In March 2017, the PostNL Baggage Service was introduced for passengers from Schiphol. More recently, the existing self-service baggage drop-off technology used at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is also used for this baggage service. The technology from the Scarabee Aviation Group provides a scalable and future-proof solution. As a result, more passengers and airlines will soon be able to use this service.
A PostNL employee collects the luggage and scans the boarding passes at the doorstep. The information is verified via the Schiphol systems with the relevant airline, which means that the baggage is checked in immediately. At the airport, the suitcase is loaded onto the aircraft through the regular process, after which it can be collected at the baggage claim of the destination. This allows the passenger to travel to Schiphol without any hold baggage and they can proceed to security immediately upon arrival at the airport.
Joint innovation in the travel process
“Schiphol continuously innovates to make the travel process as pleasant as possible. With smart digital solutions, we optimise the passenger flow and further improve the passenger experience,” according to Henk-Jan Gerzee, Royal Schiphol Group’s Chief Digital Officer.
The step from ‘self-service Bagdrop’ to ‘online Bagdrop’ is an important innovation in the travel process. The cooperation between Schiphol Airport, PostNL and Scarabee results in more choice for the passenger with a carefree journey in prospect. The passenger can get on board knowing that his or her suitcase is in good hands,” said Michael Tan, CEO of the Scarabee Aviation Group.
“By working together to professionalise the baggage service, Schiphol, Scarabee and PostNL ensure that the process is even smoother. In addition, we relieve the burden from travellers and offer them convenience. We see, for example, that 40% of the users of the baggage service are switching to public transportation. Travelling to the airport without suitcases should be a natural choice,” said Liesbeth Kaashoek, Director of Parcels and Logistics at PostNL.
