DHL Global Forwarding has launched Ocean View, its new online tool enabling shippers to track their ocean freight shipments.

According to DHL, the new web-based platform consolidates information from the ocean carrier, the vessel itself, as well as DHL’s own transportation management system to provide real-time visibility. Its user interface gives an iconized overview of all shipments during transit, and can also produce a forecast of future milestones and deliver notifications in case of route changes or delays.

“A survey recently conducted by our Global Forwarding team confirmed again that low visibility and transparency is a major issue for customers using door-to-door ocean transport,” said Andreas Boedeker global head of ocean freight at DHL Global Forwarding. “With Ocean View we created a user-friendly application increasing visibility and thereby improving the control of the overall supply chain for our customers.”

Ocean View does not require any additional software installation or intensive staff training. It also does not require a tracking device to be attached to the container but can be combined with additional security devices to monitor temperature, humidity, shock or lighting, according to DHL.