DHL Global Forwarding Japan and Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) have completed the transport of semiconductor manufacturing equipment using four charter flights aimed at cutting the transit time from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to New Chitose Airport in Japan.
A main deck loader for semiconductor equipment was moved from Narita Airport to New Chitose Airport to support transport. Additionally, onsite staff have received training to maintain efficient operations.
Flexible measures, including regular cargo temperature checks and close collaboration with ground handling and logistics shed companies, have been implemented to minimize temperature fluctuations, even in winter conditions. Efforts have also been made to shorten the time between aircraft and truck loading.
"As Japan experienced a strong 17.3% year-on-year growth in semiconductor equipment sales from January to August 2024, it also maintained a 30% market share in the sector, second only to the United States. This remarkable growth reflects the country's strength in advanced manufacturing and innovation, said Karsten Michaelis, president/representative director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan.
"It also underscores the importance of efficient and reliable transportation solutions to support the semiconductor industry. Our collaboration with Nippon Cargo Airlines is a key step in ensuring that Japan continues to lead in this critical sector," he added.
In the year before the four charters, DHL Global Forwarding's semiconductor teams worked with NCA and customers to identify infrastructure needs and plan the safe transport of semiconductors. This helps ensure that the transportation process meets necessary standards, even in Hokkaido's tough winter weather.
"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. I am honoured that we could build our collaboration and to be a part of this national
project," commented Hitoshi Watanabe, executive officer of Nippon Cargo Airlines.
"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the great efforts of DHL Global Forwarding Japan and partner companies. NCA will keep on serving to meet customers' requirement," he added.
Focus on semiconductor growth
As global competition and geopolitical pressures intensify, Japan is shifting its focus towards its semiconductor industry, emphasizing growth and localization.
The announcement said the goal is to triple semiconductor sales from 2020 until 2030, reaching over US$108 billion. Hence, establishing efficient transportation for sensitive semiconductors is crucial in supporting market growth.
DHL Global Forwarding Japan and NCA are looking into ways to improve transportation for the semiconductor sector in Hokkaido, aiming to support the local manufacturing industry.
