APL has won the ‘Technology and Systems Innovation’ Award at the Lloyd’s List Asia Awards 2016 on 20 October, in Singapore. The Award recognises APL’s first-of-its-kind interactive ‘SOLAS-VGM Innovative Map’ as a pertinent and impressive industry solution to the challenge of implementing mandatory container weighing globally to improve ship safety.
APL Chief Executive Officer, Nicolas Sartini said, “The SOLAS-VGM Innovative Map has been well-received by our customers, and we are delighted that this initiative has now been like-wise recognised by the industry. This initiative has empowered shippers with the relevant VGM information that they need for compliance from 1 July onwards. APL will continue to innovate for value creation and offer shipping solutions to our customers.”
Designed to empower shippers to custom-search and view VGM information relevant to them in a quick and intuitive manner, APL’s SOLAS-VGM Implementation Map features VGM-related practices of almost 500 terminals in APL’s global network. It allows shippers an easy search of critical VGM information including terminals’ VGM cut-off time, margin of error permissible for VGM data, details on whether container gate-in without VGM declaration would be allowed and whether a certified container weighing service would be offered at these terminals.
Since its inception in May 2016, the self-help map tool has garnered more than 12,000 views. Coupled with the comprehensive SOLAS-VGM Handbook and Container Tare Weight Query tool, APL has received the thumbs-up from customers. Japanese multinational automobile manufacturer, Nissan's North America Export Logistics Group commended, "APL has been the absolute best out of all the carriers in terms of the quantity, timeliness and level of detail of the SOLAS VGM info sent out. You guys are complete rock stars!"
This Award follows another recent recognition which affirms APL’s continuous efforts in shaping itself as a carrier of choice. APL was ranked the 28th most valuable Singapore brand, according to Brand Finance’s “Top 100 Singapore Brands” report in August 2016. The only ocean carrier to be ranked in the transportation category, APL was accorded a brand value worth US$343 million and a healthy brand strength rating of A+.
Source: APL