Why push air when you have a load to pull? The Volvo FH Aero increases your energy efficiency thanks to its aerodynamic cab. Designed to reduce your fuel costs, extend your range and minimise your environmental footprint. The Camera Monitoring System replaces side mirrors, opens your visual field, and further streamlines the cab. Your efficiency. Extended.
Contact your Volvo Trucks local dealer or visit volvotrucks.co.uk
We are now just a few weeks away from the date the Windsor Framework, and its rules and regulations, will come into force here in Northern Ireland.
Originally the trade deal was to come into force on 30th September 2024 but when it became clear this date was unachievable and would have led to widespread disruption to the supply chain between GB and NI, a new date of 31st March 2025 was agreed.
Hauliers and traders need to understand the changes and the new requirements they will have to fulfil by the end of next month. And that’s what this extra time is to allow for.
Here in Northern Ireland there is generally a good understanding of these requirements and businesses here should see little impact when this deadline comes and goes as they have been preparing. But the concern is that businesses in GB may not be as up to date with these new rules and this is where some disruption could come from.
In her column in this magazine Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK says the UK Government has a lot of work to do to raise awareness of the upcoming changes and how this will affect the transportation of goods between GB and NI, and of course on into the Republic and Europe. For more information about preparations for the Windsor Framework, read Nichola’s column inside.
Also in this issue we have a major feature on Dale Farm: Your Dairy Cooperative, and we have part two of the serialisation on Manfreight, which this time looks at how they are digitising the supply chain. And you can also find out how my driving career is going.
I hope you enjoy reading this packed February March issue of Export and Freight.
Austin Lynch Editor
Email: austin@4squaremedia.net
Email: rachel@4squaremedia.net
Web: www.exportandfreight.com
Maire Claire Reid appointed Chair of Logistics UK Northern Ireland Freight Council Page 4
DAF open new Apprentice Training Academy Page 6
Tracey Mortimer appointed Managing Director Continental Tyre Group UK and Ireland Page 6
RHA welcomes consultation on Scottish speed limits Page 11
CV production records best January-October performance in 16 years Page 46
DAF reveals new ‘Construction Simulator’ game Page 64
Martin Reid, RHA Policy Director for Scotland, Wales and NI Page 12
Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK Page 16 Court Reports Page 17
Manfreight - Digitising the Supply Chain Page 20-39
Scania Winter Page 40-46
Trailer Feature - The right trailer for the job Page 51-63
Dale Farm: Your Dairy Cooperative Page 68-95
Annual Guide to Shipping Page 96-101 Customs and Agents Page 104-109
Kia to launch professional business vans at CV Show Page 110
New Ford Pro Tech could help delivery businesses save critical seconds on every stop Page 112 Follow us on Instagram Export and Freight
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Email: helen@4squaremedia.net
Diamond Trucks have been named Truck Sales Dealer of the Year at a prestigious awards night.
The Belfast dealer picked up the award at the Dealer Awards hosted by Renault Trucks UK, and a number of the team were in attendance to collect their award.
This award was in recognition of achieving a double-digit market share in the region and the dealership’s ability to retain loyal customers while attracting new business.
Dealer Principal Iain Latimer was there to pick up the award on behalf of the Belfast team and said it was nice to get recognised for their hard work. “I’d like to say thanks to the team at Diamond Trucks, and to the dealer network for their support. This is in recognition of the team’s ability to both retain our existing customers, and to attract new business to the dealership,” commented Iain Latimer.
Renault Trucks UK said a huge thank you to the incredible team at Diamond Trucks for all their hard work and dedication.
TST Group is proud to announce that Maire Claire Reid, Managing Director of TST Group, has been appointed as the new Chair of the Logistics UK Northern Ireland Freight Council. This prestigious role sees Maire Claire take the helm of one of the region’s most influential logistics councils, succeeding outgoing Chair Gary Barnes. The announcement was made at the first NI Freight Council meeting of 2025, hosted at TST Group’s headquarters in Ballymena. The event, which saw a strong turnout from industry leaders and stakeholders, also welcomed FTA Ireland CEO Aidan Flynn as discussions took place on key industry challenges and opportunities for the year ahead.
Maire Claire brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the logistics sector. With her
leadership, the Council will continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that support the industry’s growth and resilience, working closely with Logistics UK’s Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Nichola Mallon, and elected vice-chairs Lynda Gregg and Graham Patchett, MILT.
Speaking on her appointment, Maire Claire Reid said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair for the Logistics UK Northern Ireland Freight Council. The logistics sector is the backbone of our economy, ensuring the smooth movement of goods
across the region and beyond. I look forward to working with my fellow council members, industry colleagues, and policymakers to drive meaningful change and strengthen our sector for the future.”
The appointment marks an exciting start to 2025 for both TST Group and the wider logistics community.
As Chair, Maire Claire will play a key role in shaping industry discussions, championing innovation, and addressing the challenges facing the sector over the next two years.
Freeburn Transport, a leading haulage provider, is pleased to announce the opening of its new 3-acre depot in Mallusk.
The new facility, strategically located near all of the major Northern Ireland ports, offers enhanced capabilities and further strengthens Freeburn Transport’s commitment to providing top-tier logistics solutions across the region.
The Mallusk depot is designed to streamline operations and improve service delivery. One of its key features is secure overnight parking, offering added convenience and peace of mind. This new location will be pivotal in supporting Freeburn Transport’s expanding operations in Northern Ireland and enabling
faster turnaround times for their clients.
Jordan Lemon has been appointed as the Operations Manager for the Mallusk depot and will oversee day-to-day operations at the facility. With his extensive experience in the logistics sector, Jordan will play a key role in ensuring the depot operates efficiently and continues to
meet the growing demands of the business. Chris Freeburn, Managing Director, Freeburn commented: “We’re excited about the opening of our Mallusk depot, which is a significant milestone in Freeburn’s ongoing expansion. This new facility, combined with the expertise of Jordan Lemon and our dedicated staff, will further enhance our ability to provide outstanding service to our customers in Belfast and beyond.”
To support this expansion, Freeburn Transport is currently recruiting for day, night, and weekend drivers to join the team at the new depot. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and become part of a dynamic and growing team.
To learn more about the new depot, visit freeburntransport.com and for further information please email recruitment@ freeburntransport.com
DAF Trucks has just opened the doors to a new, multi-million pound apprentice training centre in Nottingham.
With training provided by Skillnet, the DAF Apprentice Academy represents a £3.5 million investment into a brand-new development and facilities, and becomes the new home for the popular DAF Apprenticeship Programme – celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025. Training for a small number of DAF Apprentices commenced on-site in early January, while an official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony took place in early February at the Thane Road address just outside Nottingham city centre.
The opening of the DAF Apprentice Academy coincided with National Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 10th to 16th February.
DAF Trucks will also continue its ongoing relationship with training provider, Skillnet; a partnership which has been in place for 18 years. Skillnet’s training curriculum is set against nationally recognised qualifications, while providing support and updates for the duration of the DAF Apprenticeship Programme; Skillnet also assists in apprentice recruitment. Next-level training; facilities and people
The DAF Apprentice Academy will deliver dedicated, next-level training for DAF Apprentices from across the DAF Dealer network. Importantly, the DAF Apprentice Academy provides training exclusively to the DAF brand and no other automotive marque. Training pathways will be provided across Technician, Parts, Service, Business Administration and Departmental Manager disciplines.
Purpose-designed and built facilities include a full-length 18-bay workshop with stateof-the-art tooling and equipment, 11 fully
equipped classrooms, a cafeteria to cater for 100 people, a gymstandard locker / washroom and a large recreational area.
The investment in the new location is indicative of the growth of the DAF Apprenticeship Programme over recent years; 500 individuals are confirmed to attend training courses at the new DAF Apprentice Academy in its first year. To date, 2400 individuals have graduated from the DAF Apprenticeship Programme, with many going on to pursue lengthy careers at DAF Trucks and the DAF Dealer network, including senior management roles.
Staffing at the new DAF Apprentice Academy comprises a Centre Manager and Safeguarding Lead who oversee eight Tutors in conjunction with a further nine Regional Skills Coaches who support the apprentices via visits to dealer locations, managed separately by a Skill Coach Lead. Many are being employed locally alongside Administration, Catering, Cleaning and Security personnel.
2025 brings up 30-years since the establishment of the DAF Apprenticeship Programme; widely recognised today as the truck industry’s preeminent training scheme for vehicle technicians.
To mark the anniversary, DAF Apprentices will embark on a full truck restoration project to bring a DAF 95 chassis back to showroom condition. This year represents another milestone for DAF Trucks as the company maintains its marketleading status in the UK which began in 1995.
“I’m extremely proud to be leading a new era in our apprenticeship development,” said Matt Coates, Training & Apprenticeships Manager at DAF Trucks, who has been responsible for creating the new DAF Apprentice Academy, “Our previous location in Bristol set the benchmark for our apprentice training, though it became clear we needed a larger, more centrally located facility to better accommodate the growth of the DAF Apprenticeship Programme”.
“This is a significant joint investment from both DAF Trucks and Skillnet,” he said, “and the result, I believe, is nothing short of the best, dedicated seat of learning for young people in the commercial vehicle industry. More than ever, young people can enter the truck industry with DAF Trucks and be confident that they are embarking on an exciting opportunity with the potential of a progressive, fulfilling career.”
Tracey started in her new position on 1st January 2025, replacing Tarik Görgün who is relocating to the US with his family. With over 20 years of experience in the tyre industry, holding several senior roles at Continental Tyres, Tracey has worked extensively in both the consumer and commercial vehicle sectors. Her career has included roles across a range of marketing and sales functions, most recently as consumer tyres sales and solutions director UK and Ireland. In her new role, Tracey will be responsible for the overall business strategy and execution
for the company’s tyre business across the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on the new position, Tracey said, “Having spent many years at Continental, I’ve witnessed first-hand the passion and dedication to customer excellence of our team. I’m excited to leverage this experience to drive our business forward and deliver sustainable growth.”
Juergen Marth, Head of Region North & Central & Central Key Account Channel & BA RE Tyres EMEA, said: “Tracey’s appointment recognises her experience and expertise both in the tyre industry and in the UK market. I look
forward to working closely with Tracey in the months ahead as we continue to push the boundaries of tyre innovation and provide customers with high-quality, cost-effective tyre solutions.”
Continental Tyres UK is a leading supplier of premium tyres, renowned for their German engineering and exceptional performance. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and comfort, Continental tyres are trusted by drivers across the UK. The company offers a wide range of tyres for various vehicles, including cars, vans, trucks and speciality vehicles, ensuring optimal performance in all weather conditions.
Ballymena based TST Group has once again achieved BRCGS AA status for food storage and distribution, marking the sixth consecutive year of this prestigious certification.
This year, its certification grade was elevated to AA* following an unannounced audit conducted during the summer, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence and industry-leading standards.
Maire Claire Reid, MD of The TST Group said: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our outstanding warehouse team, whose consistent efforts ensure the highest levels of quality and safety across our operations.”
For leading brands and customers such as Coca-Cola HBC, Aldi Ireland, Diageo, and the AG Barr Group, our BRCGS AA* certification signifies more than just compliance. It represents a benchmark in food safety and product quality management, offering assurance that the company’s operations meet and exceed the stringent requirements needed to safeguard their products and protect consumer safety.
The BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards)
certification was designed to provide a unified standard for food safety, enabling companies to demonstrate control, ensure legal responsibility, and reduce audit duplication for manufacturers.
Key Areas of Excellence Audited
The unannounced audit, which forms part of the Global Standard
for Storage and Distribution, rigorously reviewed several critical aspects of the TST Group’s operations, including:
Organisational Commitment
– A demonstrated culture of excellence and leadership.
Hazard and Risk Analysis
– Proactive identification and mitigation of potential risks.
The RHA has welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement that there will be a consultation on the National Speed Management Review.
Part of the consultation invites feedback on whether the current 40mph speed limit for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on Scottish single-carriageway roads should be increased to 50mph, as it is throughout the rest of Britain.
The RHA has campaigned for this change for many years, most recently during the National Lorry Week, when it highlighted the success of the ongoing 50mph trial on the A9, together with the evidence of benefits in England and Wales, which moved to a 50mph limit in 2015.
The RHA believes there would be three main benefits of a 50mph limit for HGVs in
Scotland: a reduction in risky overtaking by other drivers, reduced emissions as a result of more efficient fuel consumption, and economic benefits derived from faster journeys (see notes to editors for more information).
Martin Reid, RHA Policy Director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland said: “The Scottish Government should be commended for consulting on the change to HGV speed limits. The 50mph trial on the A9 has resulted in a reduction in risky overtaking with a resultant improvement in safety, backed up by a decade of data from roads in England and Wales.
Site and Building Standards –
Maintaining facilities to exceptional levels of hygiene and safety.
Vehicle Operating Standards
– Ensuring all fleet is compliant and optimised for safe and efficient distribution.
Facility Management –Streamlined processes and robust operational controls.
Operating Practices –
Continuous improvement of daily workflows and procedures.
Personnel Training, Competency, and Hygiene – Investing in the skills and well-being of our team.
Commitment to Excellence
“Our commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest standards is rooted in our responsibility to our customers and end consumers. As a logistics provider, we understand the critical role we play in the supply chain, and this certification underscores our dedication to delivering on that responsibility with integrity, quality, and care,” continued Maire Claire Reid.
“The extension of a 50mph limit across all Scottish single-carriageway A-roads should be expected to yield similar results. “We also know that lorries use less fuel and create fewer emissions when they can drive at 50mph, and shorter journeys create savings which can be passed on to customers.
“Having HGVs driving at up to 50mph would be a positive step, and we welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to this consultation.”
Road Safety Manager at IAM Roadsmart Stewart Mackie said: “As an organisation that champions safer roads in the UK, IAM Roadsmart believes that government policy should reflect the evidence. The report on England and Wales’ move to allow Heavy Goods Vehicles to drive at up to 50 miles per hour on “A” roads concludes that the change from 40mph has not had a detrimental impact on safety along single carriageway roads. Analysis of the three year trial done on the A9 suggests that the move to a 50mph limit for Heavy Goods Vehicles on single carriageway stretches has actually reduced collisions, fatalities and casualties from incidents involving HGVs.”
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KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY AT KINGSBRIDGE
If other pain relief options have been unsuccessful or depending on the severity of the damage to your knee, you may require a knee replacement. A new knee joint will help to improve your mobility and reduce pain. Depending on the condition of your knee joint, you may need to have part, or all, of your knee joint replaced. If you have arthritis just in one area of your knee joint, usually the inside part of the joint, you may be offered a partial knee replacement. However, a total knee replacement is more common. A knee replacement can last up to 20 years.
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The hip joint is susceptible to general wear, tear and damage. This can result in serious hip joint pain for some people. Hip pain can also be caused by various forms of arthritis, bone diseases, bone abnormalities, and injury. At Kingsbridge Private Hospital we provide a complete care package for full or partial hip replacement procedures. We offer hip replacement surgery to replace joints that have been damaged or worn away by injury or arthritis. We are also able to provide hip revisions of replacement hips that need to be renewed due to them becoming loose, infected or worn out. Your Orthopaedic Consultant will discuss all non-surgical and surgical options with you.
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Where normal hip surgery techniques would require patients to remain in hospital for a number of days following surgery, the enhanced recovery pathway enables patients to be discharged within 24 hours. Patients are able to get back on their feet much earlier after surgery. This reduces the risk of complications and infection, and the patient will return home much sooner.
Trevor Warde from Co. Down said: “During the summer I was admitted to Kingsbridge Private Hospital for a hip replacement operation and just 12 hours later I was discharged! In fact,
less than 6 hours after surgery I was on my feet, walking around the ward and up and down the stairs with a walking aid. Incredible service from the pleasant receptionists to the excellent nursing team and Orthopaedic Surgeon. 6 weeks later I am back gardening, pain free and enjoying a good night’s sleep. Many thanks to the wonderful team at Kingsbridge.”
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At Kingsbridge, we offer a number of options when it comes to payment. We work with all major health insurance companies, as well as the option to selffund. Payment plans are also available. With hospitals in both Belfast and Ballykelly, depending on how quickly we can help you see one of our Orthopaedic Consultants, choosing the date and location is completely up to you.
Call Kingsbridge on 028 9066 7878 to speak to a member of our enquiry team who will assist with all your queries and book you in for an initial consultation. Learn more at kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com
*T&Cs apply. Appointment will be offered at either of our Belfast or Ballykelly hospital.
On behalf of the industry, we continue to have constructive discussions with a range of officials from HMRC, including most recently the Director General for Borders and Trade, to address the pressing challenges facing hauliers operating in Northern Ireland.
We are grateful to Carol Bristow for meeting with RHA’s Managing Director, Richard Smith and we are following up the meeting with a resume of those discussions in writing. We have also led engagement directly with UK Government to raise awareness of the issues affecting businesses and consumers in Northern Ireland. Our focus is on safeguarding supply chain resilience, especially as GB-NI freight has seen a 30% decline since 2022. There remains concern in our industry about divergence and the hurdles businesses must go through to send a range of goods from GB to NI. Specifically, we are calling for greater clarity around the roles of the sender, haulier, and receiver in the non-retail groupage process and we continue to have concerns about further administrative burdens and associated costs being imposed on those transporting the goods. As things stand, many hauliers moving goods across the Irish Sea are expected to shoulder the responsibility of complying with the ‘at risk’ goods requirements within the Windsor Framework— this despite them not being best placed to do so. We believe that a degree more flexibility needs to be shown here. We also believe
an opportunity exists for a more streamlined and simplified Trader Support Service model, one which would benefit, not hinder businesses and consumers. As the government continues its ‘reset’ discussions with the EU, we urge them to prioritise resolving these issues. In the months ahead, we look forward to submitting our recommendations to the
independent review of the Windsor Framework on behalf of our industry and we will continue to advocate for practical solutions to keep the supply chain flowing smoothly. We remain committed to meeting with HMRC, the Cabinet Office, DEFRA, the NI Office, and other relevant stakeholders and trade bodies to address these matters and deliver meaningful progress.
The run up to Christmas is always hectic but the closure of Holyhead port days before the big event promised to cause more chaos than normal. Damage sustained at the port in the aftermath of Storm Darragh meant that the port had to be closed and all traffic due to use Holyhead had to find an alternative route.
With crossings from Liverpool fully booked, some headed south to Fishguard and Pembroke while others went “over the top” to Cairnryan and Stranraer.
The additional journey time, and subsequent stacking operations at these ports, meant that many drivers had run out of hours and could not get themselves or their trucks home.
After a number of lengthy emails and phone calls running through the Friday night into the Saturday, we were able to secure a relaxation of EU Drivers Hours rules from Saturday 21st December to midnight on Monday 23rd December. This allowed an extra day of driving before the requirement to start a weekly rest period kicked in. This meant a number of displaced people and vehicles could get back to start their rest at home. We are grateful to the DfT team who worked with us out with normal civil service working hours to support and help the industry at what is always a key time for the sector.
International development organisation, Transaid, has announced its next cycle challenge, set to take place in the Republic of Ireland between 24 – 28 September 2025. Participants will set off from bustling Cork, riding 328 km over three days to finish in the centre of Dublin, one of Europe’s most exciting capitals.
Day one will see cyclists pedal 132 km from Cork to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. The second day adds 91 km as the group travels to Carlow, known for being the Celtic Centre of Ireland. A final 105 km on day three brings the challenge to an end – completing an adventure which will take in green fields, ruined castles, heritage towns, and wonderful Irish pubs!
Announcing the ride, Caroline Barber, Chief Executive of Transaid, says: “It has been incredible to see our cycle challenges grow since we launched the first ride back in 2006, and the team
is really excited to be crossing the Irish Sea for this next adventure. The transport and logistics industry are always ready to jump in the saddle to support us, and the unrestricted funds they generate open doors for us to pilot new projects.”
Last year saw two groups of riders participate in Transaid cycle challenges, in the UK and Kenya, raising more than £255,000 to support life-saving road safety and access to healthcare projects. Entries for Cork to Dublin are encouraged from teams and individuals. The registration fee is £149 per person and participants are asked to raise a
minimum sponsorship of £1,750 to take part. The package includes four nights’ accommodation with meals, ride support, luggage transport along the route, and bike passage to and from Ireland. Flights, if required, must be booked separately. To sign up for the event or for more information, please contact Anna Giavedoni, Events Manager for Transaid, via anna@ transaid.org or +44 (0)7310 909580.
For more information and to find out how you can support the organisation visit www.transaid.org
We are familiar with the concept of safety. Safety at work, or the lack of it, kills between 10-20 people each year in Northern Ireland. Each one of these people is an individual; people with families, friends, loved ones and each and every one of them went out to work that morning with a purpose. Every life lost in a Northern Ireland workplace is a tragedy.
You often hear it being said “Your health is your wealth”, but what about your health in the workplace because of your job? We are also familiar with our wellbeing being discussed, and our wellbeing at work is important, but it shouldn’t be confused with our work-related health, be it physical or psychological. For some people, their health, because of the type of workplace they work in, may have a poor prognosis. In stark contrast to safety related workplace deaths, hundreds of people die in Northern Ireland each and every year due to a past exposure at work, primarily to chemicals or dust, and thousands more people’s quality of life is severely restricted due to work related health issues. These conditions include different types of cancer following exposure to chemicals, dusts and asbestos as well as other conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
But it isn’t a problem of the past. It’s a present day problem. Without effective controls being put in place to reduce the risk, the problem continues to persist and claim its unacceptable toll.
Martin Rafferty, a Principal Inspector with the Occupational Health and Hygiene Team within
HSENI explained that “People shout about “Safety” but tend to whisper about “Health”. This needs to change. We want organisations to give the health of their employees the same priority and focus they would to safety”. Poor management of health risks in the workplace ruins and costs lives. Workplace ill health is preventable. No one in Northern Ireland should develop ill health simply as a result of a job choice”.
But Martin went on to explain, “Thankfully not everyone whose health has been affected by their work will result in a death. Other conditions such as noise-induced hearing loss, hand arm vibration syndrome, Musculoskeletal injuries and Asthma, to name but a few affect thousands of people on a daily basis resulting in them being unable to work and live a normal life. What many don’t realise is that every workplace has health risks. These risks need to be managed and adequately controlled”.
The cost of workplace ill health to the Northern Ireland economy runs into the hundreds of millions of pounds each year, putting additional pressure on the NHS as well as that of local businesses, due to compensation claims
and downtime due to absenteeism.
This year, HSENI will launch a campaign aimed at driving the workplace health message home – it involves raising awareness of the issue, the impact it can have and the need for appropriate controls.
To open the campaign, HSENI have organised a two-day conference at the La Mon Hotel in Belfast on 9th-10th April 2025.
Entitled the “Workplace Health Conference and Exhibition”, this conference is open to everyone to attend and would be of particular interest to employers, health and safety representatives, senior managers, hygienists, health professionals and anyone that has involvement in workplace
health and well-being. It will cover all topics occupational health related, with particular focus on HSENI’s key priorities which include occupational lung disease, occupational cancers, musculoskeletal disorders and stress. With 37 esteemed speakers presenting over the two days, the conference is supported by Stormont’s Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, and Health Minister, Mr Mike Nesbitt who will both be attending and
launching the event on day one.
Day Two will open with Northern Ireland’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride addressing delegates. Other keynote speakers include Professor Siobhan O’Neill, Mental Health Champion for NI, Professor David Fishwick, Chief Medical Advisor for HSE and HSENI and Dr Robin Cordell, President of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine
The conference will be attended by up to
350 delegates each day and will be used to launch HSENI’s new TV, radio, social media and advertising campaign.
In addition to this, HSENI have produced several posters which will be distributed to industry by inspectors throughout the course of the year. These posters cover key work related health topics and allow the reader to scan a QR code to access updated advice and information on the HSENI webpages.
Nichola Mallon Head of Trade and Devolved Policy, Logistics UK
With the rise of online shopping, parcels have become a part of everyday life for many consumers but parcel deliveries are also critical for businesses. Every business, from manufacturing to pharmaceutical to retail, relies on parcel deliveries for parts, specialist equipment, samples and supplies.
To protect the smooth supply of parcels from GB to Northern Ireland, it is essential that traders and hauliers ensure they are ready for and understand the changes and new requirements that will be implemented from 31 March 2025. With limited information and detail from government, it was clear the original scheduled date of 30 September 2024 for these changes would be unachievable and would have led to widespread disruption across the economy. Businesses simply had not been given enough time or information to prepare for the incoming changes. Since then, the communication from government has improved and is being ramped up during February and March, but it is disappointing that a wide ranging awareness programme was not initiated as soon as the delay was announced, as we and our members urged.
While businesses in Northern Ireland tend to follow Windsor Framework developments more closely than others across the Irish Sea, it is clear that the level of understanding in GB about the new customs and parcel requirements for those moving goods is much lower.
The UK government still has a significant task ahead to raise awareness of the new regulations and processes, to ensure goods continue to move smoothly and trade is not negatively impacted. This is particularly true for parcels moving from business to business.
Business to business parcels destined for NI will be handled in line with the processes in place for general freight items. This will mean that either the sending or the receiving business will need to be authorised under the new UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) to use the “green lane” when moving goods that are not considered “at risk” of entering the EU.
Businesses will need to provide the carrier moving the parcel with their UKIMS number when sending parcels from GB to NI. Companies can apply for authorisation for the UK Internal Market Scheme here – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ apply-for-authorisation-for-the-uk-internal-marketscheme-if-you-bring-goods-into-northern-ireland It is important to remember that goods which are moved between GB and NI but not within UKIMS cannot use the “green lane” and will have to follow the processes required for imports into the EU.
To use the “green lane” when moving consumer parcels from GB to NI, carriers must join the UK Carrier Scheme (UKC). To be part of this scheme, carriers will need to show they have processes in place to determine whether the goods they are transporting are being sent to a private individual, or a business. Because it is the carriers who need to apply to join the UK Carrier Scheme, GB businesses sending parcels to consumers for personal use in NI do not need to be registered in any scheme. The same is true for consumers sending parcels to businesses, for example when returning items. It is important to note that the UK Carrier Scheme cannot be used for moving business to business parcels. Carriers can find more information and apply for UKC authorisation here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-ifyou-can-apply-for-the-uk-carrier-scheme Logistics UK has also been pressing the government to provide information and resources in one central place to help businesses get ready for the changes. Our members are encouraged to see a new gov.uk resource page has now gone live - Communications resources to help you move goods from Great Britain to Northern
Ireland - that has links to information, guidance and recorded webinars and the government has confirmed that this will be updated as further resources are made available.
The Northern Ireland Customs & Trade Academy (NICTA) is another resource containing detailed information for businesses who move goods under the Windsor Framework between GB and NI. Government and industry share mutual ambitions for smooth parcel and goods movements between GB and NI, and all that can be done should be done to ease the flow of trade. Logistics UK continues to highlight to government the particular challenges groupage operators will face, and we will continue to make the case for a Trusted Haulier Scheme to support this sector upon which many sole traders and SMEs rely. We are also urging the government to set out in detail how it will monitor the impact of the new regulations when implemented from 31 March 2025. The Framework is something we are all going to have to keep working at to ensure the smooth movement of goods. At the core of that is the need for the UK government to improve its communication, work proactively to identify workable solutions and provide appropriate support to traders and hauliers moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.
Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.
For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk
An operator was convicted at Belfast Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £650. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers stopped and examined a 3 axle Volvo articulated lorry in combination with a 3-axle trailer.
On examination of the vehicle, it was noted it was not specified on a valid Goods Vehicle Operators Licence. On analysis of the vehicle’s tachograph, it was noted it had not been calibrated, and that the vehicles tachograph data had not been downloaded in 3080 days, 2990 days outside the 90-day limit. On analysis of the driver’s digital smart card, it was noted it had not been downloaded in 38 days, 10 days outside the 28-day limit.
An operator was convicted at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court and fined a total of £1,600. The conviction arose when DVA Enforcement Officers were conducting compliance checks in the vicinity of Lurgan when they encountered a 3 axle Scania Articulated Goods Vehicle in combination with 3 axle semi-trailer.
During inspection, it was noted that the driver was fraudulently using the digital tachograph card of another individual, in turn creating a false record. The operator claimed to have no knowledge of this individual who fraudulently used the driver card. DVA later confirmed this card to have been declared not received following a renewal application by its lawful holder, it therefore should not have been in use. It was noted the company had never downloaded the vehicle tachograph unit or the driver’s tachograph card as required by Regulations, therefore ignoring all activity completed in the vehicle and by the driver. Evidence further indicates the absence of the company carrying out regular checks of the completed work against the driver’s attendance otherwise the illegal
activity would have been identified.
On a later date further detailed analysis of the digital tachograph data was carried out, anomalies were noted indicating the driver used the driver’s card fraudulently on 16 other dates to circumvent driver’s hours Regulations at the detriment of road safety, in turn accumulating 53 apparent offences attributable to the company. The offences before the court included cause / permit use of a driver card of which the driver is not identified as the named holder, creating a false record, failure to download tachograph card, failure to download vehicle Tachograph unit, employing a driver with Insufficient daily rest, cause / permitting excess daily driving time and failure to carry out regular checks.
In 2025, Renault Trucks will be taking orders for an extension of its Renault Trucks E-Tech T model. With a range of 600 km on a single charge, this vehicle opens up new opportunities for the decarbonisation of long-haul transport.
With 30 million kilometres of proven performance in real world operation with customers, Renault Trucks electric trucks have already saved 29,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. With this new offer, the French manufacturer is further extending its range of sustainable transport solutions to support its customers in their energy transition.
The increased range of the Renault Trucks E-Tech T is achieved by integrating a new component, namely an electric axle.
E-axle technology enables all the elements of the powertrain – electric motors and transmission – to be grouped together at the rear of the vehicle, freeing up space between the side members to accommodate additional battery packs. Renault Trucks E-Tech T equipped with e-axle can cover 600 km on a single charge.
“The advent of this electric truck will boost the transition to electric mobility”, explained Emmanuel Duperray, Senior Vice President Electromobility at Renault Trucks. “We believe that a range of 600 km on a single charge, combined with the development of public charging infrastructure networks by 2026 – in
particular through our joint venture Milence – will enable us to achieve the operational parity [with diesel technology] that our customers expect.”
Designed for long-haul transport, this Renault Trucks E-Tech T with an extended range will enhance the manufacturer’s electric offering without replacing current solutions. Renault Trucks will indeed continue to offer a wide range of autonomies, configurations and equipment tailored to specific uses. In order to help hauliers find the ideal solution, Renault Trucks is also providing them with advanced simulation tools enabling each electric truck to be configured according to their specific needs.
“We’re not looking to enter a race for autonomy on a single charge”, stressed Emmanuel Duperray. Oversized batteries penalise the payload, raise total operating costs and increase the environmental footprint. In essence, an electric truck is more expensive than a combustion vehicle. We need to rethink low-carbon logistics, in other words, reconsider transport patterns
to optimise the use of transport vehicles and therefore reduce the cost per kilometre.”
Renault Trucks encourages its customers to adjust the size of the batteries according to their actual needs and provides support in optimising the solution, including the charging strategy.
“This approach is already enabling us to achieve daily mileage of over 700 kilometres with our series production Renault Trucks E Tech T.”
MAN Truck & Bus is continuing the transition to electromobility with another first for the manufacturer.
After a construction period of just one year, the company recently celebrating the toppingout ceremony for the new building for the large-scale production of batteries for fully electric trucks and buses at its Nuremberg site. A few weeks after the delivery of the very first MAN eTruck to a customer, the topping-out ceremony is the next highlight for the Munich-based commercial vehicle manufacturer.
From April 2025, high-voltage batteries will be manufactured industrially in Nuremberg using state-of-the-art production methods on 17,000square metres. This will create almost 350 new jobs for the future. MAN will be the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to start its own battery series production in Germany.
The investment volume for the new building, including investments in logistics, infrastructure, buildings and production facilities, totals
around 100 million euros. Guests at the topping-out ceremony included the Bavarian Minister President Markus
Söder, Nuremberg’s Lord Mayor Marcus König, MAN Truck & Bus CEO Alexander Vlaskamp and the Chairman of the Works Council at MAN’s Nuremberg site Markus Wansch.
Alexander Vlaskamp: ‘The drives of the future are being created in Nuremberg. Not only are we developing batteries here, but in a few months’ time we will also be using the latest technologies to mass-produce them. The toppingout ceremony is an important milestone for our company on the road to the major transformation towards electromobility. And it is also a clear commitment by MAN to Bavaria and Germany as a business location. This was made possible by close collaboration between the company, our works council and Bavarian politicians.’
There’s a renewed focus at Search Workshop Supplies (SWS) on what’s ‘essential’ for 2025.
As we journey through the year, SWS anticipate you’ll be seeing and hearing a lot more about it.
So, what’s this all about? As SWS has evolved over the years since its founding in 1973 there’s been some very distinct strands to the business – the supply of motor factors; the fitout of workshops; the supply of consumables to truck, PSV and emergency vehicle workshops.
“As we came to the end of 2024, we found ourselves reflecting on where we’d been, where we were – and how best we could use our unique strengths to the advantage of the automotive and commercial vehicle trade throughout Ireland.”
There’s one aspect of all the strands that was consistent. To the customer, what SWS do was an ‘essential’. Whether it was the supply of some cable ties, or the testing of a column lift to comply with the HSE requirements – for the customer to continue running smoothly, it was ‘essential’.
The first example where the ‘essential’ concept has been the driver is ‘The Workshop Essential’.
Set to be a quarterly publication, a free copy of the first issue is included with this magazine. If you missed it, or you’d like some more copies – just get in touch with SWS.
As logistics continues to evolve in response to technological advancements and market demands, Manfreight leads the way by integrating cutting-edge solutions into every aspect of its operations. From smart fleet telematics and cloud infrastructure to advanced KPI reporting and connected facilities, Manfreight is redefining what it means to innovate in the logistics industry.
Manfreight’s journey toward digitisation began with bold decisions and strategic investments. A pivotal moment came in 2017 when the company acquired the refrigerated arm of DFDS Belfast. This move not only expanded Manfreight’s customer base but also presented an opportunity to upgrade the aging fleet it inherited from DFDS. Staying true to its values of trust and reliability, Manfreight immediately embarked on a large-scale fleet renewal program, recognising that the reliability of its vehicles was essential to maintaining the high standards its customers had come to expect.
Refrigeration & Temperature
Monitoring - Continuous temperature logging and remote-control capabilities ensure perishable goods remain in optimal conditions.
Live GPS Tracking - Precise realtime location data for every trailer, ensuring end-to-end visibility across the entire supply chain.
Load Security & Door LockingGeo-fenced automated locking
Manfreight is redefining supply chain visibility by advancing beyond fleet-wide telematics. Through an innovative collaboration with Schmitz Cargobull, the company is exploring integrating cameras and scanners into trailer frames, enabling detailed tracking of individual pallets even while on the move. This cutting-edge technology provides granular insights into supply chain movements, empowering customers with live data on shipments at both load and pallet levels. These advancements within TrailerConnect deliver unprecedented levels of visibility, ensuring precise delivery forecasting, enhanced load security, and improved supply chain efficiency. By combining this technology with realtime telematics across its fleet, Manfreight is setting a new standard for accountability and transparency in logistics, ensuring every shipment is accounted for with unparalleled accuracy.
The result is a logistics operation that is smarter, faster, and more reliable than ever. By investing in the right technology and fostering long-term partnerships with industry leaders, Manfreight continues to redefine what’s possible in supply chain visibility.
Manfreight’s fully owned, high-specification fleet is not only built for performance and reliability but is also at the forefront of digital integration. With the latest Scania and Volvo HGV technology, these trucks are equipped with cutting-edge driver
assistance systems, collision avoidance technology, and enhanced visibility tools, ensuring they are among the safest and most advanced on the road. Every truck is a rolling data hub, transmitting vital supply chain insights in real time. GPS tracking, EBS & motion data, and driver performance monitoring provide instant visibility of vehicle movements, driving efficiency, and safety compliance. Proactive maintenance tracking ensures that potential mechanical issues are identified before they cause disruption, keeping the fleet in peak condition and ensuring reliability for customers.
Dennison Commercials Ltd are delighted to be supporting Manfreight’s continued growth by supplying an impressive fleet of 45 brand-new Volvo FH Trucks.
Manfreight’s new Project Ark warehousing facility at Belfast Harbour marks a major milestone in their journey of innovation, featuring zero-emission operations, powered by solar panels and sustainable technology.
The new Volvo FH trucks are all equipped with advanced fuel-saving technology, the latest GSR safety features and enhanced driver comfort.
These trucks align with Manfreight’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and upholding corporate social responsibility, ensuring they stay at the forefront of truck safety and technology, while prioritising the protection of vulnerable road users and the wellbeing of drivers.
With access to exceptional service and support across our four depots in N.Ireland and the backing of the extensive Volvo dealer network, this guarantees seamless access to maintenance wherever Manfreight operates.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence in logistics and transport solutions, paving the way for sustainable growth and operational success.
Dennison Commercials New Truck Sales Manager, Chris Arthur said "With Manfreight’s recent expansion and state-of-the-art facilities, this fleet of 45 Volvo trucks is a testament to their commitment to quality and efficiency. We’re proud to be part of their journey and continued success."
Contact our Dennison Commercials team today: Call Us: 028 9335 2827 Visit: www.dennisons.co.uk
To enhance fleet-wide connectivity, CameraMatics technology is integrated across Manfreight’s operations, delivering a new level of real-time visibility and risk mitigation. Using AI-powered hazard detection, in-cab driver alerts, and predictive analytics, CameraMatics enhances driver awareness and enables proactive interventions.
Every journey is monitored for braking patterns, acceleration trends, and
handling performance, creating data-driven feedback loops that support continuous driver
training and operational improvements. Beyond in-house monitoring, Manfreight collaborates closely with major manufacturers such as Scania and Volvo, as well as their local dealer networks, to share live operational data. This partnership-driven approach allows for enhanced predictive maintenance, ensuring optimal fleet performance and reducing downtime. By working directly with manufacturers, Manfreight gains early access to software updates, enhanced fuel efficiency settings, and the latest safety innovations, keeping its fleet at the cutting edge of logistics technology.
Manfreight’s approach to KPI reporting transforms complex logistics data into clear, actionable insights for its customers. Leveraging its cloud infrastructure, the company consolidates vast amounts of operational data into intuitive dashboards, providing stakeholders with a ‘single window’ into their supply chain. These reports go beyond traditional metrics, offering advanced analytics that highlight areas for improvement, streamline operations, and uncover opportunities for cost savings. From on-time delivery rates to carbon emissions tracking, Manfreight empowers its customers with the information they need to optimise supply chain efficiency
and align with sustainability goals. Manfreight’s KPI systems are tailored to customer needs, whether through seamless API integrations or bespoke reporting tools. By aligning its capabilities with customer objectives, the company ensures transparency and collaboration at every stage of the supply chain.
Central to Manfreight’s digital strategy is its robust cloud infrastructure, developed in collaboration with leading technology partners. This infrastructure underpins the company’s data-driven operations, enabling real-time connectivity, advanced analytics, and seamless communication across the entire logistics network. By hosting its systems on the cloud, Manfreight ensures scalability, reliability, and security. The infrastructure supports everything from telematics data to customer integrations, creating a unified platform that enhances decision making and operational efficiency. Additionally, the use of AI and machine learning within this ecosystem enables
predictive analytics, such as demand forecasting and dynamic route optimisation. Manfreight’s cloud infrastructure ensures seamless redundancy, meaning that in the rare event of a server failure, operations automatically transition to backup systems with no disruption to service. This highavailability architecture guarantees uninterrupted data access, maintaining real-time visibility and operational stability across the entire logistics network.
The flexibility of the cloud allows Manfreight to adapt quickly to evolving customer requirements, ensuring its operations remain resilient in a rapidly changing market whilst providing real-time access to critical business intelligence.
Manfreight’s advanced chilled facility at Belfast Harbour exemplifies the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. Strategically located in Northern Ireland’s premier logistics hub, this state-of-the-art warehouse is designed to set new standards in the storage and distribution of temperature-sensitive goods. Equipped with industry-leading refrigeration and energy solutions, the facility is a testament to Manfreight’s commitment to creating a greener, more efficient supply chain.
At the heart of the facility is Manfreight’s bespoke ammonia glycol refrigeration system, developed in partnership with Powertech Refrigeration, experts in sustainable cooling technology. This system ensures precise temperature control across the entire warehouse, preserving the integrity of sensitive goods while minimising environmental impact. Powering this is the vast solar array, comprising 1,890 solar panels strategically installed to provide a significant portion of the facility’s energy needs.
These initiatives underline Manfreight’s focus on reducing its carbon footprint while delivering unparalleled operational performance through the use of technology.
The Belfast Harbour facility seamlessly integrates advanced technologies to enhance its operational capabilities. From connected IoT systems to automated monitoring tools, the warehouse is designed to ensure full visibility and control over stored goods.
Electric tugs, forklifts and powered pallet trucks are deployed throughout the facility, supporting Manfreight’s sustainability goals and ensuring efficient, eco-friendly operations.
Looking ahead to 2025, Manfreight is embarking on the ambitious DSIT 5G innovation project in partnership with BT. This initiative will leverage Belfast Harbour’s private 5G network to explore AI-powered pallet recognition technology, combining advanced CCTV systems and machine learning to provide real-time insights into pallet-level movements as well as maximise safety across the warehousing operation. This cutting-edge project is poised to revolutionise
supply chain visibility, reinforcing Manfreight’s role as a leader in logistics innovation.
Combining cutting-edge refrigeration, sustainable energy solutions, and advanced connectivity, the Belfast Harbour facility represents a fully integrated logistics hub designed to meet the demands of modern supply chains. Customers benefit from the facility’s ability to maintain optimal storage conditions while providing real-time data on their goods, ensuring seamless inventory management and enhanced decision-making.
With its focus on innovation and sustainability, the Belfast Harbour facility underscores Manfreight’s position as a trusted partner for businesses across the UK and Ireland, delivering excellence at every stage of the logistics process. As the company advances its technological capabilities, this facility serves as both a beacon of progress and a foundation for the future of logistics.
Proud to deliver sustainable port centric logistics in partnership with Manfreight.
Manfreight’s digital strategy extends beyond its internal operations to include seamless integrations with customers and software providers. Through API-based connectivity, the company ensures that its systems align perfectly with customer platforms, creating a unified approach to supply chain management and a single version of the truth for their team and customer teams alike. These integrations allow customers to access real-
time data on shipment status, inventory levels, and operational performance. The transparency provided by this technology fosters collaboration and trust, enabling customers to make informed decisions and respond quickly to market demands.
Manfreight’s focus on customer-centric solutions ensures that every partnership is tailored to deliver maximum value. Whether through automated reporting, predictive analytics, or integrated communication channels, the company’s digital tools drive efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.
Manfreight’s commitment to digitisation goes hand in hand with its dedication to sustainability. The adoption of fuel-efficient vehicles, renewable energy solutions, and advanced telematics has significantly reduced the company’s carbon footprint. By leveraging technology to streamline operations and minimise waste, Manfreight demonstrates how innovation can drive both business success and environmental stewardship by simply collecting the data and creating actionable insights.
In 2024, the company achieved a 10% reduction in CO2 emissions across its fleet, thanks to the integration of advanced telematics and route optimisation systems. The Belfast Harbour chilled facility also plays a key role in this effort, showcasing how modern logistics infrastructure can align with sustainability goals.
As Manfreight continues to evolve, its focus remains on leading the logistics industry into the future through innovation, technology, and collaboration. With their mission to digitise the supply chain, the company not only enhances its operational capabilities but also empowers its customers to achieve their own strategic objectives.
Through its advanced telematics, cloud infrastructure, customer integrations, and state-ofthe-art facilities, Manfreight sets a benchmark for excellence in logistics. Its vision is clear: to build a sustainable, efficient, and transparent supply chain that meets the challenges of tomorrow while delivering exceptional value today.
Leveraging its cloud infrastructure, Manfreight consolidates vast amounts of operational data, providing stakeholders with a “single window” into their supply chain. By hosting its systems on the cloud, Manfreight ensures scalability, reliability, and security. The infrastructure supports everything from telematics data to customer integrations, creating a unified platform that enhances decision-making and operational efficiency.
In the April May issue of Export & Freight we will be continuing the Manfreight story. Part 3 - Looking to the Future.
Manfreight have an active Green Policy throughout every aspect of the business.
One of the first companies in Northern Ireland to install Electric Chargers at both the Portadown and Belfast sites; Manfreight is keen to encourage and enable their team to move to electric as both a lifestyle and environmental choice.
Our Temperature Controlled Division are on hand 24/7 365 to ensure your freight requirements are always met.
Specialists in time-e cient, fully tracked deliveries our Dry Freight Solutions are second to none.
Our Walking Floor Solutions o er an unparalleled blend of safety, e ciency, and environmental performance.
We ensure quality assurance, e cient cross-docking, and precise order fulfillment for seamless supply chains.
Our team leverage their collective expertise to maximise returns across your supply chain.
Manfreight has been serving the food sector for over fifty years, delivering with exceptional care and precision through our advanced temperature-controlled logistics fleet.
Having served the FMCG sector for more than five decades, Manfreight provides reliable & e cient supply chain solutions, supported by a state-of-the-art fleet.
Manfreight ensures the highest standards of safety and compliance in pharmaceutical logistics, with a fleet that provides secure, controlled, and traceable transport solutions.
Manfreight delivers precise & reliable parcel logistics services, leveraging a modern fleet with advanced tracking capabilities to meet the critical demands of timely distribution.
Manfreight enhances recycling logistics, promoting sustainability by e ciently transporting recyclable materials, thus supporting the circular economy.
The Manfreight Walking Floor Division specialises in transporting bioenergy materials ensuring safe and e cient delivery to renewable energy facilities.
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Being offered the chance to put a number of Scanias through their paces in the snow of Norway is an opportunity that would be impossible to turn down.
To showcase their latest products, including a selection of BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles), and demonstrate their capabilities on snowy and icy roads, Scania invited journalists from across Europe to the ski resort of Trysil to take part in Scania Winter. This annual event aims to keep the press, and customers, up to date with the latest Scania products and gives them the unique opportunity to experience driving in conditions that we just don’t get in this part of the world.
Scania Winter is based at a small airfield just outside Norway’s premier ski resort Trysil, located about two hours north of Oslo, and for the event Scania brought along 24 trucks with a range of powertrains and a selection of trailers.
From refrigerated semi-trailers to logging trailers and from tippers to trailer-mounted cranes this was an impressive range of equipment. Given the location, they had also a couple of ex-Norwegian army trucks - and even a snow plough, so this was going to be both informative – and fun.
Norway’s climate is a bit colder than it is here, and its proximity to the Artic Circle means there isn’t a lot of daylight at this time of year.
According to one of the Norwegian demo driver, the snow lasts in that part of Norway until late April – early May meaning tricky driving conditions for a large part of the year. A few flakes of snow in this country and
things can grind to a halt. But not so in Scandanavia, where the Scania truck is from.
Whether it’s snowing, or the roads are icy life goes on as normal, which is why these trucks need to be able to perform in such conditions, and it was this unstoppable performance that we travelled to Norway to witness first hand. It was all work, I promise! On the bus transfer from Oslo airport to Trysil the bus had a bit of trouble with grip as the road wasn’t snow covered but icy. It had been salted but rain had fallen which subsequently froze meaning a slow, careful journey north. This ice problem also concerned our Scania hosts who wouldn’t allow the trucks out on the open road on the Wednesday afternoon – as had been planned. But we were still able to drive as many of the trucks as we wanted around a purpose built winter track circling the airport
property. That is after we all took a breathyser test! Norway has an almost zero alcohol limit for drivers but for the purposes of this event, and our own and others safety, Scania told us the limit was zero for anyone who wanted to get behind the wheel of a truck. And no-one had any issue with this pragmatic and sensible mantra. One of the first trucks I had a drive in was a 660S (V8) with a refrigerated semi-trailer. Despite the ground being completely covered in snow, the big Scania had few problems and provided you were gentle with the throttle the truck didn’t skid or slip once – except when the demo driver asked me to do a brake test. But even in these conditions the truck came to a safe stop in a relatively short distance. Next I jumped up into one of the BEVs (battery electric vehicle) Scania had brought along – a 45R with a fridge. After the glorious sound of the V8
this truck was eerily quiet. There didn’t feel to be any less power that the ICE (internal combustion engine) version but this was so smooth and quiet it was such a nice truck to drive. Again apart from a slight bit of wheel spin if you are too heavy with the right foot, the truck navigated the course without a worry. This Scania also had the latest digital dash and up to date cabin, which is a very nice place to spend some time. Another truck I had the opportunity to drive was a 770R which was equipped with an automatic system to put snow chains onto one axle of driven wheels when things start to get slippery. By pushing a button in the cab (while driving) the screen shows a camera under the truck and you watch the chains, which are initially hanging down, being placed onto the wheels with the truck instantly gaining grip. When you no longer require the chains, you simply press the button again – or if you forget they automatically disengage at 50km/h.
Scania also had a 560R fitted with a snow plough at the event, which we all got a chance to drive – and do a bit of snow
ploughing, which was remarkable and a truly once in a lifetime experience.
And also for pure entertainment were two army trucks. These trucks, equipped with all-wheel drive and snow chains went off road over a course no other vehicle could even attempt. By Thursday conditions had improved enough for the trucks to be allowed out onto the public road, and we were taken on a 20km circuit that included main roads and a snow-covered trail through the forest.
Another demo driver from Portugal was my companion on this journey. He told me he never has snow at home, but it snowed in his home town while he was here working in Norway with Scania – and he missed it!
He also told me that there wasn’t enough snow on the roads to fully appreciate how capable these trucks are in wintery conditions – the roads had a mixture of packed snow and ice on the route we travelled.
I have said before that the line between ICE (internal combustion engine) and electric is becoming blurred and an event like this
only serves to highlight that it’s getting harder and harder to tell the difference.
Of course, standing on the side of the road there is no mistaking the roar of a V8 while it is almost unnerving when a similar looking BEV passes you with hardly a sound.
But on the inside, and more importantly behind the wheel there is little to differentiate between the two types of power, and certainly in the snows of Norway the Scania BEV is every bit of impressive as its diesel-sucking brothers, both of which are capable, dependable and sure-footed when it comes to keeping their supply chain in motion whatever the weather. Norway has long since embraced electric mobility, and last year 90% of the new cars sold here were electric. Of course, they have invested in the infrastructure to support this.
To me, and when looking at Scania as a case in point, shifting to electric is not a compromise but simply a business decision providing the necessary infrastructure is built and maintained. But, in this part of the world certainly, that is something we might just have to wait a bit longer on.
Scania believe in an electric future of transportation and are continuing to invest not only in electric trucks but in the services required to support this future.
Part of the Scania Winter press event was a presentation on Modular eMobility which focused on topics including: Charging, Digital Services, Uptime Service and Finance & Insurance.
“We are going to be developing electric machines- modular designed
for the customer needs,” said Per Warg, E-Mobility Solutions
Marketing Manager at Scania
“This is something we are going to continue with in the electric world – we are developing electric machines, battery modules to feed into the modular system. We also
develop other things in connection with this drive to electric, maybe most importantly charging.”
To support this drive towards battery electric Scania recognize the need to develop new digital services to help the customers charge the truck at the right time – at the right place.
“We also need to ensure we have the uptime services and the finance services available to the customers, to deal with the residual values of the truck,” continued Per Warg. Talking a bit more about the modular system, and the components involved the presentation heard from Diane Guirguis, Product Management Director, e-Truck & Charging at Scania.
Diane outlined the various electric motors that the customer can choose for their truck, explaining how this is the first part of building the modular truck. Explaining the naming convention, Diane Guirguis said the EM stands for ‘Electric Machine, C is centrally placed, the first number stands for the number of e-machines, and the second number after the dash denotes the number of gears.
EMC1-2 which comes in 210 and 240 kw is the electric urban workhorse suitable for urban and distribution.
EMC C1-4 is the ‘electric Super’. Available from 270 – 400 KW
this is a big machine is suitable for longer haulage operations.
And the EM C3-6 is the ‘electric V8’. This machine is suitable for heavy duty, demanding operations with six gears.
After selecting a motor, the next step is to install batteries, and here there are further options
Diane was explained you can have different combinations of batteries, giving the customer ‘battery flexibility.
There are two modules with the same kWh (kilowatt hours)
- MP10 and MP12 provide 104 kWh, and the MP20 can provide 280kWh hours installed and these can be installed in
the same truck in different combinations depending on the specific requirements.
“We talk about Battery flexibility – Scania believe you should carry the right amount of battery for the application the truck will be used for,” continued Diane Guirguis.
But following a journalist’s question Diane confirmed that these battery packs have to be added at build- as the configuration cannot be changed later in the modular process.
“We have a service life of up to 12 years, which is the highest in the industry,” continued Diane.
The journalists were told the
limiting factor in all of this is the charging infrastructure, and how much you can get the truck charged in an hour.
Current charging (CCS2) - up to 375kw can add up to 320km per hour of charging. The game changer in this field will be when megacharging is available.
With regard to cabs and chassis all cabs are available right up to the S cab for trucks and rigids with tractor configurations of 4x2, 6x2 and 6x4
Scania believe these trucks will be efficient across many haulage operations when they are able to charge the truck for another 4.5 hours in a 45 minute driver break.
The Ultra Low Liner eTGX semitrailer tractor, specially developed for the loading volume requirements of automotive logistics, is set to make Volkswagen plant logistics particularly climate-friendly in the future.
In accordance with the LOI signed by both parties, Duvenbeck intends to put up to 120 units of the MAN eTGX into service by 2026.
Duvenbeck will deploy the MAN eTruck in various areas of the Rhine-Ruhr and Benelux freight forwarding region as part of VW’s plant logistics.
“With the Ultra Low Liner eTruck, MAN has developed a solution that is perfectly tailored to the requirements of the automotive industry. No other series-produced electric semitrailer tractor can pull trailers with an interior height of three meters. This makes it the ideal choice for transports with high volume requirements,” explains Friedrich Baumann, Chief Sales & Customer Solutions Officer at MAN Truck & Bus. “We are delighted to have two strong partners at our side, Duvenbeck and Volkswagen, to bring this innovation to the road.”
“The MAN eTruck is an important step towards emission-free logistics. It helps us to meet our customers’ requirements and protect the environment at the same time. Sustainability is part of our everyday practice,” emphasizes Bernd Reining, Senior Director Procurement, Duvenbeck. Duvenbeck continuously implements measures to optimize energy efficiency and conserve
resources. These include the use of alternative drive systems, the reduction of empty runs and innovative charging concepts. The use of the MAN eTruck marks a further contribution to minimizing CO2 emissions in the supply chain. Duvenbeck will be using the MAN eTruck to supply Volkswagen production in future. Simon Motter, Head of Volkswagen Group Logistics, underlines the importance of the project: “Our partner Duvenbeck is taking a bold step forward: MANeTrucks are being used for the first time at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg. This means that the technology’s suitability for everyday use and cost-effectiveness can now be proven. The use of MAN eTrucks is part of the goTOzero impact logistics program, with which Volkswagen has embarked on the
MAN Truck & Bus has recently set another milestone in the electrification of freight transport with the handover of the first MAN eTruck to the Duvenbeck Group in Munich. Production of commercial vehicles (CV) is up this year on the same period
path to consistently climate-friendly logistics.
“In the long term, the use of electric trucks is the most important lever for reducing CO2 emissions in road transportation. Where the strategically prioritized use of rail with green electricity is not possible, for example due to a lack of rail connections, BEV trucks with green electricity are favoured. In the cross-modal concept, they are used according to their strengths: Rail on long-distance routes, emission-friendly trucks on pre-carriage and onward carriage as well as on short and medium-distance routes.
Technological innovation as the key
The Ultra Low Liner eTruck MAN eTGX is a pioneer in its class: with a semitrailer height of just 950 mm, a very short wheelbase of 3.75 meters and yet maximum battery capacity, it offers a range of around 500 kilometres. This makes it perfect for use in automotive logistics, where maximum load volume up to three meters in interior height is more important than high load weights. Thanks to its modular battery concept with a choice of four, five or six battery packs and power levels of 449 and 544 hp, it can be op-timely adapted to any transport task. In addition to the standard CCS charging technology (up to 375 kW), it can also be ordered with the new MCS standard with up to one megawatt charging power, which enables even faster intermediate charging during the driver’s break from driving.
UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing fell by -3.9% in October following September’s return to growth, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The decline is set against a high performing October 2023 when production volumes jumped 47.5%, making it the month’s highest output since 2008.1 This October came a close second, however, with 12,387 vans, buses, trucks, coaches and taxis rolling out of factory gates, just 503 fewer vehicles than last year.
Exports continued to dominate output with more than three in five
vehicles built destined for overseas markets in the month, although shipments declined by -11.6% to 7,680 units. The EU remained the UK’s biggest international market, with 97.9% of exports heading to the bloc.2 Output for the domestic market, meanwhile, grew by 11.9% to 4,707 units.
In the year to date, CV manufacturing is up 6.9% to 105,834 units – an uplift of 6,803 on the same period in 2023 and representing the best first 10 months for 16 years.3 Exports recorded double-digit growth, increasing 11.4% to 69,342 units, while output for the UK saw a modest fall of -0.8% to 36,492 – a difference of just 299 units.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Despite the concerning recent announcements, UK commercial vehicle manufacturers continue to demonstrate resilience, with the sector achieving its strongest 10-month performance since 2008, despite a slight dip in October. Fluctuations in monthly output are inevitable, however, reflecting the realignment of plants and production processes to deliver next generation zero emission vans, trucks and buses.
“Sustained success will hinge on preserving the sector’s global competitiveness, so we must foster the conditions necessary to attract investment which include
affordable energy costs, support for the skills transition and robust domestic demand for electrified commercial vehicles that meet operator needs and the targets set out in the UK’s ambitious mandate regulation.”
Given recent announcements, ensuring the UK remains a globally competitive location for advanced vehicle manufacturing requires an industrial and trade strategy that works for the sector and, crucially, creates a healthy domestic market given vehicle makers build close to where they sell. Government must work in partnership with industry to deliver market regulations that support consumers and industry, as well as measures to address the UK’s high cost of energy, and trade deals built on free and fair trade.
The award will be presented to the applicant who demonstrates the highest levels of up-to-date knowledge, professionalism and ability in managing all aspects of a modern transport undertaking. The judging process will include a face to face interview.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
(OVER 30 VEHICLES)
This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with more than 30 vehicles specified on this operator's licence and demonstrates the highest levels of up-to-date knowledge, professionalism and high quality service to their respective customer base.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award is open to all companies and businesses in every sector of the logistics industry – from transport and logistics operators to exporters, warehousing experts, shipping companies and dealerships – and recognizes teams within the organization who by working together on a project, initiative or strategy have made a significant and positive contribution overcoming difficulties and challenges to do so.
Judging for workshop of the year is open to any commercial workshop, both private and public sector in Northern Ireland. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award will be presented to the best Chilled Operator who presents an up-to-date modern fleet with a high quality distribution service. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This will be awarded to an apprentice, someone not certified at Level 3 before September 2025, who has demonstrated skill and determination in the course of their training and working in a workshop. The winner of this category will be decided through a practical test.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
A team can be made up of 2 people – or over 100. The size of the team doesn’t matter – what’s important is the team demonstrate outstanding achievement or accomplishment in their area/field of expertise.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award will be presented to an operator whose trailer fleet consistently offers exceptional standards in every aspect of operation. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
Watch this space for a new category to the 2025 Export and Freight Transport and Logistics Awards
This award will be presented to the commercial vehicle driver who offers the highest standard of driving skills; has an excellent driving record and shows dedication to the trade. A practical driving test will determine the winner of this category. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award is open to all companies who pride themselves on their level of customer service. Entries are invited from all companies within the transport and logistics industry who provide a definable and quantifiable service to others. Entrants should show they have gone the extra mile to provide the highest level of excellence in their service to all customers and outline why their company deserves to be recognized for this service. Customer testimonies, though not essential, are advised as these will show examples of quality customer service. These will be totally confidential and destroyed once the judging process has been completed.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award invites all truck manufacturers to nominate one vehicle from their model range over 18 tonnes GVW which they see as the ultimate fleet truck for the UK and Ireland. The winner will be ascertained through a practical driving test and presentations. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This new award will be presented to an outstanding vehicle, one that not only represents your fleet but stands out on its own.
Displaying your fleet livery but also exceptional and possibly individual in its appearance this truck will be representative of your company ethos and kept in an exceptional condition - ‘the pride of the fleet’. Judging in this category will require photographic and video footage of the truck. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
All manufacturers are invited to nominate one vehicle from their model range for this award. The vehicle can be powered by any fuel (petrol, diesel, hybrid or fully electric) and must be the most up to date model of that range. The winner will be decided through a practical driving test and presentations.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
Each company will need to demonstrate how they manage, control and monitor the quality aspects of their respective companies and be able to describe roles, responsibilities and methodologies for ensuring compliance with all regulatory bodies.
Review of the company’s strategy and controls currently employed, or to be developed or implemented by the company, to consistently deliver products and services that meet the requirements of the Safety Award. Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award will be presented to the applicant who operates under a standard operator’s licence with 30 vehicles or less specified on their operator’s licence.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award will be presented to the individual whose personal achievement deserves industry recognition.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
As the world is racing towards a net zero future, this category is open to all businesses, teams and individuals who have taken action, with demonstrable benefit to meet the commitments asked of us all to contribute to net zero. Judges will be keen to see what planning and execution has taken place, and evidence of the environmental and financial benefit to our industry as a result.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
The Innovation Excellence Award is open to all companies operating within the transport and logistics sector who have invested in innovative solutions to make their operations more efficient, profitable and successful. This can be any type of innovation from the latest equipment and facilities to cutting edge technology or environmental solutions. Any type of transport operation is invited to enter – from shipping lines to hauliers, van fleet operators to own account fleets. The applicant is invited to illustrate in the entry their innovative solutions for their business.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
This award will be presented to the ambient or chilled food distribution company who demonstrates high levels of excellence in all aspects of food distribution, storage and delivery.
Please go to https://exportandfreight.com/awards-enter-25 to download the award entry criteria questions.
Completed applications must be submitted on or before the closing date of 20th June to allow the judges sufficient time to give all applications the necess ary consideration and, where appropriate, to organize site visits and/or interviews.
CLOSING DATE STRICTLY FRIDAY 20th JUNE, 2025
The judges are looking for excellence, outstanding qualities or contributions, unrivalled service and innovation, individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile –so demonstrate all of that in the answers to your questions.If a company is shortlisted, they will then be asked for supporting material or a site visit or Zoom Call will be organized.
Your entry will not be judged on presentation but on your answers to the criteria questions. You could be an individual, a company with less than 10 employees or a large national/ international outfit. You will be judged on merit, not size.
The judges are looking for excellence, outstanding qualities or contributions, unrivalled service and innovation, individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile – so demonstrate all of that in the answers to your questions.
If you are asked to provide any additional information to support your entry once you are selected as a finalist, keep it as brief and to the point as possible. Feel free to send customer testimonies to support your entries. Entries should state the category they are entering. Entries must be made by emailing the answers to the questions stating the award category to helen@4squaremedia.net
Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered. Award entry enquiries can be made to Helen Beggs: helen@4squaremedia.net or M: 07779 713762
You can enter any number of categories but bear in mind, it is left to the judge’s opinion to reallocate any entry which may be more suitable to another category or an additional category. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. All entries are private & confidential. The winner will remain confidential until the event. Closing date for entries - Friday 20th June, 2025
Whatever part of the local transport industry your business operates in, you won’t get too far without a trailer/ truck body.
Whether you haul tankers, fridges or curtain siders, having the right trailer is essential to making sure you can transport your freight from source to market. The economy across this island relies very heavily on the transport industry, and those in this industry have to operate within strict legislation while keeping costs under control.
Getting the right trailer or truck body to move your goods is vital to help you succeed and grow your business.
Within the local logistics industry, there are more options than ever before when it comes to sourcing trailers to transport your freight. For some it might make sense to purchase their trailers, while for
other firms renting or leasing may be the option that makes most financial sense. With advances in trailer technology all the time, and new stock being made available across the local marketplace, the right option is out there. While if you are looking for top quality used trailers, there are plenty of options to explore here too.
In this feature, we present you with a range of options – and introduce you to some exciting new companies that may have the perfect solution to your trailer needs.
ASDA Stores Ltd has introduced 35 Tiger assets to its George clothing fleet in the form of 4.9m tall ‘high cube’ trailers featuring an internal tail-lift to reflect the customer’s special operational requirements.
The side-mounted Dhollandia platform inside each of the 35 new step frame trailers tailored for George clothing brand duties has a capacity of 500kg and operates up and down the length of the trailer. Operatives can manoeuvre this internal platform longitudinally and vertically, enabling them to position the 150 load-securing bars to suit the internal roof mounted tracks and 9 horizontal tracks fitted at various heights down each side of the trailer internally.
Gavin Town, Senior Manager – National Fleet for ASDA Stores Ltd, says: “The Tiger
team visited our site a number of times and truly listened to our needs and have delivered the goods with these High Cube trailers. We would like to thank them for their attention to detail and the continued support they show us as a business.”
Tiger is known for customising the trailers and rigids it manufactures to meet the exacting requirements of each of its enduser customers. And the specification of these specialist garment transport trailers built for ASDA also includes an internal step for safer access to the neck area, safety gates on the moving platform, a Nexus ground-level coupling, Axscend
tyre pressure monitoring, and external heat treatment paint for the roof.
Darren Holland, Sales Director at Tiger Trailers, comments: “We always relish the opportunity to demonstrate our ability to design, engineer and manufacture bespoke vehicles to suit our customers’ unique operations and are delighted to have worked with the ASDA team on these garment transportation trailers.”
Tiger Trailers has supplied articulated vehicles to ASDA for a number of years and is currently manufacturing 90 additional moving deck trailers, taking the supermarket’s Tiger fleet to over 500 assets. The new clothing trailers primarily operate out of its Brackmills, Limedale, and Washington NEC sites.
Approved building project expected to speed up vehicle delivery and reduce impact on the environment.
Schmitz Cargobull, one of Europe’s leading manufacturer of semi-trailers, is delighted that planning permission has been granted for an extension to the delivery area for refrigerated and box body semi-trailers at the company’s site in Vreden, Germany.
Construction is due to begin in the first half of 2025 and will take around one year. With this significant investment, an additional area of around 11 hectares with 750 new vehicle parking spaces will be created. As a result, the vehicle delivery process will be sped up, which will also protect the environment by reducing the amount of transportation needed. The expansion will reduce the number of external parking areas rented in the vicinity of the Schmitz Cargobull plant for storing vehicles until they are collected, from more than 20 to 10. The
remaining ten parking areas are located in direct proximity to the Schmitz Cargobull plant, with the farthest just six kilometres away.
“The large parking area on site is also important in terms of sustainability. At the moment, we have to park some vehicles a
number of kilometres away from the plant until they are ready to be picked up by the customer, as there is not enough parking space at the delivery centre. Thanks to the 750 extra parking spaces, the number of transport kilometres required can be reduced by around
200,000 kilometres a year, which corresponds to a saving of around 80 per cent. This will significantly reduce strain on local traffic and will also cut CO2 emissions from our in-house transport by around 80 per cent, which will save approximately 150 tonnes of CO2 per year,” adds Plant Director Christian Glebe.
An increase in the use of electrically powered yard vehicles will also contribute to greater sustainability. This environmentally friendly technology will not only reduce emissions for a cleaner environment but will also lower noise pollution for the local area. With this investment in the Vreden site, Schmitz Cargobull is strengthening its position as an innovative and responsible market leader in the commercial vehicles industry and showcasing how economic success and environmental responsibility can go together.
• Curtainsides – options include: various heights; urbans; fixed/variable height double-decks; straight/stepframes; LSTs
• Boxes – options include: various heights; straight/stepframes; barn
roller shutters; tail lifts; double-decks • Platforms • Skeletals
In an era when sustainability is no longer just a buzzword but a necessity, the quest for innovative solutions to harness and optimize energy has never been more critical.
As global energy demands continue to rise, the need for efficient, sustainable technologies becomes paramount. Enter Thermo King’s AxlePower technology—a groundbreaking advancement in energy recovery that promises to revolutionize the way we think about and use energy.
The world is at a crossroads. Traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, are depleting at an alarming rate, and their environmental impact is undeniable. The transition to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power is well underway, but these solutions alone are not enough to meet the growing energy demands. This is where energy recovery technologies come into play, offering a sustainable way to capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be wasted.
INTRODUCING
Thermo King®, a leader in transport temperature control solutions and a brand of Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), is leading the transition to zero-emission transport refrigeration, with its cutting-edge, next generation technology. AxlePower is a trailermounted solution designed to capture and convert kinetic energy from in-transit, refrigerated trailers, ensuring safe delivery and storage of perishable products at consistent temperatures -- often food and life-saving medicines.
At its core, AxlePower is based on the concept of converting kinetic energy into electrical energy. The process begins with the installation of AxlePower units on a refrigerated trailer. These units consist of advanced generators, mounted on the trailer axle and power electronics units on the trailer chassis, working seamlessly to capture and convert energy. The generators engage when the vehicle is braking or going downhill, recovering wasted energy. This energy is then stored in a high-voltage battery (underneath the trailer), so that the refrigeration unit can be powered fully electrically, providing a fully sustainable solution.
APPLICATIONS AND BENEFITS
AxlePower is versatile and can be applied to electric, hybrid and fuel-powered vehicles. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Marginal impact on tractor’s fuel consumption: AxlePower smart power management system is a real differentiator with fuel consumption reports measured in real
time operation showing that the AxlePower energy generation system has a marginal impact on the tractor fuel consumption.
2. Seamless, uncomplicated integration: there is no change in trailer and tractor behaviour, ensuring driving is not affected. There is no limit to trailer flexibility as the battery is charged when the system is driving on the road. There is no need to connect the battery to the grid as the generators maintain the battery state of charge.
3. User-friendly operation and enhanced driving experience: The system’s straightforward On/ Off button, reduced requirement to connect to power grids, reduced noise in electric mode and lower vibration levels make for a more comfortable journey for drivers.
4. Streamlined monitoring: The unified Thermo King TracKing portal and two-way monitoring and communication with the system’s components: ePower axle, battery pack and the refrigeration unit, enable fleet managers to change mode settings remotely.
One of the most significant advantages of AxlePower technology is its positive impact on the environment. By capturing and reusing energy that would otherwise be wasted, AxlePower can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 12 tonnes per year for distribution trailers. AxlePower-ed trailers have covered over 950,000 km, generating over 46,500 kWh while on the road. Many of them, in very cold to hot ambient conditions from the north of Europe to South Africa, have relied solely on this power generation system without needing shore power.
In addition to its environmental benefits,
AxlePower technology offers substantial economic advantages. By reducing fuel consumption and maintenance costs, businesses and transit authorities can achieve significant cost savings. Moreover, the ability to store and reuse energy provides a reliable and cost-effective power source, reducing dependence on external energy providers.
AxlePower represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. As we look to the future, the potential for this technology to transform the way we think about and use energy is immense. This technology is already available, and we have customers who have travelled thousands of kilometers without needing to refuel their refrigerated units. It is truly a breakthrough innovation, and we are offering our customers the option to purchase or rent this innovative technology. Delivering sustainability benefits while also reducing operating costs, this technology is the future of medium and long-haul transport refrigeration.
In conclusion, Thermo King’s AxlePower technology is not just an innovation; it is a game-changer in the field of energy recovery. Its ability to capture and convert kinetic energy into usable electrical power has far-reaching implications for transportation, industry, and the environment. As we continue to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world, AxlePower technology offers a beacon of hope—a sustainable solution that promises to unlock the future of energy. Embrace the power of AxlePower and join us on the journey towards a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. For more information, please visit www. europe.thermoking.com or contact your local Thermo King dealer – Technical Transport Products (ttpsales@thermoking.co.uk).
Manchester-built Schmitz Cargobull trailers now have Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS) functionality, allowing hauliers to enhance road safety, reduce vehicle downtime, meet legislative compliance and save money.
Whether customers opt for a new S.CS FREEPOST, S.CS FIXED ROOF or S.BO PACE semi-trailer, EBPMS is available out of the factory gate, providing seamless integration with Schmitz Cargobull’s TrailerConnect® telematics.
Colin Maher, Managing Director of Schmitz Cargobull UK & Ireland, says: “Offering customers the option of EBPMS from the day they collect their trailer is yet another example of how Schmitz Cargobull works hard to maximise the time our products spend, safely, and profitably on the road. “With the DVSA mandating that hauliers must conduct either a roller brake test or use EBPMS for in-service testing from April this year, we expect this new functionality will prove extremely popular.”
Key benefits of Schmitz Cargobull’s system include:
Enhanced Safety and Compliance. EBPMS continuously monitors and analyses the braking performance of truck and trailer combinations, helping to identify potential problems early and prevent incidents. Cost Savings. By reducing the number of required roller brake tests to just one annually, customers can save on both the costs of the tests and the associated downtime. Additionally, no extra EBPMS hardware is needed, which further reduces costs.
Increased Uptime. Continuous monitoring of brake performance ensures timely maintenance, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and increasing the
overall uptime of the fleet.
Comprehensive Data and Reporting. EBPMS provides detailed brake performance reports that are available 24/7 via the TrailerConnect® telematics portal. These reports include a history of brake performance over several months and forecasts for future performance, allowing for longterm maintenance planning. All-in-One Telematics Solution. EBPMS integrates seamlessly with existing telematics hardware, offering a comprehensive solution without the need for additional equipment. This integration includes benefits like route management, route planning, location monitoring, and needs-based maintenance.
Schmitz Cargobull’s TrailerConnect®
telematics is fitted as standard, providing 24/7 monitoring of the trailer’s exact location, plus other important data including tyre mileage, speed and axle load. EBPMS activation and use is offered as an additional paid-for service.
DVSA’s latest Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness for commercial vehicles, states that operators must use either an EBPMS for in-service brake testing or conduct a minimum of four roller brake tests with a laden vehicle spaced throughout the calendar year*. The requirement for a roller brake test at the annual test remains and cannot be replaced with EBPMS. The guide states It is acceptable to use an approved and calibrated decelerometer to measure overall brake efficiency values for rigid vehicles without trailers, or for vehicles that cannot be tested on a roller brake tester to demonstrate roadworthiness.
From April 2025, UK fleet operators will face a significant change in brake performance assessment requirements.
The DVSA’s updated Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness mandates that only a laden roller brake test or an Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS) will be accepted for semi-trailer compliance. For many operators, this poses a challenge: laden roller brake tests are not only time-intensive but also costly due to equipment downtime. THE SOLUTION?
SAF CONNECTED, an integrated package from SAF-HOLLAND, is designed to simplify compliance while improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. By combining the SAF INTRADISC axle, Haldex EB+ 4.0 braking system, and AXSCEND’s EBPMS, SAF CONNECTED provides
a practical alternative to traditional methods.
At the heart of SAF CONNECTED is the AXSCEND EBPMS, a telematics solution that SAF-HOLLAND UK is currently including free of charge as part of the package. The system continuously monitors and reports brake performance thereby reducing the need for quarterly laden roller brake tests, cutting them down to just one annual test. In under a minute, operators can generate accurate EBPMS reports, ensuring compliance with DVSA standards while minimizing vehicle downtime.
Supporting this system is SAF INTRADISC, a disc-brake axle technology known for its braking efficiency, durability, and extended service intervals. Paired with the Haldex EB+ 4.0 electronic braking system—noted for its reliability and precision control—SAF CONNECTED provides consistent braking performance across modern semi-trailer fleets. In addition, SAF CONNECTED includes the AXSCEND Maintenance Planner, a tool that
uses vehicle and trailer data to alert operators to critical service dates, such as tyre checks and routine maintenance. By improving maintenance scheduling, this feature enhances fleet efficiency and reduces the risk of unexpected downtime.
As with the AXSCEND EBPMS system, SAF UK is including the Maintenance Planner free of charge.
“With the April 2025 deadline fast approaching, SAF CONNECTED offers fleet operators a straightforward and cost-effective path to compliance,” says Andrew Dyer, Managing Director of SAF-HOLLAND UK.
“By integrating proven components into one cohesive solution, we’re helping operators meet new standards while providing tangible benefits in safety, efficiency, and operational reliability.”
Operators looking to future-proof their fleets and streamline compliance are encouraged to contact SAF-HOLLAND UK to learn more about SAF CONNECTED. For further information, visit www.saf-holland.co.uk
From April 2025 there will be an expectation that a laden roller brake test or EBPMS will be the only accepted methods to assess brake performance.
Section 5.3a DVSA updated Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness
SAF CONNECTED is a fully integrated solution that helps UK transport operators meet the new braking performance assessment requirements. It combines SAF INTRADISC axles, Haldex EB+ 4.0 braking systems, and AXSCEND’s advanced telematics into one streamlined combination. Operators get FREE ACCESS to the AXSCEND EBPMS as part of the package. And as if that wasn’t enough, we’re including the AXSCEND Maintenance Planner as part of this exclusive offering. Contact SAF-HOLLAND UK for more information on this unique solution.
SAF-HOLLAND UK Ltd www.saf-holland.co.uk
info-uk@safholland.com 01509 600 185
Dromore-based Mulgrew Haulage has taken delivery of 200 new SDC Tri-Maxi Curtainsiders, further strengthening its position in the haulage industry. Fulfilled over the past twelve months, the order reflects Mulgrew’s commitment to a high-quality fleet across Ireland and the UK and highlights its trusted, long-standing partnership with SDC Trailers.
The 4.6m tri-axle trailers are built to EN12642-XL quality standards, featuring SDC’s unique bolt-on body to reduce stress on critical components. Mulgrew’s custom specification includes 3-ton axles with lowmaintenance hubs, LED lighting, a 3-rung pull-out step, roller buffers, push-button buckles, and full-height doors, enhancing performance, safety, and durability.
Paul Mulgrew, Fleet Director from Mulgrew Haulage, commented: “SDC Trailers have been an integral part of our fleet for many years, and we’re extremely pleased with the new equipment,
now fully operational across our services. Reliability and efficiency are critical in our industry, and these new EN-XL Curtainsiders will further enhance our service. SDC’s commitment to quality and innovation makes them the ideal partner for our growing business.”
With a fleet of modern 44-tonne tractor units and an extensive depot network across Ireland and the UK Mulgrew Haulage are a familiar sight on our roads providing transport solutions to its valued and diverse customer base supported by its 200,000 sq. ft BRC Accredited warehousing facility.
Founded by Dermot Mulgrew Senior in 1973, the company recently celebrated 50 years in business, now led by a strong management team which includes MD Dermot Jnr and brothers Martin and Paul the business continues to invest and grow. With Culcavy as its main NI base and UK depots in Heysham and Ellesmere Port, Mulgrew’s UK operations have continued to grow particularly with their UK – Ireland and UK domestic services.
Jimmy McKernan, Sales Manager at SDC Trailers, added: “Mulgrew Haulage has been a valued customer of SDC for many years, and it has been a pleasure to work closely with them on this order. Our continued partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer service. We’re proud to support their transport and logistics services with SDC’s industry-leading Curtainsider range.” With over four decades of manufacturing expertise, SDC has built a reputation for quality, innovation, and customer service. Its recent £8.6 million investment in the Toomebridge
and Mansfield production facilities strengthens its ability to meet evolving industry demands. This expansion ensures SDC continues delivering cutting-edge trailer solutions, helping customers like Mulgrew Haulage achieve greater efficiency, durability, and performance. As the logistics sector grows, SDC remains at the forefront, driving innovation and setting new standards in trailer manufacturing.
After travelling 23,000 kilometres across Europe, Renault Trucks’ Diamond Echo electroluminescent electric truck brought its roadshow to a close in Finnish Lapland. This final leg, marked by temperatures as low as -19°C, demonstrated the reliability of electric trucks, even in extreme winter conditions.
Since leaving the manufacturer’s headquarters in Lyon last April, the Renault Trucks E-Tech Diamond Echo, an electric and electroluminescent truck, has covered 23,000 kilometres in Europe. It was driven through France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium and Germany, completing daily stages of up to 700 km thanks to optimised management of intermediate charging. The longest distance accomplished by this Renault Trucks E-Tech T on a single charge was 360 km, on a single journey between Switzerland and Germany.
For the final phase of the roadshow, the Renault Trucks E-Tech Diamond Echo set off for Finland in December 2024, with a view to demonstrating the performance of electric trucks in harsh climatic conditions. On arrival in Finland, the Renault Trucks E-Tech T Diamond Echo covered 1,600 kilometres between Helsinki and Rovaniemi in Lapland, including a 250 km stage on a single charge and a day culminating in 700 km, with two intermediate charges.
This expedition has helped to dispel a number of preconceived ideas about the performance of electric trucks in extreme cold.
“The tests carried out in Finland have confirmed that electric trucks remain fully operational,
even in tough winter conditions,” explained Régis Pierrelle, Director of Electromobility Operations at Renault Trucks. “Contrary to popular belief, we didn’t encounter any problems related to range, charging availability or charging times. Heating the
cab had no significant impact on range, largely thanks to the programmable pre-heating system offered by Renault Trucks, which optimises energy consumption.”
In these severe climatic conditions, with temperatures falling to -19°C, the electric truck kept up performance levels comparable to those of diesel trucks. The cold caused a slight increase in consumption (between 10 and 15%), mainly due to common factors affecting all types of powertrains, such as aerodynamics and winter tyres.
“One of our customers in Finland even told us that, on a -30°C day last winter, the only truck in his fleet that started up was a Renault Trucks electric model. The diesel trucks were grounded because of the crystallisation of AdBlue”, added Régis Pierrelle. This provides further proof of the reliability of electric trucks in extreme cold.
With this final stage, Renault Trucks rounded off a year of practical demonstrations of the operability and reliability of its electric solutions.
DAF Trucks and software developer Weltenbauer are introducing two of its New Generation Trucks to their construction game.
New Generation DAF construction XDC and XFC 6x4 trucks and the heavyduty New Generation DAF XG+ 8x4 FTM have just been added to the highly popular ‘Construction Simulator’ game. Players worldwide can now experience driving DAF’s ground-breaking construction trucks on their PC, XBOX and Playstation. Every single moment of the day, several thousands of gamers worldwide play ‘Construction Simulator’. The video game, published by astragon Entertainment, allows players to operate various construction vehicles and equipment to complete construction projects in a variety of environments.
The trucks featured in the game exhibit the same innovative characteristics as their robust real-life counterparts. Players can, for instance, experience both direct and indirect vision of the New Generation DAF trucks, while experiencing the advanced digital cameras.
Driving DAF trucks yourself online
The New Generation DAF XDC, XFC and XG+ 6x4 and 8x4 construction and heavy-duty trucks are incorporated in the Construction Simulator for all major
gaming platforms from December, 2024. More information and the game - available for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation - can be found at: www.construction-simulator. com/en/buy.php#start-buy-dlc
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Almost a year to the day after I started working in Export and Freight magazine I am now the holder of a LGV driving licence.
As I mentioned in my previous article there was an issue with a cone the first time I did my test. And although I encountered another few ‘speed bumps’ along the way, they say persistence pays, and with a lot of help, tuition and guidance from the driving instructors at Transport Training Services (TTS) I got over the line, and now am delighted to have my Class C LGV licence. Until I got involved in the transport and logistics industry I didn’t appreciate that this industry quite literally underpins all business on this island – and without the professionals working night and day in this sector the economy would simply grind to a halt.
One of the key workers in this industry are, of course, the truck drivers and it is only when you get behind the wheel of a large goods vehicle that you appreciate there is more to this profession than meets the eye. And quite a bit of work goes into becoming a professional truck driver. Before sitting the test, a driver has to pass the theory and hazard perception tests and, if they want to drive professionally, will also have to pass their CPC Level 4 – the ‘Show and Tell’, which demonstrates a good basic working knowledge of the vehicle you will be getting a licence to drive. What the instructors at TTS make very clear right from the start is that driving such a large vehicle, often through busy pedestrian areas, requires a huge amount of care and attention, and the safety of all other road users must be at the forefront of your mind before you make any manoeuvre in a large vehicle, and at all times when behind the wheel.
And this is reflected in how you are taught to drive a large goods vehicle, checking and
double-checking before making any manoeuvre or even signaling your intention to move.
When I got the call from TTS that there was a test appointment on Friday 24th January I was delighted to confirm this date would suit me perfectly. January is a long, dark month, and getting my test before the end of it would certainly brighten things up, and give me a nice positive run into Spring. But as the week towards my test rolled on storm clouds were approaching – quite literally. I know a lot of people don’t give much credence to the weather forecasters – especially when they say there is a storm coming. But this was a bit different.
With Storm Eowyn due to arrive in the early hours of Friday morning I had visions of a Thursday night without sleep, listening to the howling winds and wondering would I make it up the road to Craigavon on the Friday morning – dodging fallen trees on my way. And all the while worrying about taking my test, and would the truck be blown over by a record-breaking gust of wind! But fate, or at least the Met Office intervened, and the imposition of a Red Weather alert for Friday morning meant we all had to stay at home, and my test was cancelled. So I would have to wait a while longer to get my licence. But as it turned out my wait wasn’t too long. Another call from TTS on the following Monday morning confirmed two possible test appointments on the Wednesday, 29th January – so there was still a chance I could round out dull, depressing January on a high note.
I picked a 2.55pm test appointment, and Geoff was dispatched with the yellow DAF to meet me in Craigavon at high noon to give me a chance to get in some last minute driving practice before the afternoon test. The practice went well, and I got the chance to drive a few potential test routes before the test itself, which was certainly good for my confidence, and also gave me the chance to get any silly mistakes out of my system. Unfortunately, you never know what route the examiner will take, or the instructors would take you that route until you knew it like the back of your hand. When I sat my car driving test over 30 years ago I never imagined that on an unknown date sometime in the future I would be sitting outside another DVTA test centre sitting in a truck waiting to sit a HGV test. But here I was, and as the door of the centre opened, the examiner called myself and Geoff forward. Show time! As everyone who has trained for, and sat the test knows the reverse if the first part of the test, a manoeuvre you do in the grounds of the test centre. Thankfully, I got it spot on, cleared my friend the B –cone by a country mile and then reversed the truck straight back into the bay. I took one of my permitted shunts just to make sure I was perfectly straight and then, using the camera reversed to within a few inches of the barrier, without touching it. So far, so good! Next was an hour of driving on the roads in and around Craigavon, and it was time to concentrate and get every manoeuvre right. Craigavon has more roundabouts than anywhere
else in the civilized world, so negotiating these would be key. Luckily, the weather was dry and bright, and the low January sun wasn’t an issue on this Wednesday afternoon so the drive started well. Two early controlled stops were negotiated successfully before I was directed to drive through Lurgan town centre. I remembered to constantly check my mirrors before any manoeuvre, change of speed or any indication, while also being aware of my blind spot after coming to a complete stop.
When you learn to drive a large vehicle you always have to be aware of your road position, and you learn how important your wing mirrors are. Without a rear view mirror in the truck these are you only connection with what
is around you. This is especially important when the road, or lanes, get narrow. You are also taught to only be worried about what is either in front of you or beside you, including not only vehicles but vulnerable road users such as walkers or cyclists.
My test route continued towards Moira and included a period of independent driving where the examiner will tell you to continue to follow the signs for somewhere until he tells you otherwise.
Before I realized it I recognized where I was again – I am not overly familiar with the roads I was being tested on – and I knew I was close to the test centre.
When the test is over, the examiner asked you to turn off your engine, and there is a brief
moment of silence which is long enough for you to begin wondering how it all went. “I am pleased to tell you you have passed”, was the next thing my examiner said, and to say I was delighted and relieved all at the same time would be an understatement.
A huge word of thanks to Geoff, Colin and Iain and all the staff at TTS for their tuition, help and patience on my journey to a LGV licence. It was an amazing experience, and getting to drive one of these vehicles is a privilege and one I am happy I have a licence for.
I am looking forward to the return of my licence, and getting my very first digicard.
The next challenge will be going for the Class C+E licence.I will keep you posted!
BY AUSTIN LYNCH
Dairy products like a litre of milk or a block of cheese are key food staples for most households in Northern Ireland and beyond.
The story of how these essential items make it from farm to fridge is fascinating, and to help us get a deeper understanding of this journey, we picked up with the experts at Dale Farm to talk us through the process.
Headquartered in Belfast, Dale Farm employs over 1,200 people across the UK and is the largest UK farmer-owned dairy cooperative. This means that the 1,300 dairy farmers that supply the company with milk – used to make its range of dairy products – also own the business.
Dale Farm has a rich heritage of dairy expertise built over 70 years of farming excellence. From its Northern Ireland Milk Marketing Board roots in 1955, it then evolved to become United Dairy Farmers in 1995. Since then the business has pursued an ambitious path with acquisitions in Northern Ireland and Great Britain and sustained investment in sites, most recently a £70m investment at its cheese facility at Dunmanbridge, Cookstown, and Dale Farm continues to grow its presence in domestic and international markets.
Today, Dale Farm’s operation in Northern Ireland includes sites in Ballymena, Cookstown, Cullybackey and Kilrea. Using milk from family farms, Dale Farm manufactures branded and own-label dairy products including milk, cheese, butter and ice cream for the retail, foodservice and food ingredients markets globally. The cooperative also owns United Feeds, which delivers bespoke nutritional solutions for cows and sheep.
Keeping the supply chain moving is key to the smooth operation of any food business and at Dale Farm this is a team effort. Adrian Currie, Group Transport & Fleet Manager, who together with Assistant Transport Manager Gosia Kepinska form a key part of Dale Farm’s distribution team, invited Export and Freight ‘behind the scenes’ to explain how these dairy products make their way to supermarket shelves and into our homes. That journey begins, as you might expect, with milk collection from farms, which is then delivered to Dale Farm’s collection sites at Pennybridge in Ballymena, Dromona in Cullybackey, as well as its
cheese production facility at Dunmanbridge. Dale Farm operates its own fleet of milk tankers and works in partnership with three subcontractors – Milk Trans, Desmond Connolly (S Connolly & Sons) and Alfie Eagleson – to collect the milk from farms. As Adrian Currie explains, these collections happen in every corner of Northern Ireland, 365 days per year, whatever the weather. “Through storms and snow these drivers ensure the milk gets safely from the farms, to Dale Farm, every day of the year,” says Adrian. “There is a mutual respect between our farmers and tanker operators, and shared commitment to ensuring the milk of the highest quality is delivered on time, throughout the year.”
Dale Farm’s large fleet includes 80 tankers and 40 tractor units, and the company also operates 60 smaller (rigid) trucks for milk deliveries into local shops. “We run a mixed fleet to suit the needs of the business,” Adrian adds. “Nine of our tractor units are pulling fridges to supermarkets, while the other tractor units are used for milk collection.”
“All the vehicles we have are serviced by the main dealers and up until now our policy was to keep tractor units for 5 years, and rigids for 7 years. With the increase in technology and the constantly developing truck market, we are changing direction with a view to fleet renewal every three years. This will ensure our fleet is at the top of its game in terms of reliability and service.”
As Group Transport Manager, Adrian Currie looks after the entire Dale Farm fleet – purchasing the trucks, trailers and tankers; he also looks after the maintenance of the fleet and ensures the compliance of all the vehicles. Behind the wheel of these trucks Dale Farm employs around 120 drivers, with 60 employed in the milk collection side of the business. Explaining a bit more about the milk
transportation side of Dale Farm, Adrian says it can be broken down into three areas:
Milk Collection – collecting milk in tankers from farms, which is managed by Dale Farm and the cooperative’s loyal subcontractors.
Primary Distribution – refrigerated trailer distribution which happens mostly during the night taking milk to the major supermarkets.
Retail Distribution – this is the delivery of milk to shops, and schools, using smaller trucks. Dale Farm also has a network of small delivery depots – storage facilities at Lisahally, Portadown, Omagh, Belfast and Newry. From here, fresh milk is delivered to doorsteps as well as local shops every morning.
At its site in Pennybridge, Ballymena, Dale Farm processes milk direct from farms as well as manufacturing cream, custard and beverages – including the company’s much loved Sukie fruit juice drink.
The milk is delivered in Dale Farm’s own milk tankers, supplied by Crossland Tankers, where they report to milk reception. Upon arrival, before milk is offloaded, the milk is quality tested by their internal site teams. Once the quality of the milk is confirmed, it is then pumped into the main pasteurisation system. This pasteurised milk is then taken to the packaging area where it is prepared for distribution to customers.
The milk then moves onto the final stage of the supply chain being transported in refrigerated trailers to the end market. The trailers Dale Farm uses to transport the milk to shops are supplied by local manufacturer Gray and Adams and kept chilled by Thermo King refrigeration units.
Dale Farm recently announced a major expansion in its cheddar processing facility at Dunmanbridge. Totalling £70 million it marks one of the single biggest investments of its kind
by a Northern Ireland agri-food company.
The plans will see Dale Farm integrate stateof-the-art technologies and equipment at the site, boosting production and making significant sustainability gains as the cooperative builds on its expertise as a leading European cheddar manufacturer. As well as improving and replacing existing site-wide services and utilities, the expansion will include a new high speed automated cheese slicing line, an increased warehouse footprint and investment in new patented products and processes. Dale Farm is already exporting cheddar to 40
countries worldwide thanks to its reputation for quality, consistency, and sustainability and this investment will boost the cooperative’s position as a leading player in the European cheddar market.
The site currently directly supports over 1,100 families in the local area, with 345 employed at the facility and a further 760 farms, out of Dale Farm’s 1,300 milk producers, supplying milk to it.
Each day, milk is delivered to the plant from these farms which is then used to produce cheddar. Fresh cheese is then packed and stored for the maturation process which Dale Farm’s expert team of cheese graders then assess samples of
the cheese to ensure customers get the quality, and grade, of cheese they expect. Dale Farm has strong relationships with local businesses that provide storage and distribution, including Ardboe Coldstore and Derry Group Ireland. Once the cheese is matured to the correct grade, it is then packaged and delivered – locally and worldwide. Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is also produced at Dunmanbridge. WPC is a key ingredient used in infant formula and consumer health products, and forms another important part of Dale Farm’s portfolio of products.
Keeping the fleet compliant and everyone safe is of utmost importance.
To achieve this, Dale Farm have a team working across compliance and safety with local presence at each site, as well as within the transport department. There is a focused approach to training, auditing and investigation when required. Training is delivered both internally and externally with an emphasis on developing accountability, which is a core Dale Farm value.
Situated nearby the Dunmanbridge facility is a 37 acre solar farm, connected directly to Dale Farm’s network, powering the site and delivering environmental benefits through a reduced carbon footprint at the plant.
Dale Farm takes its responsibility to the environment seriously and continues to invest in new processes to minimise greenhouse gas emissions. As part of its journey to ‘net zero’, the cooperative is working with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) on deliverable, evidence-based pathways to drive down greenhouse gas emissions. Targets set by Dale Farm to date include reducing the carbon footprint of its milk production by 30% by 2030 and reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions from factories by at least 50% by 2028.
The targets form a key pillar of Dale Farm’s ‘Future Strong’ sustainability programme – a framework for reducing emissions and improving efficiency both on farm and the factory floor.
As one of Northern Ireland’s leading food manufacturers, and a major employer, Dale Farm plays a key role in supporting local communities across the region.
The company recently recorded a strong set of financial results for year ending March 2024 – with net profit before tax at £29.8m (previous year £26.8m), an increase of 11% - reflecting the success of the company’s strategy and focus on delivering for the
farmers who own the cooperative. With the support of its farmers, employees and supply chain partners, Dale Farm has ambitions to grow further and strengthen its reputation as one of the UK’s leading dairy manufacturers.
www.dalefarm.com
Getting the opportunity to experience a Scania has never been easier than today.
Whether you’re looking to see what the Swedish marque is all about, or you have your sights set on becoming cleaner and greener, you can do both without taking any risks.
Scania offers a number of ways for customers to operate one of its vehicles.
Whether it’s buying new or used, purchasing via traditional methods or leasing the truck. Or how about being able to rent directly from the Swedish manufacturer? There’s an option to suit everybody.
SUITS YOU SIR…
Buying a Scania is similar to buying a tailored suit. It is designed to fit you... and your operations. And the same applies to Scania Truck Rental too. Every vehicle is tailor-made for the job in hand – whether you need it for just a day, a week or longer – in some cases – up to two years. This flexibility, combined with the range of products and services, gives complete peace of mind for your business. And just because you’re renting, it doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from Scania’s nationwide service network and roadside assistance. Each rental vehicle comes with maintenance support from Scania UK’s network of dealers and workshops as standard – including from Northern Ireland’s independent dealer – Road Trucks Ltd. As an operator you will have complete peace of mind knowing that the people who know Scanias best are keeping your vehicles on the road.
You can even opt to select from a number of connected services and insurance options in your package too.
By outsourcing the management of your vehicles, it allows you to dedicate your resources and energy to grow your business.
But Scania Rental offers another option for those wanting to dip their toe into trying alternative fuel or powered options. And you can do all of this without taking any risks.
With Scania Truck Rental, making the switch is easier than you might think as they have the widest range of renewable fuel options available on the market. From the latest fuel-efficient Super range to gas powered trucks, and now joining the fleet is a range of battery electric options too.
Through expert advice and guidance, the Scania
team will help you choose the right renewable fuel option suited for your operations.
Speaking of expert advice, when it comes to Scania and Northern Ireland, there’s only one dealership which can support you throughout the lifecycle of your vehicle – from purchase through to ongoing maintenance back to repurchase – and that’s Road Trucks Ltd.
Road Trucks Ltd, with locations in Larne and Omagh, has a rich history with the Swedish manufacturer, as the longest serving Scania dealer in the UK, and responsible for keeping the trucks in and visiting Northern Ireland going.
They have all the Scania expertise you need to keep your trucks running – and you focused on earning money.
From the sales team, who are experts in building and configuring vehicles tailor-made for whatever job you need them to do – to the aftersales teams keeping your vehicles on the road and going – to the Connected Services experts, who can help you get the most out of your fleet, and find ways to make your operations more efficient.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to look after a growing number of vehicles in the Dale Farm fleet and we will work in close partnership with them to help maximise their uptime and productivity”
said John Marks from Road Trucks Ltd.
“Our best wishes to Adrian and his team.”
If you are looking for a way to experience a Scania without compromise and without the commitment – look no further than
Road Trucks Ltd and Scania Truck Rental.
Milk is the raw material for everything that Dale Farm do, so without it they simply don’t have a business.
Collecting milk from dairy farmers across Northern Ireland is a huge logistical operation, and one that Dale Farm cannot do alone. So, they rely on a small number of reliable, independent
contractors who work alongside them to bring the milk from the farmyard to the Dale Farm plants.
One of their key partners in this endeavour is Milk Trans. Based in Rasharkin outside Ballymena, Milk Trans have been collecting milk for Dale Farm for over 30 years.
Nigel Ritchie, from Milk Trans, has 15 lorries and a total of 25 drivers collecting milk from dairy farms for Dale Farm.
Milk production never stops, and
neither does its collection so Nigel’s drivers’ are on the road 365 days a year – even on Christmas Day. Challenges these drivers can face include some narrow, windy farm roads, getting into and out of old, tight farmyards and also driving in the worst of weathers including snow and ice and for a large part of the year out in the dark.
Nigel explains his drivers have a number of set routes each day, and then they will also do a number of
secondary runs for Dale Farm – if they need tankers or trailers moved between their plants/creameries.
Milk Trans owns the trucks, which Nigel explains are all Volvo, while Dale Farm own the tankers, and the metering equipment on the tankers.
“Working with Dale Farm makes up the core of our business, and we have a very good relationship with Dale Farm” comments Nigel Ritchie.
Established in 2004 by Eugene and Fiona Carson, Ardboe Coldstore put the village of Ardboe on the map, and created a dynamic innovative business providing employment and economic opportunity.
Ardboe Coldstore is a state-of-the-art temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics provider taking its place among the best systems throughout Europe, UK and Ireland. They provide temperature-controlled warehousing with circa 50,000 pallet storage capacity across their sites.
“We are BRC accredited with AA* grade throughout all of our sites and provide value added processes tailored to customer
requirements. This is ably assisted by an extensive and professional team of transport planners, warehouse operatives, technical personnel, key account managers and truck drivers,” said Eugene Carson.
Facilities include frozen, chilled and ambient storage, product blast freezing, product tempering, maturation, deep chill and chamber freezing.
Ardboe Coldstore also provide temperaturecontrolled distribution with a company
operated truck and trailer fleet managed by an experienced Transport Department.
“We are licensed hauliers with approval for Export to China, R.O.K and USDA. All trailers are remotely tracked, and temperature controlled. We continuously update and maintain our fleet to the highest standard, not only to exceed customer expectations, but also to fulfil driver satisfaction levels and our carbon neutrality goal,” continued Eugene Carson.
The business demonstrates excellent customer service by providing a specific account manager to each customer and their product. Their team of key account managers are individually responsible for their customer requirements being met. They ensure that every single item they store and distribute is recorded, tracked, handled and delivered with the utmost care.
“We were delighted to win the prestigious, ‘Chilled Operator of The Year’ award at the 2024 Export and Freight Awards.
“As a family business, we value every relationship we have with our customers, suppliers, stakeholders and staff members.
“We have enjoyed a longstanding partnership with Dale Farm, providing them with various temperature-controlled storage and transport solutions dependant on specific product requirements. We also facilitate value added services such as maturation, grading facilities, tempering and blast freezing of their product. We wish Dale Farm continued success and look forward to continuing our mutually beneficial relationship with them into the future,” concluded Eugene Carson.
Ardboe Coldstore also annually supports
Air Ambulance NI, Lough Neagh Rescue and Chest, Heart and Stroke NI.
Ardboe
For the past 30 plus years TTP have been working with Dale Farm, keeping their produce cool and supplying the Dairy Cooperative with refrigerated units.
TTP began life at a time when refrigerated transport in Northern Ireland was in its infancy, but as the need for transport refrigeration grew and with the weight of Thermo King behind it, so did the company.
The Company was founded by Billy and Muriel Finlay, and today their daughters Kathryn Dickey, as General Manager and Tracy Martin, as Sales and Marketing Manager, assume the day to day running of the business.
Kathryn Dickey comments, “Our father’s vision and priority has always been to give the best service and backup to his customers. This is still the case within the company today and this remains our vision for the future”.
As a Thermo King dealer, TTP are continually audited by the manufacturer in all aspects of the business.
“We have successfully retained the Blue track Select status from Thermo King highlighting our efficient service to our customers” continued Kathryn Dickey.
The facility has grown today to a 7 bay workshop
in Ballymena and a 4 bay workshop in Portadown, alongside a fleet of fully equipped vehicles offering 24/7 coverage 365 days a year.
TTP engineers offer a wealth of experience being Certi-Tech trained, F-Gas qualified and trained in EV high voltage to the highest Level.
For 30 plus years TTP and Dale Farm have been working together to provide the best experience possible, whether it’s sorting break downs, servicing in whatever way suits them or even helping Adrian (Currie) and his team spec what new units suits Dale Farm best.
Ballymena and even on site to make things as easy as possible for Dale Farm.
TTP supply refrigerated (fridge) units from all of their range to cover the needs of Dale Farm. They also have service contracts in place to take the emphasis away from the customer in terms of organising when units are due and getting them scheduled in.
Service work is done in both TTP’s depots in Portadown and
TTP are now offering Tail Lift inspections and repairs when units are getting fridges serviced to tick both boxes at once.
In today’s evolving mobility industry, businesses face rising demands to optimise operations while shifting towards sustainability and digital transformation.
As they grow, companies need integrated solutions that go beyond traditional fleet management. For over thirty years, Radius has provided businesses across Ireland and beyond with comprehensive fleet and connectivity solutions tailored to their needs. Serving over 400,000 customers across 19 countries, Radius offers a unified solution that helps fleets of all sizes operate efficiently through data-driven insights.
At the core of Radius’s offering is interconnected fleet support. The DCI fuel card, designed for businesses across Ireland, provides access to over 1,900 fuel sites and 1,400 EV charge points, enabling cost-effective refuelling for both traditional and electric-powered vehicles. Radius’s fuel price management enhances savings by tracking market rates and delivering weekly pricing updates.
Radius’s telematics technology provides real-time insights into vehicle locations, driver behaviour, and fuel efficiency. This data-driven approach allows businesses to reduce inefficiencies, curb fuel fraud, and lower costs, while reducing idle time and insurance premiums. Plus, their asset trackers support improved asset management and utilisation and protect against asset loss, misuse and theft.
Radius’s vehicle solutions further add value with tailored packages for diverse budgets. With local expertise across Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, Radius manages compliance with cross-border tax and VAT regulations, freeing businesses to focus on growth. Customers also benefit from dedicated, local support without call centres.
Radius’s Velocity platform offers fleet managers easy access to essential data insights to support key operational goals:
Reduce: Detect inefficiencies and potential fraud with fuel card and telematics data.
Increase: Boost driver and vehicle performance by tracking fuel efficiency and identifying factors that affect MPG.
Optimise: Define the best fleet structure by analysing per-vehicle costs, maximising returns on fuel, vehicles, and drivers.
Our online account management system also allows for custom alerts to flag unusual transactions, enabling quick responses to anomalies. Together, Radius’s fuel cards and telematics deliver advanced business intelligence, helping companies gain data insights for smarter, more efficient fleet management.
Radius also provides a suite of additional services, including telecommunications, insurance, and energy management. Radius Connect telecommunications service offers tailored mobile, broadband, and communication tools to
keep teams connected, whether on the road or in the office.
Their commercial insurance solutions protect business assets with policies covering vehicles, property, and liability. Additionally, Radius’s business energy services support cost control and sustainability. A recent free energy audit helped one logistics client save £20,000 while reducing their carbon footprint.
Sustainability is increasingly crucial in the mobility industry, and Radius is committed to helping businesses make greener choices. From supporting EV integration with the Radius One hybrid fuel card to offering energy solutions that cut carbon emissions, Radius enables businesses to work towards sustainability goals.
In an industry where efficiency, connectivity, and adaptability are essential, Radius is the partner mobility businesses can rely on. By delivering a complete solution that streamlines fleet management, optimises resources, and supports future growth, Radius empowers companies to succeed in a competitive landscape.
Radius | DCI is Ireland’s premier fleet solutions partner, offering comprehensive services—fuel cards, telematics, vehicles, and more—to over 50,000 customers, from small fleets to HGVs, including hybrid, electric, and HVO vehicles. Unlock your fleet’s full potential by integrating our fuel cards with best-in-class telematics to generate powerful business intelligence, enabling tailored efficiencies and optimal performance through data analysis.
We operate Ireland’s largest fuel card network, with over 1,900 sites offering total geographical coverage, including HGV, 24-hour and branded sites, 1,400 EV charge points and an extended 17,000 site GB and European network.
Velocity, our account management software, enables you to spend less time on administration and more on your business, helping you maximise fuel efficiency, increase driver safety and lower your risks and costs.
Ready to optimise your fleet?
NI: 02871 812 121 ROI: 091 482 934
Visit our website to see how we can support your business radius.com/en-ie
Founded in Ballymena in 1962, and located in the Pennybridge area, W.R. Kennedy distribute premium Texaco home heating oil, and commercial fuels along with automotive, agricultural and industrial lubricants across the province.
W.R. Kennedy’s roots are firmly based in the local communities they serve, and this means they understand the need for a complete and reliable service across our region. They understand this because they take time to understand their customers and their commercial needs, and then, working with them their objective is to build long-term partnerships that deliver on the needs of their communities and their commercial success.
W.R. Kennedy & Company are leaders in wholesale fuels and lubricants supply throughout Northern Ireland, and work hard to be a partner in the success of the businesses they deal with. W.R. Kennedy & Co have supplied Northern Ireland’s transport sector from the outset, from its beginnings supplying fuels and lubricants to the road haulage sector, to expanding its presence in the industry to servicing harbours and airports.
W.R. Kennedy has long experience serving both industry and farming communities, providing them with Derv, Gas Oil and Petrol.
W.R. Kennedy also supply Texaco HVO fuel as an alternative to traditional diesel. 100% renewable and sustainable, it allows for an
immediate reduction of up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular diesel. As a drop-in replacement for use in for existing diesel engines, with a wide range of OEM approvals, it can be used immediately, without requiring any modifications to plant or fleet.
Furthermore, as Texaco HVO is fully compatible and mixable at any percentage with traditional diesel, it can be dropped in to current fuel supplies.
And for their regular customers, they can offer emergency delivery (prompt service when you run out), a top up service ensuring you never run out as well as easy pay options (payment by direct debut where W.R. Kennedy will do all the work - and you don’t have to do a thing!
One of the local businesses that W.R. Kennedy’s have a long-standing relationship with is Dale Farm.
“With our Ballymena headquarters in Pennybridge Industrial Estate, ideally situated opposite Dale Farm’s central depot and group technical centre, W.R. Kennedy & Co have been proud suppliers of Dale Farm for over twenty years. We continue to supply Ad Blue, fuels and lubricants to Dale Farm sites across the province.”
W.R. Kennedy are a supply partner you and your business can count on to power business performance.
W.R. Kennedy & Company are leaders in wholesale fuels and lubricants supply throughout Northern Ireland.
Founded in Ballymena in 1962, and located in the Pennybridge area, we distribute premium Texaco home heating oil, and commercial fuels along with automotive, agricultural and industrial lubricants across the province.
W.R. Kennedy’s roots are firmly based in the local communities we serve, and this means we understand the need for a complete and reliable service across our region.
That ’s because we take time to understand our customers and their commercial needs, and then, working with them we work to build long-term partnerships that deliver on the needs of their communities and their commercial success.
TBF Thompson has been involved in the automotive and plant industries throughout the island of Ireland for over 50 years.
During that time the company has acquired franchises for many well-known names such as DAF, Hitachi, Bomag, Thwaites, Palfinger and many more. The TBF Thompson after-sales service second-to-none, and they are always investing in the future.
The company’s state-of-the-art IT systems increase efficiency and provide their customers with the best back-up in the business.
But regardless of new technology, TBF Thompson will never lose sight of the strong service values that have driven their success. They will continue to invest in their greatest asset, people, and will remain with an open ear for their customers to ensure that they respond to their needs and requirements.
The New XF, XG and XG+ represent DAF new generation of long distance trucks, ready for the future. Taking full advantage of the new European Masses & Dimensions, all three cab variants excel in a beautiful and highly aerodynamic design. In addition, they offer a huge interior space for unmatched driver comfort.
The New Generation DAF XD comes with a Day Cab, Sleeper Cab or Sleeper High Cab in a full array of 4x2 and 6x2 axle configurations, both tractors and rigids. There’s a range of roof air deflectors to match corresponding trailers or superstructures. This way, you can always select the best vehicle for your specific application.
One long standing customer in Northern Ireland is Dale Farm, and over the years TBF Thompson have supplied DAF trucks to the local dairy co-operative keeping them on the road, and keeping their wheels turning.
“TBF Thompson DAF have been supplying trucks to Dale Farm for decades. They are always supplied with a premium DAF Repair & Maintenance contract that we carry out at our depots in Mallusk, Portadown & Garvagh. Wishing Adrian and the team at Dale Farm many happy years’ of trucking,“ said Alan Espie, Managing Director, TBF Thompson Group.
“TBF Thompson DAF Trucks have enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Dale Farm supporting them with the collection of fresh milk from the farm, to delivering fresh and tasty products to the shops and stores 365 days a year,” continued Alan.
Terberg MPM represented Terberg Special Vehicles supplying, industrial site, distribution yards and the Port Industry throughout Ireland from its Headquarters in Hillsborough Co. Down and Dublin Depot.
Terberg MPM supply new and used trucks, Parts and Service and have an extensive rental fleet, with skilled mobile field engineers to support the product across Ireland
Terberg MPM also represent Seacom Industrial Trailers and other quality Brands such as Western Global, Tuffa Tanks and Cemo Environmental Products in the Fuel Tank division.
Terberg MPM is part of the Royal Terberg Group ‘Where Special comes as Standard’
Collecting the milk from dairy farms across the North is a massive job and is one that Dale Farm needs help with.
For the past 30 years or so
Desmond Connolly (S Connolly & Sons) has been working alongside Dale Farm helping bring the milk from the milking parlours to the Dale Farm plants each morning.
S Connolly and Sons are one of just a small number of trusted partners / contractors Dale Farm works with, and Dale Farm know these people won’t let them down.
Desmond Connolly recalls when he first started collecting milk it was for the Milk Marketing Board, which then became United Dairy Farmers – before being known as its current incarnation of Dale
Farm – Your Dairy Cooperative’.
S Connolly and Sons have seven trucks on the road, and employ 10 drivers to ensure that they
can cover the milk collections 7 days a week – 365 days a year.
“There are plenty of challenges when it comes to the winter
time. It can be a challenge to get onto farms in the ice and snow,” said Desmond Connolly.
Asked if certain drivers have certain routes, or specific farms they collect from each day, Mr Connolly explains that he makes sure all of his drivers know all the routes, and all the farms to ensure they can safely cover all the necessary routes, which are all within a 45 mile or so radius of the firm’s base in Ballygowan.
Some of these loads are then transported to Dale Farm’s Dunman plant outside Cookstown where Dale Farm use this fresh milk to make their cheese.
“We have a very good relationship with Dale Farm, and with the farmers who supply milk to Dale Farm. This certainly makes life a lot easier for everyone” continues Desmond Connolly.
Services include order picking a mixture of product from chilled and frozen storage chambers as per customer requirements for onward delivery daily to all major CDC’s, retailers and wholesalers on the island of Ireland in their large fleet of refrigerated trailers, rigids and vans.
The company recently completed Phase II of Carn Coldstore, one of Irelands first robotic coldstores building on its operations that includes storage, distribution, pick operation, wrap, and rebuild. The company was awarded Grade A in their DQMP audit and AA+ in their BRCGS audit in October 2024. Their dedicated and professional team ensure that customer’s goods are protected throughout their journey which is backed up through the 100% full traceability Derry Group guarantees in each of its three depots in Armagh, Dublin and Cork. Each department throughout Derry Group Ireland plays a vital role in ensuring that their customers receive the highest quality of service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They encourage their customers to focus on the production of goods whilst they take care of the rest- providing both, short-
and long term solutions to ensure their customer’s product reaches its target market, consumers, in both a safe and efficient way.
At Derry Group Ireland, they have invested significantly in an appropriate Warehouse Management System (WMS) to organise, control, and manage the dayto-day operations of the business.
This software enables their staff to upload the appropriate information such as receiving inventory and detailing where exactly they are located, optimisation of picking and shipping of orders and advises inventory equipment. Furthermore, with regular stock take carried out, both the daily and weekly stock take reports can be fully accessible based on request from
their customers enabling them to have the ability to track live counts enabling them to plan the future production within the business.
Derry Group have built a first of its kind in Ireland - c. 100, 000 square feet cold storage facility with interlaced CO2 system, which includes a 20,000 square feet fully automated chilled and ambient room. A state-of the-art ‘Taxi’ system redefines how goods are moved and stored allowing the facility to operate with unprecedented precision and efficiency.
Derry Group Ireland can offer frozen, chilled or ambient storage facilities to its customers across its sites.
With the introduction of their ‘Coldstore’, many customers began investing and relying on Derry Group’s storage solutions, making their services ‘a one stop shop’.
Two areas in which the business is heavily focused on is Transport and Storage. With the team building a large and loyal customer base through its exceptional transport services with a high standard transport team, the company wanted to further add value to the services they had already provided.
Founded in 1957, Gray & Adams manufactures bespoke high-quality insulated and refrigerated truck bodies and trailers and is a long-established family-owned business with 750 employees.
With a head office and main production facility in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire the company also has depots in Dunfermline, Doncaster and Belfast.
Our business relationship with Dale Farm spans more than four decades and the team at Gray & Adams Ireland offers custom-designed bodies to suit their diverse needs with a fleet that ranges from shop delivery vehicles through to semitrailers for their trunking operations. Together with Adrian Currie, Transport Fleet Manager at Dale Farm, we constantly review each design to improve efficiency, reliability and safety whilst tailoring the vehicle to their specific requirements.
At our Belfast site, we carry out routine servicing, annual testing, repairs and refurbishments to their fleet and provide 24/7 assistance to keep their vehicles working and on the road.
Dale Farm is a cooperative owned by farmers and is at the heart of our community, this ties in well with the family ethos of our company. We are delighted to have such a long-standing relationship and wish them continued success.
Delivering engineering excellence and innovation since 1957.
Air Commercials are continuously expanding on the back of a large volume of repeat business, positive referrals and various breakdowns that we are readily available – being so close to the A26. Their catchment areas covers all of Northern Ireland and they also have customers south of the border.
Air Commercials have a great relationship with many of the parts suppliers for all types of trucks and trailers. Whether genuine or non-genuine they can sourse the parts you require to get
you back on the road as quickly as possible.
For the past 10 years Alwyn and Air Commercials have been working with Dale Farm to help keep their trucks on the road.
Alwyn explains that they are ideally located between Dale Farm’s plants in Ballymena and Dromona so he is never far away when Adrian Currie and Dale Farm need his services.
“We have worked well together with Dale Farm over the years, and I will do anything they ask me to do” said Alwyn Hayes.
“We would look after minor repairs for Dale Farm, such as lights and damage to mud guards, and we also provide a 24-hour recovery service for their trucks.
“We would get a good bit of work in the bad weather, and are always on hand to pull the tankers and trucks out of the snow.
Alwyn said he has a great working relationship with Dale Farm and he works with them to keep them on the road.
One of the most important tools used by the modern operator of a fleet of vehicles is the Fuel Card. Instead of trucks having to return to the yard to refuel, or having to travel to specific locations to fill-up, the fuel card offers greater flexibility to refuel whenever and wherever is needed.
Since it was established back in 1993, CSC Group have made significant advances in the fuel card industry.
When CSC, a family run business, first launched there were only a few fuel stations on the fuel card network. But over the intervening years CSC have managed to massively increase their coverage building a large customer base. CSC was established to offer its customers, including firms such as Dale Farm, greater flexibility when it comes to fuelling their vehicles, and fuel card savings throughout the UK and Ireland.
CSC takes pride in offering all their customers personal attention, unrivalled levels of customer service and excellent discounts.
The CSC Fuel Card is now a leading fuel card service used by many businesses large and small. Using this card offers the opportunity to refuel at over 1,600 sites in Ireland (North & South) and 3,000 in the UK.
With Fuel Cards there’s no need for businesses to carry costly fuel stocks. And with their extensive station network drivers can fill around the country at a time and a place that best suits them. Customers also benefit by paying a single price for
fuel at each authorized filling station around the country.
CSC customers also receive a detailed VAT approved invoice and full transaction breakdown giving details such as date, time, vehicle registration and location. This allows the business owner to easily monitor drivers. This information is also available through an online system.
“CSC are a locally owned business, and it is a privilege to get the opportunity to work with a reputable company such as
With the number of trucks and trailers Dale Farm has on the road one of the most important things they have to look after is tyres.
Between ensuring all tyres are in good condition, and meet all legal requirements for tread and weight, and then dealing with any punctures or blow-outs this is an important job and one that needs to be looked after by a team of professionals.
For the past 24 years this work has been handled for Dale Farm exclusively by Roy Nutt from WH Nutt and Son.
Established in 1970 by William Nutt and his wife Bea, WH Nutt & Son has grown over the years to become one of the leading tyre retailers in Northern Ireland. Located in Limavady, the family business is now run by William’s son Roy, Roy recalls a time when he was a kid that his father had just three racks of tyres. From small beginnings the business now provides an array of services from their state of the art workshop.
“As an independent this is a great contract to have. You are on the go 365 days a year, and it definitely takes up a lot of time,” comments Roy Nutt about working with Dale Farm.
“Safety is key and our aim is to look after the Dale Farm fleet in the best possible way.
“Dale Farm supports me as much as I support them – it’s a good mutually beneficial relationship. They invest in me and I invest in them.
“Dale Farm still has a great family ethos, and hold onto traditional values like loyalty. It’s really been a great relationship for the past 24 years” continues Roy Nutt. Among the services WH Nutt and Son provide for Dale Farm include repairing punctures at the roadside and the supply and fit of new tyres. This involves covering right across the North and into the Republic for some of the Dale Farm’s distribution.
Roy explains that in addition to traditional ‘supply and fit’ they are always testing new tyres for customers such as Dale Farm to make sure they get the best wear and mileage from their tyres, as tyres have become so expensive. And keeping a fleet of this size correctly shod is very expensive. Roy explains that a lorry tyre that used to be £135 now costs £500. You multiply that by the number of trucks and trailers and you realise getting the best value, and the best mileage suddenly becomes hugely important.
The Irish Sea has long been a vital artery for trade and transport, linking Ireland with Great Britain and beyond. Every day, ferries, cargo ships, and container vessels crisscross these waters, carrying everything from food and fuel to machinery and construction materials. This maritime corridor is essential not only for commerce but also for tourism and local economies on both sides of the sea.
However, the industry is facing significant changes. The impact of Brexit has reshaped trade routes, increasing demand for direct freight links between Ireland and mainland Europe. At the same time, sustainability is becoming a major focus, with shipping companies investing in cleaner fuels, hybrid ferries, and innovative port infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions. Meanwhile, unpredictable weather patterns and shifting regulatory frameworks present fresh challenges for operators navigating these busy waters. December’s Storm Darragh was a good example of how the weather can have a devastating effect on this industry closing Holyhead and causing massive disruption to the supply chain between these islands. In this feature, we take a closer look at how shipping on the Irish Sea is evolving. We look at developments and investments in the ports, and what’s new with regard with vessels and routes of interest to the transport industry here. We also publish the latest shipping tables from the shipping companies.
www.brittanyferriesfreight.co.uk
@brittanyferries.com
Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
SANTANDER, SPAIN Plymouth Brittany Ferries 2 sailings a week See website Pont-Aven Multi-purpose Tel: 0330 159 5001
Brittany Ferries www.brittanyferries Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
BILBAO, SPAIN Portsmouth Brittany Ferries 2 sailings See website Salamanca
Brittany Ferries Poole a week www.brittanyferries Pelican Freight only Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
SANTANDER, SPAIN Portsmouth Brittany Ferries 2 sailings See website Santona / Galicia
Tel: 0330 159 5001 Brittany Ferries a week www.brittanyferries
Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
ROSCOFF, FRANCE Le Harve / Rosslare Brittany Ferries 1 weekly return See website Cotentin
Brittany Ferries sailing www.brittanyferries
Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
BILBAO, SPAIN Rosslare Brittany Ferries 2 sailings a week See website Galicia
Tel: 0330 159 5001 Brittany Ferries www.brittanyferries Email: freight.sales freight.co.uk @brittanyferries.com
Holyhead/Dublin Dublin/Holyhead Irish Ferries Up to 6 round trips Ex Holyhead: 02:40, Ulysses, Ro/Ro Freight, Dublin Email: dublinfreight per day 08:15, 14:10, 20:15 Isle of Inisheer, Passengers, T:+353 (0) 818221560 @irishferries.com Ex Dublin: 02:00, 08:05, Dublin Swift Cars, Coaches 14:30, 20:55 +Seasonal Swift service
Pembroke/Rosslare Rosslare/Pembroke Irish Ferries 2 round trips Rosslare: 08:45, 20:45 Isle of Innisfree Ro/Ro Freight Dublin Email: dublinfreight per day Pembroke: 14:45, 02:45 Passengers, T:+353 (0) 818221560 @irishferries.com Cars, Coaches
Cherbourg/Dublin Dublin/Cherbourg Irish Ferries Visit Visit W.B. Yeats, Ro/Ro Freight, Dublin Email: dublinfreight www.irishferries www.irishferriesfreight.com Isle of Inisheer Passengers, T:+353 (0) 818221560 @irishferries.com freight.com Cars, Coaches
Calais/Dover Dover/Calais Irish Ferries Up to 24 round Visit Oscar Wilde, Ro/Ro Freight, Dublin Email: dublinfreight trips per day www.irishferriesfreight.com Isle of Inishmore Passengers, T:+353 (0) 818221560 @irishferries.com Cars, Coaches
www.motis.com
(Finland)
(Greece)
each direction Sat 17:30 hr bookings.hull@poferries.com
Mon-Fri 23:45, Sun 22:45 hr ZEEBRUGGE
ZEEBRUGGE BE Teesport
per week Hull: Wed, Fri, Sun
+44 (0) 1482 708288 Freight email: freight. Zeebrugge: Tues, Thurs, Sat bookings.hull@poferries.com
Ferries 3 sailings per week Teesport: Mon, Wed, Fri
(0) 1482 708288 Freight email: freight. Zeebrugge: Tues, Thus, Sun bookings.hull@poferries.com ZEEBRUGGE
11:00,
Mon-Sat & Ex Ex Birkenhead 18:00 Service Email: freightbooking.uk.roi Birkenhead Sun-Fri @stenaline.com
CAIRNRYAN Belfast Stena Line Tuesday - Saturday Both Directions Superfast VII Ro/Ro Freight T: 0845 070 4000 Freight Reservations 6 sailings 03:30, 07:30, 11:30, 15:30, Superfast VIII Passengers/ Email: freightbooking.uk.roi Sunday & Monday 19:30, 23:30 Mon-Sat Cars/coaches @stenaline.com 5 sailings No 03:30 Sun. Mon Ex Belfast 07:30 & 23:30 Sun Ex Cairnryan 07:00 & 23:00 Sun
Rosslare Stena Line 2 sailings Ex Fishguard 13:00, 23:45
directions Mon-Sun
& Freight Mon-Sun Ex Rosslare 07:30, 18:15
Mon-Sun 0845 070 4000 @stenaline.com
CHERBOURG Rosslare Stena Line Ex Rosslare Sailing Ex Rosslare Mon 22:00
Ex Cherbourg Ex Cherbourg Tues 20:30
@stenaline.com Tues-Thurs-Sat Thurs & Sat 19:00
HARWICH Rotterdam Stena Line 2 sailings daily Ex Harwich 08:00, 22:30 Stena Foreteller Ro/Ro Freight T: 0845 070 4000 Freight Reservations Mon-Fri in Mon-Fri Ex Rotterdam Stena Forerunner Email: freightbooking.nl each direction 11:30 Tues-Fri T: 0031174315858 (H) @stenaline.com 21:00 Mon-Fri
KILLINGHOLME Hoek Van Stena Line 1 sailing daily Ex Killingholme Stena Transporter Ro/Ro Freight T: 0845 070 4000 Freight Reservations Holland Mon-Sun 20:30 Mon-Sun Stena Transit Email: freightbooking.nl In each direction Ex Hoek Van Holland T: 0031174315858 (H) @stenaline.com 20:30 Mon - Sun
HARWICH Hoek Van Stena Line 2 sailings in each Ex Harwich Stena Hollandica Ro/Ro Freight T: 0845 070 4000 Freight Reser vations Holland direction Mon-Sun 14:15 & 22:00 Mon-Sun Stena Britannica Passengers/ Email: freightbooking.nl Ex Hoek Van Holland cars/coaches T: 0031174315858 (H) @stenaline.com 09:00, 23:00
IMMINGHAM Rotterdam Stena Line 1 sailing each Ex Immingham 19:45 Fiona Sea
19:45
(H) @stenaline.com
www.cldn.com
Warrenpoint - Heysham Route CLdN 11 weekly Heysham Mon 21:00
Email: Ro-Ro departures Tues-Fri 09:30, 21:30 Trade Cars T. 01524 853512 irishsea.hey.booking@cldn.com Ltd each direction Sat 20:30 Sun 20:30 Warrenpoint Mon 21:00 Warrenpoint: irishsea.wpt.booking@cldn.com
09:30, 21:30
00353 1 8230492 irishsea.dub.booking@cldn.com
each direction Tue-Fri 03:30,09:30,
09:30, 20:30 Sun 20:30
0151 9333660 irishsea.liv.booking@cldn.com 12:30, 20:30 Dublin Mon 15:30,21:30 Tue-Thurs 03:00, 08:30, 21:30, Sun 20:30
Larne Port continues to be the gateway of choice for many passengers and freight companies transporting goods between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
Located just 30 minutes from Belfast, and just two and a half hours from Dublin the Port handles in the region of a quarter of a million commercial vehicles each year.
The Port’s most regularly visiting ships are P&Os two powerful, and reliable RoPax ferries – the European Highlander, and the European Causeway - which operate across the North Channel every day of the week. And with the Larne to Cairnryan route being the shortest crossing to GB, at just two hours, it is obvious why Larne continues to be popular with both freight and passengers alike.
The combination of the shortest crossing, and fast loading and discharge from these ‘drive through’ ships, lorry drivers spend less time onboard getting themselves and their freight back on the road quicker.
By offering great value, convenient online booking and a great selection of sailing times it’s not hard to see why P&O maintain this vital trade route between Northern Ireland and Great Britain
There are six ferry arrivals and
The two P&O RoPax Ferries cater for both passengers and freight with the capacity to carry up to 440 passengers per sailing in addition to
significant volumes of freight traffic. Currently, these vessels carry around 15 per cent of the goods coming in and out of Northern Ireland, including vital medicines and fresh food.
With approximately 40 acres of extensive trailer vehicle parking, a trained workforce and a fleet of modern tugmasters, the port is fully equipped to handle unaccompanied traffic as well as driver accompanied vehicles. Fast, efficient check-in facilities and modern freight driver facilities make Larne Port a popular choice with hauliers and drivers.
Having deep water, a range of quays and generous land available, the port can also cater for other vessels.
The port is fast becoming an important hub for the import of wind farm components and also for ships undertaking maintenance in the many off-shore wind farms in the Irish Sea.”
• Vessels up to 185m and a draft of 7.1m
• 4 Berths, capable of handling cargo
• All berths within a secure ISPS area
• Jacking up alongside permissible
• Quay loading up to 18 tonnes/sq m
• 20 acres of storage available on hard standing
• Warehousing and workshop on site
• Dual carriageway right to port entrance
• Wide load access
CALAIS, FRANCE Folkestone LeShuttle Up to 7 Departure every 10
freight RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk
https://www.freightlink.co.uk (Eurotunnel) Freight departures per hour mins (peak times) trains +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-folkestone sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-uk%20mainland-to +44 (0)1772 368 251 -calais-in-france/,
ISLE OF MAN Heysham Isle of Man 2 departures Approx. every 12 hours
RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk Steampacket per day Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-heysham Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-uk%20mainland-to-isle +44 (0)1772 368 252 %20of%20man/,
DUNKERQUE, Dover DFDS 10 daily departures Approx. every 2 hours
RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk FRANCE Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-dover Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-uk%20mainland-to+44 (0)1772 368 253 dunkerque-in-france/,
ISLE OF WIGHT, UK Portsmouth Wightlink Up to 19 daily Approx. every Multiple RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk Southampton Red Funnel departures 45-60 mins
Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-england Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk -to-isle%20of%20wight/, +44 (0)1772 368 254
CHANNEL ISLANDS Portsmouth Condor Ferries Seasonal Schedules Daily departures Conventional RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk Poole ferries & fast Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-england craft vessels Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk -to-channel%20islands/, +44 (0)1772 368 255
ORKNEY & Aberdeen Northlink Ferries 1 daily departure Daily departures Freight vessel RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk
SHETLAND ISLANDS
NOVARA, ITALY Freiburg, RAlpin 1 every 3 hours Approx. every 3 hours
Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-aberdeen Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-uk%20mainland-to +44 (0)1772 368 256 -scottish%20isles/,
freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk Germany (each direction) truck train +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-freiburg sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-germany-to-novara +44 (0)1772 368 257 -in-italy/, MOROCCO Algeciras FRS Ferries 4 departures per day Every 5 hours
RoPax - customs bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk Africa Morocco Link (each direction) included +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-algeciras Balearia sales@freightlink.co.uk -in-spain-to-morocco/, +44 (0)1772 368 258
MONT BLANC & Mont Blanc, Italy Alpine Tunnel On arrival On arrival Highway tunnel All vehicles bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk FREJUS TUNNEL, Frejus Tunnel, (non hazardous) +44 (0)1772 282 592 /mont-blanc-and-fr%C3% FRANCE Italy sales@freightlink.co.uk A9jus-road-tunnels +44 (0)1772 368 259
DENMARK Copenhagen Oresund bridge On arrival On arrival Bridge All vehicles bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk
BRIDGES Malmo Storebaelt bridge +44 (0)1772 282 592 /%C3%B8resund-bridge Nyborg - Korsor sales@freightlink.co.uk -ferry-ticket +44 (0)1772 368 260
MESSINA, Villa San Bluferries 1 every hour Every hour
Multiple RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk SICILY, ITALY Giovanni, Italy Caronte & Tourist Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-villa%20 Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk san%20giovanni-in-italy +44 (0)1772 368 261 -to-messina_messina%20 tremestieri-in-sicily/,
BARCELONA/ Balearic Islands, Balearia 3 departures Evening Multiple RoRo freight bookings@freightlink.co.uk https://www.freightlink.co.uk VALENCIA, SPAIN Spain GNV per day departures Abnormal loads +44 (0)1772 282 592 /ferry-routes/from-balearic Trasmed GLE Hazardous cargo sales@freightlink.co.uk %20islands-to-spain/, +44 (0)1772 368 262
Belfast Harbour has unveiled a bold new strategy setting out an ambitious programme to invest more than £300m in capital projects across the port and Harbour Estate over the next five years.
The strategy – Advance Regional Prosperity 2025-2029 –outlines Belfast Harbour’s plans to invest £208m in significant port improvements and £105m in the ongoing regeneration and development of the Harbour Estate and waterfront. As a Trust Port, Belfast Harbour is self-financing and invests all post-tax profits in developing the port and estate to benefit the city and region.
The strategy includes the largest single capital project ever undertaken by Belfast Harbour, a proposed £90m investment in a new deepwater quay which will be able to accommodate some of the world’s largest cruise vessels and also expand the port’s capacity and capabilities for offshore wind turbine assembly and installation.
Stage one of the deepwater quay build, which will initially support cruise tourism, is expected to be delivered by 2027-28. Through the project, Belfast Harbour aims to boost cruise tourism to the region, currently worth an estimated £2025m to the local economy annually.
Stage two of the deepwater quay build, due by 2030, will further strengthen the infrastructure, so that the port can play a leading role in the assembly and installation of the next generation of floating offshore wind turbines. While this part of the project is dependent on additional investment or third-party funding, Belfast Harbour is confident that when complete, it will position the port and local supply chain as central to the deployment of high-capacity wind farms, helping meet demand for clean energy as Northern Ireland, Great Britain and Ireland strive to reach net zero targets.
The new strategy has four key objectives: to enable economic growth; to develop and improve the port; to create vibrant places to live and work; and to innovate for a better tomorrow – with the overarching objective of accelerating to net zero embedded across all activities. Other significant port projects outlined in the strategy include the delivery of new, sustainably
powered cranes, the planning, design and consent for a rebuild of Stormont Wharf – the port’s main deepwater berth, the construction of new BREAAM Excellent sustainable warehouses and the deployment of autonomous vehicles across the port and estate.
Investment in the Harbour Estate will include the £60m development of City Quays 5, a significant mixed use regeneration project including office, retail, hospitality and exhibition space. There are also plans to move forward with the City Quays 4 scheme for 325 homes, including affordable housing and to begin the process of developing an additional 3,000 houses by 2030.
Belfast Harbour also expects to fully deploy ‘The Harlander’ autonomous passenger vehicle across the estate in 2029, with on-road trials due to begin later this year. The organisation is also targeting a series of new productions at Belfast Harbour Studios aimed at delivering £200m to the economy by the end of the decade. This strategic plan and investment programme is in addition to the £374m of investments made by Belfast Harbour in the past decade, to ensure a competitive and resilient port, and developing a vibrant economic hub with connected and inclusive communities across Belfast Harbour Estate.
Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners, said: “Through this strategy Belfast Harbour will continue to contribute to the growth of the NI economy. By investing £313m, we will build on our strengths as the region’s leading port and a vital economic hub, delivering for our customers and tenants.
“We will continue our pioneering efforts to diversify and decarbonise, helping to reimagine and regenerate the city and bring additional prosperity to the region. Crucially, we will enhance our reputation as a leading port for cruise tourism and leverage our expertise as the only port on the island with offshore wind facilities.
“As a Trust Port, Belfast Harbour reinvests every penny of post-tax profits back into the business and the community, ensuring longterm value for the region. Our investment to date has created jobs, strengthened supply chains, raised sustainability standards and attracted major foreign investors to the city. Our 2025-29 strategy aims to continue this transformation and advance prosperity for the region.”
Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, said: “Belfast Harbour’s goal is to drive regional prosperity by developing the port and estate,
so that everyone benefits. This strategy will see us optimise our strengths, innovate for growth, and invest in new opportunities that meet the needs of our customers, tenants and communities.
“The addition of a new deepwater quay will not only add to the c.300,000 cruise visitors welcomed by Belfast Harbour each year, it also gives us the opportunity to expand our capacity in the assembly and installation of offshore wind. This strategy will put Belfast Harbour at the forefront of the clean energy transition.
“Our strategy will also support the NI Executive and Belfast City Council to tackle key issues including the supply of housing, responding to climate change and helping grow a more sustainable and globally connected economy.”
Conor Murphy, Minister for the Economy, said: “I welcome the plans for investment in the Port and the Harbour Estate which Belfast Harbour has detailed in its new strategy. The proposed investments support my department’s strategic objectives of creating good jobs and reaching net zero by 2050 and will provide tangible benefits for the economy. Investment in new facilities that will advance the energy transition, as well as improving the attractiveness of the port as a cruise destination, shows Belfast Harbour’s commitment to generating a prosperous future for all.”
Cat McCusker, President of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NI Chamber) said: “Belfast Harbour is to be commended for its ongoing commitment to investments which not only enhance its own business but also support the broader development of our economy and improve the lives of people across Northern Ireland. There is no doubt that Belfast Harbour will be leaders in the collective drive to advance the prosperity of the region in the years ahead and at NI Chamber, we look forward to seeing the positive impacts come to fruition.”
To download the Strategy, visit https://www.belfastharbour.co.uk/strategy/
2024 was a record year for Stena Line freight volumes on its three Belfast services with almost 600,000 freight units being shipped between Cairnryan, Liverpool (Birkenhead) and Heysham.
Demand for freight services to and from Belfast has been increasing steadily in recent years with the Belfast-Liverpool (Birkenhead) route in particular growing in popularity with hauliers and three ships serving the route.
Stena Line’s travel business has also had a
strong year with almost 1.7m passengers and 500,000 cars passing through Belfast in 2024.
Later this year, Stena Line will mark 30 years of ferry services from Belfast. The business moved from Larne to Belfast Harbour in 1995 with one ferry route to Stranraer, and has
Belfast Harbour has visited its automotive engineering partner HORIBA MIRA to observe testing of the Harlander, Northern Ireland’s first autonomous passenger vehicle, ahead of its delivery to Belfast in March.
Harlander is Northern Ireland’s first self-driving vehicle and will operate in Belfast Harbour Estate from Titanic Halt Railway station to Catalyst through Titanic Quarter.
The 9-seater vehicle, which will have a safety operator on board, will offer last mile connectivity from public transport networks to businesses, tourist attractions and education and leisure facilities.
It is an initial step on the pathway
to fully driverless transport systems for the UK, the initial pilot will run from March to September, and will be free of charge.
Mike Dawson, People and Digital Transformation Director at Belfast Harbour, said: “We’re incredibly excited to have visited HORIBA MIRA’s Connected and Autonomous Vehicle testing facility near Coventry to see the Harlander in action and we’re looking forward to people getting the chance
now grown to three routes and seven ships.
Paul Grant, Irish Sea North Trade Director said, “Today, Belfast is one of the most strategically important business hubs across the Stena Line network. Our Irish Sea business has transformed over the last three decades through a combination of continued investment and the continued support from our customers.”
“August brings another exciting chapter to the Belfast journey with the introduction of the first of our two NewMax ships on the Heysham service, Stena Futura, which will provide an additional 40% freight capacity on the route when joined by Stena Connecta in early 2026.
“The two NewMax hybrid vessels will play a key role in developing Stena Line’s sustainability journey as they will both be able to operate on methanol fuel. They will also be enhanced with built in technologies that will be able to utilise both battery propulsion and shore power, when available.”
Joe O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast Harbour, said: “Stena Line is one of Belfast Harbour’s most important strategic partners and should be commended for achieving record freight volumes in what was a relatively flat year for the wider economy. This success reflects the quality of service offered by Stena Line and its willingness to respond to customer demand with new investment. We are excited by the potential to increase freight volumes further on Stena Line’s Belfast routes when the company’s two NewMax vessels are introduced.”
to experience the service for themselves in the coming months as we start the pilot on the Harbour Estate.”
Belfast Harbour is leading the development of the service alongside a consortium of partners that includes eVersum, Oxa, Angoka, BT and HORIBA MIRA and it is Northern Ireland’s inaugural step in autonomous vehicles on publicly accessible roads.
The initiative has received £11m joint government and industry funding, including £5.5m in funding from Innovate UK, which is working with the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles to invest £41.5m in innovation projects across the UK that demonstrate real world benefits of connected and autonomous vehicles.
BY MIKE PARR, CEO UK & IRELAND FOR PML SEAFRIGO
Safety & Security (S&S) declarations that were due to come into force at the end of January will affect hauliers who are handling imported goods if they are not suitably prepared.
To be fully compliant, regulated products coming into the UK must have the correct Phytosanitary or Health (Sanitary) documentation raised by the exporter, and the documentation needs to be sent to the importer or their intermediary prior to the shipment’s arrival in the UK. Such goods must be pre-notified on IPAFFS (Import of products, animals, food and feed system) and documents need to be sent to the importer or their intermediary prior to the shipment’s arrival in GB. If selected for a physical examination then goods need to be presented to Inland Border Facility or a Control Point as selected in IPAFFS.
As has been widely debated this is likely to cause severe disruption to the importer, the retailer and ultimately the consumer.
PML Seafrigo has raised the question with customs as to why the S&S declarations cannot be
consolidated within the pre-lodged import declarations which hauliers are already expected to submit. To date we’ve received no response to this logical suggestion.
Looking at the S&S declarations from the exporter’s perspective, we are aware that phytosanitary certificates (PCs) can take anything up to five days to raise, dependent on the availability of an APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) official. For certain crops, e.g. berries, this five-day window is inconsistent with the exporter being able to assess whether or not the product is ready for export on that specific date. We know that countries such as The Netherlands have embraced technology to overcome these issues, allowing the producer to send a video to the Defra equivalent. If there is no response within two hours, this is interpreted as immediate approval. Why can the same approach
not be adopted in the UK?
The voluntary trade scheme PHEATS enabled authorised persons to perform certain phytosanitary actions and carry out their own inspections, thereby raising PCs in-house post inspection by staff wo have been trained by Defra. The scheme was launched as a pilot but at this juncture there is no firm indication of it being rolled out to exporters or their agents.
In addition, the cost of entry to the scheme in terms of both hours and fees is cost prohibitive to some growers, impacting on their ability to profit from the valuable export market.
Add to the above the regular government U-turns, which I’ve vocalised on numerous occasions, and you have the perfect storm. Not only are these frustrating, they also represent a considerable waste of time as forwarders and businesses dedicate costly
resource to ensuring they remain up to date with the latest required import and export protocols.
I commented last year that hauliers are already showing a resistance to transporting goods to the UK due to the increased checks and associated disruption.
The net result will be less fruit and vegetables on the shelves and higher prices, caused by less hauliers moving goods, the reduced shelf life and even destruction of consignments following delays, and less producers simply unable to deal with the rising costs associated with exporting to the UK.
Without wishing to sound like a broken record, this is once again an example of the government failing to pay heed to those working at the coalface.
2025 is destined to be a very challenging year for all those involved in the perishable goods food supply chain.
Derry Bros, a leading customs clearance specialist, is supporting the transition to the GB Safety & Security (S&S) import controls by cutting the cost of processing declaration requirements. The company is leveraging its advanced digitalisation and automation capabilities to help haulage customers reduce third-party charges by as much as 50% as well as avoid any delays and penalties associated with the incoming rule.
“We have invested heavily in our digital infrastructure over the past 12 months, so we are best placed to support our customers as they navigate these latest customs changes for cargo coming from the EU,” explains Colin Robb, Head of Operations & Sales at Derry Bros. “We can ensure they mitigate potential risk, gain competitive advantage and continue to operate smoothly by achieving the highest levels of compliance in the most affordable manner.”
From 31 January 2025, S&S measures will become mandatory for all goods entering Great Britain as part of the UK government’s plan to strengthen border controls and ensure
that imported goods meet the country’s safety and security standards. Failure to comply
with the declaration requirement will likely result in significant delays as well as potential penalties and rejection of goods at the border.
Derry Bros has more than 60 years of experience in the freight and logistics industry, serving the UK, EU and beyond. With a comprehensive range of managed booking, customs and consultancy services, it is helping businesses to navigate some of the most complex challenges facing cross-border trade and transport.
The company’s success and proven track record is underpinned by award-winning technology systems, developed in-house, including the all-in-one digital customs solution, Digicom.
Customs clearance and freight forwarding are essential components of the transport and logistics industry, ensuring the smooth movement of goods across borders. Customs clearance is the process of preparing and submitting necessary documentation to government authorities to facilitate the import or export of goods. This includes duties, taxes, and compliance with regulations specific to each country. Customs brokers handle these tasks, ensuring shipments meet all legal requirements and avoid delays.
Freight forwarding involves the coordination and management of the transportation of goods from the point of origin to the final destination. Freight forwarders act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, arranging for the most efficient and cost-effective
routes, whether by air, sea or road. They also handle logistics such as cargo insurance, warehousing, and tracking.
Both customs clearance and freight forwarding are interconnected, as seamless customs processing is crucial for timely deliveries. Any delays in clearance can
lead to storage fees, demurrage, and disruptions in supply chains. Businesses rely on experienced professionals to navigate complex global trade regulations, ensuring compliance and efficient movement of goods. By integrating these services, companies can optimize international shipping and maintain competitive supply chains.
“We are thrilled to be welcomed into the Fracht family, a synergy and strategic fit that will be a key step in our strategy to expand across multiple sectors, creating a more agile and comprehensive offering from the Quality Freight Group”, comments Shaun Ryan, Group Commercial Director at Quality Freight.
Quality Freight Group have offices in Dublin, Belfast, Knock (Ireland West) and a Rotterdam Port warehouse and cross dock facility in Wallhaven (QPL) and a nearby forwarding and logistics office (QFNL).
boosting their operational capabilities (QFICD). Both sites have single lift heavy capacity of 35,000KGs for OOG or Containerised cargoes.
Quality Freight specializes in project cargo, operating a small fleet of low-loader chassis and dedicated project teams. Its subsidiary, Renewable Logistics, is committed to serving clients in the energy sector, with a focus on renewable and power generation projects.
operations such as bulk transport and own debagging operation, is seeing transport demands across Europe grow with Northern Ireland’s unique position of being both part of the UK whilst working under EU trading conditions.”
Quality Freight’s operation at Knock Airport in the West of Ireland operates two small warehouses catering for the pharma and blue chip companies that favour this part of Ireland.
“We believe Quality Freight is a perfect match with Fracht Group and are looking forward to the future opportunities and that will drive our mutual success,” concludes Shaun Ryan. Quality
at the short sea terminals yet in close proximity to the deep sea port areas and gives us ownership of our own warehousing and distribution services in Europe. The operation acts as a distribution and cross-dock facility – both for ourselves and our European partner forwarders, crossdocking 40-50 shipments per week to 40’ / 45’ containers.”
Having unique selling points like the added value services, Rotterdam facility and our ICDs have helped Quality Freight to maintain its position in a tough, competitive market.
Operating two inland depots one in Cork, and one strategically located near the Dublin Airport/M50 route network, which is a 3-acre facility
“We also specialize in niche bulk tank and bulk container logistics/ transport, on its food and chemical bulk businesses, with a fleet of 24 specialist chassis from 20/30/40ft across Ireland” continued Shaun Ryan.
“The Belfast office, also active in
Quality Freight Netherlands has been in operation since 2013, with a small forwarding team who manage their groupage / LCL and intermodal operations.
“Our Quality Port Logistics facility, a 5,000sqm warehouse is located
Reaching a conclusion with Fracht AG was the perfect direction for the family-owned Group to work with likeminded professionals and bring the Group to a new level offering great opportunities.
Doyle Shipping Group (DSG) stands as a shining example of excellence in the realm of customs services, facilitating seamless cross-border trade and bolstering international commerce dynamics. In an era where the efficient flow of goods is pivotal for economic prosperity, DSG emerges as a trusted partner renowned for its unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive customs solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
At the heart of DSG’s operations lies a deep understanding of the importance of efficient customs clearance in facilitating smooth import and export operations for businesses worldwide. With dedicated clearance specialists stationed strategically across regional offices, DSG prides itself on offering a hassle-free process for managing consignments and navigating clients through the intricacies of the customs Automated Export Processing (AEP) system.
Central to DSG’s ethos is its unwavering dedication to ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulatory frameworks. Armed with a team of seasoned experts well-versed in international trade regulations, the group remains at the forefront of regulatory changes, providing invaluable insights and
guidance to clients seeking to navigate the complex customs landscape seamlessly including:
- Brexit Support
- ENS (Safety & Security) declarations
- PBNs (Pre-Boarding Notifications)
- GMRs (Goods Movement Reference)
- Traces (CHED-P/VED Veterinary Health Certificates)
- T2L (Proof of InterEU import/export)
- NCTS (T1 Transit)
Moreover, DSG’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology underscores its dedication to efficiency and innovation. Through state-of-theart customs management systems, DSG empowers its clients with real-time visibility into their cargo movements, facilitating timely
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decision-making and enhancing supply chain resilience.
Beyond compliance and efficiency, DSG places a premium on security in an era marked by heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats. By implementing robust security protocols and drawing on its vast experience, the group ensures the integrity of supply chains while mitigating potential risks effectively.
Furthermore, DSG’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction sets it apart as a market leader in customs services. With a clientcentric approach underpinning its operations, the group strives to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by its clients, offering tailored solutions that drive value and
foster long-term partnerships.
The significance of efficient customs services extends far beyond the realm of trade facilitation; it serves as a catalyst for economic growth, driving competitiveness and fostering prosperity on a global scale. In this regard, DSG emerges as a pivotal player, championing the cause of seamless cross-border trade through its exemplary customs services.
As the global economy continues to evolve, the role of customs services in facilitating trade cannot be overstated. In this context, DSG’s steadfast commitment to excellence serves as a testament to its enduring legacy as a trusted partner in global trade dynamics.
Doyle Shipping Group’s customs services epitomise the pinnacle of excellence, combining regulatory expertise, technological innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. As businesses navigate the complexities of international trade, DSG remains a beacon of reliability and trust, underpinning its status as a leading provider of customs solutions in the global marketplace.
T: +353 1 8192626
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Derry Bros Shipping and Customs Clearance award winning team is dedicated to making your shipping and customs processes as smooth as possible.
And to further streamline the customs process for their clients Derry Bros Customs have just introduced the latest AI technology to provide the best, most accurate service possible.
Using pioneering OCR (optical Character Recognition) & AI (artificial intelligence) Derry Bros are able to create CHEDs (Common Health Entry Document) for SPS Controlled goods coming into Northern Ireland and Ireland. This new automated process saves time and guarantees accuracy to make the customs process as smooth as possible.
A Common Health Entry Document (CHED) is a required document for importing certain goods into the European Union (EU) and Great Britain. These goods include: Animals: Live animals and germinal products; Animal products: products derived from animals, such as meat, dairy, and other animal-based foods, Plant products: products derived from plants,
such as fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods, and Feed and food products: foods and feed products, including high risk foods
CHEDs are used by border control authorities and operators to perform safety checks on imported goods. CHEDS are important because they help to ensure that imported goods are safe for entry; they help prevent the spread of diseases and the help streamline the inspection process.
The information contained in a CHED includes; type of goods, origin, quantity, destination, transporter details, purpose of entry and health certification.
Up until this point all the information had to be pulled together manually and then a CHED reference was created for the goods.
The new digital automated system uses OCR/ AI to gather all the relevant information and produce the CHED reference in a fraction of the time the old method took.
Colin Robb, Head of Operations and Sales at Derry Bros, said in the past there has been a lot of issues with creating CHEDS, and it can be problematic manually gathering all the relevant information together correctly.
“This system does it automatically. Previously
creation of a CHED could take 10-15 minutes or more- the automation does it in 45 seconds which is a huge difference in the processing time.”
Giving an example of how beneficial this new system is to Derry Bros, Colin Robb explains that they have recently taken on work for a major retailer, and to deal with this they would normally needed more staff to process the volume of goods. But using this revolutionary system they can handle the processing without any problems or additional staff.
“Our new system also eliminates human error from the customs process, as the system pulls the data together replacing what was previously a manual process.
If CHEDS are not correct this can be very costly.
“If you try to move SPS goods (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) with an incorrect CHED, the goods will not be allowed through customs and this could result in them being destroyed.”
SPS are a category of controlled goods (related to animal or plant elements) that require additional certificates and licences.
Derry Bros new system has been in testing for 4 weeks and this OCR/AI based system will go live in February 2025.
Kia UK plans to launch its brand-new electric van business at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show this April.
Dominating Kia’s show stand will be the PV5 – the brand’s first fully electric van – for its UK debut where specification and other customer centric information will be announced. Kia will also deliver an insight into its first ever commercial vehicle business plans.
First seen at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in 2024, Kia announced its new commercial vehicle business with the acronym, PBV. An overarching naming strategy referring to ‘Purpose Built Vehicle’ and ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’, highlighting the methodology and technology used by these pioneering vehicles to satisfy the varying needs of commercial customers.
Exclusively for the UK, PBV will mean ‘Professional Business Vans’, tailoring the business to the preferred language for commercial vehicles across the country. This self-explanatory term will be used to spearhead Kia UK’s commercial vehicle business and denominate Kia’s van centres across the UK.
The PV5 and Beyond
The PV5 electric-only van is built on a dedicated EV platform and designed for work across domains including delivery, utilities and ride hailing. The PV5 will be available in three main forms; a panel van, a chassis cab and a passenger variant. The chassis cab is particularly unusual in the mid-size van market and offers further scope for diverse customer needs and customisation.
Every Kia PBV product will come with an industry-leading seven-year/100,000-mile warranty as standard. Kia’s partnership with Geotab and on-board technology, including native access to the Android App store on the van’s central display, ensure fleets can benefit from the latest software solutions.
received by the industry and how it contributes to the future of sustainable transport.”
Mike Costain, Event Director for the Commercial Vehicle Show, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that Kia has chosen The Commercial Vehicle Show to debut their highly anticipated electric van. This event remains the premier platform for manufacturers to showcase cuttingedge innovations, and Kia’s presence highlights the growing momentum of electrification in the commercial vehicle sector. We look forward to seeing how their new launch is
Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK said, “This is an incredibly exciting time for Kia, as we build an entirely new commercial business to deliver world-class electric vans to UK customers.
“Our first electric van, the PV5, arrives at an important time for the UK, amid an unprecedented transition towards electric power across both the car and van markets. Our strategy is to approach the market confidently but responsibly, launching in a phased and progressive manner to ensure each element of our commercial vehicle business is exacted with the same industry-leading standards we’re known for in the passenger car industry. This will cover dealer sales excellence, customer care, service and experience.”
“Together with our industry-leading sevenyear warranty that will apply to all our vans, we are confident that our new LCV range will help businesses across the country achieve their carbon reduction goals while importantly never compromising logistical requirements.
The CV Show runs from 29 April until 1 May, at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham.
Isuzu UK is proud to announce that Isuzu D-Max has been awarded the prestigious Sustainability Award in the 4x4 of the Year Awards by Overlander 4x4 magazine. The award highlights D-Max’s outstanding combination of durability, low emissions, and exceptional performance on and off-road, cementing its reputation as a reliable and sustainable choice for both work and adventure.
Isuzu D-Max’s strengthened ladder chassis, extensive underbody protection, and proven reliability have made it one of the longestlasting vehicles on the market. Its turbo diesel engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Combined with Isuzu’s unrivalled dealer network across the UK and Northern Ireland, this ensures customers receive exceptional aftersales support, contributing to the vehicle’s longevity and environmental credentials.
Alan Kidd, Editor of Overlander 4x4 magazine, praised D-Max for its comprehensive approach to sustainability: “The rationale for D-Max winning the Sustainability Award is that over time, it has proved to be among the longestlived vehicles on the entire market – and longer life means a lower footprint. This is in part down to
the vehicle itself and in part to the excellence of Isuzu’s dealer network. Additionally, the use of a smaller engine allows D-Max to produce lower emissions than the typical vehicle of its class and looking to the future Isuzu is readying an all-electric version. Also, by championing D-Max as a camping and expedition vehicle
through its partnership with ARB, Isuzu is encouraging people not to jump on planes for their holidays!”
Isuzu D-Max continues to lead by example, offering unmatched versatility with its robust offroad capability, smooth on-road handling, and practical features that cater to a wide range of users, from tradespeople
to outdoor adventurers.
George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, expressed his delight with the award:
“We’re thrilled to see the 4x4 Isuzu D-Max recognised for its long-standing sustainability credentials. With its tough build, efficient performance, reliability and forward-thinking approach, the D-Max has always been a very capable long-term partner for our customers. And with D-Max BEV on the horizon, we’re driving toward a greener future, proving that the Isuzu D-Max is sustainably better for everyone.”
This award reflects Isuzu UK’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring that Isuzu D-Max remains a benchmark for quality and capability in the 4x4 market.
The all-new Volkswagen Transporter Panel Van can now be ordered online or through a UK Van Centre, with prices starting from £30,9951 for the TDI variant and £41,9651 for the BEV model, or just £399 per month on Business Contract Hire3.
All customers will benefit from an enhanced warranty and service plan at no extra cost, the Volkswagen 5+ Promise: comprising five services, two MOTs, a five-year Warranty, and five years’ Roadside Assistance.2
Initially available as a Panel Van, first customer deliveries are expected in April 2025, with Kombi and Shuttle variants to follow in Spring 2025; double-cab variants to complete the line-up in late 2025. All variants are available as either standard or long wheelbase, in a choice of three highly-specified trims – Commerce, Commerce Plus and Commerce Pro.
To celebrate order books opening, until 31 March 2025, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is offering a number of compelling finance offers. On Solutions Personal Contract Plan, the all-new Transporter is available with 6.9% APR Representative^ and a £2,500 deposit contribution on diesel derivatives. Electric Transporter models available with 4.9% APR Representative+ and a £2,500 deposit contribution.
On Business Contract Hire, the all-new Transporter is available from just £399 per month3, with the fully electric derivative available from £459 per month4.
The all-new Transporter is available with a number of powertrains –including three diesel and two electric powertrains – with a plugin hybrid drive arriving in 2026.
Offering more space, increased payload and a redesigned interior, the seventh-generation Transporter also provides more technology and sophistication than ever before, and recently received a Platinum Euro NCAP rating, thanks to its highperforming safety technologies.
Production of the Transporter 6.1 ended in the middle of the year. “All customer orders were produced on time. It was a great team effort for which I would like to thank all employees,” says Krause. “I am also particularly pleased that we achieved strong growth of 44 per cent for our Multivan in 2024. At the end of the year, we handed
over the first new California and new Transporter models to customers. The introduction of the new generation in the Bulli segment is thus now complete.“
2024
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered a total of 408,300 vehicles to customers in 2024. The delivery figures are therefore at the same level as the previous year (2023: 409,400). The Caddy, Crafter and Multivan in particular achieved significant growth in the past year. “2024 was a challenging year with a very strong first half and a difficult second half,” says Lars Krause, member of the Board of Management responsible for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV). “We were not only able to maintain our market share internationally, but also to further expand it in some markets, which is a great achievement. In Europe, we are the clear market leader in the B segment of battery-electric
vans with our all-electric ID. Buzz.”
The model enhancements for the ID. Buzz with the GTX version1, long wheelbase and, for example, the all-wheel drive version of the ID. Buzz Cargo showed the first signs of success in 2024. With incoming orders increasing by over 70 per cent compared with 2023, market acceptance of the expanded model range and attractively priced variants is positive. In 2025, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will continue to drive forward internationalisation and introduce the ID. Buzz in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Israel, Indonesia and Japan.
With the host of new models introduced in the past year, the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles range has now been completely updated. This means that 2025 sees VWCV having the best and broadest product range in its history.
With the new Transporter, the trio of ID. Buzz, Multivan and new Transporter is now complete – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles therefore offers every customer the right vehicle to meet their individual needs.
Prices for the all-new Transporter start at £30,995.1
Ford has come to the rescue of delivery drivers across the country with a convenient new feature, saving them vital seconds before and after every drop.
Delivery Assist streamlines many of the important tasks that these drivers perform while making stops with the ability to automatically turn off the engine, close windows, lock doors or switch on hazard lights, potentially saving a number of seconds per stop and enabling more deliveries. The technology also boosts peace of mind for drivers and fleet managers by ensuring vans remain secure while drivers leave the vehicle to make deliveries. Furthermore, it is designed to reduce the number of tasks that drivers need to remember, enabling them to concentrate on drop-offs and their surroundings.
“Delivery Assist makes the driver’s to-do list shorter, their journeys more comfortable, and can cut up to 20 seconds from each delivery stop to help them deliver more parcels, faster. It’s good for both our customers and their customers – by taking away lots of tiny tasks we are helping to make a big difference,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe.
Once a driver has dropped off their package, Delivery Assist also simplifies
the process of driving away. The van can be unlocked using the integral key-free entry system, and pressing the brake pedal restarts the engine and restores the windows to their previous position. Drivers can tailor the window, hazard light and locking automations to suit their needs.
Delivery Assist was conceived through Ford’s human-centred design team that also came up with innovations such as the tilting steering wheel. The technology is available on 2025 ETransit 2,3 and EcoBlue dieselpowered Transit 2,4 models with automatic transmission. It will also be available on the all-new E-Transit Custom 2,5 and automatic transmission-equipped Transit Custom 2,6 vans, with the first customer deliveries expected from summer 2025.
Delivery Assist is currently only available on van variants of E-Transit and EcoBlue diesel powered Transit with automatic transmission.
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