The Nishi Nippon Railroad (NNR), a Western Japan-based freight forwarder with customers around the world, is connecting to North American trucking companies through the multimodal electronic messaging network offered by logistics software and services specialist The Descartes Systems Group Inc.

NNR has used Descartes' network, called the Global Logistics Network or GLN, for about eight years to exchange electronic messages including freight waybills and freight status updates with air carriers. NNR now is using Descartes' GLN to receive electronic status updates on pick-up and delivery of shipments by North American trucking companies.

"This is a reflection of what we see happening with other long-term GLN customers," said Edward Ryan, general manager of Descartes' GLN. "Customers tend to view the GLN as an opportunity for continual improvement, and that's by design. We are committed to expanding the services footprint of the GLN and creating additional value not just for potential customers but for existing customers as well."

NNR said taking advantage of the value-added services offered by Descartes' GLN helps it offer better and timelier information to customers and trading partners including trucking companies and ocean and air carriers. The company said messaging is a critical part of its solution, and its GLN membership enhances the value of its warehouse management, customs brokerage and customs automation technology.

"Descartes continues to support our overall corporate goal of providing end-to-end visibility to our employees and customers around the world," said John Berry, information technology services director at NNR. "We've used Descartes' GLN for many years, and we believe it will help us take our customer support to the next level now that we are receiving status updates. Descartes' GLN will help us ensure that our customers' freight is handled properly as it travels throughout North America."