FEDEX FREIGHT STARTS LCL TO EUROPE

FEDEX FREIGHT STARTS LCL TO EUROPE    FedEx Freight, in cooperation with FedEx Trade Networks, will work together to provide less-than-containerload service between the United States and Europe.
   FedEx Trade Networks will manage the non-vessel-operating common carrier aspects of the operations, and will use the regional less-than-truckload services of FedEx Freight for inland freight moves.
   For cargo handling in Europe, FedEx Freight has established an exclusive agency agreement with Frans Maas, which provides comprehensive coverage at ocean ports and has service locations throughout western and Eastern Europe.
   FedEx Freight specializes in next- and second-day delivery in the United States. FedEx Trade Networks uses multiple sailing schedules to expedite freight to and from Europe.
   'Rapid transit is one of the key differentiators of this service,' said Ed Alderman, director of international development for FedEx Freight. 'It is a seamless, convenient service.'
   The service includes both door-to-door and door-to-port options with one invoice and a single source of accountability for shipment control, FedEx Freight said.
   FedEx Freight's European LCL service will be implemented on a 'phased-in' approach,' starting with Atlanta, which covers Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
   Service to the Midwest will begin in mid-December. Service in the Northeast and Southwest will start in mid-February. The western U.S. market will be added by mid-March.
   Alderman said the company wants to get the European LCL service in place before venturing into other world markets. The company also has no plans to enter the full-containerload NVO business.