LUG aircargo handling GmbH is implementing a new dynamic Ramp Service and Time Slot Management System at their terminal in the Cargo City South at Frankfurt International Airport effective May 11, 2015. LUG’s  innovative software automates the allocation of loading bays for the delivery and collection of shipments as well as for Road Feeder Services (RFS). The new system has been extensively tested and proven to offer significant advantages to forwarders and trucking companies. Best of all, the new service is completely free of charge! How to use aiRSS Users can reserve slots at the ramp in advance by entering their vehicle’s ETA (expected time of arrival), type of transport (import/export) and other consignment information (e.g. weight, number of pieces) into LUG’s web-based aiRSS software. The system validates the information and confirms the request. It assigns a time slot and ramp based on the user’s arrival information or makes an alternative suggestion if there are no available slots at the requested time. In addition, it calculates the loading or unloading time based on the freight volume and initiates the documentation process prior to the vehicle’s arrival. Upon arrival at the LUG terminal drivers proceed directly to the pre-booked ramp. The identification and shipping documents need to be presented at the LUG Customer Service Center (CSC), where they are compared with the pre-arrival information. Subsequently, the cargo is loaded or unloaded. If the vehicle arrives prior to the booked time slot, misses it or if the freight amount has changed, the information can be updated on the Website (also via mobile devices) even on short notice. Flexible rescheduling is always possible. The system reacts dynamically and fast. It assigns a new time slot or ramp if necessary and  alerts the LUG staff about the change.  Alternatives Forwarders who use Fair@Link, the Cargo Community System of Frankfurt Airport, to pre-register transports can continue to do so. The pre-arrival notice is forwarded to LUG (a partner in Fair@Link) and automatically imported into aiRSS. Convincing advantages The new system allows customers to jump to the head of the line by planning their arrival and requesting time slots based on real time data. Customers who arrive at the terminal without a pre-requested time slot will continue to be served on a first-come, first-served (FCFS) basis. However, this might entail a waiting time if all ramps are occupied or pre-booked. “Our customers benefit significantly from using aiRSS. It shortens idle and lead times and accelerates loading, unloading and the documentation processes,“ explains Sven Kaufmann, Sales Executive, LUG aircargo handling GmbH. “Forwarders can see on the website if we are busy or if capacity is available. Based on that information they can choose a time slot which enables them to drive directly to the booked loading ramp.” “This transparency creates a win-win situation,” adds Philipp Wahlig, Manager Customer Service Center and Project Manager aiRSS at LUG aircargo handling GmbH. “Freight forwarders benefit from the accelerated handling procedures and an increased planning security. LUG benefits by increasing its ability to improve and adjust staff and equipment deployment to better match the workload.”