DSV China-Europe road freight service

Freight forwarder DSV has expanded its road transport operation between China in Europe as airfreight capacity constraints continue.

The company initially launched its road operation in May as it looked to offer an alternative to the capacity constraints and rising rates being felt in air cargo.

While the service initially covered only western Europe, this has now been expanded to the whole of the continent in response to positive customer feedback, a spokesperson said.

It has also been given a new name: Silkway Express.

The forwarder said the service offers "door-to-door transit times of 14-18 days at reasonable rates", making it a "highly competitive alternative to air, rail and sea freight".

"With Covid-19 there is no business as usual," the forwarder said in a press release. "Passenger flight cancellations are putting pressure on airfreight, causing capacity constraints."

"In addition to quick transit times of 14-18 days at rates much lower than airfreight, DSV Silkway Express offers more flexibility – not least in timing."

DSV said it would collect the cargo whenever it’s ready, removing concerns about cut off times.

Goods are moved seven days a week with multiple pickup and delivery locations possible.

"DSV works solely with trusted partners to ensure that goods arrive at their destination safely, and all trucks are sealed and equipped with GPS tracking in order for customers to follow their events on myDSV," the forwarder added.