Tag Archive for: port virtual lab

Logistics chain

#DidYouKnow: Freight Forwarders: The Architects of the Logistics Chain

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Logistics as Design, Not Just Delivery

In the international trade arena, few roles are as undervalued — and as essential — as that of the freight forwarder. Often perceived as a behind-the-scenes player, the forwarder is, in fact, the true architect of the logistics chain. Their work involves designing and coordinating the complex structure through which goods move — across continents, through various transport modes, and within a constantly evolving regulatory framework.

Logistics chain

This is not just about execution. It is about intelligent design. A freight forwarder must construct an operation that is cost-effective, compliant, resilient, and efficient. They map out routes, anticipate disruptions, manage documentation, and ensure that multiple actors — carriers, customs authorities, warehouses — are synchronized.

Because in the end, logistics is not only about moving goods. It’s about shaping systems. And for that, we need architects — not just operators.

In many cases, their success is invisible: shipments arrive as planned, delays are avoided, and problems are solved before they escalate. But beneath this apparent simplicity lies a profound level of expertise and strategic thinking. The freight forwarder is not just a link in the chain; they are the one who makes the chain function.

Mastering Complexity Through Integration

In the current logistics landscape, the role of the forwarder extends far beyond transport coordination. It includes the integration of systems, technologies, and sustainability criteria into the very fabric of the supply chain. From ERP platforms and customs software to emissions tracking and e-documentation standards, the digital layer is now inseparable from daily operations.

Today’s freight forwarder must be able to:

  • Use ERP systems to manage and analyze real-time data
  • Coordinate international documentation flows digitally (eBOL, eCMR, eFTI)
  • Understand and comply with European transport regulations
  • Design routes that balance cost, reliability, and environmental impact
  • Serve as a strategic advisor to clients in a changing global market

At the Escola Europea, we have seen how the most effective professionals are those who can move confidently between systems and strategies — who combine operational knowledge with digital and environmental awareness. As demands on logistics teams increase, the forwarder must not only respond, but lead.

Training the Architects of the Future

For freight forwarders to fully step into this expanded role, practical, scenario-based training is essential. Theoretical knowledge is no longer enough. Real understanding comes from experience — from navigating uncertainty, making time-sensitive decisions, and collaborating across virtual and physical borders.

This is the foundation of our work at the Escola Europea: to offer learning experiences that reflect the reality of today’s logistics chains. Through tools such as the Port Virtual Lab platform, we replicate real operational environments and allow professionals to work with live simulations, digital documentation, and integrated ERP systems.

One of our more recent initiatives has focused on equipping logistics professionals with the digital and strategic skills needed to lead in this new environment. It emphasizes immersive simulation, teamwork, and sustainable logistics design — always with the goal of developing professionals who can think holistically and act decisively.

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training programme

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Port Virtual Lab recognized by the European Commission as a key simulation-based training program for developing competencies in the blue economy

 

Port Virtual Lab (PVL) has been highlighted as a best practice in blue skills training in the Study to Support and Design Skills Development in the Blue Economy, commissioned by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) and CINEA. The study identifies PVL as an innovative, technology–driven, and practical learning tool crucial for developing competencies in the blue economy.

Currently in its pilot phase, PVL is refining and expanding its training capabilities through hands-on collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners. Developed by Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, the platform provides an advanced digital learning environment where participants can simulate and solve complex logistics challenges. This methodology fosters an immersive approach to learning, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

The study underscores the increasing importance of simulation-based training in enhancing blue skills development. These innovative approaches create realistic, interactive scenarios that replicate actual industry conditions, improving decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, gamification, blended learning, and e-learning platforms were identified as crucial elements in modern training programs. PVL integrates these methods by offering modular and flexible learning experiences, accommodating the needs of students, professionals, and industry stakeholders alike.

By combining simulation-based training with strong academia-industry collaboration, Port Virtual Lab plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and logistics professionals. As PVL progresses through its pilot phase, participating institutions have the unique opportunity to be early adopters, helping shape the platform’s development while benefiting from an exclusive introductory experience.

Escola Europea Expands Mediterranean Training and Digital Innovation at MARLOG-14

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The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport played an active role in MARLOG-14, the International Maritime and Logistics Conference held in Alexandria, Egypt, bringing its expertise in digital innovation, virtual learning and intermodal logistics training to the global stage.

Representing the Escola, Director Eduard Rodés engaged in insightful discussions with key industry figures and policymakers, including a meeting with the President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT). Their discussions explored future collaborations in maritime education and training, reinforcing the shared mission of advancing logistics knowledge and fostering innovation within the sector.

A key moment of the conference was the presentation of Port Virtual Lab (PVL), the Escola’s groundbreaking digital learning platform designed to enhance training for logistics and maritime professionals. For the first time, PVL’s exclusive training catalogue was piloted, allowing conference attendees to explore the methodology and vision behind the immersive learning platform.

During the event, the Escola also strengthened its ties with the Port Training Institute (PTI) through meetings with Alaa Morsy, fostering discussions on expanding collaboration between PTI and PVL. This growing partnership aims to integrate innovative training methodologies and digital learning solutions into PTI’s educational framework, reinforcing a shared vision for the future of maritime and logistics training in the region. During the meeting, PTI also signed on to become an ambassador of the Port Virtual Lab platform – committing to promoting and representing the platform in the Middle East.

“Port Virtual Lab is more than just a simulator—it is a tool that bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students and professionals to engage with real-world logistics scenarios in a controlled environment,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea. “By showcasing PVL at MARLOG-14, we are demonstrating its potential to transform how logistics education is delivered, making it more accessible, flexible, and practical for professionals worldwide.”

Beyond PVL, the Escola’s commitment to innovation was further emphasized through the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy (PLIKA). As part of the conference’s parallel events, PLIKA, under the presidency of Eduard Rodés, organized a highly successful Hackathon, bringing together students and professionals to tackle real-world logistics challenges. This hands-on initiative highlighted the role of collaborative problem-solving in shaping the future of port and transport operations.

Additionally, the MEDports Promotion Committee convened during MARLOG-14, bringing together representatives from Mediterranean ports to discuss strategies for promoting sustainable maritime development and training initiatives. As an active member of MEDports, the Escola continues to support regional cooperation and capacity-building efforts that enhance the competitiveness and digitalization of Mediterranean port operations.

With its participation in MARLOG-14, the Escola Europea reaffirmed its position as a leader in intermodal logistics training, digital education, and industry and digital innovation. The connections and insights gained during the conference will further strengthen the Escola’s role in driving sustainable and technology-driven advancements in port logistics and supply chain management.

GOING DIGITAL: Transforming International Trade Operations with Advanced Training

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The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, in collaboration with FETEIA, has launched the GOING DIGITAL program: a training initiative designed to prepare international trade professionals, freight forwarders, and logistics operators in advanced digitalization and innovation tools. The course, delivered online from April 7 to 11, 2025, promises to revolutionize the management of logistics operations in an increasingly connected world.

In the photo (from left to right): Eduard Rodés (EEIT), Enric Ticó (FETEIA), Blanca Guitart (FETEIA), and Marta Miquel (EEIT)

With a total duration of 25 hours spread over five days, this program offers a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that equips participants to tackle the challenges of international trade using the most advanced digital tools available.

With GOING DIGITAL, the Escola Europea and FETEIA reinforce their commitment to leading the digital transformation of international trade, preparing professionals for a more connected and efficient future.

What will you learn in this training?

GOING DIGITAL combines theoretical and practical approaches grounded in constructivist philosophy, enabling participants to take charge of their learning. Through meaningful experiences and collaborative activities, attendees will acquire key competencies in digitalization, process optimization, and digital tool management.

Participants will learn to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios, building knowledge actively and adapting it to the challenges of international trade.

The main goals of the training include:

  • Digital competence: Equipping professionals with skills to excel in a competitive, constantly evolving global market.
  • Operational optimization: Promoting the use of digital tools to enhance efficiency and reduce execution times.
  • Strategic innovation: Providing practical knowledge to implement new technologies in daily operations.

During the course, attendees will learn to:

  • Promote the use of advanced digital tools, such as electronic documents, to optimize logistics processes.
  • Use cutting-edge ERP systems to improve supply chain integration and management.
  • Make strategic decisions based on data and simulations to strengthen global competitiveness.
  • Implement technological innovations to optimize costs and improve information flow in the logistics chain.

According to Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola Europea:

“‘Going Digital’ is more than a course; it’s a bridge to the future. Participants work with digital tools to manage real disruptions, like strikes or conflicts, while integrating sustainable strategies into their decision-making. It’s about mastering the skills needed for a smooth digital transition and sustainable global operations.”

Program Structure

The course is structured into five daily sessions, each lasting five hours, and covers the following topics:

  1. Introduction to Digitalization: Essential knowledge on electronic documents like the e-Bill of Lading and e-CMR.
  2. Context of Digitalization in International Trade: Its impact on logistics and operations.
  3. Simulations and Case Studies: Using the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) to simulate export, import, and air operations.
  4. Real-World Problem Solving: Advanced digital tools for addressing challenges.
  5. Teamwork and Strategic Analysis: Collaborative strategies to optimize operations and identify opportunities to implement disruptive technologies.

At the end of the training, participants will present their practical case study results and receive a certificate endorsed by FETEIA and the Escola Europea.

Price and Exclusive Benefits for FETEIA Members

The program costs €550 per person. FETEIA members enjoy an exclusive discount of €100, reaffirming the commitment of both organizations to ongoing education and professional development in the logistics sector.

Port Virtual Lab: A Key Training Tool

The GOING DIGITAL program stands out for its integration of the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a training platform developed by the Escola Europea. This innovative tool has trained over 3,500 professionals across the Mediterranean, Europe, the Middle East, and South Africa. It enables participants to:

  • Immerse themselves in real-world international trade and logistics scenarios.
  • Develop critical skills in a safe, controlled environment.
  • Solve practical cases simulating industry challenges.

The PVL is widely recognized for connecting professionals from various countries and promoting effective, practical learning aligned with the latest digitalization trends.

A Program Designed by Experts

The program also includes contributions from renowned specialists in the digital and logistics sectors, providing innovative and practical insights to transform operations and strengthen participants’ digital competencies.

Why Choose GOING DIGITAL?

In a global logistics environment that’s becoming increasingly complex, GOING DIGITAL offers a unique opportunity to:

  • Enhance operational efficiency by adopting digital tools and innovative strategies.
  • Boost competitiveness with advanced skills to stand out in the global market.
  • Strengthen adaptability by preparing professionals for the challenges of digitalization in a constantly evolving sector.

This program is designed for professionals aiming to enhance their skills and companies looking to optimize operations and remain at the forefront of the industry.

Contact Information

For registrations and more information about the program:
Website: www.escolaeuropea.eu
Phone: (+34) 93 298 6070
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: @pvl-one | @escolaeuropeaeu

Innovative Simulator Demonstrated during Energy Transition in Ports Course, Driving Sustainable Maritime Solutions

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Barcelona, December 3, 2024 – The Escola Europea has successfully concluded its Energy Transition in Ports: Build Your Port Energy Transition Plan course, organized under the umbrella of the GREEN MARINE MED project, an initiative co-financed by the European Union focused on promoting energy transition plans in Mediterranean ports. The EU funding allowed the course to be fully subsidized, providing an unparalleled opportunity for global industry professionals to engage in advancing sustainability in port operations.

Held from November 18–28, 2024, the hybrid programme combined online learning, immersive in-person workshops, and cutting-edge technology. The course culminated in the practical piloting of the new simulator, developed by the Escola Europea in collaboration with Portwise, which brought intermodal logistics and sustainable strategies to life.

Piloting Innovation: The Simulator

A highlight of the course was the presentation of the prototype of Escola Europea’s Port Energy Transition Simulator, which is currently under development. During the in-person sessions in Barcelona, this innovative tool was used to support the resolution of a practical case study. The simulator provided valuable insights into energy transition planning for ports, and it is expected that in the next edition of the course, the practical case study will be developed entirely using the simulator, offering an even more immersive and comprehensive learning experience.

“This training provided us with important insights into how users interact with the tool and what they expect from it,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “These lessons will be instrumental in completing the development of the simulator during the remaining months of the Green Marine Med project, ensuring it is fully aligned with the real needs of ports in their energy transition efforts.”

The Escola Europea has already been successfully using another simulator in its courses— Port Virtual Lab, a tool that gamifies the learning experience by allowing participants to carry out transport operations within a fully virtual port community.

Course Overview and Highlights

The course began with a week of online lectures featuring leading experts in decarbonization, renewable energy, and digitalization for emissions control. The second week, held in Barcelona, offered practical workshops, site visits to key port facilities, and hands-on exercises using the simulator. Participants from over 20 countries joined the training, contributing to its diverse and enriching learning environment. Representatives came from Spain, Italy, Morocco, France, the United States, Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Peru, Mauritania, and the United Kingdom, among others. Esteemed organizations such as MEDports Association, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Port de Barcelona, OCP Solutions, Eurogate Tanger, Ports of Genoa, Fundación Valenciaport, Cellnex Telecom, and the Polytechnic University of Valencia were among those represented. This international and multi-sectoral collaboration added invaluable perspectives, fostering innovative discussions on energy transition strategies and solutions for port operations.

Participants had the opportunity to visit facilities such as container terminals, LNG refuelling sites, hydrogen infrastructure, and OPS (Onshore Power Supply) installations, gaining valuable insights into the latest sustainable technologies transforming the maritime industry.

Empowering Professionals for a Greener Future

As part of the course, participants developed their own Port Energy Transition Plans, blending insights from global experts, practical site visits, and the simulator. These plans aim to address the specific sustainability challenges faced by their ports and organizations. With representatives from more than 10 countries, the course fostered international collaboration and the exchange of best practices. This edition marked a milestone in advancing the goals of the Green Marine Med project.

The Escola Europea plans to build on this success with future editions of the course, offering professionals cutting-edge tools and knowledge to lead the energy transition in ports.

Spain’s Ministry of Transport Highlights Escola Europea’s Port Virtual Lab as a Key Tool for Logistics Digitalisation

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Madrid, 4 December 2024 – Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, and Marta Miquel, Head of the Institution’s Business Development Department, met today in Madrid with Benito Núñez Quintanilla, Secretary General for Air and Maritime Transport at Spain’s Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The meeting focused on advancing digitalisation in the port and airport logistics sectors.

During the discussion, Escola Europea presented its simulation tool, the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), which is designed to train logistics professionals through simulated environments that replicate real-world operations. The Secretary General was highly impressed with the initiative, recognising its potential to accelerate digitalisation in the sector and its suitability for inclusion in the Ministry’s Digitalisation Training Voucher programmes.

Having collaborated with Escola Europea in previous roles within the Ministry, Benito Núñez was already familiar with the organisation’s work. This prior knowledge reinforced his positive evaluation of the Port Virtual Lab and its potential for practical application in both the port and airport logistics sectors.

“Digitalisation is one of the logistics sector’s most pressing challenges, and initiatives like the Port Virtual Lab can make a real impact in equipping professionals to tackle the demands of the future,” said Eduard Rodés during the meeting.

This meeting reaffirms Escola Europea’s commitment to innovation and excellence in training, strengthening its position as a key player in the modernisation and digitalisation of the logistics industry.

Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome Sign Seven-Year Agreement

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Strengthening Innovation in Maritime Education with the Port Virtual Lab and New Transport Planning Programme

Civitavecchia, 18th November 2024 — Escola Europea, ITS Academy “G. Caboto,” and the Port Authority of Rome (Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Tirreno Centro Settentrionale) have renewed their collaboration agreement, extending their partnership for another seven years. This extended agreement reaffirms their shared mission to drive excellence in maritime education, port logistics, and environmental sustainability.

Central to this renewed collaboration is the Port Virtual Lab (PVL), an innovative simulation tool that allows students to experience real-world logistics challenges within a dynamic digital setting. PVL immerses students in hands-on learning, where they can navigate complex logistical scenarios, gain practical skills, and develop problem-solving capabilities critical for today’s maritime and logistics sectors. The inclusion of PVL underscores the three institutions’ commitment to advancing maritime education through cutting-edge technologies.

“We are delighted to continue and deepen our partnership with ITS Academy ‘G. Caboto’ and the Port Authority of Rome,” said Eduard Rodés, Director of Escola Europea. “Our aim is to provide high-quality, practical education that prepares young professionals for the demands of a complex logistics landscape. By extending our collaboration, we continue to support critical skills development through innovative training programs.”

Since its inception five years ago, Escola Europea has supported the development of forward-looking training programs at ITS Academy. This year, as part of this ongoing effort, the partnership will also introduce a new Transport and Logistics Planning course. While Escola’s role in this program is still being defined, the course represents a key step in addressing the evolving needs of the maritime and logistics fields.

The renewed agreement aligns with the long-term vision of all three institutions: to equip the next generation of industry professionals with advanced training, promote sustainable practices, and foster innovation across Europe’s port logistics communities.

For more information on this collaboration or the upcoming programs, please contact: Alessia Mastromattei.

Partnership Agreement Signed for the Implementation of PVL.ONE in Casablanca

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Casablanca, 2 October 2024 – A new partnership has been formalised between the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport and the Institute for Training in Logistics and Transport (IFTL) in Casablanca. This collaboration marks the beginning of the implementation of the PVL.ONE platform, an innovative training tool designed to enhance professional competencies in the field of logistics and transport.

The agreement was signed by Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, and Mohamed Karaouane, Director of the IFTL. The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organisations and other industry leaders. Pictured at the event alongside the signees were Yassir Lamnadi from the Escola Europea, Hicham Soufi, Vice President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarding Association (AFFM), Fedwa Driouch, Dr. Sanaa Hassini, Mostapha Benhima from Grimaldi, and Rachid Tahri, President of the Moroccan Freight Forwarders Association.

PVL.ONE is a cutting-edge virtual platform designed to simulate port operations, providing users with real-world scenarios that improve decision-making skills and operational efficiency. The partnership between the Escola and IFTL seeks to strengthen the logistics and transport training infrastructure in Morocco, aligning with the country’s goals of increasing sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.

Through this collaboration, professionals in Morocco will gain access to top-tier training solutions that leverage the latest in technology and innovation, fostering greater expertise in the logistics sector.

For more information, please contact: [email protected].

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

Port Virtual Lab takes the Training of Trainers course to new heights

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The special edition of the Training of Trainers: Going Digital course of Port Virtual Lab was recently concluded, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance industry skills and knowledge. The course, held from the 1st to the 4th of July 2024, brought together representatives from leading training centers, providing a platform for in-depth learning and professional development.

Participants of the first Training of Trainers going Digital course of PVL in Tunis - July 2024

During the training, participants engaged with the Port Virtual Lab (PVL) universe and the Click and Cargo platform, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its features and applications. The hands-on sessions enabled attendees to explore the platform’s capabilities in managing port logistics and operations, demonstrating its potential to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency in a simulated environment. It gave them the opportunity to visualise what it would be like to use the tool as an aide in their training centres, and help prepare the students for the real-life operations and challenges of transport operations planning.

A key highlight of the event was the networking opportunities it afforded. Representatives from various training centers and industry professionals exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that is essential for the advancement of the sector. These interactions are expected to lead to stronger partnerships and future collaborations.

The course also featured expert-led discussions and practical exercises designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to implement the PVL platform in their respective organisations. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the detailed and practical nature of the training.

Looking forward, the Escola Europea is committed to organising more training sessions that will further promote the adoption of innovative tools like the the PVL platform. These future courses will continue to support industry professionals in staying ahead of technological advancements, thereby contributing to the overall growth and modernisation of port logistics.

Check out the video summarising the highlights of the course, and get in touch if you’d like to know more about the platform and it’s capabilities:

Port Virtual Lab Transforms South African Students into Logistics Experts through a pilot course

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Port Virtual Lab (PVL), in its ongoing mission to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, proudly announces the successful conclusion of another pilot course aimed at training future logistics experts, this time for 18 students from Global Maritime Legal Solutions (GMLS), South Africa, thanks to the generous economic support of the international company Savino del Bene. Throughout April, these young visionaries, aged between 18 to 30, delved into the complexities of international logistics through a comprehensive virtual programme spanning three weeks.

Structured around a diverse curriculum, the course zeroed in on critical aspects of logistics such as port-logistics communities, delivery contracts, and operations, with a particular focus on electronic documentation, market research, and strategic packaging planning. Students were also introduced to the critical legal frameworks of Incoterms and the SAD document, equipping them with the theoretical skills they needed to complete the second part of the training – through a simulated port community environment.

PVL takes teaching a step beyond traditional learning. The course’s hallmark was its dynamic, simulated port community where students were able to collaboratively work in teams to plan international door-to-door logistics operations. The PVL environment encompasses 23 simulated companies, allowing students to assume vital roles in the logistics chain, from freight forwarders to operations managers.

Thanks to ERP software developed by Click&Cargo, the course can offer hands-on experience in maritime and airfreight operations, tariff classification, and export management. Such interactive learning journey extends beyond simple logistics; it fosters a deep understanding of economic principles within the context of global trade. By navigating real-time scenarios, the GMLS students could hone their problem-solving skills and acquired the analytical acumen necessary for impactful decision-making.

‘What an amazing project this has been! I am deeply grateful to Escola and the entire team. My numerous questions were met with patience, grace, and honesty. The presentations had a profound impact, and I valued the opportunity to share a space with the system designers, lawmakers, and environmental leaders. I would gladly repeat this experience,’ said Cynthia Thandeka Magagula, a student from GMLS. The course earned an impressive average evaluation rating of 4.88 out of 5 from the participants, underscoring their high level of satisfaction.

Looking to the future, PVL remains committed to providing education that links academic theory with practical industry skills. The course’s success with the GMLS students demonstrates the effectiveness of PVL’s approach and its ability to establish valuable educational partnerships. GMLS now joins the ranks of the University of Barcelona, STC Netherlands, and the Saudi Logistics Academy in partnering with PVL to offer pilot courses that focus on virtual and experiential learning that are closely aligned with industry requirements.

PVL continues to welcome collaboration with industry professionals, educational institutions, and students. Each course aims to set new benchmarks for hands-on learning in the logistics and transportation sectors.

Tag Archive for: port virtual lab

Port Virtual Lab – Going Digital

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Step into the future of logistics with the ‘Going Digital – PVL Course’. Gain practical experience with the PVL platform, master ERP and digital tools, and adopt sustainable practices to optimise operations. Designed for professionals in freight forwarding, logistics, and international trade, this course equips you to lead your organisation in the ever-evolving global logistics landscape.

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