DHL has announced a new global partnership with Envirotainer, the leading provider of temperature controlled air cargo containers. This deal includes the signature of a global master lease agreement that is valid for all DHL Global Forwarding facilities, which means that DHL will use Envirotainer's specialized equipment for temperature-sensitive shipments worldwide.

DHL Global Forwarding's partnership with Envirotainer will allow DHL to expand its already extensive capability in transporting chilled and temperature-sensitive products, such as pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, for the life science and healthcare industry. With stringent industry regulations in place for the transportation of goods in this market, secure and transparent shipping is of the utmost importance for DHL's customers and DHL Global Forwarding's and Envirotainer's combined high quality standards and experience will cement DHL's leading position in the market.

As part of the agreement DHL Global Forwarding will be incorporating Envirotainer's comprehensive training and audit program across its network, to reach 'Qualified Envirotainer Provider' (QEP) status ' an industry-wide recognized standard. The qualification demonstrates DHL's expertise to manage shipments using Envirotainer containers and complies with international air transport regulations. The first successful audits have already taken place at several locations, and the QEP status complements DHL Global Forwarding's existing quality schemes.

Robert Krautheim, President of Life Science and Healthcare at DHL Global Forwarding, commented: 'This global relationship with Envirotainer supports our initiative to establish dedicated competency centers and regional hubs in the cold chain market which support our customers' requirements. Aligning our DHL programs with Envirotainer's 'Qualified Envirotainer Provider' program means that we can offer the highest levels of quality to our customers, worldwide.'

Thomas Persson, CEO of Envirotainer added: 'As a major player in the life science and healthcare industry, DHL Global Forwarding is an ideal partner for Envirotainer. DHL's commitment to, and investment in, developing new customized solutions matches our approach to the life science industry. We are dedicated to improving the quality of products and services that we offer our customers. Strengthening our relationship with DHL is an important milestone for us.'

DHL Global Forwarding has worked with Envirotainer for seven years in many different countries, and is currently the largest forwarding agent for the movement of Envirotainer containers globally.