MUMBAI—FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, today announced its ground fleet expansion plan in India, which will further increase capacity and efficiency in the FedEx domestic ground distribution network.  Over the next two years, FedEx will add more than 350 new vehicles to its fleet in a phased manner.  This expansion is in line with the company’s plans announced earlier in the year, to strengthen its domestic transportation and supply chain capabilities.

With a cargo capacity ranging between 2.5 and 15 tonnes, the light and heavy vehicles procured from BharatBenz and Tata Motors will operate on dedicated routes across the country. The vehicles are equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, cage palletizing systems and reverse cameras.  These superior features, including the cage sort systems, will ensure higher safety of shipments.

“By 2020, it is estimated that 70% of all freight in India will move via road[1].  Fast-growing industries such as high tech, retail and ecommerce continue to drive growth in the ground services segment,” said David Canavan, vice president, Operations, FedEx Express India.  “These industries are demanding faster transit times, wider reach, agility and greater access within India.  Additionally, the contribution of domestic consumption to GDP has increased from ~45% in 2007 to ~60% in 2011[2].  Logistics companies are seeing a greater need for ground and domestic services in India.  The fleet modernization plan and introduction of a dedicated toll free number for our domestic customers marks our readiness and commitment to meet customer requirements.”

“Additionally, safety of shipments in transit is a top attribute customers consider while choosing a ground service provider[3].  We are introducing cage pallet systems across the FedEx fleet to reduce package handling and vehicle loading/unloading times, which will improve transit times and increase safety for ground shipments,” he added.

In addition to being fuel efficient, the  new air-conditioned vehicles enable better on-road maneuvering, increase driver comfort and will ensure improved transit times and reliability across service lanes.  The vehicles are equipped with the latest safety and tracking equipment to give FedEx more control and visibility.

Effective January 2015, customers in India will have a dedicated number for domestic services.  Customers can call 1800 419 4343 for domestic services, and can continue to use the existing toll free numbers 1800 22 6161 / 1800 209 6161 to request rates, transit times or schedule a pick up for their international shipments, or visit fedex.com/in.

source : Lokesh Shastri