APL tops export rankings for third time in four years

U.S. agricultural exporters have again ranked APL the world’s top container shipping line.

At ceremonies here last night, the Washington, D.C.-based Agriculture Transportation Coalition said the carrier finished atop its shipper satisfaction survey for the third time in four years.  The achievement was commemorated by a plaque presented to APL Western Region Vice President George Hearn.  

“We’re pleased to receive this recognition again,” Hearn said, “but there’s still work to do in delivering the service customers want.  This tells us only that we’re moving in the right direction.”

The 13-year-old coalition of agricultural exporters began surveying its membership in 2007.  It rates ocean carriers on service, bookings and documentation, including bills of lading.  APL has topped the rating in every year but one.

“This provides a useful overview of agriculture shippers’ view of carrier performance over an extended period of time,” said the coalition in announcing its rankings.  “Some carriers’ performance has generated additional cargo contracts and preference by ag exporters and importers.”

Exports are providing a boost to the U.S. economy as it endeavors to recover from the downturn of 2009.  Increasing wealth in developing economies has boosted demand for agricultural products in particular.  APL has long been among the top-volume carriers of agricultural and other export commodities.
(Source:www.transportweekly.com)