Visibility is a key customer requirement, particularly since we have all seen that is works on a personal shipment level, when buying online. In the air cargo world, there is a very mixed bag of possibilities when it comes to shipment tracking transparency – ranging from nothing to pretty good. TAP Air Cargo is now among those airlines offering a clear, digital service. It recently launched a premium cargo tracking add-on called TAP Secure Track, available everywhere across its network, and claims that “cargo transport within the TAP network is now even safer”. That security comes in part from the fact that TAP Secure Track works with single-use devices. Each customer opting for the premium add-on, receives sensors that are individually set up with a unique identifier. The customer puts these inside the shipment and the sensors then feedback the entire journey in real-time while the cargo is en route.
“TAP Secure Track uses GPS technology and advanced IoT (Internet of Things) sensors that continuously monitor the location, temperature, light exposure and physical impacts of the cargo. The data is transmitted throughout the entire journey, offering shippers a detailed and permanent view of the transport conditions at each stage. Customers can set up email notifications, which are sent whenever the sensors detect a change in a predefined limit (temperature, location, impact/shock force, or package opening/light detection),” the press release explains. Naturally, this solution offers security and instills trust since customers can check the status of their shipment at any given moment. And the real-time aspect means that, should any deviations occur in time, temperature, or integrity, action can be taken quickly to minimize the impact they may have – which also means a reduction in damages/loss payments. The airline is marketing the TAP Secure Track solution to those involved in the transport of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, electronics, high-value goods and temperature-sensitive products, “where compliance with strict standards and protection of goods are decisive factors”.
Rita Rosário Garcia, TAP Air Cargo, commented: “Our customers are looking not only for speed, but also for transparency, reliability and trust. This service allows them to manage each shipment with complete visibility and to act promptly in the event of any incident, anticipating its resolution and reducing costs associated with irregularities.”
