Relationship matters: How Shipco & Hellmann build long-term success
One such example is our 18-year partnership with Shipco Transport & the WorldWide Alliance, the largest LCL carrier in Hellmann’s global network — handling approximately 50% of our total LCL volumes. Shipco’s unwavering focus on service quality and long-term reliability has earned them the title of Hellmann’s LCL Carrier of the Year for 15 consecutive years.
We spoke with Morten Bach, Global Chief Operating Officer, Commercial at Shipco, who has been with the company for 35 years and knows the Hellmann-Shipco/WWA partnership inside out. His extensive global experience and long-standing relationship with Hellmann provide unique insights into how strong partnerships are built and why, in logistics, relationships truly matter.
Hello Morten, how would you describe your collaboration with Hellmann over the years? What stands out in terms of reliability and transparency?
Morten Bach: We’ve had a strong partnership with Hellmann since 2006 — nearly two decades. It’s been a deep, global cooperation with many touchpoints, both in freight and with people. What stands out is the mutual understanding that the best partnerships are based on give and take. Our dialogue has always been open and honest, whether things were going well or we were facing challenges. We always found solutions together. That kind of trust and reliability is not something you find everywhere — it’s what makes Hellmann unique and why we truly enjoy working with you.
Can you share a moment where you especially valued the partnership with Hellmann?
Morten Bach: There have been many, but being awarded Hellmann’s “LCL Carrier of the Year” 15 times for the WWA means a lot to us. It’s a reflection of the hard work we put into maintaining relationships at every level, serving your customers with care, offering competitive rates, and ensuring efficient handling and routing. With over 15,000 shipments moved annually for Hellmann, we’re proud to be recognized and to consistently meet your expectations.
Have we helped you solve challenges with creative or effective solutions?
Morten Bach: Absolutely. I’ve had the privilege of joining meetings with Jost Hellmann, whose visionary mindset left a strong impression on me always focused on putting the customer first and finding smart solutions. That spirit continues today with Marcus Leaver, who brings the same forward-thinking approach to the ocean product. We try to tailor our services to Hellmann’s needs — whether it’s CFS work, trucking, LCL or FCL movements, tracking or integration. The goal is always to create solutions that help you serve your clients better.
The LCL market is evolving. How is Shipco/WWA preparing for the future, and how can our partnership support innovation and efficiency?
Morten Bach: We place a strong focus on operational excellence through self-monitoring systems — from exception to incident management. The aim is to operate so smoothly behind the scenes that your clients don’t even notice us. We act as a truly neutral provider — we don’t quote directly to your customers but work with you to win strategic accounts and develop tailored solutions. LCL is inherently a more sustainable model, enabling just-in-time deliveries without unnecessary overcapacity. We’re also investing in cleaner transport options, like biofuels, to offer more sustainable logistics solutions in the future.
What defines a strong partnership, and what does “Relationship matters” mean to you?
Morten Bach: Even in the digital age, freight doesn’t move itself — it’s moved by people. At Shipco, we say: “Freight is a people business.” That’s as true now as ever. Your focus on “Relationship matters” aligns perfectly with our own values. For us, it’s about building trust first — rates, services, and tools all come second. If there’s no real will to work together and support one another, none of it works. That’s why we’re proud to call Hellmann a true partner.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Morten Bach for sharing his time, insights, and perspective, as well as to the entire Shipco Transport / WorldWide Alliance team for nearly two decades of trusted partnership.
About Shipco Transport
Shipco Transport, a subsidiary of Denmark-based Scan-Group, was established in 1988 and has since grown into one of the world’s leading neutral non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs). With more than 90 offices in over 30 countries across five continents, the company employs over 2,200 people and offers a comprehensive range of services, including air freight, LCL, and FCL ocean freight solutions.
Headquartered in Chatham, New Jersey, Shipco Transport is a founding member of the Worldwide Alliance that brings the world's leading neutral NVOCCs together. With its 15 members in 76 countries and over 5,300 staff, the Alliance offers 2,650 global direct weekly LCL export services. WorldWide Alliance, the best each member has to offer – a local view with a global vision.
Shipco also founded the AirCargoGroup, a network of neutral air freight wholesalers. These strategic alliances enhance Shipco’s ability to provide reliable, flexible, and globally coordinated logistics services.
