DHL Global Forwarding Japan is hoping to capitalise on the country’s ambitious plans for its semiconductor industry following four charter flights carrying equipment from the Netherlands.
The forwarder recently partnered with Boeing 747-8 freighter operator Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) to transport sensitive semiconductor equipment on four flights between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Japan's New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido.
To support this process, a maindeck loader specifically designed for unloading and loading semiconductor equipment was transferred from Narita Airport to New Chitose Airport.
The forwarder added that onsite personnel received specific training, while measures, including regular cargo temperature checks and close collaboration with ground handling and logistics shed companies, were implemented to minimise temperature fluctuations, even in winter conditions.
"Efforts have also been made to shorten the time between aircraft and truck loading,” the forwarder said.
Looking ahead, DHL is hoping to further capitalise on the growing market, pointing out that the country is investing in the semiconductor industry as global competition and geopolitical pressures intensify.
The country has the goal of tripling semiconductor sales from 2020 until 2030, reaching over $108bn.
"Hence, establishing efficient transportation for sensitive semiconductors is crucial in supporting market growth,” DHL said.
Karsten Michaelis, president/representative director, DHL Global Forwarding Japan, said: “As Japan experiences a strong 17.3% year-on-year growth in semiconductor equipment sales from January to August 2024, it has also maintained a 30% market share in the sector, second only to the US.
“This remarkable growth reflects the country’s strength in advanced manufacturing and innovation. It also underscores the importance of efficient and reliable transportation solutions to support the semiconductor industry.”
In the year leading up to the four charters, DHL Global Forwarding said its local semiconductor specialist teams worked closely with NCA to plan the necessary infrastructure requirements and arrange the transport operation.
Hitoshi Watanabe, executive officer, NCA, said: “This charter was very challenging for us under severe weather and constraints of operations in Chitose, and we could never achieve to success without cooperation of our reliable partner, DHL Global Forwarding Japan."
The two companies said that they would "support the further development of Hokkaido and the Japanese manufacturing industry by exploring ways to strengthen transportation for the local semiconductor sector".
