Kuehne+Nagel and Lufthansa Cargo pioneer paperless logistics

In an era driven by digital transformation and environmental consciousness, the importance of reducing paper usage and streamlining operations is increasingly evident. Kuehne+Nagel and Lufthansa Cargo have teamed up to introduce “paperless lanes” connecting Europe and Asia.

This strategic move aims to eliminate the unnecessary burden of physical documentation while optimizing the entire air freight process, reaping benefits beyond just operational efficiency. The collaboration also promises to make substantial contributions to sustainability efforts within the air freight industry.

During the initial weeks of the pilot phase, we achieved a significant milestone by accomplishing 100% paperless shipments for general cargo on the Germany-Hong Kong lane. This goes beyond merely implementing electronic air waybills; it also targets accompanying documents and paper pouches. Both companies are enthused about the transformative potential of this pilot project. Through the full utilization of paperless cargo within the corridor, they are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in logistics.

Kolja Mahler-Wingen, Vice President Air Logistics Operations Germany, Kuehne+Nagel highlights the future benefits of going purely digital : “In addition to the positive effect of paperless handling, which primarily saves time and gains efficiency, a purely digitally supported process also offers further potential for automation in order to reach the best possible transparency and data quality for our customers around the globe. We as Kuehne+Nagel are highly committed to further expanding our digital ambitions on the way to a fully digitized air freight process.

Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, Vice President Global Fulfillment Management, Lufthansa Cargo, highlights: “We see great opportunities in this initiative as it supports all participants in pushing their handling efficiencies as well as increasing data availability and transparency throughout their network. The transition to a paperless environment will significantly reduce processing times plus complexity and offers just in time shipment status information. However, it will only be a first step towards a fully digitalized air freight future; especially accompanying documentation of special cargo will come into our focus soon enough.”