Chapman Freeborn Onboard Courier – How does it work?

Today’s modern onboard courier (OBC) business requires a 24 hour operation. Every day there is a constant stream of packages, documents and parcels working their way to their final destination around the world. Engaging an OBC service is usually an emergency situation for a customer. It’s a swift and secure hand-carry solution for time critical shipments. Contacting a broker, getting a speedy quote and returning approval is critical. This is the first step in getting your package hand carried and hand delivered to the designated recipient.

Since the global economy was so potently illustrated during the recent Covid-19 shut-downs, there have been many companies, entrepreneurs and individuals that have discovered OBC as a very useful delivery method.  As a result, all kinds of industries and individuals – from aerospace to fashionistas have booked with an on board courier service, for example:

• Aircraft with a mechanical delay
• Production line breakdown
• Fashion show prototypes
• Automotive inventory low

"It’s important to choose an OBC that will provide global updates every step of the way, said Nikolai Bergmann, President, Chapman Freeborn OBC, our customers connect directly to a broker.”  This successful hand-carry business is making the best use of technology to give the best quality customer service in the category.

Once a customer accepts a quote, the broker activates the appropriate courier, (preferably one that is fluent in the local language). For Chapman Freeborn OBC this is done using a fully-integrated booking platform that locates the perfect courier and sends them the job requirements in minutes. Scheduling their commercial flight is easier too, now that airlines are reinstating their schedules.

The most successful couriers have visas or passports to more easily navigate difficult to reach locations and most have very high frequent flyer status level. A platinum level frequent flyer may be able to get access to fully booked flights, which is another customer benefit. If the packages are small, they can be hand carried onto the aircraft. Larger bags or parcels can go as checked baggage. Specific requirements can vary by cabin and by airline.

Time critical deliveries demand step-by-step status updates. From the initial customer request all the way through to proof of delivery sent to the customer, there might be 10-15 milestone updates. “The customer trusts us to keep the package in our possession right up to the signature for receipt of the package, explains Bergmann. At the end of the day, the customers really appreciate seeing the progress and noting final delivery. Tracking is key to peace of mind.”