DB Schenker is continuing to add direct Application Programming Interface (API) connections with airlines' booking systems.
This week, the forwarder announced it had created another API link, this time with American Airlines Cargo.
The digitalisation investment is anticipated to streamline, simplify and speed up the air cargo shipment booking process, as well as reduce the margin for error.
Benno Forster, senior vice president of operations and procurement airfreight, DB Schenker Americas, said: “The API connection is designed to streamline the booking process, eliminating the need for external platform logins and enabling direct access through DB Schenker’s system.
"This integration not only simplifies the booking experience but also ensures speed and accuracy, crucial in the fast-paced world of airfreight logistics.”
Indy Bolina, head of global sales for American Airlines Cargo, added: "The API connection with DB Schenker offers a more personalized booking experience.
"It enables us to work closely with DB Schenker on their preferred platform, ensuring that our mutual customers benefit from the exclusive rates and efficient service that this partnership offers."
The partnership with American is not the forwarder's first API connection with an airline.
Earlier this year, DB Schenker connected to Lufthansa Cargo’s booking system through an API.
To start with, DB Schenker is using the Lufthansa connection to book standard products such as general cargo (td.pro and td.flash), with the option to extend to special products.
Also, in December last year, DB Schenker and Cargolux added a direct API interface to their respective IT systems.
The connection with Cargolux provides a direct interface between both companies’ systems to “generate tailored and immediate, bookable quotes”.
The interface offers dynamic pricing options based on specific requirements such as weight, routing, and product type.
Being able to book cargo on a flight directly through an API connection offers clear time savings for forwarders as it removes the need for back-and-fourth emails.
However, setting up the connections can take some time and investment and therefore airlines only tend to offer the option to their largest customers.
To win digital bookings from small- and medium-sized players, airlines have tended to use API connections with third-party online booking portals.
