FedEx launches Collaborative Shipping Tool

Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, has introduced the Collaborative Shipping Tool, a digital solution designed to simplify the import process. This innovative tool allows seamless collaboration between importers and shippers during the Airway Bill (AWB) creation process, improving efficiency and accuracy in global shipping operations.

With the tool, importers can now share the AWB creation process directly with shippers, enabling both parties to confirm shipment details and schedule pickups according to their readiness. This collaboration aims to reduce common shipping challenges, including failed pickups and limited shipment visibility—issues that have long plagued the logistics industry.

“As global supply chains grow increasingly complex, businesses must adopt smarter logistics solutions to remain competitive,” said Salil Chari, senior vice president of Marketing and Customer Experience, FedEx Asia Pacific. “At FedEx, we’re leading the way by leveraging digital innovation to help our customers anticipate challenges and navigate the changing marketplace. The Collaborative Shipping Tool fosters seamless collaboration between importers and shippers, allowing businesses to optimize their supply chains and reduce inefficiencies. By simplifying imports, we’re not just enhancing operations—we’re shaping the future of logistics.”

Addressing Industry Challenges

According to the International Trade Centre, failed pickups and lack of shipment visibility are among the most significant challenges faced by global importers. Such inefficiencies can disrupt supply chains and affect business operations, particularly in the fast-paced global trade environment.

FedEx’s Collaborative Shipping Tool is designed to address these issues by offering:

• Seamless Collaboration & Enhanced Flexibility: Importers and shippers can jointly manage the AWB process, confirm shipment details, and set pickup schedules—reducing delays and improving data accuracy.
• Improved Visibility: Users receive real-time insights into the pickup process, increasing transparency and enabling better control over shipments.
• Enhanced User Experience: The intuitive design of the tool simplifies complex import procedures, making the process faster and more user-friendly.

“FedEx is constantly innovating advanced logistics solutions to help businesses thrive in a rapidly evolving trade landscape,” said Tien Long Woon, managing director of FedEx Malaysia. “For many Malaysian businesses, enhancing efficiencies in their cross-border trade and navigating the complexities of imports are critical. By embracing digital innovation, we empower our customers to scale their operations, compete more effectively in global markets, and future-proof their supply chains in an increasingly digital economy.”

Supporting Global Trade Growth

The launch of the Collaborative Shipping Tool comes at a time when global merchandise trade is projected to increase by 3% in 2025, with imports in Asia anticipated to grow by 5.1%, according to the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Global Trade Outlook and Statistics (October 2024). These figures highlight the growing demand for efficient, technology-driven solutions that can support the expanding flow of goods across international borders.

The new tool is currently available to FedEx import customers across Asia Pacific, Europe, the United States, Canada, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, providing global shippers with advanced capabilities to streamline their logistics processes.

In addition, FedEx plans to roll out the FedEx Import Tool later in February 2025, further enhancing the import process. This suite of digital solutions reflects the company’s commitment to delivering innovative services that improve the overall logistics experience for its customers.

Future-Proofing Supply Chains

The Collaborative Shipping Tool is part of FedEx’s broader strategy to modernize and digitize the logistics industry, empowering businesses to navigate evolving trade environments more effectively. With real-time insights, improved collaboration, and enhanced operational control, the tool represents a significant step toward future-proofing supply chains in a rapidly changing global economy.

By offering customers greater transparency, flexibility, and efficiency, FedEx continues to reinforce its position as a leader in global logistics innovation—ensuring businesses remain competitive and adaptable in an increasingly digital world.