Farm house were present on behalf of CSS for the function.

CMA CGM Honours CSS Group

CSS Group was recently honoured by the CMA CGM as a top customer for outstanding performance for the year 2014. The award was handed over to T S Kaladharan, Chairman of CSS Group by Mr. Lars Jensen Hojbjerg, Managing Director of CMA CGM- Dubai at the CSS Group Head Office. The recognition was for the consistent performance of CSS Group with CMA for the movement of containerized cargo globally, for the third consecutive year. CSS Group is one of the leading NVOCC in the Middle East and Indian Sub-continent.

“CSS Group is honored to have been awarded with this recognition from CMA CGM and we value this partnership. Such recognitions are motivation for us to perform better and strengthen the existing bond with industry leaders like CMA”, Commented T S Kaladharan at the occasion.

Founded in Marseille in 1978 the CMA CGM Group is the third-largest container shipping company globally. From its base in Marseille, the CMA CGM Group operates in more than 150 countries, with more than 20,000 employees and associates worldwide.

With a young and diversified fleet of 445 vessels, the CMA CGM Group serves 400 of the world’s 521 commercial ports.

“The CSS Group relationship with CMA has been an evolving one, one that has seen an exponential growth in the last 3 years. The fact that we have been honored successively for the last 3 years as a top customer is proof enough that when there is a focused approach the results will come. CMA is an integral part of our recently instituted core carrier program, and we look forward to a fruitful association with them this year and in the future” Commented Ajay Krishnan, Senior General Manager, Freight forwarding and Key Information Department, CSS Group on this achievement.

CSS Group looks forward to see the relationship grow manifold, with CMA CGM in the years to come.

A Visit to Jebel Ali

CH ROBINSON VISITS CSS GROUP FACILITIES IN JEBEL ALI

On an invitation from T S Kaladharan the Group Chairman of CSS, The President of Global forwarding of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Mr. Stephane Rambaud and the Vice President Mr. Tom Sweet visited the CSS Group offices and facilities at the Jebel Ali Free Zone. They were received by the senior management team of CSS Group led by Raj George, Senior VP Projects Oil & Energy division. The CH Robison officials held discussions with the senior management team of CSS Group.

A day before this visit Stephane Rambaud & Tom Sweet attended the 20th anniversary celebrations of CSS Group which was held in Dubai. The anniversary celebrations consisted of a Golf event at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club on the 12th March and conference and gala dinner at the Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights on the 13th March.

About C.H. Robinson

C. H. Robinson is a global provider of multimodal transportation services and logistics solutions, operating through a network of branch offices in North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Australia and the Middle East. They are a non-asset based transportation provider, who works with approximately 63,000 transportation companies worldwide. They also provide a wide range of value added logistics services, such as supply chain analysis, freight consolidation, core carrier program management, and information reporting.

Consolidated Shipping Group is proud to be associated with a global giant like C.H. Robinson in the freight forwarding business and keeps abreast this valuable partnership as a driving force to maintain quality services that they continuously provide to their customers.

CSS India at WCA

WORLD CARGO ALLIANCE CONFERENCE WAS HELD AT HONG KONG

CSS India was a part of the 7th WCA Worldwide Conference which was held from 2-5 February at the Asia World Expo adjacent to Hong Kong Airport which comprised of all 4 of WCA’s general networks within one major event. The conference was treated as an integral part of the WCA Conference Week and is a must for all members of the WCA.

Attending the conference is undoubtedly the single most productive way to boost revenues, expand the company, reach out to new markets and raise the company’s profile around the globe. WCA conference is treated as a great business opportunity for all freight forwarders as all major companies and professionals from around the globe participate in this event. Delegates create tens of millions of dollars in combined new business and save weeks of travel time and thousands of dollars in travel expenses by pre-booking up to 40 pre-arranged meetings with fellow agents from around the world.

Members of WCA networks make up the world’s most powerful grouping of independent freight forwarders with 5565 offices in more than 762 cities and ports worldwide and together create more logistics power than all other networks combined. “WCA always provides an excellent platform to share and exchange ideas and new concepts. CSS India has gained a lot in terms of business and developing new contacts by being a frequent participant of this conference” mentioned Jairam K R, Director CSS India, after participating this year’s conference.

Congrats CSS Group

Walking alongside CSS Group

We, Portever Shipping Limited are very grateful to CSS’ professional services. Portever has been cooperating with CSS over 15 years and had never met with disappointment in solving complicated issues. All these years, we had a very enjoyable working relationship with CSS service and have a very pleasant cooperation which was mutually beneficial. With the help of CSS Group, we’ve been getting better feedbacks; comments from the end customers which definitely helped us expand our business in the Middle East Area.

Achievements with CSS Group

We think we made big success in Middle East with the help from CSS group. CSS provides not only professional service, but also competitive price, best attention and efficient communications which are key factors in today’s business world. I think these can be seen as the common traits between us. Also we both dislike pessimism.

On the 20th anniversary

We sincerely wish to be CSS’ strategic partner in China and hope to expand the business in coming years with mutual efforts. We, at Portever wish CSS a great time during the 20th anniversary and again wish to celebrate the 50th anniversary too, together.

Walking alongside CSS Group

CHR aligning with CSS has provided us with an excellent operational and commercial platform in a strategically important market (i.e. throughout the entire Mena region). CHR Global Forwarding offices can now better service its worldwide customer base by combining resources jointly and develop service offerings on new business and revenue opportunities.

CHR and CSS work closely together and collectively offer first class origin and destination global forwarding services and are now well positioned to enhance both entities customer base as well as compete in a much bigger arena in terms of the so called big service provider/players, already well-established and in the market place.

Whilst we as a group have been extremely busy with many company initiatives on a global scale, with regards to our Global Forwarding activities, we have relied on CSS to develop our footprint in the Middle East which we see as a very important market.

Our worldwide global forwarding offices have integrated well with the CSS, in the Mena region, as collectively CHR and CSS have been able to leverage each company’s core competencies and have combined global expertise with regional knowledge.

Achievements with CSS Group

Since our coming together CHR are delighted to have formed this alliance with CSS as they undoubtedly add value, knowledge and excellent market coverage for our global forwarding network and colleagues.

Obviously we rely on CSS for their regional knowledge and contacts combined with their network coverage in what we can consider as an extremely important region and market for us worldwide.

Like CSS, CHR are constantly looking at new markets and business opportunities in order to add value to our global offices as well as better service our customers.

We have seen some encouraging results since coming together which we all hope we can continue to build on, as we have a solid foundation in place that both CSS and CHR intend to leverage moving forward.

On the 20th anniversary

We look forward to developing more business opportunities and revenue streams in an exciting dynamic market, as well as wish the entire CSS management for their commitment and support to the CHR corporate values and developing the CHR brand and Global Forwarding business throughout the MENA region.

We congratulate CSS for achieving this milestone, 20 years in the Middle East market, and hope the next 20 years are as successful and rewarding as the last

Walking alongside CSS Group

The relationship between CSS and FPS Rotterdam started in 2003 initiated by Mr. Alvin Tan, director of FPS Singapore when Mr. Kaladharan and I happen to visit Singapore at the same time. It was Mr. Alvin Tan who knew me since 1995 and figured that CSS and FPS Rotterdam had a lot to offer to each other, and he was absolutely right!

Achievements with CSS Group

Commencing in 2003, the combined efforts of CSS and FPS Rotterdam has made both companies to become one of the market leaders in consolidation services from and to the Middle East and India.

From the start not only a fruitful business relationship started, but also a close friendship flourished.

During the past years, not only Kala and I became personal friends, it had grown to a higher level into a family atmosphere. We both never missed the opportunity to be in each other’s family functions and over the period of time, we shared the joy of being like a single family and we continue the relationship.

On the 20th anniversary

The history of 12 years relationship with the CSS organization has grown to become not only business partners, but something more valuable in this world; “United Friends” and we wish all success to Kala and his team in this land mark achievement.

Walking alongside CSS Group

Starting from Dubai, our company had been working with CSS Group for more than 15 years. We are proud to claim ourselves as a witness to the appreciable development of CSS Group, with achievements in setting up of offices, warehouses and the overall business expansion. In our daily interactions, we find the people at CSS Group, highly professional, aggressive, responsible and reliable. We fully understand the fact that a strong leadership is a vital thing to a company to have a successful and motivated work and that is where, Kala and his senior management team demonstrate the prowess to be even more successful.

Achievements with CSS Group

As one of the agents of CSS with such a long working relationship, we truly could not find any problem from CSS Group companies, but we enjoy very much to work with this professional team. The common traits are the trust worthiness amongst ourselves and our associates also the confidence to take up any challenge coming on the way of our job.

On the 20th anniversary

While celebrating the 20th anniversary of CSS Group, we would like to deliver our warmest regards and greetings to Kala and his team and truly admire the remarkable achievements that they have made, also we wish to join hands with CSS on further business developments with expecting to celebrate the 25th and 50th anniversary and share the happiness.

Walking alongside CSS Group

It’s been a decade of being associated with CSS, and the journey has been one of learning, co-operating and of immense pleasure. Like in any relationship, there is a need for understanding and adjustments, and in CSS we have found partners who are not only flexible. They are pro-active, and always feel the pulse of the international shipping field. They are quick to implement any new trends that are beneficial for the growth of the organization and always abreast with new developments. In fact, with the passing years, the foresight shown by CSS is commendable, and they are now considered pioneers in the LCL/Groupage industry. Knowing Mr Kala I am very sure that he is not someone who sits on his laurels, but will keep innovating to keep achieving higher goals for not only CSS but also their partners.

Achievements with CSS Group

Looking back at the years, we feel we have grown together with CSS, and the relationship has been immensely beneficial to both our organizations. When you consider that both our organizations believe that our three main pillars for growth are “Our Staff”, “Our Customers” and “Our Partners”, it has been a smooth ride, since we think on the same levels, expect the same kind of professionalism from ourselves, and everyone associated with us.

On 20th anniversary

We would like to take this opportunity to wish CSS continuous growth and prosperity in years to come. Soar high and it is our honor to be your partner here in Kuwait. You can count on us to be that friend that everyone needs who continuously watches your back, and gives you that freedom to keep moving forward and achieving the highest echelons in business.

Walking alongside CSS Group

OLC and CSS have the cooperation for 14 years, the cooperation starts from ocean business in the beginning and extend to air and logistics business with smooth communication and discussion.

We truly respect the professional service quality from CSS. Through the long-term cooperation, the relation between OLC and CSS Groups not only agency cooperation but also forms very close friendship between us.

Achievements with CSS Group

Through the ocean business between Taiwan and Dubai from the cooperation between OLC and CSS Groups, OLC have become top two forwarders in Taiwan market. Meanwhile, the achievement has drawn the attention from “BUREAU OF FOREIGN TRADE MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC AFFAIRS” and “TAIWAN EXTERNAL TRADE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL” these two Taiwan government departments, and they already suggest their members and customers to use the service by OLC and CSS which highly increase publicity for both sides.

On the 20th anniversary

We would like to take this chance to thank CSS for all the supports and cooperation as always and congratulations on the occasion of CSS’s 20th anniversary. Wish CSS Group continuously, steady grow and develop like the past 20 years, and have prosperous and fruitful future for the upcoming years.

Walking alongside CSS Group

It was the summer of ’96 when Mr. Kala and my path crossed the first time. Can you imagine, our first contact actually started via office phone (land line) and not like today, via cell phone. That time we had ongoing discussions on how to break into one special account. Prior to having met the first time personally, we had already talked hours over the phone and had slowly started to work together. It was somehow strange, but even via phone I felt we had been able to build up some kind of personal relationship. A few months passed and it was time to meet personally. I may be lying if I say I was not curious that time on who was actually behind that voice I had been talking to for months. My gut feeling was right, our first handshake was not only the beginning of a valuable business partnership, it was the beginning of a great friendship.

Achievements with CSS group

CSS Group is and has been a valuable partner for us. Due to the offered product portfolio and growth of CSS around the Middle East, we are able to offer our customers the full range of forwarding expertise.

Our common understanding on how to fulfill the needs of our customers on both sides has enabled us to be a competitive player in the shark pond.

On the 20th anniversary

On behalf of NGL Navigator Global Logistics, we congratulate CSS for completing 20 glorious years of success. When you began your business in 1995, there was already a healthy competition in the market, but you have been able to achieve tremendous growth by providing the best product and service to your customers and partners. A great company with great people and we all know… great people make great companies. We wish you all the success for many more years to come. And we hope to continue doing more business with you in future

Walking alongside CSS Group

We have been working with the CSS Group in Dubai and neighboring Countries now for many years. Starting off with Sea freight Consolidations, we extended the co-operation to Airfreight and combined Sea-and Air for Project Cargo.

We regard CSS as one of our most active Partners worldwide, reliable, trustworthy and innovative, always open for new ideas and focused on customer’s needs.

We extended our partnership some years to our sister companies in Eastern Europe, Russia and glad to notice that a lot of business, especially in the field of Airfreight has been developed.

Achievements with CSS Group

The foundation of our partnership was the weekly LCL-Consolidation Service between the UK – Dubai and vice-versa, which is still the cornerstone of our partnership. However, we have also many achievements in the field of Airfreight and handling of Turn-Key Projects. The partnership between F.S. Mackenzie and the CSS Group is and will remain strong and ready for the challenges laying ahead.

On the 20th anniversary

We are proud to be a Partner of the CSS Group for many years and all of us at F.S.Mackenzie congratulate CSS for 20 successful years in Freight forwarding and Logistics business. As time fly’s we wish further success for the next 20 years and looking forwarding to Meeting you all again in 2035!!!

Walking alongside CSS Group

Over the course of our longstanding cooperation we have not only maintained our original friendships but these have grown throughout the CSS Group and their associates worldwide. It has been a great experience to work with CSS and their global partners offering a transparent working relationship and has surely enhanced our own business. We have achieved numerous things together during our cooperation which include the expansion of our core services to cover specific markets or trade sectors that were previously outside our scope of work or general market coverage.

Achievements with CSS Group

I believe that CSS and IFS have both expanded their business based on the requirement of satisfying the needs of our business associates and clients. With the cooperation between the Groups it has allowed us to mutually benefit from common business opportunities and work on numerous larger projects together. I feel that CSS and IFS are most similar in the way that both clients and associates are treated on a personal level. As our industry has developed over the last twenty years it is clear that systems and technology have changed our way of doing business but at the core of all of these improvements we all remember that we are fundamentally a people business.

On the 20th anniversary

All at IFS congratulate The CSS Group on reaching this momentous milestone. As the last twenty years have shown there is no limit as to what can be achieved with help of both partners and clients as the CSS group has continued to grow. We wish CSS all success on their 20th Anniversary and going forward in the future. On a personal note I offer my own congratulations to Kala and his team on their past achievements and wish them well with their future endeavors.

Walking alongside CSS Group

We have worked With CSS Since day 1, the Friendship and Business Relationship is way beyond that of any of our Other Worldwide Partners, We feel that The Growth of CSS within the GCC Countries has also Helped Locker Freight to Grow in the UK. Mutually we enjoy the healthy relationship over the years and look forward for an even brighter association in the future.

Achievements with CSS Group

On looking back over the 20 Year Period I think the most Common Traits we share is Trust, alongside Hard Work, Flexibility and Never Say ‘’ No’’ Attitude which are the basic requirements in business. We have both been able to achieve the trust and confidence of our associates over the years. Working closely, we have made sure that the area where we operate recognizes us both with sincerity and gratitude. When two companies like ours share such a support from the business fraternity, then we don’t have to wait and look back.

On the 20th anniversary

We at Locker Freight Ltd, Wish Kala and All the CSS Family The Very Best Wishes on this Great Occasion, and we look forward to the next 20 years Business Relationship with CSS.

Walking alongside CSS Group

At Saga, we met Kala and CSS in Paris in 2008, and after discussions we started developing sea and airfreight business with CDG and Le Havre. But our significant development was the project cargo movement with our Marseille and Tokyo Offices. We consider that the image of CSS in the Middle East is an important asset for us in the Industrial, Oil and gas industry. Together we were able to fulfill the immediate requirements of our clients without compromising on the core values we both uphold.

Achievements with CSS Group

CSS is definitely a very professional and pro-active team and that’s why we are confident cooperating with them. Our common trait is probably the strong culture of both companies which is a major asset in our industry. We also believe in the values of trustworthiness and optimism. These could be the reason why we still have a place in our clients thoughts and hearts.

On the 20th Anniversary

I wish the CSS family to pursue its dynamic development and to prosper while retaining its core value in the years to come also.

Our partnership with CSS has provided an excellent operational and commercial platform in a strategically important market. Carotrans can now better service our customers through the combined resources which have also enabled us to jointly develop new service offerings and revenue opportunities.

The close cooperation with CSS has helped develop best in class LCL and FCL services between the USA and the MENA region based on both companies core competencies, global expertise and regional knowledge.

Achievements with CSS Group

It is quite amazing to consider the incredible similarity of our two companies’ culture and philosophy. Since the start of our cooperation with CSS, our alliance has grown from strength to strength and undoubtedly added value, knowledge and exceptional market coverage for our global network and customers.

We rely on CSS for their regional knowledge and valuable contacts in combination with their comprehensive network coverage.

We have built a solid foundation upon which we will continue to grow and strengthen together.

On the 20th anniversary

We congratulate CSS for achieving this milestone, 20 years in the Middle East market, and hope the next 20 years are as successful and rewarding as the last

Shake Hands for a Better Tomorrow

CSS INDIA ASSOCIATES WITH CHINA SEA MARINE, FRANCE

CSS India joins hands with China Sea Marine, France for their North India operations, specifically for the Delhi & Mumbai markets. While visiting CSS Mumbai, Elizabeth Chiron, Business Development Manager of China Sea Marine (France) S A, mentioned the association as a land mark tie up which will benefit both parties on a long term basis. She also mentioned that working alongside professional teams like CSS ensure better service standards to their clients worldwide.

The cooperation between the two companies will be for the CSS Stations in Mumbai & Delhi; however Cargo from New Delhi will be routed via Nhava Sheva service. The agreement will help CSS India to establish a direct service to and from between Nhava Sheva and Le Havre. “The association of CSS India with China Sea Marine, France will ensure top quality reliable service in this sector. We are delighted to have China Sea Marine, France as our partners as CSS always believe in nurturing trustworthy relationships” commented Jairam K R, Director of CSS India.

Founded in 1997, China Sea Group’s France Branch is located in Le Havre, the most important modern major port in France, which is another successful layout of China Sea Group on the way to expand overseas service. As the first Chinese-invested international logistics enterprise with entire European management mode applied, the purpose of setting up France Branch is to offer complete and professional logistics service covering all links from the place of shipping cargos to the one of receiving cargos. As of now, it has gained great reputation and public praise in the local market, to become a leader in the export and import service of professional LCL in France.

As a crucial overseas base of China Sea Group, France Branch not only plays a leading role in expanding its service of dual-direction LCL between the Far East, Indian Sub continent, Pacific, Middle East and France.

Console Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd, a leading NVOCC in the region where it operates, was established in the year 2004 from Tirupur, Tuticorin and Coimbatore, further expanded its horizons in the year 2007. In an ever increasing Industry stuffed with new demands, Console Shipping Services India has proved to attain an unmatched prowess, in delivering the needful to the clients around the globe.

In 2007, Console shipping services, expanded its presence by its strategic positioning in Mumbai, Delhi & Chennai, thereby covering the major cities and ports of India. The highly skilled and motivated workforce of Console shipping services India is keen in keeping up the brand value. With its proven expertise in NVOCC, 3PL, Air freight & Project cargo management, CSS India in a very short span became the most preferred partner for professional cargo handling. This new association with China Sea Marine, France can be seen as a new window of opportunities for CSS in affirming its already established brand value.

New Corporate Video in The Making

CSS CORPORATE VIDEO-SHOOT IN DUBAI

CSS Group offices witnessed the new corporate video in the making for CSS Group. The programme was in relation to their forthcoming 20th anniversary celebrations going to be held in Dubai during the month of March. Lemon studios, Kochi, Kerala were engaged with the assignment of the corporate video production. Renowned technicians from the corporate world were engaged with the video shoot and production programme. The first schedule of the shooting was completed at the CSS Group offices in Jebel Ali, Cargo Village, DAFZA, Creek customs office and the Head office in Oud Metha buildings during the month of December. The video is planned to be released during the 20th anniversary functions. The forthcoming movie will unveil CSS Group activities and their facilities to a large extend to their clients. The Corporate video will be circulated then for the marketing & sales purposes.

Delhi Needs A Major Facelift to Handle More Cargo

FREIGHT FORWARDING FRATERNITY EXPECTS THE GOVERNMENT TO RIGHTLY INTERVENE

Delhi, India’s political Capital is also one of the largest business hubs of India after Mumbai, Business Capital of India. Delhi handles almost 27-32% of EXIM trade but as this is dry port the operational constrain is one of the biggest setbacks for Delhi EXIM trade. In recent days EXIM trade is facing tremendous problems due to majorly two reasons. One of them is rail connectivity with ocean ports. The seaports in India which caters most of the cargo for Delhi EXIM is either Pipava, Mundra or Mumbai ( NSICT/JNPT & GTIL), but the movement of containerized cargo to & from these ports are severely damaged due to mainly two reasons. One being 15-17% increase of import volume to India and drop in export cargo and the second being the lack of proper infrastructure and trains of CONCOR ( Container Corporation of India) and CWC ( Central Warehousing Corporation).

Now the situation has become so worse that any containerized cargo has a minimum stoppage time of 25-30 days in all of the above sea ports. Also due to new regulation imposed by Delhi Police effective 1st August no road movement of container cargo can be done within Delhi adds up the problem. Apart from the movement circulation another biggest setback is the lack of infrastructure for handling containers at ICD TKD & ICD PPG ( Two major ports of Delhi NCR region).

There is no major infrastructure development from last almost 10 years in these two major ports of Delhi Region. The present infrastructure of these two ports can only handle 2000 & 1000 teus respectively but now due to expansion in Delhi EXIM trade these two ports are forced to handle more than five times of their stipulated capacity. As a result of the same the stuffing and de-stuffing of containerized cargo takes unlimited days to complete which further worsen the situation day by day. Now the situation goes to the extreme standstill level that warehouses and yards are overloaded & no space for cargo handling.

All are forced to commence work in abnormal ways just to keep the movement flowing.

In these adverse conditions the only hope for the Freight forwarding fraternity is that concerned authorities should intervene to solve the problems and create hassle free channels to make containerized cargo move more smoothly.

Move and Prove

CSS MOVED MACHINERY FROM MYANMAR TO DUBAI FOR RITCHIE BROTHERS
CSS Plant and Machinery division making further inroads in the global shipping and logistics arena and is now recognized as a major player in this market segment.
To substantiate this CSS Dubai was brought, by Ritchie Brothers Corporate, into a major purchase contract between Ritchie Brothers and a major seller which entailed CSS being an integral part of a complicated pre-purchase contract as well as the actual equipment movement from the site at Myanmar to Ritchie’s auction yard Dubai.
“It is pleasing to see our specialist business unit, Plant and Equipment Logistics, being brought into very complex purchases and contracts as well us being given full authority by a very important customer to meet and negotiate with all major stake holders in order to get deals done and machines shipped to RBA Dubai”, commented Ken Dinnadge, VP Business Development, CSS Group.
He also added that “Obviously we were able to achieve this, given the support of our specialist team here in Dubai as we are well used to complex vessel fixtures as well as facilitating major elements of pre purchase contracts. This involved CSS being flown to Myanmar as the Logistics and adviser/partners for Ritchie Brothers and as an integral part of the whole negotiation and vessel fixture process”. The first phase was completed which included all stake holders were on board and the vessel fixed.
THE MAIN WORK THEN STARTED INCLUDES:

• Pre planning all load operations
• Fixing the vessel
• Preparing the equipment to be shipped
• Vessel coming in on time
• Cargo loading
• Clearance and delivery to RBA’s yard Jebel Ali.

CSS successfully accomplished the job because they follow the system of working in tandem with their customers and partners so that they come up with the right solution no matter how complex an operation is.
Steve Barritt the GM of Ritchie Brothers commented “We have worked closely with the CSS Group for the past few years and we rely on them assisting us where ever possible so that we can focus on our core business and values which is to provide our growing customer base first class auctions”
“We express our thanks to CSS on this deal, as it was extremely complicated hence we heavily relied on CSS’s expertise and support. Ritchie brothers with a long proven track record in global auctions where freight and Logistics are important, rely on companies like CSS who specialize in this segment.
We offer seamless same full-service, professional services at auctions you’ll find at any Ritchie Bros. auction site out on the road.” He added.
CSS focuses on the below points for ensuring customer satisfaction:
Save money – Transportation companies compete for your business and deliver the most competitive shipping quotes.
Save time – No more phoning around for quotes! Even if you’re shipping many items, you submit just one request and receive multiple quotes.
Know who you’re dealing with – Read honest feedback from other customers about the transportation companies that bid for your business.
Get more accurate quotes – Equipment information, including specs and photos, is usually pulled directly fromwww.rbauction.com and Ritchie Specs, so you get more accurate quotes.
No unwanted phone calls – Your contact information is kept private, so you’ll only have contact with the service provider you choose to use.
Free to try – Anyone can list a shipment online. It’s free, and you’re under no obligation to accept any of the quotes you receive.
Only pay when the job is complete – You pay the transportation company directly when the job has been completed and the equipment has arrived safely.

He Reem Al Hashimy Makes Presentation To Bie

HER EXCELLENCY REEM AL HASHIMY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EXPO 2020 HIGHER COMMITTEE AND MINISTER OF STATE FOR THE UAE, UPDATED THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BUREAU OF INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITIONS (BIE) ON THE UAE’S PREPARATIONS FOR HOSTING EXPO 2020, IN PARIS LAST MONTH.

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for the UAE, updated the General Assembly of the Bureau of International Expositions (BIE) on the UAE’s preparations for hosting Expo 2020, in Paris last month. This was the first formal address to the General Assembly made by the Expo 2020 Higher Preparatory Committee since winning the right to host the World’s Fair. “Dubai Expo 2020 will be the platform to continue to execute on our country’s visionary leadership around the need for connectivity and mobility, economic opportunity and sustainable practices as the pillars of today’s interdependent world,” she said, in her speech to the assembly. “The infrastructure and the progressive policies that serve this vision will continue to grow in size and quality to serve the participants and the visitors of Dubai Expo 2020. Our goal to deliver on an Expo with seamless operations will leverage the national efforts to implement a greater vision shaping the next 50 years of our country,” she added. Al Hashimy also pointed out that while Expo2020 was a win for Dubai, the event will also have great impact throughout the MENASA region. “The tremendous support we received in November marked a significant victory, not only for us but for all countries across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. Our support base ranged from the countries of the North as well as the South – the East as well as the West.?This recognition furthers our commitment to develop an inclusive platform that allows our partners on this global stage to truly showcase the best they have to offer, and — in that journey — create linkages and partnerships with others,” she said.?The delegation to the BIE was led by HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Department of Civil Aviation, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Preparatory Higher Committee. “The Dubai Expo 2020 road map is well progressed as we resolutely honour our commitment to create a truly transformative World Expo, that through partnerships and collaboration will seek to foster innovative, inspirational and practical solution-creation for our collective future,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed.

Traditional Children’s Games

Dating back to as early as 2600 BC, games have been a universal part of human experience and are present in all cultures. Games play an important role in the development of children and this is true throughout the world. Like everywhere there are traditional games that are specific to this region.

Emirati traditional games can be categorised based on whether the child was born on the coast, in the desert, or in the mountains, and whether they were played by girls, boys or both. However, these games are not specific to just one region, as tribes used to travel from one place to another, in search of work. For example, camel herders used to travel to the coast in summer months to join diving expeditions, and all these movements influenced and spread the children’s games. Some of them are to be found throughout Arabia, or even beyond. A lot of the games can be recognised universally, just with a few slight changes. For example Gabat Mestal is very similar to tag where there is a thief that needs to be caught.

El Karrabi is a game that maybe isn’t as recognisable. El Karrabi, or Fort and Water, is played by either boys or girls facing each other in two lines and while holding one foot behind them, they hop towards each other while trying to push their opponent over.

A lot of the games can include cultural traditions and expressions, traditional craftsmanship, performing arts, and social practices and rituals. These are what make the games unique to this region.

Touching Life, Beyond Borders

Palliative care is a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on relieving and preventing the suffering of patients. This holistic approach allows the palliative care team to address physical, emotional, spiritual and social concerns that arise with advanced illnesses.

Palliative care also improves quality of life for both the patient and the family. Alpha Palliative Care is the biggest of such charitable chains in India. Since 2005, Alpha has been providing palliative care to tens of thousands of patients in the four districts of central Kerala in South India.

Dubai-based Rashid Centre for the Disabled that provides high-quality, integrated education services and therapies for children with special needs, has grown to become the most successful humanitarian organization in the region. It strives to bring children with special needs to the main stream of society by developing them as much independent as possible. Under the slogan “Touching Life, Beyond Borders”, Alpha Palliative Care joined hands with Rashid Centre for the Disabled to provide patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress of serious illnesses.

The two centers jointly organized a meeting of minds at the Dubai World Trade Centre on June 20, 2014 to share the suffering of the sick. Renowned Indian classical dancer and world-famous choreographer Mallika Sarabhai, who is also a social activist and director of the Darpana Academy of Performing Arts, presented a mesmerizing show to make the evening a memorable event.

The enthusiasm and the spirit, with which the children performed, overwhelmed the audience and was evidence of the amazing work of the teams at Rashid Centre for the Disabled and Alpha. It was indeed a proud moment for CSS Group as one of the table sponsors of the event to continually build upon its CSR initiatives within the community and to contribute to support the under privileged that benefit from this organization.

Beware and Be Aware of Packing of Flexible Tank

“Flexible tanks” or “Flexitanks” are a kind of storage equipment for liquids such as water, oil, wines etc. Compared to steel tanks or drums, flexible tanks have many advantages, including lighter weight and being rustproof, foldable, and quicker and easier to set up. With the same capacity, a flexible tank may have just 10% of a steel tank’s weight. The disadvantages of flexible tanks include lower durability and shorter longevity.
In this article we shall focus on Flexitanks being used in the Shipping Industry and the potential issues and claims faced in relation to the same.
Initially Flexitanks were designed on the basis that they would be for multi-trip use but these were soon replaced by single trip Flexitank. Though Flexitanks have been in vogue for over 20 years, their popularity have grown by leaps and bound in the recent past. A Flexitank is a bladder that is designed to fit inside a 20ft general freight container, known to carry products from portable water, and liquids like wine and fruit juices or concentrates to paints, oils, non – hazardous chemicals, latex, etc.
The main issue currently faced is the increase in number of incidents and claims regarding the use of these flexible tanks, which are usually much higher than normal cargo carried by containers.
There are presently no prescribed standards regarding design or construction or packaging requirements or rules for carriage pertaining to use of flexitanks. However, the Container Owners Association (COA) set up a flexitank working group with the inaugural meeting held in Paris on 28 June 2007. The said working group has been instrumental in formulating The Code of Practice for Flexitanks, which has being periodically revised. However, these are only guidelines to be followed and there is no authority to enforce or implement the code.
Discussions by various organisations dealing with the use of Felxitanks reveal that some of the main reasons for claims are due to the excess of the load bearing capacity, unsuitable container, failure to comply with the Transport Safety, improper installation, human factor and manufacturing defects.