DHL Worldwide Express, the world`s leading international air express network has launched Mobile Checkpoint Return (MCR), an innovative delivery notification system that reduces the time in which clients receive delivery information by up to four hours.
MCR, developed by DHL in the United Kingdom is an air express industry first in South Africa, and has been installed throughout the major centres in DHL`s South African network.
Says Ina Knoesen, DHL South Africa`s MCR project manager, "MCR enables DHL couriers to transport delivery information via a local cellular telephone network to a central data transmission centre within minutes of shipment delivery. From there the information is decoded and made available to DHL customers."
Each DHL courier is equipped with an imported, state-of-the-art cellular telephone. This is connected to a scanner, which the couriers use to store delivery information. Prompted by the scanner at 20 minute intervals, the cell phone downloads the stored information in the scanner and automatically dials a central DHL modem from where the information is immediately accessible to DHL`s customer service agents.
"Clients can now obtain confirmation within minutes of delivery, whereas previously delivery information could only be accessed two to four hours after delivery as the scanners would be downloaded once the couriers had returned to their bases having first completed a particular route of deliveries", says Knoesen.
"The implementation of MCR is line with DHL`s belief that the need to relay delivery information runs parallel with the need to adhere to shipment delivery deadlines", adds Knoesen.
"MCR also offers the significant advantage of eliminating data bottlenecks, which occur when too much information is downloaded at the same time, causing lengthy delays in accessing this information."
First in technological innovation, DHL Worldwide Express is the world`s largest and most experienced international air express network, linking more than 635,000 destinations in 227 countries and territories. DHL operates in 55 African countries and offers a superior service including a regional overnight capability on over 90 routes across the continent. With a 21 year track record in Africa, DHL has managed to achieve ISO certification in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Mauritius, with many other countries well on their way.
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