EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS FREIGHT
EU HAULAGE POST-BREXIT What road will it take?
SHIPPING TO THE USA Rules & regulations, with Allseas Global
REGIONAL FOCUS
UK: Yorkshire | Global: The Americas
FEATURING...
RETAIL TRANSPORT SERVICES WITH DAVE HUGHES, MD & DAVE LEWIS, DIRECTOR
ISSUE39
MDXpress is the culmination of more than 30 years of freighting experience.
EXPRESS FREIGHT
Our aim is to be your partner and provide a firstclass customer experience, guiding you through the transport process and treating every shipment with the same high level of attention as your first booking. The partner philosophy is... 'It’s not just a shipment, it is our shipment.'
ROAD FREIGHT
OCEAN FREIGHT
AIR FREIGHT
Midlands office
Scotland office
South East office
MDXpress Ltd Station House Station Road Shenstone Lichfield, WS14 0NW +44 (0)1543 484346
MDXpress Ltd Ancaster Business Centre Cross Street Callander FK17 8E Stirlingshire +44 (0)1360 602000
MDXpress Ltd 29 Hill Top Tonbridge TN9 2UN Kent +44 (0)1732 440582
To receive a quotation or more information about MDXPRESS, please call or email info@mdxpress.co.uk and we will contact you as soon as possible.
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FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
W
elcome to the 'European road & express' edition of FORWARDER magazine.
ISSUE39
CONTENTS
FORWARDER DIGEST Snippets from the month, by the Editor 6 INDUSTRY NEWS News and press releases from the world of freight 8 FOCUS ROUNDUP Articles from the last 12 months relating to this month's focus 56 COVER FEATURE Dave Hughes & Dave Lewis, Retail Transport Services 82 FORWARDER FOCUS EU haulage post-Brexit | Long drive? Tech can help or hinder 90 ASK THE EXPERTS Cutting the cost of downtime | 'Average exporter?' No such thing 94 REGIONAL FOCUS Cleaner future for Yorkshire | North/South divide | Shipping to USA 98 FORWARD TECH Blockchain tech | Google robotics | Customer service in the digital age 106 ECO 2020 NEW SECTION Exposing the plastic supply chain | Packing redesigns 112 M&A FOCUS Freight companies for sale and sought | Are you ready to exit? 122 RECRUITMENT 128 FOCUS Jobs and candidates in the freight industry MARKETING 138 FOCUS Read all about it! Company newsletters | Web design: freight edition A WORD 144 FROM... Ellena Austin | Florian Freese FORWARDER magazine
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Logistics Logistics Logistics Scotland Scotland Scotland Conference Conference Conference 2019 2019 2019
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FORWARDER magazine
WELCOME TO FORWARDER... A WORD FROM
T
THE EDITORS
MEET THE TEAM
his bumper edition of the magazine is our first quarterly
CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
print of 2019, and the months have flown by. In case you
craig@freight-media.com
missed it, our move to quarterly print is in line with our
SARAH SENIOR EDITOR
focus on carbon reduction, and we’re happy to be doing our part in
sarah@forwardermagazine.com +44 (0)1454 628 788
lowering industry emissions.
RACHEL EDITOR
This edition comes at a crucial point for our industry. At the time of
rachel@forwardermagazine.com +44 (0)1454 628 771
writing, we’re still due to exit the EU on 29 March, but that looks very likely to change. Regardless, we’re looking forward to being able
RICHARD ADVERTISING
to produce timely news without mentioning the ‘B’ word soon, and
richard@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 275 952
focus on the United Kingdom’s supply chain future.
DOM ADVERTISING
Sarah O'Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine
S
dom@freight-media.com +44 (0)1454 628 794
MOHIT SOCIAL MEDIA mohit@freight-media.com
o here it is! Issue 39...the one we’ve all been waiting for.
TIM GRAPHIC DESIGNER
This bumper special issue is filled with some brilliant
tim@forwardermagazine.com
articles, including blockchain, women in logistics and how
packaging redesigns could improve recycling. At FORWARDER, we are always looking for ways to enhance and refresh our content,
especially in such a buzzing industry. We have added in a columnist section with contributions from Florian Freese and Ellena Austin;
Read the magazine online:
it’s always great to hear from industry professionals. This issue is
FORWARDERmagazine.com/read-forwarder
spilling with the most talked-about topics, such as Brexit, European
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road and express and all things in between. Go on, put the kettle
instagram.com/forwardermag
on. This one’s a sit-down read.
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ISSUE39
5
FORWARDER DIGEST
T
his time of year will always see extreme
It looks unlikely that this will now be the day Britain finally leaves
weather affecting freight operations in
the European Union, however. The value of the British Pound (£)
some parts of the world, and these past
has been similarly unstable as a result.
few weeks have been no exception. There was of course devastating news
Things aren’t looking too bad in Scotland, as Transport Scotland
of the deadly crash of an Atlas Air cargo
have called on Network Rail to grow rail freight in the country.
plane which was travelling from Miami.
The Industry Growth Plan for Rail Freight was officially launched on
The plane, contracted to deliver loads
March 15, pinpointing four areas for the freight industry to improve
from Amazon.com, crashed – killing all three on board. At the time of
so it could meet growth targets. The plans include upgrades to
writing, the cause of the crash has not been released. However, it does
services which will include increasing both speed and reliability.
appear that, despite the plane’s movements to avoid weather conditions
50 of the 600 freight trains which run across the UK each day
in its last minutes, turbulence was not the direct cause of the crash.
operate in the Scotland area. Another significant development would be the electrification of the Edinburgh suburban line which would
This wasn’t the only fatal airline incident in the last few months,
allow freight-carrying services to bypass Edinburgh Waverly.
as two crashes involving Ethiopian Airlines and Lion Air have led to the grounding of aircraft. Australia, China, the United Kingdom
And that’s not all for our friends across the northern border:
and the USA are among the countries which have grounded the
Scottish Power has announced its own investment into the country’s
affected model of Boeing 737 for the foreseeable future whilst
offshore wind supply chain, complementing the Government’s newly
investigations into the two crashes continue. The 737 MAX 8s have
launched Offshore Wind Sector Deal. The deal aims to boost both
seen controversy before and were similarly grounded in 2013 due
the productivity and competitiveness of the supply chain, along
to electrical issues.
with supporting export opportunities and overcoming barriers to growth. Such significant investment will lead to huge opportunities
Whilst the two named crashes did not directly involve cargo-
for growth and employment in the region, with logistics operations
laden craft, the grounding of these planes could have a significant
included at all levels of the supply chain.
impact on the air cargo industry, particularly in the case of smaller airlines where the 737 MAX 8 makes up to 10% of their fleet. Cargo payloads on the affected aircraft can total anything up to 5,000 lbs of freight in addition to their service as commercial passenger planes. The hold space of a Boeing is commonly used to carry smaller, international mail items, and there are expected to be some delays to e-commerce customers whilst airlines and shippers scrabble to find other jets to fill. Back home, it has been a particularly turbulent month for the UK industry, as we tick down to the original Brexit deadline of March 29th.
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Farther afield, the M&A market is buzzing with news of late.
consecutive losses and had been suffering from the global shortage
Whilst some of the momentum has since fizzled out – talks between
of drivers. Despite some industry analysts' claims that this closure
DSV and Panalpina have been ongoing since January, all but stagnating
was an anomaly, rather than a foreshadowing of 2019 trends, there
with latest developments focusing on reviewing shareholder voting
are many who disagree.
rights – there is still plenty of exciting consolidation. Rhenus has acquired the Toronto-based Rodair, to significantly increase their
One suspected agency of the closure is Amazon.com Inc..
power in the North American region. The Canadian company was
There have long been suggestions that the e-commerce giant will
earlier this year selected as one of Canada’s ‘Best Managed Companies’,
cause issues for any LTL provider who won’t handle its freight.
boasting a turnover of $15 million (USD) annually. In an interesting
This rumour has been compounded by recent comments made by
development the CEO of Deutsche Post AG, which is the parent
XPO Logistics’ Bradley Jacobs (CEO), who named an unidentified
company of DHL, has reported that the giant will not be moving into
customer as slashing two thirds of its business with the giant.
the acquisitions market any time soon. In an interview for Bloomberg
The loss of custom has resulted in $600 million losses in revenue
News, Frank Appel stated that the company thinks it is 'better' to
for XPO over the remainder of the year. Although neither XPO nor
focus on internal developments and try to grow organically.
Amazon would confirm the name of the customer, industry experts have suggested that only Amazon could be responsible for the level
As some companies aim to scale up, there has been some more
of business described, leaving other haulage operators wary of their
shocking shutdowns already this year. New England Motor
future in the wake of the in-house Amazon Logistics evolution.
Freight were one such affected company, and a key player in the Middle-America LTL market. The company had seen two years of
Sarah O'Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 22 MARCH 2019
SERVICES TO INDUSTRY:
ENSURING INSURING WORKS FOR YOU & YOUR CLIENTS
The Insurance Broker Ltd has been trading in Longridge, Lancashire since 2001 when it was founded by Mark and Rosemarie O’Connell. Capitalising on Mark O’Connell’s vast experience in Marine Insurance, The Insurance Broker Ltd has developed a strong understanding of clients’ needs in this area and works to tailor policies to their individual requirements. FORWARDER magazine spoke to The Insurance Broker Ltd about their day-to-day operations...
W
e are a specialist insurance brokerage with an in-depth
Our rates are frequently checked against the rest of the market to
knowledge of the freight industry. We have been
ensure that we remain competitive. If, for some reason, the request for
helping freight forwarders with all their insurance
insurance online does not fit within the parameters of our automated
needs for 18 years and between us have over 120 years’ experience
processing, the client will receive a call from a member of staff by the
in insurance, meaning we can deal with any insurance related problems
end of the next working day. This system makes it easier for cargo
which come our way. We can also offer a full range of products using
owners to obtain full value insurance at any time that suits them.
our extensive panel of insurers in this specialised field. We not only offer the specialist freight insurances but can cover Full value cargo insurance is one area in which we specialise.
any of your other insurance needs through our ‘Non Marine’
We offer open cover arrangements to enable Freight Forwarders to
department. This allows you the ability to house all your insurances
offer insurance to their clients, or alternatively the forwarder can
under the one roof while receiving the specialist knowledge you
direct the cargo owner to us so we can insure them.
require for this complex element of your business.
In recent years we have developed a quote ‘click and buy’ system on
We are an independent brokerage with a full panel of insurers and
line. Your clients can now visit our website, and after completing
therefore we can offer competitive rates on all insurances. All our
some basic information they can obtain a quote, which, if they find
staff undertake continual training in order that we can ensure that
it acceptable, they can then purchase online. All documentation will
they only offer the best advice and the most suitable products for
be sent electronically by the end of the next working day.
your requirements and those of your customers. Visit our website today, at the-insurance-broker.com
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FORWARDER magazine
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at thetriscangroup.com
T
he Triscan Group, who are the UK’s largest manufacturer
We strive to continually improve every aspect of our business and
and supplier of fuel management systems, have launched a
this includes both our on and offline presence. This continued growth
new website which showcases a wide range of new service
keeps The Triscan Group one-step ahead in the fuel management
and maintenance packages.
industry and allows us to continuously offer an advanced and competitive solution to a wider variety of customers. Andrea Whittaker, Managing Director, Triscan Group After being in the pipeline for the past few months, the arrival of the new sites will bring a wider, industry relevant, news and content offering as well as user-friendly navigation. The new service packages will also be on display offering a wide
The launch comes after a rapid growth period for the Group who
variety of product support packages including ad hoc repairs, tank
acquired Timeplan Fuel Solutions in May 2018 creating a further
services and electrical installations.
increase in their already extensive customer base. In line with this growth, The Triscan Group headquarters have been fully renovated allowing a more successful manufacturing process for the in-house production and development teams. The team at Triscan is also on the increase with several new staff members being welcomed into the sales, marketing and engineering teams.
THE TRISCAN GROUP LAUNCHES NEW SERVICES TO CELEBRATE A YEAR OF GROWTH! FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at pentalver.com
4 MARCH 2019
PENTALVER
DRIVES A SAFER FUTURE P entalver Driver Training Academy was founded in 2009 as a
In the few short months since it opened, 31 external and 42 internal
solution to the increased demand throughout the container
drivers have been trained and tested to IAM advanced motorist
haulage industry for skilled, trained and compliant drivers.
standard, and six trainers have been tested to IAM Examiner
A clear but simple business strategy was built: enhance commercial
standard. Graeme Knaggs, who has worked for Freightliner, another
driver skills, improve driver behaviour and reinvest profits into the
of G&W’s UK/Europe Region companies, as an LGV driver for 18
next generation of drivers.
years, was tested to IAM Examiner standard to enable him to deliver training in the Leeds and Doncaster area.
I decided to become
Following the acquisition of Pentalver by Genesee & Wyoming
a Driver Supervisor to give something back to the industry which
(G&W) in 2017, the training academy underwent a complete
has given me and my family a good living. The training helped to
transformation for 2019.
increase my knowledge and reinforce and refresh my understanding of safe practice.
Now known as G&W UK/Europe Region Driver Training Academy, the purpose-built training facility offers the capacity for both internal
The efforts G&W UK Road operations have made in relation to
and external trainees, covering a wide range of driver, safety and
introducing the IAM RoadSmart advanced driving standard to their
first aid courses.
team has been excellent,
said Richard Gladman.
The scheme
is now being rolled out to the whole of their driving operation Our driver behavioural specialists are the key to offering road
and my quality assurance checks on the team have discovered an
safety training solutions which are targeted at reducing risk and
excellent understanding of the principles of advanced driving and a
ensuring compliance within the business partnerships we build. We
commitment to ensure standards are maintained. Safe sharing of the
recognise a 'one size fits all' approach is not an effective strategy,
road space is always going to be a major contribution in reducing KSI
which is why we focus on the human factors which influence the
statistics and the pro-active approach by G&W UK road operations
fleet quality. That means understanding the choices a driver makes
is a big step forward.
and how these choices affect risk levels. Shaun Allen, Road MD, G&W UK/Europe Region companies
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FORWARDER magazine
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T
here are currently around eight billion connected devices in the world. The planet has never seen a more-connected time, and the internet is changing human behaviour forever.
We research, compare, share and purchase online, so it’s integral for any business to keep up with not only the latest technology trends, but their client’s behaviours if they want to remain relevant.
She added,
I’m firmly of the belief that we should never assume
we know it all. I am so happy to have been able to be among these This week saw Freight Media invited to attend the UK’s first ever
digital giants and gain this invaluable insight into the digital world.
Google UK Digital Bootcamp. The interactive workshop saw businesses across a variety of sectors work alongside the Google
The day was packed with insider information from the online world’s
team to explore and gain insight into the evolution of digital marketing.
Goliath on how best to engage with your audience, measure your marketing efforts and improve online presence to meet consumers’
Sarah O’Connell, Senior Editor of FORWARDER magazine,
rising expectations.
at Google UK’s headquarters in St Pancras Square, which featured
Darren Glasspool added,
an in-depth rundown on marketing best practices. Both were
award for Freight Marketing Agency 2019, and this is only going to
representing Freight Media, just one week after the agency won
strengthen our offering. To say we’ve been invited to Google UK’s
‘Best Freight Marketing Agency 2019’ from SME news.
first event of its kind to gain further technical insight is amazing.
Speaking about the impact of the event, Sarah said:
Freight Media is the leading freight marketing agency, and the publisher
and Darren Glasspool, Digital Marketing Manager, spent the day
Freight Media has already won the
FORWARDER magazine has really ramped up its digital efforts
of FORWARDER magazine. The team helps companies in the
skywards. It’s such an exciting time to be in both the freight and the
of bespoke strategic marketing. Freight Media is also the team behind
digital media industry, as both are finally beginning to merge and
Freightabase, the industry’s leading freight comparison platform,
we’re hearing more successful business stories every day.
which finds specialist, expertise shippers for any cargo load.
over the past year or so, and our subscriber list has accelerated
freight and logistics industry to grow their businesses with the help
8 MARCH 2019
FREIGHT MEDIA ATTENDS GOOGLE UK’s
FIRST EVER DIGITAL BOOTCAMP FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 26 APRIL 2019
LAUNCH OF
FREIGHT-TAILORED WEB DESIGN SITE W ebsite design service bespoke to freight forwarders,
Having worked in the freight sector for over seven years and the
freightwebsite.design, is officially live. After months of
website industry for seven, I wanted to create something that brings
preparation, Freight Media have announced the official
the two together. Our design service separates us from everything
launch of their new website design service, freightwebsite.design
else on the market because, whilst we are specialists in web development and marketing, we also have expertise in the freight
Freightwebsite.design is a website design and management service
and logistics industry. Freight is a niche industry, so it’s essential that
specifically developed and tailored to the freight sector. Built by
any web developer creating a freight-orientated site understands the
a team of industry specialists, freightwebsite.design is unique in
nuts and bolts of the sector to represent it appropriately.
the market. Its combination of sector knowledge and professional,
Darren Glasspool, COO, freightwebsite.design
experienced web developers offers customers a fully comprehensive, trusted, expert, quality service.
Benefits to customers include: •• All-inclusive packages with web-hosting, maintenance and
The service customers will receive is end to end, ranging from web
support
design and hosting, SEO support and maintenance to aftercare
•• Communication with the designers
support. The freight-tailored custom website options are offered
•• A fully researched process
in tiered packages, where clients can decide which service is most
•• Websites built around the correct Search Engine Optimisation
suitable depending on their marketing needs.
(SEO) principles •• SEO-boosting content provided by in-house copywriter
The tiered packages offer all elements of website design, management and maintenance extras, such as…
•• Advice on how to get the most from your website •• Social media brand awareness boosting
•• Web design •• Web development
Existing clients include Retail Transport Services, Eurgent Ecspress
•• Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
and KDS.
•• Hosting, maintenance & support For more information, visit freightwebsite.design
•• Social media marketing •• Logo/brand design
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FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
b e W n g i s de e h t for ht g i e fr stry u d in
+44 (0)1454 628777 hello@freightwebsite.design
m o r f es c i r P VAT
+ 9 4 9 ÂŁ
ign s e ent d tion m b a p e s i o ort l W m e p i t v p p su b de gine o & e e W en anc n h e c t r ain ting Sea e m k , r ting ma a i d Hos me l a i Soc
freightwebsite.design FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at fta.co.uk
28 MARCH 2019
LOGISTICS SCOTLAND CONFERENCE TO DEBATE
DELIVERY OF SCOTLAND’S ECONOMIC GROWTH T he latest forecasts by PricewaterhouseCoopers show that
Scotland’s logistics sector is at a crossroads, with great potential
Scotland’s economic growth is outpacing the rest of the UK
for growth, as well as numerous potential threats posed by a changing
– it is predicted to reach 1.2% in 2019, compared with the
trading environment and, of course, Brexit. Logistics Scotland
1.1% forecast for the UK as a whole. But in order for this growth to
2019 will give business leaders from across the sector a unique
be delivered, the economy needs its supply chain to remain robust
opportunity to discuss and debate the issues of the day, as well as
and resilient, despite outside factors which could curb expansion.
identifying areas for growth and development. FTA’s relationships with industry influencers are second to none, and the line-up of
To provide leaders from across the sector with the chance to examine
speakers and topics under discussion we have assembled will provide
and discuss all the issues affecting Scotland’s logistics businesses, FTA
a comprehensive overview of our ever-changing marketplace. This is
is holding a unique multimodal one-day event, Logistics Scotland
one event that logistics leaders in Scotland cannot afford to miss.
2019, on 30 May 2019 in Falkirk. FTA, which represents more than
Mags Simpson, Policy Manager for Scotland, FTA
17,000 businesses across the sector, has compiled a comprehensive programme of expert speakers for the event, who will provide
The one-day conference, which will be held at the MacDonald Inchyra
industry and government viewpoints affecting all modes of transport.
Hotel in Falkirk, is open to senior representatives from across the
There will also be plentiful opportunities for discussion and feedback,
logistics sector, with places costing £295 for FTA members and £350
as well as networking with other like-minded professionals from
for non-FTA members. Those booking before 12 April 2019 will
across the industry.
benefit from a 25% early bird discount on these prices.
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ISSUE39
The Logistics Scotland 2019 programme will cover a wide range
Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an
of topics, including the international connectivity of Scotland’s modal
impact on more than seven million people employed in the making,
hubs, the skills shortages facing the industry, how we can make
selling and moving of goods. With Brexit, new technology and
the transport weather efficient and resilient, and both urban and
other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across
environmental issues. Thanks to FTA’s knowledge across all transport
borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more
modes, this really will be a unique event, and one that should not be
important to UK plc. A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to
missed by logistics professionals, regardless of whatever sector they
Government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with
represent. It promises to be a great opportunity for discussion and
members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the
debate, and to shape the future of Scotland’s logistics industry.
buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers. For more information about Logistics Scotland 2019 and to book your place at the event, please visit https://fta.co.uk/logisticsscotland19 FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at europa-worldwide.com
7 MARCH 2019
EUROPA
DRIVING WALKERS FORWARD E uropa Road, a dedicated division of ambitious and innovative
Andrew continues:
logistics provider Europa Worldwide Group, is celebrating a
brand, service levels are also a part of it. As we expand, we need
14 year partnership with Walkers Shortbread – the ‘world’s
to have a partner who is capable of servicing the new markets we
finest shortbread brand.’
Whilst our growth has a lot to do with our
secure, whilst still continuing to deliver an excellent service for our existing markets. Europa has gone on the journey with us, making
Based in Aberlour on Spey, Walkers exports nearly half of its
them a trusted and reliable partner and an extension of our business.
business, with its products transported into parts of Europe.
The good service levels they provide, keep the business moving
Considering the location of the brand and the distance the product
forward on a positive footing.
is shipped, transportation is increasingly important to the company – hence its long-standing relationship with logistics firm Europa. Europa Road has 14 branches in the UK, including Glasgow, meaning it has essential local market knowledge. This gives Europa a competitive edge according to Walkers Shortbread, Head of International Sales, Andrew Stokes. He comments:
When looking
for a logistics company over 14 years ago, we wanted a Scottish based supplier with international capability. The challenge of being based in far North Scotland and distributing between Europe and the world is relatively unique, and we always felt needed to have a company with a Scottish base who can understand the issues we have and meet our expertise. The Walkers Shortbread business has experienced a huge amount of growth over the last 14 years, more than doubling international turnover, and increasing the number of markets it’s sold in from 50 to over 100.
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T
he British International Freight Association (BIFA),
Getting your courses CPD accredited to prove that they have
the trade association for UK freight forwarding
a structured, practical and methodical approach is essential. It
and logistics companies, has announced that both
indicates to employers and HR practitioners that the courses have
of its Customs-related training courses now have official
reached a certain standard. It gives them confidence that by sending
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) accreditation.
their staff on one of our courses those employees will be obtaining and developing the skills to maintain a sustainable and competitive
CPD accreditation is one of the highest standards for both
advantage. As you would expect, we have seen a massive surge in
academic and practical qualifications, ensuring teaching and
Customs training enquiries so to have both courses accredited is
learning remain up to date.
fantastic news. We also have our one-day Introduction to Import and Export course accredited and will also have accreditation for all apprentice activities as well, such as behind-the-scene tours and networking events. Carl Hobbis, Training Development Manager, BIFA 26 FEBRUARY 2019
Stewart Lawson, Europa Road Branch Manager for Glasgow, who
Andrew adds:
was on the initial pitch team, comments:
One thing I would note is how remarkable Europa
We’ve worked together
has acted on the issues surrounding Brexit. The contingency
for over 14 years now, so it’s a really strong relationship and most
planning and infrastructure that’s been put in place demonstrates
importantly, we understand their business and its needs. As our
the company’s forward thinking attitude. Whatever the outcome,
client, Andrew knows we will not only be competitive on price
Europa has given me the confidence to continue working with them
but also honest, reliable and responsive should any issues arise. If
through any logistical challenges that may arise.
anything, Andrew has become more of a friend than a client, and we strive to achieve this with all of our customers.
Europa Worldwide Group is a specialist road, air & sea, warehouse and showfreight operator employing more than 900 people across 16
Dionne Redpath, Director for Europa Road, comments:
This is an
example of excellent customer service from the Europa Road team,
sites in the UK, as well as Hong Kong, Czech Republic and Belgium, and with representation in 100 countries.
and I feel proud that we have been able to continue to deliver for Walkers – working with them to resolve any issues whilst continuing to beat our competitors on price, speed and efficiency. It’s also a shining example of why having a Road branch network of offices all over the UK is so important – we have the knowledge in all of these areas, which enables to advise our local clients on what they need, so they can get the best service. We hope this long standing relationship continues to grow and flourish. FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
SYDNEY FERRY FATALITY 26 FEBRUARY 2019
HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR MORE EFFECTIVE WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
T
he importance of maintaining chemical toilets on board ship
Some small passenger vessels do not have installed treatment
has been raised following an incident in February on board
systems and therefore store wastewater in holding tanks, but if
a Sydney Harbour-operating passenger ferry in which a high
these are not regularly flushed and aerated then the contents can
level of toxic gas was detected in a toilet cubicle after a passenger
become anaerobic and generate lethal H2S gas.
was fatally injured. Hydrogen sulphide is a gas produced during the decomposition of
A 39-year-old passenger was found unconscious in a toilet cubicle
waste. In modest concentrations of between 700 and 1,000ppm it
aboard the Lady Rose and could not be revived by paramedics. While
is toxic and can lead to sudden collapse and death, according to the
the reasons behind her death are unconfirmed, during the initial
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
investigation HAZMAT crews detected hazardous levels of hydrogen sulphide gas in the toilet cubicle.
Beavis believes one simple way of protecting passengers from the hazardous gases generated from untreated effluent is to ensure
A New South Wales Police report stated:
Investigators were advised
that all bathrooms and toilet cubicles are fitted with sensors.
that several gas detection tests were conducted in a bathroom area of
Sensors with integrated alarms on the bridge would allow for more
the vessel and were found to be in excess of safe operating levels.
immediate action in the event of any hazardous gas leaks and the integrity of the seal between the cabin space and the wastewater holding tank
Appreciative of the sensitivities surrounding this tragic incident,
should be checked regularly. No doubt the enquiry will throw more light
Mark Beavis, Managing Director, ACO Marine, has advised
on the cause and effect of this case and whilst a biological treatment
passenger vessel operators of the dire consequences of hydrogen
system would not be a practical solution for a day boat, better wastewater
sulphide escaping from poorly maintained onboard sewage systems.
management practices are clearly required,
he said.
This dreadful story serves to highlight the issues of poorly maintained chemical toilets and poor or obstructed ventilation in
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority and New South Wales
these small toilet cubicle spaces,
Police continue to investigate the incident.
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FORWARDER magazine
he said.
ISSUE39
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Cara Bilner, Logistics Consultant FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39
INDUSTRY NEWS 12 MARCH 2019
FINNAIR CARGO JOINS FORCES WITH
DIGITAL AIR CARGO BOOKING PLATFORM CARGO.ONE TO OFFER CUSTOMER-CENTRIC SPOT BOOKINGS
F
innair Cargo boosts its digitalization efforts, partnering with
capacities seamlessly and within seconds.
We are very pleased to
multi-airline booking platform cargo.one. In doing so, the
see Finnair Cargo joining the cargo.one platform, underscoring its
airline empowers freight forwarders to digitally book spot
image as a customer oriented and forward-thinking cargo carrier.
market capacities at live prices and with direct booking confirmation.
We compliment the decision to join the multi-carrier platform in an effort to decrease complexity for customers, rather than to focus
The new distribution channel enables Finnair Cargo to provide digital
on a proprietary channel,
booking capabilities to the ever-growing demand of their customers
Jan Kleine-Lasthues,
for easier real-time bookings, while at the same time improving its
Global Head of Airfreight, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
operational efficiency and maximizing utilization of capacity globally. While some players in the industry still lament about digitalization, Fredrik Wildtgrube, Head of Global Sales at Finnair Cargo comments:
Finnair Cargo joins leading cargo carriers in the pursuit to actively
Digital connectivity is the missing link to guarantee end-to-end
drive the industry's digital development, to the benefit of their
speed, quality and continuous improvement in the industry. We are
customers and to further strengthening their position in the market.
happy to now offer our customers a fully digital first-class booking
With the partnership, cargo.one becomes even more attractive for
experience with cargo.one. Making our offers available digitally
forwarders, adding more destinations in North America and Asia –
through cargo.one is a forward-thinking move and will benefit both
and a platform no airline should want to be missed on.
our customers and Finnair Cargo now and in the long term.
Moritz Claussen, Managing Director, cargo.one
Finnair Cargo customers, such as Hellmann Worldwide Logistics,
The Finnair Cargo offering is planned to be available on the cargo.
welcome the partnership that facilitates the booking of Finnair Cargo
one platform starting from May 2019.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at gac.com
G
AC has handled the first tanker to berth at the newly
The opening of the first LNG terminal on the east coast of India
constructed Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal inside
is likely to change trade dynamics and drive industrial growth in this
Kamarajar Port, Ennore in Chennai, India. The Marshall
area. Overall, the outlook for the Indian LNG market is promising.
Islands-flagged LNG carrier ‘LNG/C Golar Snow’ was carrying the
Today, India imports some 45% of its total natural gas consumption.
first consignment of 78,037m³ of LNG from Ras Laffan in Qatar for
The government has invested heavily in the construction of more
the commissioning of the terminal.
LNG terminals and pipelines in a bid to transform the country into a gas-based economy. This flourishing market is expected to give rise
Agency operations were overseen by Captain Srinivasan
to an increase in the number of tanker calls. With our 26 offices
Sethumadhavan, General Manager of Shipping Services at GAC’s
serving all ports in India, GAC is ready to attend to the needs of
Chennai Office, who is optimistic about the opportunities that the
LNG tankers. We congratulate all the stakeholders of the country’s
new LNG terminal will generate.
newest LNG terminal, including Kamarajar Port and the terminal owners, and are honoured to be a part of it. GAC Shipping (India) Pvt Ltd is one of the country’s leading shipping and logistics services providers. It handles all types of vessels including tanker, breakbulk, cruise and naval.
11 MARCH 2019
GAC INDIA HANDLES
FIRST TANKER AT NEW LNG TERMINAL FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 4 MARCH 2019
KERRY LOGISTICS REINFORCES ITS COMMITMENT TO TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION THROUGH
HARNESSING CREATIVITY AT ITS FIRST HACKATHON K erry Logistics Network Limited (‘Kerry Logistics’; Stock
and robotics in its operation and has recently adopted blockchain
Code 0636.HK) strives to reinforce its commitment to
technology and Internet of Things solutions to optimise supply chain
technological innovation, as demonstrated by its first
visibility. Drone Warehouse is one of the six major ingredients in
Hackathon organised in February 2019, when eight teams competed
Kerry Logistics’ Warehouse 4.0 initiative for automation, which is
at the two-day event. Combining robotics, machine learning, and
the key to improve efficiency amidst increasing labour cost, as well as
artificial intelligence, the teams devised applications for autonomous
to enhance the capability to replicate the service level in Hong Kong
drones to enhance operational efficiency and accuracy.
globally to fulfil customers’ ever-changing demands and expectations.
The winning team was commended for its outstanding ability
Innovation is crucial to the logistics industry, which is all-
to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and practical use.
encompassing and essential to a wide range of business sectors
The competitors incorporated innovative technological solutions
from e-commerce and fashion to manufacturing and high-tech. The
including autonomous drone navigating and computer vision in
utilisation of advanced technology in our operations helps to foster
their bid to realise the theme of 'Drone Warehouse Stocktaking.'
business sustainability and drive long-term growth. As we have
Proposals to adopt advanced technologies such as Radio Frequency
witnessed at the Hackathon, the contestants have demonstrated
IDentification (RFID) and Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) have
their attitude of thinking outside the box, which is what innovation is
also been presented.
all about. New perspectives and imagination will enable the existing operational model to evolve and improve, allowing us to maintain
The event was a testimony of Kerry Logistics’ dedication to motivating
our competitive edge in value creation and disrupt the market rather
innovation and harnessing creativity as it stepped up to the demands
than being disrupted.
of the digital age. Kerry Logistics has long embraced automation
Wilson Lee, Group Director of IT, Kerry Logistics
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at kerrylogistics.com
Kerry Logistics sees the Hackathon as a major platform to explore ideas, as well as a way to connect to the younger generations with limitless creativity, and will continue to maintain such a platform
ABOUT KERRY LOGISTICS NETWORK
Kerry Logistics is an Asia-based, global 3PL with the
internally and externally to push forward the innovative mindset in
strongest network in Asia. Its core competency is providing
all Kerry Logistics associates.
highly customised solutions to multinational corporations and international brands to enhance their supply chain efficiency, reduce overall costs and improve response time to market. Kerry Logistics has a network covering 53 countries and territories, and is managing 53 million sq ft of land and logistics facilities worldwide, providing customers with high reliability and flexibility to support their expansion and longterm growth. Kerry Logistics Network Limited is listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and is a selected Member of the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index Series 2017-2018.
FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 28 FEBRUARY 2019
IAG CARGO 2018
FULL-YEAR FINANCIAL RESULTS I AG Cargo has announced its 2018 full year results, reporting
Our 2018 global rebrand brought our carriers together under one
commercial revenues of â‚Ź1,173m over the period from January
brand, highlighting the strength of our network with 350+ destinations.
1 to December 31, 2018, an increase of 7.2 per cent on 2017 at
Our network grew capacity on key routings into Latin America as
constant currency.
well as adding a new destination between London and Nashville. The strong growth across our hubs was supported by additional Aer
Overall yield for the year was up 8.1 per cent at constant currency.
Lingus capacity out of Dublin, carrying pharmaceuticals, automotive
Sold tonnes were up 0.2 per cent and CTK volumes were down 0.9
and aviation parts, and a popular local beer. We continue to focus
per cent whilst capacity grew by 3.8 per cent.
on innovation to provide the best customer service and improve how air cargo works. IAG Cargo undertook the first airside trial
2018 saw our business delivering record revenues in a market
of an autonomous vehicle at a UK airport this year, and as part of
that became more challenging as the year went on. Growth in our
the Hangar 51 global innovation programme, we have been working
Constant Climate and Critical products contributed to a notable
alongside three innovative start-ups to trial new technologies to
year for the business and helped differentiate IAG Cargo’s customer
improve our operations. We have also invested heavily in IAGCargo.
offering. Revenues from our Constant Climate product have
com, with a significant increase in online bookings and the addition
increased by 9%, and we have invested in a new multi-million-euro
of a new in-house web development team that works closely with
Good Distribution Practice certified Constant Climate Centre in
customers to make monthly improvements to our website. Our
Madrid to help meet growing demand for pharmaceutical shipments,
FORWARD.REWARDS programme helped us substantially grow
in particular to the South American market. The importance of
our SME revenue, and membership continues to grow to nearly
our Constant Climate service was highlighted in August when we
1500 members worldwide. 2019 looks set to be a more challenging
transported over 5.3 tonnes of the diphtheria vaccine to Venezuela
year, with airfreight capacity growth outpacing growth in demand.
to fight an outbreak of the disease. In July we launched a new Critical
Our focus on customer service, products and technology will allow
Service Centre with a specialised customer service team dedicated
us to continue developing our business as we seek to become the
to serving customers of our highest priority, non-off-loadable
carrier of choice for customers worldwide.
product. Our Critical consignment count grew by 35%, supporting
Lynne Embleton, CEO, IAG Cargo
must-fly shipments of products including aerospace and machinery parts, in-demand retail products and technology components.
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ISSUE39
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at iagcargo.com
Kerry Logistics sees the Hackathon as a major platform to explore ideas, as well as a way to connect to the younger generations with limitless creativity, and will continue to maintain such a platform
ABOUT IAG CARGO
IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger
internally and externally to push forward the innovative mindset in
of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April
all Kerry Logistics associates.
2011. Following the integration of additional airlines into the business, including Aer Lingus, Vueling and bmi, IAG Cargo now covers a global network of over 350 destinations. In 2018 IAG Cargo had a commercial revenue of â‚Ź1,173 million. It has a combined workforce of more than 2,470 people. Its parent company, International Airlines Group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 573 aircraft. It is the third largest group in Europe and the sixth largest in the world, based on revenue.
FORWARDER magazine
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25
Sound data for smart decisions
How you benefit from supply chain visibility Do you realize what strategic and financial benefits you can gain from improved supply chain visibility? Our container visibility solutions – Container Track & Trace and Container Sailing Schedules – connect carrier information with actual vessel positions so you enjoy real-time information on the status of your container cargo. That way, you can take action before things go wrong in your logistics supply chain, as well as enjoying benefits such as: Greater customer satisfaction
Enhanced operational efficiency
Inventory optimization
Lower detention & demurrage charges
Timely crisis intervention
Profitable carrier contract negotiations
www.ocean-insights.com
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FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
Contact us for a free trial and see how you can save time, money and resources! getintouch@ocean-insights.com
Container Track & Trace Full overview of all your containers with quick access to all details Automatic event notifications and alerts so you can take action Immediate response to predicted delays to adjust supply-chain logistics and reduce D&D charges
Container Sailing Schedules Transparency in the sailing schedules of all major shipping lines and alliances World’s most accurate and comprehensive data to enable informed decisions, e.g. most suitable service from A to B or performance comparisons
Improve your visibility with our solutions FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
27
INDUSTRY NEWS 4 MARCH 2019
JONATHAN WRIGHT APPOINTED AS
C.O.O. UK LOGISTICS, XPEDIATOR PLC T he board of Xpediator, (AIM: XPD), a leading provider of
Commenting on his appointment, Jonathan Wright, said,
freight management services across the UK and Europe, is
Xpediator has doubled in size over the last two years and has
pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Wright to
clearly set out its stall to continue on a similar trajectory. I am
the Group’s operational board as Chief Operating Officer UK Logistics.
therefore looking forward to working with the teams as the Group develops into one of Europe’s leading industry players.
A recognised industry professional, Jonathan has extensive
experience of working across the transport and logistics sector. He began in the industry as a graduate management trainee for Securicor Omega Logistics and went on to join Taygroup Ltd in
ABOUT XPEDIATOR
Xpediator is a well-established international provider of
2002, where he rose to become Managing Director leading an MBO
freight management services. Established in 1988 by CEO
followed by a sale to Bibby Distribution in 2010, at which point
Stephen Blyth today the Group's International network of
Taygroup Ltd was a Top 100 UK transport company generating
offices provides road, sea and air freight services, together
annual revenues of £23 million.
with logistics and warehousing in the UK and Romania. The business offers integrated freight management within the
Subsequently, Jonathan has held a number of consultancy roles
supply chain logistics and fulfilment sector, through their
across the industry as well as investing in and driving the successful
three main areas: freight forwarding, logistics & warehousing
turnaround of CW Logistics Limited. In 2014, Jonathan invested
and transport services. With headquarters in Braintree,
in a start up business within the Xpediator group, Delamode
Essex and country offices in nine CEE countries across 38
Distribution UK Ltd, for which he has been part- time Commercial
sites, the Group currently employs 938 people and was
Director overseeing significant growth in a short period.
successfully listed on London's AIM market in August 2017.
Having worked with Jonathan for the past 5 years, I have seen firsthand the sector knowledge and business development capabilities he brings. So I am delighted he will be leading all our UK logistics activity, as I am confident Jonathan’s drive and skillset will prove highly valuable. Stephen Blyth, Chief Executive, Xpediator
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at xpediator.com
X
pediator (AIM: XPD), a leading provider of e-commerce
The new warehouse is in an excellent location for air, sea and road
and freight management services across the UK and
freight, as it is positioned less than 3 miles from the container port of
Europe, is pleased to announce that Regional Express
Southampton, with quick links to both the M3 and M27 motorways.
has signed a 10 year lease on attractive commercial terms for a new 19,289 sq. ft warehouse facility in Southampton, close to the port.
The warehouse contains an office and private yard within the self-contained 1.15 acre site and also offers...
Acquired by Xpediator in November 2017, Regional Express, is
•• Racking for pallet storage
an international B2B freight forwarding and international courier
•• A mezzanine floor for fulfilment storage
company and an Amazon Global Selling Solution Provider. Since being
•• A fully implemented Access Delta warehouse systems, resulting
acquired by the Xpediator Group, Regional Express has expanded
in an automated and integrated storage and fulfilment service
significantly using the enhanced buying power and wider services of the Group to grow revenues.
Regional Express operates across Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia and Australia and specialises in road, sea and
In particular, Regional Express is developing its specialist e-commerce
air freight management and eecommerce fulfilment services for
fulfilment services and the rationale for adding a further 19,289 sq.
Amazon sellers and other e-tailers.
ft. of warehouse is to accommodate the evolving requirements of its current clients, whilst providing a facility to support the growth and acquisition of new e-commerce related business. 4 MARCH 2019
EXPANSION FOR XPEDIATOR FREIGHT FORWARDING AS
REGIONAL EXPRESS ANNOUNCES NEW SOUTHAMPTON WAREHOUSE FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
CMA CGM WHITE SHARK SUCCESSFULLY
REFUELS WITH SUSTAINABLE MARINE BIOFUEL OIL
I
KEA Transport & Logistics Services, CMA CGM, the
cooking oil products, is expected to deliver 80-90% well-to-propeller
GoodShipping Program and the Port of Rotterdam are pleased
CO2 reduction versus fossil equivalents, and virtually eliminates
to announce the successful refuelling on Saturday March 23rd of
sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions – all without any requirement for
the CMA CGM WHITE SHARK with sustainable marine bio-fuel oil.
engine modifications.
The test, which represents a major step for the decarbonisation of
The trial was facilitated by the GoodShipping Program, a sustainable
ocean freight, saw the companies work together in a first-of-its-
initiative dedicated to decarbonising ocean freight.
kind partnership for the shipping industry. The CMA CGM WHITE SHARK, a 5,095 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) container vessel, was refuelled with the bio-fuel oil on Saturday while calling at Rotterdam.
FACTS & FIGURES
•• All GoodFuels sustainable marine biofuels are functionally equivalent to petroleum-derived marine fuels – so-called
Results from the trial will give the maritime sector a vital demonstration into the scalability, sustainability and technical
'drop-in' fuels •• All GoodFuels sustainable marine fuels meet the most
compliance of sustainable marine bio-fuel oil. This will benefit all
stringent sustainability criteria, based on the Roundtable of
industry stakeholders in their environmental strategies, in line
Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB.org) and verified by GoodFuels’
with the impending International Maritime Organisation (IMO)
independent sustainability board. This sustainability board
decarbonisation pathway.
consists of leading NGOs and academics •• GoodFuels’ sustainable marine fuels are 100% based on
The sustainable marine bio-fuel oil was developed by GoodFuels, the leading provider of sustainable marine biofuels to the global
waste and residues •• The industrial waste stream from food production is used
commercial shipping fleet, after undergoing three years of intensive
cooking oil which, after processing, is unfit to use for human
testing with marine engine manufacturers. The second-generation
or animal consumption. The only viable usage for this waste
bio-fuel oil is completely derived from forest residues and waste
product is for reprocessing into advanced bio-fuel
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F
ounded in 1996 by Chadd Blunt, a cheerful, no-nonsense
I do love to travel and see new places, but that’s not why I go to
freight expert from Birmingham, UK, Millennium Cargo
these events: I go to meet people and get to know them in person.
is a forward-thinking freight company that’s celebrated
It’s this face-to-face, personal approach to business that ensures that
much success.
Millennium’s clients’ cargo is taken care of every step of the way. Chadd Blunt, founder, Millennium Cargo
Chadd’s love of the freight industry started as a young man when he took a job Scan Dutch, CGM in Birmingham City Centre.
Millennium Cargo predominantly
He spent the following eight years learning all he could, before
provide FCL services by sea, but
deciding the time was right to open up on his own and bring another
are experienced in air and road
level of customer service to the freight and logistics world.
freight also. They have a sterling track record and are dedicated
For more than 20 years Millennium Cargo have been serving their
to finding more efficient or
customers by helping them to understand how freight works, so they
more affordable solutions for
get the best service and the best pricing.
their clients.
What makes the millennium magic happen?
Contact them today for a free freight audit, to find out how they
Chadd swears his company’s success is down to one simple thing:
can help you: chadd@millenniumcargo.com / 0121 311 0550
his commitment to excellent customer service. He literally travels to all four corners of the globe to meet his partners, build relationships and personally get to know the people handling his cargo. His most recent travels took him all the way to Doha, Qatar, where he met with freight forwarders from all around the world at the MGLN Freight Forwarders Conference.
THE SECRET TO
MILLENNIUM CARGO’S SUCCESS FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 27 FEBRUARY 2019
PELICAN BIOTHERMAL OPENS
DUBLIN NETWORK STATION & SERVICE CENTER P elican BioThermal, the global name in temperature
which highlighted how 75 pharmaceutical companies operate in the
controlled packaging, announces the opening of a new
country where the biopharmaceutical industry has made a capital
network station and service centre in Dublin, Ireland to
investment of approximately $10 billion in new facilities during
service, refurbish, repair and condition Pelican BioThermal’s reusable
recent years. IDA Ireland added this represents close to the biggest
Crēdo on Demand shippers. This new facility puts Pelican BioThermal
wave of investment in new BioTech facilities anywhere in the world
on track to realise its plan to exceed 100 network stations and drop
and how Ireland’s pharma, bio and chemistry produce amounts to
points for its rental programme in 2019.
€39BN in annual exports.
The Dublin facility is focused on Pelican BioThermal’s Crēdo on
Dublin is a key hub of manufacturing and distribution for the pharma
Demand programme, which provide a high performance, flexible
industry and Ireland is home to some of the largest pharmaceutical
rental option for temperature controlled containers such as
and healthcare companies in the world including Lilly, Pfizer, Sanofi,
Crēdo Cargo, Crēdo™ Xtreme and Crēdo™ Cube. The Crēdo on
Amgen, Allergan, Alexion, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck and Pramerica.
Demand rental program allows organizations to choose the shipper application that best fits their company’s requirements, logistics profile and budget.
Dublin is a key logistics location hub and Ireland’s life sciences sector and bio-pharmaceutical industry is increasing at a rapid rate. As we continue to expand our Crēdo on Demand rental programme,
The new Dublin network station and service centre is strategically
the Dublin network station and service centre puts customers in
located in Harristown, next to Dublin Airport and is ideally located
closer proximity to more convenient and flexible shipping options.
to serve the ever growing pharma industry in Ireland, which is home
Dominic Hyde, Vice President, Crēdo™ on Demand
to some of the world’s leading biotech and pharma companies. The Dublin network station and service centre is being staffed All of the world’s top10 BioPharmaceutical companies and 14 of the
by a team of Pelican BioThermal experts to mirror the superior
world’s top 15 medical technology companies have operations in
service levels provided at the company’s growing number of network
Ireland according to IDA Ireland (Investment Development Agency),
stations and service centres around the globe.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at jettainer.com
J
ettainer, the leading international service partner for outsourced ULD management, has taken over the container management and maintenance for WAMOS Air. The contract
ABOUT JETTAINER
Jettainer GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lufthansa
with the Spanish airline based in Madrid has a five-year term. The
Cargo AG. Jettainer is currently responsible for the complete
fleet of the former Pullmantur Air consists of seven Airbus A330-200
management of approx. 90,000 units – so-called Unit Load
and five Boeing 747-400 aircraft.
Devices – for 22 airlines. This includes managing, positioning, maintaining and servicing the items. The company operates
The WAMOS Air fleet is primarily used for leisure charter services.
at more than 450 airports around the world at the moment.
Some of these flights are operated on behalf of its sister company
Apart from its headquarters in Raunheim near Frankfurt/
Pullmantur Cruises from Madrid-Barajas Airport. In addition,
Main in Germany, Jettainer operates offices at the central
WAMOS is also taking over charter flights for LATAM, Avianca and
hubs of international airlines in Abu Dhabi, Dallas/Fort
other major carriers. In summer WAMOS Air performs charter
Worth, Düsseldorf, Philadelphia, Rome and Zurich as well
flights for the airline Condor, which has already outsourced its ULD
as an operations base in Mumbai. Since 2014 it is running its
management to Jettainer in 2006.
own company in the USA, Jettainer Americas Inc., with its headquarter in Delaware and branches in Dallas, Chicago,
WAMOS Air is specialised on charter and ad hoc-flights, which requires
Miami, New York and Los Angeles. Jettainer handles the
utmost flexibility. For this purpose we are happy starting a partnership
complete value-added chain for ULD management – ranging
with Jettainer in ULD Management. Their flexibility and airline experience
from purchasing ULDs to managing and repairing them and
gives us the utmost reliability we need in our business.
even providing customized IT solutions and financing concepts.
Salvador Martínez Prados,
Jettainer tops off its services package with JettLease, a leasing
Ground OPS & Commercial Routes Director, WAMOS Air
product for ULD emergencies. The company is certified in line with the ISO 14001 Environmental Management standard
WAMOS Air is already the second Spanish airline to choose Jettainer for ULD management.
and the ISO 9001 Quality Management standard.
As an up-and-coming airline, WAMOS
Air ideally complements our customer base. At the same time, this expansion will help to further strengthen our global network. We look forward to launching another long-term partnership, adds Carsten Hernig, Managing Director at Jettainer.
12 MARCH 2019
JETTAINER STARTS
ULD MANAGEMENT FOR WAMOS AIR FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 25 FEBRUARY 2019
VIKING JUPITER DELIVERED WITH
THORDON WATER LUBRICATED PROPULSION ARRANGEMENT V iking Jupiter, the 47,800gt cruise ship built at Fincantieri's
We congratulate Viking Cruises and Fincantieri on the successful
shipyard in Ancona, Italy for Viking Cruises, has been
and timely delivery of the sixth vessel in this class, a series of ships
delivered with a Thordon Bearings’ seawater-lubricated
that have proven immensely popular with passengers and crew. We
propeller shaft system. It is the sixth Viking cruise ship to be fitted
are delighted that both owner and builder continue to support the
out with the COMPAC bearing arrangement.
use of COMPAC water lubricated propulsion.
Terry McGowan, President and CEO, Thordon Bearings
Two 930 passenger-capacity sisterships, Viking Tellus and Viking Venus, currently undergoing construction at Fincantieri and slated
Viking’s fleet of modern passenger ships are each equipped with
for delivery in 2021, have also been specified with the pollution-free
energy-efficient hybrid engines to minimise airborne pollution, while
Thordon system. Further newbuilds of the same class have also
the COMPAC propeller shaft bearing system is lubricated by seawater
been ordered for delivery between 2022 and 2027, though supply
and does not require an aft seal, reducing in-service maintenance
contracts have yet to be finalised.
costs. The vessels’ hulls have also been optimised for fuel efficiency.
From the outset, when we first entered the cruise market four
According to Alfredo Tosato, Managing Director at Pedrotec,
years ago with Viking Star, we opted for water lubricated propulsion
Thordon Bearings authorised distributor in Italy, Fincantieri
as a cost-effective means of reducing the impact of our operations
frequently specifies COMPAC for its newbuilding projects.
on the marine environment. The COMPAC system has proven itself both commercially and operationally and we look forward to working with Thordon on future projects. Richard Goodwin, VP Engineering, Viking River Cruises
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at thordonbearings.com
When Viking started working with Fincantieri on these vessels, the shipbuilder recommended the Thordon solution at the design stage due to the excellent performance of the installations on the Disney Magic and Princess Cruise Lines’ Grand Princess. For every new project where a conventional propulsion arrangement is selected, we work with both builder and owner to design and engineer the optimum bearing solution. Pedrotec is currently negotiating the engineering and supply for the continuation of four Viking newbuilds. The first of the series, Viking Star was delivered in 2015, followed
ABOUT THORDON BEARINGS
A global leader in seawater lubricated propeller shaft
in subsequent years by Viking Sea, Viking Sky, Viking Sun, and Viking
bearing systems, with over 35 years’ experience in this
Orion.
technology, Thordon Bearings is renowned for supplying high performance, oil and grease-free bearing systems to
The delivery of Viking Jupiter places Viking in pole position as the
the global marine, clean energy, pump and offshore markets.
world’s largest small ship ocean cruise line, only four years after
Thordon Bearings is the only manufacturer of propeller shaft
launching its ocean business.
bearings to guarantee its award-winning COMPAC system for a 15-year wear-life. Thordon systems and bearings are available worldwide through over 80 agents and distributors.
FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at mdxpress.co.uk
FIRST-CLASS SERVICE 27 MARCH 2019
WITH MDXPRESS
It’s not just a shipment, it is our shipment.
I
are consistently first choice for time-critical deliveries across the European continent. For any load up to 1200kg, clients can expect
f there was ever a company philosophy which assured clients
to have it delivered to their exact specifications in those times where
of dedication and a first-class service, this one from MDXpress
every minute counts.
Limited is it. Consignment tracking and accountability are a large part of
As members of BIFA, FIATA, the Midlands Aerospace Alliance
MDXpress’ excellent track record. The team operate from three
and certified to ISO 9001, MDXpress are a logistics company with
offices throughout the UK: one in the Midlands, one in Scotland
integrity and reliability that is refreshing to see.
and in the South-East. The strategic locations mean that jobs can be handled anywhere within the UK and Europe within just a
The team have over 30 years of experience in the industry which
couple of hours.
can be seen through their level of attention and customer guidance when handling freight. From road freight, to air and ocean freight,
MDXpress Dedicated uses experienced drivers who operate a
and speciality shipments for hazardous or temperature-controlled
modern fleet of vehicles right from the loading point to the delivery
goods, the company is well-equipped and has expertise which allows
address. Not only do their drivers use the shortest possible route,
them to handle shipments to destinations across the globe.
but they will adjust and update in case of dense traffic or adverse weather conditions which could impact the delivery time, meaning
We treat every load with the same levels of attention and care –
clients can maintain their peace of mind.
whether you’re a first-time customer or a returning client. I think where this dedication to service truly shines is in our express service.
The MDXpress team also operate a control tower which tracks their
Miles Drinkwater, Managing Director, MDXpress
trucks 24/7 and offer an email update service which will keep the client informed of their load’s progress throughout its journey. Once
‘MDXpress Dedicated’ is the company’s time-sensitive freight
the load has reached its destination, photographs of the proof of
handling service, and provides the optimum transport solutions
delivery are taken and sent to the client for their records, providing
for connecting freight throughout Europe. Long-time established
that additional level of reassurance.
relationships with trusted subcontractors mean the company
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We expect to see a rise in demand for express services, and we are ready to handle these increases,
said Miles.
For a more competitively priced service for those who are under budget constraints, MDXpress are also able to offer a co-loading service. By consolidating smaller shipments on one vehicle, transportation costs drop, and savings can be passed on to clients – there’s an added benefit of lower CO2 emissions, too. Whatever the future may bring in the world of freight transport, MDXpress will strive to bring the best solutions to our customers, present and future, and guarantee to maintain and exceed our quality products at competitive prices.
JUST A FEW OF MDXPRESS' SPECIALIST SERVICES:
7.5-tonne lorries 5, 8 & 10 Euro pallet vans Tail-lift vans Trailer services Refrigerated goods Hazardous goods
There will always be freight to move, and we’ll always provide the same consistent, timely and trustworthy service. You can find out more on the website at www.mdxpress.co.uk
LCL and FCL Time-critical deliveries
or give one of the experts a call on +44 (0)1543 484346
FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 26 FEBRUARY 2019
IAG CARGO OPENS NEW MULTI-MILLION-EURO
CONSTANT CLIMATE CENTRE IN MADRID
I
AG Cargo has today announced the opening of a brand new pharmaceutical centre in Madrid dedicated to its Constant Climate product for transporting time and temperature-
sensitive pharmaceutical products. Work on the new facility began in June 2018 and is the latest addition to IAG Cargo’s Madrid hub, which handles over 250,000 tonnes of cargo per year. With two dedicated temperature-controlled chambers totalling over 900m2, the Good Distribution Practice (GDP) certified facility will allow IAG Cargo to increase the volumes of temperature sensitive pharmaceutical products passing through its Madrid hub, primarily serving the growing Latin American pharmaceuticals market, projected
The opening of this new Constant Climate centre reflects our
to increase by 9% per year until 2028. The new centre is operated by
continued investment in our infrastructure and operations. Constant
an expert team, with shipments loaded onto dedicated airside docks
Climate was the first pharma-only product to the market and last
and served by a specialist fleet of refrigerated trucks in order to protect
year we shipped over 25,000 tonnes of life-saving medicines and
the pharmaceuticals from the cargo terminal to loading onto aircraft.
vaccines. Good Distribution Practice (GDP) is a critical focus for our Constant Climate product as it ensures delivery of medicine
Constant Climate is IAG Cargo’s state-of-the-art cold chain product,
to the end-patient in a pure, potent and stable condition. All of
specially designed for precision management of time and temperature
our staff involved in the handling of Constant Climate shipments
sensitive pharmaceutical products. Trusted by the world’s largest
are GDP trained and the certification of the Madrid facility means
pharmaceutical manufacturers, the service is managed via a dedicated
that all three of our Constant Climate hubs – London, Dublin and
team who handle bookings, advise on packaging solutions and ensure
Madrid – are GDP certified, driving quality across our network.
shipments meet the strictest of regulatory standards.
Camilo Garcia, Director Sales, Marketing & Products, IAG Cargo
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at infr8.de/en
H
amburg/Singapore, 06 March 2019: DAKOSY is participating
Since July 2018, INFr8 has been in pilot operation at Frankfurt
for the first time at this year's World Cargo Symposium, which
Airport and is already being used by senders, forwarders, airlines and
is being organised for the 13th time by the International Air
handling agents. Anke Gießen, Chief Operations Officer of Fraport
Transport Association (IATA). In Singapore, the software service provider
AG, was also confident about the launch of the shipping portal:
for transport and logistics will present INFr8, the shipping portal for
The platform integrates for the first time the shipper into the
air freight developed by DAKOSY in close cooperation with FRAPORT.
digital information chain of classic air freight. We expect this to
INFr8 is a platform that is specially tailored to the air cargo supply chain
result in shorter check-in times for dangerous goods and thus
and simplifies the handling of dangerous goods through digital support.
significantly accelerated handling times.
The platform is currently in pilot operation at Frankfurt Airport. However, we are internationally oriented and not tied to specific locations. Singapore, in particular, is one of the most important logistics hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. A platform like INFr8 is of course a good support. Simon Linder, Sales Manager, DAKOSY At the World Cargo Symposium on March 13, Simon Linder will present the functions and advantages of digital processing of dangerous and regular cargo. Within the Dangerous Goods Track he will participate in the panel discussion 'eDGD–What is the Value and What’s the Way Forward?' In terms of content, it will deal with the digital approach of IATA's Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD). Philipp Billion of Lufthansa Cargo will also be speaking on the panel. The company is one of the pilot partners of INFr8. 6 MARCH 2019
DAKOSY PARTICIPATES AT THE
WORLD CARGO SYMPOSIUM IN SINGAPORE FORWARDER magazine
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Is your freight big, long or bulky? Whatever the shape or size trust Tuffnells to deliver!
0800 138 8343
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Tuffnells has been handling business parcel deliveries for well over 100 years, since 1914 when Harold Tuffnell had a horse and a cart which he purchased for just £100. Business deliveries have moved on since then and Tuffnells now delivers more parcels than the whole population of Australia every single year! As a specialist business to business parcels and freight handler, dealing with large and irregular consignments is at the core of what we do. Tuffnells provides a range of delivery services to meet any requirement for your business with guaranteed next day delivery options for parcels, long lengths, pallets, with awkward sizes and weights that others find incompatible. Tuffnells is a preferred logistics partner to over 4,000 business customers spanning a variety of different industries, from the automotive sector to construction, textiles, house & garden, manufacturing, electrical, engineering, janitorial and more. With over 3,500 daily delivery rounds we have the capability to successfully deliver millions of items every day for our valued customers, some of whom are very long-standing customers of Tuffnells. As an expanding parcels and freight business, we now go beyond the UK to over 167 countries, delivering our UK customers’ freight all over the world. Tuffnells has become a ‘one-stop-shop’ with door-to-door international
transportation for both B2B and B2C overseas shipments. Going international couldn’t be easier as we collect at the same time as customers’ regular UK parcels, using our regular collection and tracking systems. Tuffnells offers businesses a truly local service across its 37 depots. That means no call centres, no mass sorting hubs and no strangers. Speak to a real person in your local area, with a range of services that includes Next-day services, Saturday delivery, secure ‘Data Bag’ delivery as well as specific services like ‘Fastbak’ and ‘Fast4ward’. As part of Connect Group PLC, Tuffnells is investing significantly in additional vehicle safety technology for drivers, operational technologies, new fleet and health & safety schemes for the business and its colleagues. “Our investment ensures we don’t stand still. This move goes much further than an aesthetic revamp; we’ve been working on a number of changes to how we operate too - all geared towards providing our customers with an even higher level of service. We look forward to seeing the new vehicles working out of our depots nationwide over the coming months.” Peter Birks, CEO Tuffnells Find out how Tuffnells can help your business by getting in touch through the Freephone number or contact info@tuffnells.co.uk quoting FF01 for more information visit www.tuffnells.co.uk
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INDUSTRY NEWS
UCARGO WE GO WHERE YOU GO
I
n 2013 company directors Tony and Paul sat down to discuss their ideas for a forward thinking, innovative freight forwarding business, from that Ucargo was born and less than 10 years
later are proud to be an award-winning global company with office
in Kent, Manchester, Hong Kong, China and Italy.
With over 40 years’ experience our team combines fresh ideas with extensive knowledge creating a dynamic environment to succeed and grow. Specialising in project cargo Ucargo are well travelled and well connected, it is typical for a member of the Ucargo team to supervise a load, visit a site or work with multiple time zones to co-ordinate movements with our handpicked agents worldwide. Operating outside of usual business hours gives us an edge and allows us to deal with overseas operators in real-time, providing our clients peace of mind and confidence. Our aim is to provide effective and creative solutions for cargo movement, to ensure that our clients’ needs and expectations are met. Safe and timely transportation of your cargo is paramount to us and our clients know we can be contacted at any time. Paul Martin, Partner, Ucargo
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at ucargo.co.uk
UCARG WE
GO
WHERE
YOU
G
Time-sensitive and unusual cargo Transporting any equipment comes with its own challenges and given Ucargo’s experience we know that it can get complicated. Ucargo have a track record that speaks for itself when it comes to problem solving. Winning Lloyds Loading List Project Forwarder of the Year was a proud moment and reflective of the hard work Ucargo puts in with its clients. For some methods of shipping you will need hazardous certificates, for others you may require specialist packaging or specific trucks, we can advise at planning stage which methods of transit are suitable and support you throughout the project. We also provide ATA carnets and customs documentation for a smooth transition overseas Putting U and your cargo first Quality of service is our top priority. We want to inspire people to stick with us and to do that we aim to impart our values and family driven nature into every job and every client relationship. Every team member at Ucargo works collaboratively to overcome seemingly impassable obstacles to meet our client’s needs. Get in touch with them on +44 (0) 1474 352 674
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INDUSTRY NEWS 22 FEBRUARY 2019
UNIEXPRESS LTD. SEES
25% TEAM GROWTH T imes are good for Uniexpress Ltd, the Northern-England
It’s our specialisms and the expertise of our team that really make
based freight forwarding company with a global reach.
us stand out from the crowd. When it comes to providing dedicated,
The latest team to join Freightabase’s portfolio of specialist
tailored services, there’s nobody who does it better. We are proud
shipping services is currently in its 33 year of operation, and growth
to say that we have grown from a small, independent company to
has recently accelerated whilst the company moves from strength
one of the UK’s largest in our sector but have maintained trust with
to strength. With offices in Bradford and Manchester, Uniexpress
our clientele.
quotes its internal staff as being a huge part of its run of success.
Michael Fitzpatrick, Managing Director, Uniexpress
In 2018 the 40-strong team grew by 8 in their Bradford office, with
Find out more about Uniexpress Ltd’s bespoke services and how
a further 3 additional members added to the team this year, the
to get in touch with them via their website: uniexpress.co.uk
rd
Manchester office have also added new staff this year as well – no surprise when the company prides itself on treating staff and clients alike with care and respect. When dealing with Uniexpress, customers are assigned a key contact with the intention of building a long-term relationship that benefits both parties. The key contact takes complete ownership of a client’s requirements, making any job smooth and secure.
DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY?
services. The team are leaders in LCL shipping, specifically when it
SEND US YOUR NEWS
comes to deep sea markets such as the Far East, Middle East, Indian
We're always eager to hear from freight companies and
Sub. Continent and Australasia. As well as offering direct Import &
associations about interesting and useful industry events and news.
Export LCL services, the dedicated team are also able to offer very
Send us your press releases and articles and we'll see that the
competitive FCL services.
industry hears what you have to say. Email your content to...
Uniexpress’ specialisms truly shine when it comes to sea freight
team@forwardermagazine.com Break bulk is also a key specialism for the team, who have significant experience in handling specialist and out of gauge cargo. Other services the team offer include shipping recycled commodities, vehicle transportation and trade finance services.
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8 MARCH 2019
CROWN COURIERS ANNOUNCE
R
DRIVER APPLICATION APP RELAUNCH FOR ANDROID
e-release of the Crown Courier’s Driver Application
By providing a more accurate route, the communication between
app increases accuracy levels of communication for
business to customer is much more accurate. The Driver Application
customers and their deliveries.
app was initially used as a tool for GPS tracking, which enabled Crown Couriers to deliver features to its user, such as live location
Crown Couriers have announced their Driver Application
updates and route logs for each driver within its fleet.
app for Android is now available to its drivers. The latest app’s improvements includes increasing communication
Despite this small change, the benefits to the customer is significant
accuracy during delivery updates.
and will greatly improve the level of communication Crown Couriers delivers to its customers.
The Driver Application App means that drivers can log into the app which notifies the Crown Couriers team the driver’s availability to work, which makes the driver traceable.
As a business, we’re continually looking at areas where we can make relatively small changes that have a significant impact on the overall level of service we deliver to our customers. Developing
Now a streamlined version of its previous version, the app
this existing application, will see the quality of our tracking service
reduces its data usage which allows Crown Couriers to track
increase significantly for our customers.
routes even more accurately. Customers are able to track
Katie Burke, Marketing Executive, Crown Couriers
their consignments at ease.
MARCH 2019
A DROP IN
CROSS CHANNEL FREIGHT?
T
here is a possibility that cross-channel freight could reduce by 75-87%, should the UK leave with 'no deal'. Sky News has revealed that documents from Boarder
Force indicate that if we face a No-Deal Brexit, during the first six months of the exit, trade may be running as little as 13% of its usual capacity. The cross-channel this applies to is the traffic from DoverCalais and in the Channel Tunnel. The document states,
The reasonable worst case flow through
the Short Straits is reduced to between 13% and 25% of current capacity for a period of between 3-6 months. FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS 8 MARCH 2019
JOHN GOOD GROUP RECOGNISED AMONG
TOP BRITISH COMPANIES FOR INT L SALES H ull-based logistics and travel provider, John Good Group, has
Commenting on the accolade, John Good Group CEO, Alan
been recognised as one of Britain’s top 200 companies with
Platt said,
the fastest-growing international sales by The Sunday Times
British companies with the fastest-growing international sales. Our
HSBC International Track 200. Compiled by Fast Track and published
dedicated teams who operate across the UK and the Middle East
in The Sunday Times each February, the prestigious list ranks the UK’s
have worked diligently to grow our international sales over the last
highest performing private firms by international growth.
two years, so to receive this recognition is fantastic. Although we’re
We’re delighted to be ranked amongst the top 20
headquartered in the UK, we consider ourselves a global company The John Good Group’s international sales have grown by an
and look forward to further strategic growth throughout 2019 and
impressive 125% over the last two years, to £12.9m, on total sales
beyond in both international and domestic markets.
of £63.3m in 2017. Crediting its phenomenal growth to a strategic focus on exports during the last two years, John Good Group has
The league table programme is sponsored by HSBC, DHL Express
invested in both people and technology to drive sales in both the
and Oracle NetSuite, and compiled by Fast Track, the Oxford-based
UK and abroad and increase its global footprint. Its three largest
research and networking events firm.
export markets are the Middle East, the Far East and the Indian Sub Continent.
Amanda Murphy, Head of Commercial Banking, HSBC UK, commented,
We at HSBC UK are delighted to back The Sunday
Times International Track 200 again this year. All the businesses it showcases have truly inspiring stories to tell about creativity, resilience and ambition to succeed. The 16 companies in Yorkshire are putting the region firmly on the map. They are the kinds of enterprises we are thrilled to support and that provide the backbone of our economy, today and tomorrow.
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WE JUST HOSTED OUR ANNUAL WORLDWIDE
11
TH
CONFERENCE
Thank you to our 2,000+ members who joined us in Singapore for advanced networking and business expansion opportunities! www.wcaworld.com/events/recapwcaworld
11
TH
WORLDWIDE CONFERENCE FEBRUARY 18-22, 2019 SINGAPORE
I
nternational courier and delivery company, DHL, has announced
Our international hubs are the backbone of our global network which
that it will be opening a new air freight hub in Copenhagen.
connects businesses from all industries and private customers alike, and
The hub building will be located at Copenhagen Airport.
enables them to benefit from the ongoing e-commerce growth. John Pearson, Global CEO, DHL Express
DHL Express is rumoured to invest DKK1bn (ÂŁ120m) to the new building, which is set to be completed by 2023.
Due to the logistics and geographical location of the Copenhagen hub, it is believed that planes will reach their direct destinations more
The hub is estimated to be able to handle five times as many packages
efficiently without the need of stopping or changing flight routes.
as the building currently handles today, as well as including offices for administrative purposes.
AIR FREIGHT HUB IN COPENHAGEN MARCH 2019
FOR DHL
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GEODIS FREIGHT FORWARDING UK
RETAIL
• Storage • Pick & Pack • Inventory
HIGH TECH
• TAPA Certified • Secure warehouses • Secure vehicles • Implant staff • TECH
PHARMA & HEALTH CARE
• Temperature controlled warehouse facility • Cost management • G Box innovation • MHRA Certified
TEXTILE
• Hanging Garment Facility • Steaming, Labelling, Folding • Product rework
9
offices
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376 employees
4
warehouses
GLOBAL LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS MADE FOR YOU FREIGHT FORWARDING REVERSE LOGISTICS WAREHOUSING CUSTOMS BROKERAGE E-SOLUTIONS Your reputation and success depend on whether you receive or deliver your products on time and at a reasonable price from anywhere in the world. You need a reliable and dedicated partner managing the delivery of your cargo via sea, air, or ground. You also need a partner with end-to-end logistics solutions able to turn your supply chain into a competitive advantage. GEODIS Freight Forwarding can serve you with integrated supply chain solutions that combine the global reach and the personal touch you want from a logistics pertner. We also ensure our solution is tailor-made to your requirements. You can expect more because we expect more from ourselves.
Contact us: info.ff.uk@geodis.com 0208 831 4200 www.geodis.com FORWARDER magazine
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INDUSTRY NEWS SAVE MONEY &
IMPROVE CUSTOMER DELIVERY SERVICE W ith businesses reflecting upon the previous years’
With sameday delivery at the core of its business, Crown Couriers
performance, looking to identify areas for cost-saving
has developed an approach that enables it to provide an exceptional
and set in place plans for change; Crown Couriers
level of customer service and care to each of its customers,
is the same-day provider working with businesses to review their
notwithstanding the large-scale businesses and wide range of sectors
current operation, and implement a bespoke solution that will improve
that it operates within.
& increase efficiencies and help them to operate in a leaner way.
Basing its entire nationwide operation from a single control centre in the Midlands, enables Crown Couriers to concentrate its skills and expertise in one location. Out of hours Customer requests are never transferred to a call centre and dedicated teams are assigned to manage individual customer accounts. Furthermore, the same level of service is applied consistently 24/365 by a knowledgeable out of hours team, enabling the business to effectively handle timecritical consignments: day, night and during the weekend. Operating a client-focused approach to same-day delivery, Crown Established in 1990, Crown Couriers has been leading the way in
Couriers works in partnership with its customers to establish an
creating bespoke same-day delivery solutions for almost three
understanding of their unique requirements and develop a service
decades. With significant growth expected over the forthcoming
that is tailored around their individual needs. Having a combined
years, Crown’s managing director, Tim Seagers attributes its success
experience of over 90 years in the industry, Crown’s knowledgeable
and longevity within the industry to having ‘an effective business model
key account managers are committed to finding a solution that
that can be individually tailored and scaled to suit the needs of different
adds value for businesses. And with recent, significant investment
businesses’. But what makes Crown’s business model different
in innovative technologies, the business is able to apply its service
and why is it so effective in helping its customers to gain a
model to offer large scale, mass customisation.
competitive advantage?
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Dynamic route optimisation allows Crown’s operations team to
More than just a same-day courier provider, Crown Couriers’
schedule its fleet of over 500 vehicles holistically, assigning drivers
business model is focused around helping businesses to become
quickly and ensuring routes are coordinated in the most efficient
logistically more efficient by using a combination of its 24/365
way. This impressive software detects current and imminent traffic
service centre, manned by experienced and knowledgeable teams;
issues, and eliminates unnecessary mileage when calculating routes;
supported by innovative technologies that allow the business to
driving both time and cost savings for customers but also allowing
produce a bespoke and tailored service on a mass scale.
Crown’s team to assign routes on a larger scale in much less time. Additionally, real-time, proactive communications can be
Contact our dedicated team by emailing
produced and distributed to customers on a large scale, using email
info@crowncouriers.co.uk or calling 0330 3334400.
and SMS notifications, providing the most up to date information
Visit the website at www.crowncouriers.co.uk
about a live consignment. Enthusiastic about the opportunities posed by the implementation of industry-leading technologies, Tim affirmed that innovation is most effective when used as a tool to support and not replace the human element of its service. ‘Finding new ways to deliver a better service is a key priority for Crown, that’s why we put innovation right at the heart of our company values. But we’ve made the investment purely to support our teams in delivering a more efficient service and speedier communications to the customer, and not to replace the knowledge and expertise of our teams that our customers have access to 24/365’.
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INDUSTRY NEWS
IMPORTING FROM TURKEY
IN THE EVENT OF A NO-DEAL BREXIT By John Good Shipping
I
f the UK does ultimately leave the EU with no deal in April
John Good Shipping has its own offices in Istanbul & Izmir, our Less
2019, then customs formalities will be required for movements
than Container Load (LCL) services mean you don’t need to fill
between EU & UK. The Government has estimated there would
an entire container, you share a container with other customers,
be an extra 200 million customs declarations per year.
making shipping by sea a much more affordable option. We are the only Company offering this weekly container groupage service
The Road Haulage Association said that yesterday’s trial (Monday
from Turkey. Upon arrival in the UK, the LCL cargo is unloaded as a
7th January 2019) of a contingency traffic plan for Dover port was
priority at our Warehouse in Felixstowe for urgent onward delivery
'too little, too late.' It is difficult to argue with their logic as only
anywhere in the UK.
89 trucks took part in the trial – Dover port handles about 10,000 trailers per day.
We also offer weekly Full Container Load (FCL) services to and from all major Turkish ports.
Delays at Dover / Calais are anticipated to equate to between 1520 miles of queues based on an additional 2 minutes dwell time per
Here are six key advantages:
truck at the border.
•• Customs clearance at Felixstowe rather than Dover •• Cost savings
John Good Shipping has its own weekly direct Container groupage
•• Reliable & fixed transit times to UK
service from Istanbul & Izmir to Felixstowe port, thereby avoiding
•• Cargo safety
the anticipated congestion at Dover.
•• Environmentally friendly •• Deliveries / fixed schedules
Our weekly sea freight services from Istanbul and Izmir offer fast transit times of around eight days, shipping by sea from Turkey is usually suitable for most needs and offers an excellent alternative to road transport and delivers significant reductions in freight costs. Sea Freight transits are similar to current road freight transits with port to port in around 8–9 days and door to door in 14–16 days.
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Eurgent - TIME CRITICAL EXPERTS FOR EUROPEAN LOGISTICS AND EXPRESS FREIGHT FORWARDING AEROSPACE AND AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALISTS 24/7 OPERATIONAL COMMUNICATION AND SUPPORT AIR-RIDE, HAZARDOUS AND TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED EXTENSIVE COVERAGE OF ALL EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS COMPREHENSIVE NETWORK OF SECURE SUPPLIERS
Please call us for immediate quotation +44 (0)1656 656535 enq@ eurgent.co.uk www.eurgent.co.uk FORWARDER magazine
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53
eSHOTCAMPAIGNS
With organically grown data built up over the last 10 years and over 25 consultants updating records of freight forwarders, shippers, supply chain and logistics departments worldwide, our data is unrivalled. We can run campaigns by geographical region or by vertical market.
NEWSLETTERS
Internal and external communications. Newsletter production as well as content writing as required. Newsletters are an excellent way to increase client awareness of new services and keep employees fully engaged.
POSTALMAILSHOTS
Our Postal Mailshot data is the cleanest in the industry. We can produce postal mailshots in exactly the same format as our eShot campaigns. As with our digital marketing we are able to target geographical regions or verticals according to your requirements.
PAFFINDER
PAF Finder is a new section being added to FORWARDER magazine where you can talk about your Partners, Agents and Franchise (PAF) agreements. It will include promotional editorial and a section where you can advertise for a new partner, agent or franchise.
FORWARDERDIRECTORY
The FORWARDER Directory is a listing of freight forwarding companies, shipping lines, airlines, etc. The Directory has recently been redesigned to include all of the countries in each issue and to be a persistent, ever-evolving resource.
FORWARDERONLINE
FORWARDERmagazine.com is the magazine, advertising space and Directory online. We offer a daily posting service straight to the site that gets shared across the whole of the Freight Media social platform including Freightabase, LinkedIn Facebook and Twitter.
CONTACT US: DOM@FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM +44 (0)1454 628 794 FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39 54
FREIGHTMEDIA PROVIDES AN OUTSOURCED MARKETING SOLUTION FOR THE FREIGHT INDUSTRY
COVERFEATURE...
Significant front-cover exposure and 6-page feature in FORWARDER magazine about you, your company or a product. Designed for the forwarder that wants to stand out from the crowd and for use when presenting your services to clients. Includes a separate PDF booklet.
SITESTATISTICS
A two- or four-page spread in FORWARDER magazine ideal for anyone aiming to promote a new facility. As with ‘Move it Like…’ we can produce a handout that your sales team can use for client meetings and marketing campaigns.
PROMOTIONALEDITORIAL
An excellent way of promoting new services, new recruits or any exciting projects that you may have coming up. Over the next 12 months we will be covering various topics around UK regions, international trade lanes and vertical markets.
SOCIALMEDIA
Our team of social media experts will post regular articles to increase brand awareness and exposure. Most of our clients are too busy moving freight to get caught up in perfecting their social media presence. We will take it off your hands.
WEBSITEDESIGN
Your website is your shop front and you only get one chance to make a first impression. We are here to ensure it’s an excellent one. Our digital marketing and design team will work with start-ups, SMEs or top-25 forwarders to forge their online presence.
FORWARDINGJOBS.COM
Forwardingjobs.com is the leading job board for the Freight Forwarding Industry. If you are recruiting on a regular basis we can offer a range of services depending on your requirements and vacancies are included in the recruitment section of FORWARDER.
WWW.FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM 55 FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
JERSEY POST INVESTS IN PARCEL MONKEY T MARCH 2018
he Jersey Post Group has announced that it has completed
partnering with the Estonian company, Freselle Logistics, as well as an
its investment in Parcel Monkey, an experienced, holistic
investment in the Hong Kong based business, A2B Limited, a leading
parcel delivery service enabler and provider.
name in mail and fulfilment solutions in Hong Kong and China.
Based in Southampton, Parcel Monkey was founded in 2009 by current
The investment in Parcel Monkey provides Jersey Post and its
Managing Director Nav Ramiah. Today, Parcel Monkey specialises in
customers with the final piece of the parcel solution portfolio - the
four diverse, yet complementary, parcel service elements:
enabling ecommerce platform that can bring together the global network and service providers into one, easy-to-access location.
•• A parcel delivery comparison service website whereby Parcel Monkey provides parcel services at competitive pricing for consumers based on pre-approved carriers;
Our international strategy is to ensure the long-term revenue growth and stability for Jersey Post, through providing a complete global solution. It is imperative that this solution works for customers
•• A global trading platform that provides a marketplace interface through which parcel carriers can sell their services;
based overseas, but equally, if not more so, for those based locally who can expand their market reach through our extended partnership network. The investment in Parcel Monkey ensures that we are able
•• Outsourced warehousing, fulfilment and distribution services for online retailers;
to consolidate our various partner organisations via a comprehensive front-end trading platform that can host and promote the range of services offered by this global partner network.
•• An online service for retailers to create an ecommerce
Tim Brown, Chief Executive, Jersey Post
storefront including website builder, domain name and hosting. Everyone here feels very excited and invigorated to be working The investment in Parcel Monkey is the latest in Jersey Post's
with Jersey Post. I believe that the relationship will be a real boost to
international strategy to exploit opportunities outside the finite
Parcel Monkey's global ambitions and provide brand strength through
local market. In 2016 Jersey Post purchased a UK based European
Jersey Post's postal brand and in-depth postal industry knowledge. I
logistics provider and a customs clearance agent located at Heathrow.
really believe that our relationship with Jersey Post will provide the
In 2017, Jersey Post continued to implement its strategy by investing
catalyst to further innovation, especially in the tracked mail sector.
in Global eParcel Solutions (GePS), based in Miami, and more recently
Nav Ramiah, Managing Director, Parcel Monkey
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at rha.uk.net
S
ix months ago Transport Secretary Chris Grayling MP said:
In the event of a no-deal Brexit, hauliers crossing the Channel to
We will maintain a free-flowing border at Dover, we will
mainland Europe will have to use permits. Currently the UK has
not impose checks at the port, it is utterly unrealistic to
less than 1,200 of these and if no more are available then other, less
do so. We don't check lorries now, we're not going to be checking
cost-effective ways of accessing Europe will have to be found. But it’s
lorries in the future. I’m clear that it cannot happen.
not just the headlining American bands that will face this dilemma, how will our own British acts get into Europe?
But the Road Haulage Association doesn’t share Mr Grayling’s optimism.
It’s not just the day-to-day items such as fresh foods
With only eight months to go until we leave the EU, the protracted
from mainland Europe that will be affected, the high value industries
negotiations and lack of decision is putting the industries that
such as entertainment and motor sports will also take a massive
contribute billions to the economy on both sides of the Channel
financial hit and thousands of jobs will be at risk,
at severe risk.
said RHA chief
executive Richard Burnett. Currently, the big name American bands fly their equipment across the Atlantic to the many UK-based stage mover operators. They then embark upon their European (and further) tours by road. Rail is simply
ABOUT THE RHA
The Road Haulage Association is the only UK organisation
not an option. Of course, the tours are time-sensitive and if deadlines
solely dedicated to those with responsibility for the
cannot be met it can result in cancelled venues – ruining tours and
movement of goods by road. Members range from owner-
reputations. And the financial losses will be enormous.
operators to those with fleets in excess of 1,000 vehicles. The Association has over 7,200 operators in membership who between them account for 250,000 UK-registered heavy goods vehicles.
A NO-DEAL BREXIT WILL STOP ROCK FROM ROLLING AUGUST 2018
SAYS RHA
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
CRIMINALS STEALING GOODS WORTH €1.3 BILLION ANNUALLY MARCH 2018
FROM TRUCKS IN GERMANY
B
usiness associations in Germany have launched a joint
With the launch of their new ‘Theft Prevention in Freight Transport
initiative to tackle growing cargo thefts across the country
and Logistics Working Group’, the associations are calling for greater
which, according to a new report, result in product losses
support and action by law enforcement agencies in Germany.
valued at €1.3 billion a year. In a statement the Working Group said:
The size of the problem has been identified by the joint calculations of several business associations, led by the Transported Asset
The business associations supporting this initiative are doing so
Protection Association (TAPA). According to the analysis, physical
because of the scale of cargo thefts and their impact on businesses
cargo carried onboard almost 26,000 trucks is stolen in Germany
in Germany. The ‘Theft Prevention in Freight Transport and Logistics
every year, averaging a new attack on a truck every 20 minutes. In
Working Group’ aims to increase the safety of transport logistics by,
addition to the value of the goods, the group says further damages of
among other things, means of higher safety standards and investments
€900 million are caused by penalties for delivery delays, the cost of
in locating technology, anti-theft alarm systems, immobilizers and
replacing stolen products and repairing damage to vehicles targeted
secured parking spaces. We are urging the authorities to provide
by cargo thieves.
more support through increased search pressure on internationally active criminal organisations. The police authorities also need to
One of the biggest challenges identified in the report is the low level
be more present at highway service stations, and specialist police
of reporting and recording of cargo thefts in Germany, which follows
units and law enforcement agencies should help to streamline
a similar trend seen across Europe, and the fact that many of the
transnational law enforcement. In order to take targeted preventive
incidents of thefts from vehicles in Germany involve trucks which are
and repressive measures, the investigating authorities must improve
registered and insured in other European countries. Understanding
recording of ‘cargo theft’ offences and create the conditions for
the true causes and impact of cargo crime in Germany is also further
nationwide uniform reporting of cargo crime. Lack of staff, poor
complicated by the fact that German law enforcement agencies do
networking and low specialisation only serve to delay investigations.
not keep their own cargo crime statistics.
This situation has to be addressed as quickly as possible.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at euroconsol.com
E
uroconsol S.A., a leading neutral global NVOCC (non-
Our global freight forwarder customers welcome the
vessel operating common carrier) and freight consolidator,
enhancements we've made to our China - Germany Silk Road
announced strategic improvements to its Wuhan, China to
service. Their BCO shipper customers now have a faster and more
Hamburg, Germany Silk Road LCL (less than containerload) import
effective supply chain solution that quickly moves their imports to
rail service, which was bogged down by logistics delays.
market or production facilities in Germany. We're pleased to offer a better transportation solution that combines rail and trucking to
Euroconsol is now deconsolidating full containerload (FCL)
expedite China imports.
shipments at their Malaszewice, Poland hub and then trucking freight
Maciej Mazurkiewicz, Chairman & CEO, Euroconsol
to Hamburg improving the overall transit time and expediting freight release in Hamburg. The transit time is a lean 16-days. Malaszewice
The service is in collaboration with iCargo Alliance and Eurasia
to Hamburg is a two-day transit to Sea Master Shipping GmbH's
International Group. Chengdu International Railway Service Co Ltd.
warehouse, Krohn & Schroeder gmbh, Euroconsol's dedicated
manages the intercontinental rail network running between Asia and
alliance partner in Germany.
Europe. Founded in 2012, the iCargo Alliance is a global NVOCC network of top brands in their respective countries. It was founded
August 2017, Euroconsol successfully introduced a Silk Road import
by C P World Group and Fan Cheng International Transportation
LCL/FCL rail service from Chengdu, China to Pruszkow, Poland.
Services Co, Ltd.
Today, Euroconsol leads the market with 3-4 services each week. Euroconsol S.A. is a joint stock company that plans to increase its working capital in 2019 with B series financing of one million PLN, or 265,400 USD/233,100 Euro. In addition, in 2019 Euroconsol plans to open a large handling and distribution facility in Lodz, Poland, a location that is ideal for serving markets throughout Europe.
EUROCONSOL ENHANCES SILK ROAD CHINA TO GERMANY DECEMBER 2018
LCL SERVICE FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
WE’RE READY TO HELP EASE POST-BREXIT BORDER QUEUES MARCH 2018
SAY TRUCKSTOP BOSSES
A
shford International Truckstop could have a key role to play
In one of the bleakest forecasts, a study last year by Europe-wide
in helping to alleviate any M20 congestion caused by delayed
economic consultancy Oxera warned of long delays at border posts
HGVs after Britain leaves the EU, its owners have said.
leading to ÂŁ1bn a year in damage to UK economy and the need for huge lorry parks across the south-east.
Recent reports have highlighted fears the introduction of border controls at the Channel ports could lead to delays for lorries leaving
The Port of Dover has also warned of the potential of 17-mile queues
the country, resulting in long tailbacks on the M20.
to the port post-Brexit.
Managers of the 300 capacity Ashford International Truckstop close
From the discussions already held, there is a will to try and find
to Junction 10 of the M20 have been involved in group discussions
ways of lessening the impact of any delays and we believe we are
with local authorities and operators over the threat posed by
in a good position to help with that. For example, we have said
changes in customs clearance procedures and say they can help
we would be happy to have a customs check point built on our
alleviate potential problems.
land here, meaning lorries could be brought off the M20 before they reach the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel, go through all the
There are very real concerns over the impact border checks are going to have on freight flows on both sides of the channel, and we
necessary checks and carry on to their exit port where they could board without any further delay.
all know the affect queues of lorries on the M20 have on Kent as a whole through our experiences with Operation Stack.
Overnight the truckstop is operating at close to full capacity, but
Darren Smith, Ashford International Truckstop
during the day there are spaces available that could be used to get HGVs off the motorway.
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We have submitted a planning application to double our
Darren added that while there was a will to find
capacity to 600 vehicles and if that is granted work would start
possible solutions to the issue within Kent, direction
very soon, giving us even more space to accommodate trucks
and leadership was needed from the Government well
during the day if needed.
ahead of the UK leaving the EU in March of next year.
However, he warned there are procedures that the Government
If border control checks are to take place at the
would need to review and change to make that a realistic option
Channel ports, there is no doubt there will be knock-
for lorry drivers.
on effects on the routes to those ports. We are ready and willing to help to try and alleviate those delays,
It’s ironic that when Operation Stack is in place we are very quiet.
but there has to be a workable strategy in place, and
Part of the reason for that is that HGV drivers who pull off the M20
soon, so we can make plans for our contribution to
here in Ashford for any reason are directed back up the motorway
whatever those solutions are.
to the rear of the queue at Maidstone when they come to rejoin. If a system could be introduced where drivers could leave the motorway, rest here, and then be directed to rejoin at junction 10 or the new 10a when it is complete, the truckstop could make a contribution to getting HGVs off the M20, easing the freight flow to the ports. FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
LIGHT WEIGHTING OCTOBER 2018
HOW MUCH CAN IT ACTUALLY SAVE ON FUEL COSTS?
I
n light of the recent EU proposals to cut CO2 emissions by
We are moving from an age where a lot of vehicle bodies would be
15%, increasing numbers of small and medium-sized haulage
made from a variety of extremely heavy materials. Now Thermhex
companies are looking at ways to reduce weight and save on fuel.
and Styrofoam are being used more regularly to manufacture vehicles instead. When you are talking about the big areas of a truck side
The targets, ordered by the European Commission on 17 May 2018,
and roof, this would be extremely advantageous for saving weight.
include a mandatory 15% reduction in CO2 emission from trucks by
It goes without saying that there would be significant fuel savings.
2025, and at least a 30% decrease by 2030.
Danny Phelan, National Sales Manager, Panel Systems
Research shows that reducing the weight of heavy-duty vehicles by
Refrigerated transport, which are used to deliver chilled items, tend
10% can lead to a 5.5% improvement in fuel economy and vastly
to be built with extruded polystyrene in the middle to keep it cool
lower carbon-dioxide emissions.
and with aluminium and GRP for the faces of the truck.
Weight reduction methods include substituting standard trailers
They’re already light weight panels but there may be components
with aluminium-based alternatives and replacing sides and floors
within the vehicle body construction that is made of plywood that
with lightweight composite Styrofoam panels. Styrofoam, which
could be replaced with Thermhex.
is known for its high compressive strength, has been used to great effect over the years for improving insulation in new build
The caravan industry is also seeing a move to Thermhex, replacing
construction and is now utilised as a core in lightweight structural
plywood wall linings in several leisure vehicles.
panels for caravans and trucks. Most of the caravan manufacturers use extruded polystyrene in Data shows that a typical 100-truck fleet would save around £76,000
floors because of its high compressive strength. But within the walls
a year in diesel costs by reducing 2,500 lbs of weight per truck.
they tend to use the main polystyrene because it doesn’t require to be as structural as the floors do. Vinyl wallpaper within caravans
Heavy plywood core panels are used as the sides and floors of many
would normally be laminated on to plywood, but to reduce weight it
dry freight vehicles —used to deliver solid dry goods such as grains,
can be laminated on to Thermhex. You can only imagine how much
steel products and other raw materials. However, firms are now
weight that saves with the number of walls in caravans.
looking to lightweight alternatives such as Thermhex, which features a polypropylene honeycomb core.
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M
ore than 500 freight forwarders, shippers and
to bring home the accolade in the end. This comes just months after
industry experts gathered at the Royal Lancaster
Maritime was named Road Freight Operator of the Year for the third
London Hotel to attend the prestigious annual
consecutive time at the FTA Multimodal Awards in May.
ceremony, which recognises achievements in a variety of transport sectors. Each year, as part of its Readers’ Vote Award,
We are extremely proud and honoured to have received this award
Lloyd’s Loading List asks its readers to nominate operators that
voted for by readers and our own customers, and are grateful for their
provide innovative, industry-leading solutions to customers.
kind acknowledgement. We see this as a recognition of the hard work that our drivers and staff have put in, particularly in recent months
Following months of voting, Maritime made their debut
whilst the industry is facing unprecedented challenges.
appearance at the event as a finalist alongside the five other
Simon Smart, Chief Executive Officer, Maritime
major UK hauliers in their category, but was fortunate enough NOVEMBER 2018
MARITIME NAMED
ROAD HAULIER OF THE YEAR
AT GLOBAL FREIGHT AWARDS The growth of CO2 levels in the atmosphere has spurred the recent
However, this policy has been deemed unrealistic by truck
proposal, which will add to other EU climate goals including The
manufacturers, who say a 7% CO2 reduction target by 2025 would
Paris Climate Agreement of 2015 and the Energy Union strategy.
be more achievable, expressing concerns that heavy fines may be placed if goals are not met.
The CO2 emissions and fuel consumption performance of heavy-duty vehicles registered in the EU will, for the first time, be monitored and measured by data provided by authorities and manufacturers. Transport companies will be able to gain access to the standardised information in order to compare different models of high-duty vehicles and lower fuel costs, which reportedly takes up around 30% of a hauler’s costs.
ABOUT PANEL SYSTEMS
Panel Systems is a global supplier of insulated building products, CNC machined panels, Styrofoam, architectural panels and external cladding.
This information will also be available for public access, excluding cases that must protect private data and where fair competition
The Sheffield-based company been bringing its customers a
must be guaranteed.
unique manufacturing capability and an unrivalled range of fabricated products since 1974. Construction, automotive,
The rise in transparency is aimed at encouraging manufacturers to
packaging, lightweight staging, caravans and marine are just
develop more economical vehicles, as well as helping the environment
some of the markets in which it operates.
by decreasing CO2 emissions. FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
THE AMERICAS
JULY 2018
DELTA & WESTJET TO CREATE
NEW TRANSBORDER JOINT VENTURE D elta’s future is global and together with WestJet, we can
Upon receipt of regulatory approvals in Canada and the US, Delta
augment the two airlines’ capabilities and bring together
and WestJet will work together to implement all aspects of the
our strengths in this important trans-border market.
enhanced cooperation including expanded codesharing, more closely
Combined, we will be able to offer more destinations to customers
aligned frequent flyer program and reciprocal elite benefits, joint
with an integrated network, superior airline products, improved
growth across their US/Canada transborder network, and co-
airport connections and significantly enhanced frequent flyer
location at key hubs with more seamless passenger and baggage
benefits. The JV will provide an unmatched passenger experience
transit. The agreement will also include the ability to cooperate on
for customers travelling between the US and Canada.
cargo accompanying passenger flights as well as corporate contracts.
Ed Bastian, CEO, Delta Delta has a strong track record of partnering with airlines around WestJet continues its drive toward becoming a global airline,
the globe, in Europe, Latin America, Asia, Australia and now Canada.
and the signing of this agreement marks a major milestone in that
These joint ventures connect complementary networks, allowing
journey. Working together with Delta, the premier US carrier,
the carriers to expand service options, add more convenient
we are looking forward to providing enhanced offerings and more
connections, and provide a more seamless customer experience
choice for guests. The joint venture will allow us to maximize our
than would otherwise have been possible.
existing partnership with Delta to benefit customers by bringing greater competition to the trans-border market.
As WestJet continues its global transformation, its airline partners
Ed Sims, President & CEO, WestJet
connect the growing WestJet network to an extensive list of international destinations. WestJet has one of the youngest fleets in
The agreement deepens the existing codeshare partnership between
the airline industry and continues to provide award-winning guest
the carriers and follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding
experience, recently being named Canada’s Best Airline by TripAdvisor
in December 2017 announcing the intention to form a joint venture.
and North America’s Best Low-Cost Airline 2018 by Skytrax.
The joint venture will provide substantial reach into Canada and the US with transborder service to more than 30 cities covering over 95 per cent of US–Canada demand, providing customers of both airlines with more travel choices than ever before. The new JV will also enable Delta and WestJet to compete more effectively against other carriers.
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ABOUT DELTA CARGO
Delta Cargo offers access to an industry-leading global network, reaching more than 310 destinations in 54 countries on six continents and carrying more than 2.2 billion cargo ton-miles each year. Whether it’s life-saving pharmaceuticals,
D
organs for transplant, fresh flowers, asparagus, luxury cars
elta Cargo and the cargo division of its joint venture
or bulk shipments, Delta Cargo offers reliable shipping
partner, Air France/KLM, have co-located cargo warehouse
services with GPS and real-time tracking options. With an
facilities in Seattle, a move that will allow more space for
industry-leading Cargo Control Center for 24/7 proactive
cargo capacity and make shipping easier and more convenient for
shipment monitoring and IATA’s CEIV Pharma certification,
the airlines’ shared customers.
Delta has the best on-time performance of any U.S. airline. In 2018, Delta was named to Fortune’s top 50 Most Admired
Delta Cargo’s Seattle warehouse has hosted Virgin Atlantic since
Companies in addition to being named the most admired
March 26, 2017. In the last year, this ‘One-Roof’ partnership
airline for the seventh time in eight years. Additionally,
has handled over 1.2 million pounds of cargo with a daily 787
Delta has ranked No.1 in the Business Travel News Annual
flight. This initiative is beneficial not only for the increased
Airline survey for an unprecedented seven consecutive years.
cargo tonnage capacity, but also to help deliver a coordinated
Headquartered in Atlanta, Delta employs more than 80,000
cargo operation among Delta’s partners and to add employment
employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of more
opportunities at the station.
than 800 aircraft. The airline is a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance and participates in the industry’s
Other stations to which Delta has expanded this 'One-Roof'
leading transatlantic joint venture with Air France-KLM and
warehousing initiative include: Atlanta (with Air France/KLM and
Alitalia as well as a joint venture with Virgin Atlantic and
Virgin Atlantic); Boston (with Air France, Virgin Atlantic and Alitalia);
Aeromexico. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta
Salt Lake City, Minneapolis and Detroit (seasonally with KLM); and
offers customers more than 15,000 daily flights, with key hubs
New York’s John F. Kennedy International, Washington-Dulles,
and markets including Amsterdam, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit,
Miami and Orlando (with Virgin Atlantic).
Los Angeles, Mexico City, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York-JFK and LaGuardia, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle,
The airline expects monthly volumes of more than 400,000 pounds
Salt Lake City, São Paulo, Seattle, Seoul, and Tokyo-Narita.
of highly-valuable cargo to be flown on Delta and newly launched
Delta has invested billions of dollars in airport facilities,
Air France flights between Seattle and Paris.
global products and services, and technology to enhance the customer experience. Discover more at DeltaCargo.com
MARCH 2018
DELTA, AIR FRANCE/KLM
CO-LOCATE CARGO IN SEATTLE FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
THE AMERICAS
E2OPEN TO ACQUIRE INTTRA JULY 2018
E
transport companies, terminals, depots, and others. Today, one out of every four ocean containers shipped globally is booked through the INTTRA platform. E2open and INTTRA have a similar consortium heritage and culture – both were born to solve similar problems for their respective ecosystems, to improve efficiencies, overcome data exchange constraints, and reduce the friction associated with doing business. In joining forces with E2open, a company that shares our values and
2open, the one place in the cloud to run your supply chain,
understands the benefits of global business networks, we envision a
today announced the acquisition of INTTRA, the leading
single platform with accelerated innovation to connect, streamline, and
ocean shipping network, software and information provider.
operate all aspects of global manufacturing, logistics, and distribution,
The combination of INTTRA’s ocean carrier and shipper network
resulting in immediate benefits for all stakeholders.
with E2open’s industry leading business network will create a unified
John Fay, Chief Executive Officer, INTTRA
global logistics and supply chain network. E2open and INTTRA will join efforts to strengthen the connections and streamline the
The acquisition of INTTRA will extend E2open’s current logistics
information flow between manufacturers, suppliers, shipping service
capabilities, consisting of transportation management, logistics visibility,
providers, ocean carriers and all the participants in global trade.
and transportation forecasting, and a network of more than 3,500 large carriers across more than 40 countries to book, tender, track, and
E2open is the largest cloud-based provider of networked supply
invoice shipments. E2open with INTTRA and Avantida, will offer deep
chain solutions, featuring a complete portfolio of applications that
integrations with logistics service providers, from third-party, fourth-
enable the world’s most complex supply chains to better plan,
party, freight forwarders and NVOCCs, and carriers servicing all modes
collaborate, and execute their end-to-end operations. More than
of transportation – air, road, rail and ocean. The combination brings
70,000 partner companies and 200,000 users, many of the biggest
together advanced planning, visibility, collaboration, and execution for
brands and manufacturers across a range of industries, use the
an extensive network of regional and global logistics providers.
E2open network and platform to orchestrate their supply chains, creating efficiencies measured in the billions.
The carrier community benefits from a stable, unified operating platform with direct access to large global shippers for fully unified and digitized
Founded in 2001 by the leading ocean carriers, INTTRA has created
supply chain and logistics operations. The shipper, beneficial cargo
the world’s foremost and largest neutral multi-carrier network
owner, freight forwarder and logistics service provider communities
across 177 countries with more than 35,000 active shippers, 60
derive value from a larger combined network and new end-to-end
carriers and 150 integrations with transportation management and
solutions that improve operational efficiency, reduce inventories and
port system software partners. In March 2017, INTTRA acquired
deliver efficient logistics operations. The synergistic combination will
Avantida to extend ocean movements into land-based activities
further accelerate new product introductions by leveraging combined
and address container reuse and repositioning for ocean carriers,
technology and research and development capabilities.
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The combination provides value to all stakeholders: manufacturers, logistics service providers, freight forwarders and ocean carriers. We aim to bridge the gap between
ABOUT AVANTIDA
Avantida is a European technology provider that assists in
manufacturing and logistics with execution capabilities on a
optimizing the handling of empty containers. The company’s
unified platform with real-time end-to-end visibility. Shippers
reuse and repositioning applications provide actionable
will be able to better leverage ocean shipping efficiency, ocean
information that can minimize miles driven, increase
carriers will be able to improve customer experience, and
container velocity, lower costs for carriers and transport
freight-forwarders will be more effective in multi-modal and
companies, enable exporters to ship more efficiently, and
integrated logistics operations to help grow their respective
reduce CO2 emissions as well as congestion at depots, ports
businesses. We will continue to strive to deliver on our vision
and surrounding communities. Avantida’s platform currently
of a networked platform on which our customers can operate
serves Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy,
their end-to-end operations in real time.
Portugal, Poland and Spain. www.avantida.com
Michael Farlekas, Chief Executive Officer, E2open
ABOUT E2OPEN
ABOUT INTTRA
supply chain. One that starts with the ability to sense
information provider at the center of the ocean shipping
and respond to real-time demand and supply constraints.
industry. INTTRA’s innovative products, combined with the
One that brings together data from customers, channels,
scale of our network, empower our customers to trade with
suppliers, contract manufacturers and partners. One that
multiple parties and leverage ocean industry information to
enables companies to use data in real time, with cognitive
improve their business. Connecting over 35,000 shippers
artificial intelligence and machine learning to drive smarter
across 177 countries with more than 60 leading carriers and
decisions. One that delivers all this complex information
over 150 software alliance partners, INTTRA streamlines the
through a single pane of glass that provides a clear view
ocean trade process. More than 850,000 container orders
across the supply and demand ecosystem. E2open is changing
per week are initiated on the INTTRA platform, representing
everything. Demand. Supply. Delivered. www.e2open.com
over one quarter of global ocean container trade.
At E2open, we are creating a more connected, intelligent
INTTRA is the largest neutral network, software and
FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
THE AMERICAS
SEPTEMBER 2018
GLOBE TRACKER & TAYLOR POWER SYSTEMS
INTEGRATE IoT GENSET SOLUTION FOR MARITIME COLD CHAIN
G
lobe Tracker, a leader in IoT tracking and monitoring solutions for logistics assets, and Taylor Power Systems, a premier, made-in-USA generator manufacturer, have come
together to deliver a fully connected genset solution for the cold chain.
ABOUT TAYLOR POWER SYSTEMS
Taylor Power Systems is a name synonymous with dependability. We are a premier, made in USA generator manufacturer. We design, engineer, manufacture, and service
The fully integrated solution will provide customers with full visibility
generators for the oil and gas, industrial, commercial,
of Taylor genset operating parameters including fuel level, geo-fences
business, health care, telecommunications, municipalities,
and remote shut off capability. The solution will assist customers
agricultural and any standby or prime power needs.
with fuel management, asset utilization and notification of fuel theft and improper use. We are proud of the genset solution that we developed with Taylor Power Systems. The solution is very clean and delivers on the data
ABOUT GLOBE TRACKER ApS
With a US Headquarters located in Sarasota, FL, Globe
required to improve operations, increase efficiency and utilization
Tracker is a privately held Danish company revolutionising
while addressing maintenance and fuel theft issues in near real time.
global supply chain visibility and profitability. Globe Tracker
Don Miller, VP of Sales and Marketing, Globe Tracker
specialises in cutting-edge, future-proof sensor technology providing true end-to-end supply chain visibility, temperature
We found it very easy to work with Globe Tracker. The pedigree
and GPS monitoring, and more. Globe Tracker also has
of their technology along with their service levels is what made it
offices in Denmark, Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Canada.
easy for us to select them as our preferred telematics vendor.
For more information: Globetracker.com or Don Miller:
John Scarborough, National Accounts Mgr, Taylor Power Systems
don.miller@globetracker.com 1-800-506-4030 ext. 5 or +1-647-984-4693
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at cargo.virgin-atlantic.com
C
argo customers moving goods to and from Orlando,
Giving customers more choice to the U.S. helped Virgin Atlantic Cargo
Florida, can now connect with Virgin Atlantic services at
report an overall 9% growth in revenues in 2017 and a 6% increase in
four gateways across the UK.
volumes. The airline offers customers services to 11 destinations in the U.S; Atlanta, Boston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York
Virgin Atlantic Cargo has launched a new weekly service from Belfast
JFK, Newark, Orlando, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington.
to Orlando, which departs from Northern Ireland every Monday throughout the summer. From June, a weekly Friday service will also be added. This new direct Orlando offering is in addition to 17 flights a week ex Gatwick, 12x from Manchester, and Virgin’s twice weekly Orlando operation from Glasgow. As well as general cargo, exports from Belfast to Orlando include regular shipments of spare parts and machinery. We enjoy great support from customers in Ireland, particularly for our transatlantic routes from London and Manchester. The start of our new Belfast–Orlando service is a great opportunity for Virgin Atlantic to offer a consistent flying schedule from the city to the USA and beyond. We are delighted to be introducing an online operation for our valued customers in Belfast and look forward to gaining their support throughout the summer. Lisa Forshaw, Account Manager – North of England, Midlands, Scotland & Northern Ireland, Virgin Atlantic Cargo
MARCH 2018
M-ORLANDO! VIRGIN OFFERS CARGO CUSTOMERS
MORE CHOICE TO & FROM ORLANDO FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
THE AMERICAS
JANUARY 2019
MAERSK IS THE FIRST OCEAN CARRIER TO OFFER
STREET TURN (CONTAINER TRIANGULATION) SERVICES
IN THE UNITED STATES & CANADA
A
vantida, an E2Open company, today announced that
Both shipping lines and transporters continue to look for agile,
Maersk, one of the world’s largest shipping lines, has
cost-saving tools that can optimise their planning, and our platform
started to offer street turn services on their platform in
has a proven track record of improving efficiency. The platform has
the United States and Canada. This represents Avantida’s first step
changed the way shipping lines in Europe are doing business, and
into the US and Canadian markets.
after our launch in Mexico, it was a natural next step to introduce Avantida to the United States and Canada.
Empty container triangulation, or the interchange of an intermodal
Luc De Clerck, CEO, Avantida
container outside of a marine terminal or yard (street turns), is a well-known activity in the US. By offering this on Avantida’s
Today, the Avantida platform is active in Belgium, The Netherlands,
online platform, transporter and logistics companies are freed from
Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Lithuania,
the administrative hassle of having to request and process street
Scandinavia, Switzerland, the UK, Mexico and now the United States
turns manually. Through the automated request process offered
and Canada. Overall, the platform counts on over 4,000 registered
by Maersk, dispatchers and planners requesting street turns will
companies and facilitates an average of 2,000 transactions a day.
get an accurate, reliable response in a matter of minutes. So not only will they enjoy the time and cost savings of carrying out street turns, they will also benefit from a fully digital process and, undoubtedly, aid in reducing CO2 emissions as these efficiencies help cut unnecessary truck miles.
ABOUT MAERSK
A.P. Moller - Maersk is an integrated container logistics company working to connect and simplify its customers’ supply chains. Our mission is to enable and facilitate global supply chains and provide opportunities for our customers to trade globally.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at softboxsystems.com
S
oftbox, a leading global innovator and provider of
Softbox is highly committed to supporting its customers and
temperature control packaging for the life science and
providing cold chain packaging solutions that reduce waste and
logistics industries, has launched a new Green Recycling
their impact on the environment. Our new Green Recycling Service
Service across the USA and Canada to provide its customers with
allows us to go even further – by ensuring a sustainable alternative
a hassle-free way to dispose of their temperature control packaging
for ‘end of life’ temperature control packaging waste. Our US and
waste and improve their eco-sustainability performance.
Canadian customers can now significantly reduce their landfill impact and potentially reduce the cost they are paying today for
The new Green Recycling Service for BioPharma, provided by
non-sustainable waste. This program will not only benefit Softbox’s
Softbox, is an eco-friendly way of dealing with packaging waste,
green priorities, it will also help our BioPharma customers achieve
such as used pallets, EPS foam and corrugated components. Instead
their own sustainability objectives, reporting, and scores. With our
of disposing of these pharmaceutical packaging components along
exciting partnership now in place and serving several of our clients,
with the rest of their scrap destined for landfill, companies can now
our customers just need to make one phone call to Softbox, and
have these components recycled into materials that will be used to
we will arrange the collection and recycling of all their temperature
manufacture new products for other industries.
control packaging waste – taking the time and effort out of their green initiative for just one cost-effective all-inclusive fee.
The collection of the packaging waste and delivery to the recycling
John Hammes, General Manager US and Canada, Softbox
center is a one-phone-call, one-fee service that is fully-managed by Softbox and delivered in partnership with a national partner which is a specialist in the manufacturing and recycling of packaging materials.
SOFTBOX LAUNCHES NEW GREEN RECYCLING SERVICE SEPTEMBER 2018
FOR ITS BIOPHARMA CUSTOMERS ACROSS US & CANADA FORWARDER magazine
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FOCUS ROUNDUP
THE AMERICAS
SEKO LOGISTICS ACQUIRES GOODSHIP INTERNATIONAL JANUARY 2019
S
EKO Logistics is starting a ‘transformative year’ for its
Founded 24 years ago, GoodShip International provides customs
global supply chain solutions business in 2019 by making
brokerage, compliance, air and ocean freight solutions to a broad
the first full acquisition of another independent freight
diversity of clients with emphasis on the Trans-Pacific Eastbound
forwarding specialist in its 42-year history with the purchase of
cargo movements – from some of the world’s most recognizable
GoodShip International Inc., the Chicago-headquartered customs
brands to technologically-savvy start-ups spanning industries
brokerage and compliance consultancy.
including Aerospace, Automotive, Electronics, FMCG, Healthcare Products, Pharma and Retail.
The investment represents the latest phase of SEKO’s program to accelerate its strategic vision by expanding its global footprint,
GoodShip is a perfect example of the type of company we had in
establishing more strategic partnerships, and making strategic
mind when we announced our expansion strategy earlier this year. 2018
acquisitions in the forwarding and technology sectors.
has been another strong year for SEKO but after 42 years of organic growth, it is time to enhance our strategy to step up to the next level
In less than 12 months, this drive has already seen SEKO’s watershed
by working with the right types of strategic partners and undertaking
expansion into Mexico and the initial opening of locations in Laredo/
acquisitions to enhance our technology, network and capabilities.
Nuevo Laredo, McAllen/Reynosa, Mexico City, Monterrey, Toluca
GoodShip’s customs brokerage and compliance expertise has earned
and Queretaro. Last August, SEKO also announced a new strategic
the respect and trust of the company’s customers in Chicago and the
partnership with Hermes Germany, one of the largest players
Midwest and this will add more depth to what we offer today.
on the European parcel and 2-man-handling market and a highly
James T. Gagne, President & CEO, SEKO
efficient provider of supply chain solutions. This was followed in September by the acquisition of a majority shareholding in SEKO’s
The addition of GoodShip International will also build the capabilities
longstanding strategic partner Omni-Channel Logistics to grow
of SEKO’s Chicago Gateway, which offers support to international
its eCommerce and technology solutions for retailers, pure-play
shippers, by adding a new level of customs brokerage and compliance
etailers, marketplaces and platforms.
services. Further expansion of SEKO’s Midwest operations will be announced in Q2 2019.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at sekologistics.com
We are genuinely excited by SEKO’s ambition and the pace with which it intends to grow. We can clearly see how we fit into SEKO’s business to support its growing portfolio of value-added forwarding solutions. Most significantly, GoodShip’s clients will now have access to the resources and expertise of a single logistics company that possesses a worldwide footprint, key technology differentiators, and award-winning forwarding, omni-channel, cross-border eCommerce, and White Glove services. This is a great move for our company, our employees and customers. Ryan Villiard, President, GoodShip
ABOUT SEKO LOGISTICS
We provide a suite of logistics services which enable you to use your supply chain as a competitive differentiator. As
In 2018, independent polls of 17,500 international logistics and supply
a customer centric organization, we are powered by the
chain decision-makers reinforced SEKO’s value-added forwarding
expertise of our people and our in-house-developed, best
credentials with awards for its technology, omni-channel logistics,
in class, customizable technology.
White Glove, 3PL and value-added warehousing solutions. James T. Gagne believes SEKO’s software and services are a compelling
It is this combination which gives SEKO its strength. With
combination that will attract more new partners.
over 120 offices in 40 countries worldwide worldwide, SEKO’s unique shareholder management model enables you to benefit
The best ways we can add value for our customers will be
from our specific industry sector expertise, coupled with vital
through service, technology and compliance. We are confident in
in-country knowledge and unparalleled service at the local
our business model and know we offer demand chain solutions that
level. This unique model provides you with:
give our customers international growth opportunities and managed business efficiencies. That’s why we’re ready to talk to potential
•• Hands-on service and support
strategic partners or companies seeking investment or acquisition
•• Personal relationships
who believe they can accelerate our growth trajectory.
•• Creative, customized solutions •• Responsiveness and reliability
The transaction was initiated by Republic Partners, who also served
•• Flexibility and consistence
as advisor to SEKO on the transaction. We have a flat management structure, with just three layers between you and the CEO, making us ‘fast on our feet’ in delivering solutions that can meet your exact requirements. This lean and nimble structure increases our decision-making speed and gives us an ability to implement customized solutions which far exceed those of our competitors. For more information visit our website www.sekologistics.com
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FORWARDER Directory POWERED BY
The FORWARDER Directory is a catalogue of freight forwarding companies, shipping lines, airlines, etc. that specialise in shipping to or from major countries throughout the world. You can place any size advert from a free single-line entry to a double-page spread to promote your strongest services. Our team can advise you on how best to use the space. If you wish to advertise, please contact Dom...
dom@freight-media.com or +44 (0)1454 628 794
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NEW... UK DIRECTORY NEW
DIREUK CTOR UK li Y stings
b then by sp y region, eciali sm
INTRODUCING OUR NEW SECTION... UK specialisms, divided into the 12 UK regions we judge to be most familiar to the freight industry professional at work. From 'abnormal loads' to 'warehousing & storage', if you need it done, it's in here.
www. FORWARDER Directory .com FORWARDER magazine
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MOVE IT LIKE...YOU
I was delighted to appear in the FORWARDER magazine ‘Move it Like’ showcase earlier this
year. The opportunity to speak candidly about the success of our company, my influence on that, and
the ingredients that contribute to our continued success was appreciated. NNR is a global ‘premium brand’ that, although established for over a 100 years in Asia, is not particularly well known in the UK. The feature in Forwarder Magazine offered the stage for us to future promote our business. The moniker ‘secret assassin’ and ‘largest company you’ve never heard of’ no longer suits the brand and size of our global group, therefore features like ‘Move it Like’ in a classy glossy such as FORWARDER are the perfect vehicle to help change that perception. Now I’ve recovered from the marginal discomfort
of a little more attention than normal (!), I can reflect that it provided a strong and personal message that many of our key partners and customers read and responded favourably too. Lee Griffiths, NNR
FEATURE ON THE COVER OF FORWARDER
WHETHER IT'S A 'MOVE IT LIKE', A NEW SERVICE, A FEATURED ROUTE, A TECH PRODUCT...
FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39 78 LEVEL THE PLAYING
FIELD. CALL US ON +44(0)1454 275 952
DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT... In 2017 I was proud to be included in the popular FORWARDER feature 'Move It Like'. As a leading publication within the logistics
industry, FORWARDER's unique feature presented an ideal opportunity to discuss my journey as a global air freight expert and
highlight how Ligentia continues to meet our customers' requirements through customised solutions. I found the process rewarding and my relationship with FORWARDER has continued to develop as my career has progressed to a global role. I would highly recommend
being part of a future 'Move it Like' feature to anyone seeking successful exposure within the logistics industry. Lee Alderman-Davis, Ligentia
FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39 79 ...OR EMAIL RICHARD@FREIGHT-MEDIA.COM
COVER FEATURE
FOUNDED
1999 (RTS Manchester in 2014) EMPLOYEES
14
SPECIALISMS
European road freight MODES
Express vans, groupage, part and full loads, Frigo vans & trailers MILESTONES & AWARDS
GDP compliance in 2016
ISO9001:2015 in 2018 Year-on-year growth for 20 years SALES INCREASE
17%
MAIN TRADE ROUTES
Export/ import- every country in Europe EXPANSION
Definitely. The success of the Manchester office means we’d love to do it again somewhere else.
RETAIL TRANSPORT SERVICES, WITH DAVE HUGHES & DAVE LEWIS 80
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DAVE H SAYS... We are a company staffed by freight professionals...
S
Tell me about how you got into the Freight industry... ame as most people 30 years ago, I drifted into it.
to travelling in Australia. When I returned, I worked for
No one ever left school wanting to work in
Gefco on the European desk. That was me hooked – I’m
logistics in the early 80s. I worked at Fedex
here doing the same job 25 years later, but it's, instead, at
and then another courier company before leaving to go
my own company and I love it.
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COVER FEATURE Q A
What’s your background in shipping? My background has been almost entirely European road freight. After working for Gefco in Coventry, I moved to a small forwarder in Milton Keynes, of which I then became a director. In 1999, I left to start up Retail Transport Services (RTS). Retail Transport Services quickly evolved. From consolidating furniture and distributing into UK depots, to changing direction when the demand for time-critical express transport became apparent, something that is still at the core of the business today.
Q A
What do you think you offer as a company that sets you apart from your competitors? It would have to be our knowledge & experience. We are a company staffed by freight professionals. Each person on the desk, no matter what age now, started their career in their teens or early twenties like myself, and we’re all still doing it now. We have a combined total of more than 250 years in the business... that’s a lot of knowledge & experience from a varied range of logistical backgrounds! Transport has been a lifelong career for everyone that works here and we use that expertise to benefit our clients.
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DAVE H SAYS... This year is our 20 th anniversary, which is quite an achievement...
Q A
What has been your biggest challenge in the role? Maintaining the bar we’ve set for ourselves and ensuring we all deliver a high standard of service to preserve the integrity that we had from the very start. Making sure
Q A
How do you get the best out of your team? By leading from the top. Even after all these years in the business I still enjoy running a desk and getting involved in the day to day moving of freight. By setting
this remains top of everyone’s list is a challenge I relish
an example of how I expect the clients to be treated,
and enjoy. It’s a delight to see the philosophy we had at
what level of service that needs to be provided it
RTS from the beginning is still taken on board today and
allows me to expect the same from our colleagues.
consistently delivered.
We have a great team at RTS, each person giving the best they can each day has become the norm.
Q A
Your biggest achievement? This year is our 20
th
anniversary, which is quite an
achievement, especially when I think about how I started out in a box of a room! Dave Lewis (Director) joined me in the box in 2007. To think of where we are today; 14 of us in a brand new development located in Coventry city centre, plus a very successful office in Manchester, RTS has
Q A
What’s the most important thing you are working on right now and how are you making it happen? Quality standards. No matter how much you say or preach how good you are, sometimes it can help being audited to a standard that officially tells people what you
come a long way. We have continually developed and grown
do. We’ve been GDP compliant 2013/C 343/01 for two
into a company that we are very proud of. To still have the
years now, which demonstrates our conformity within
same clients/companies that believed in us at the very start
the pharmaceutical supply chain; in November we gained
through all these years, this alone proves our dedication to
ISO9001:2015 UKAS status. It shows that we can back
the original ethos.
up the promise we make to our clients regarding the level of service they demand.
Q A
How would you define your company culture? An honest and open approach to transport. We don’t sell something we can’t do. It’s a simple business model and we stick to it. It’s one of the many reasons why we’ve had
Q A
What are your thoughts on the new alliances? As a freight forwarder, we have an entire company based on alliances with suppliers all over Europe. Having the ability to forge these alliances, to develop relationships
the continual growth. People appreciate being fully informed,
and then in turn offer more services to our client base gives
they’ll always respond to an open & honest service provider.
us the ability to stay one step ahead of the competition. We started our GDP quality standards with this in mind: with GDP 2013/C 343/01 compliance we can demonstrate a proven robust platform for Good Distribution Practices by ensuring transparency and security of data within the pharmaceutical supply chain.
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COVER FEATURE Q A
84
What about market disruptors – how do you see outsiders changing the industry? The industry has continually evolved over the years, new technologies and new ways of working have always entered
DAVE H SAYS... At RTS, we have always developed along with our clients needs.
Q A
How do you decide which new business to go after? We try to target freight that is part of our core make-up: European freight from small pallets up to full loads – standard or express. This is the work we do well, and it enables us
the market place and that’s not going to change. Politics
to offer a service level that our clients can completely rely
seems to be the biggest challenge we’ll face in a generation
on. That’s not to say we do not enjoy a challenge, should
but it’s those companies that are prepared to meet the
someone need special equipment. Deep sea, waste licenses
challenge, that have to ability to adapt that will continue
or specific routings - we have freight professionals with a
to succeed in what could be a difficult or thriving arena.
wide range of knowledge and contacts.
FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
Q A
What are some of the common challenges you face? The biggest challenges are the ones outside our control. Exchange rates, market capacity and increased operational costs set by governments in tolls and taxes. Managing these and delivering what our clients expect has become something that is now part of the job.
Q A
What are your expansion plans over the next 12 or 24 months? The next 12-24 months are going to be an interesting time not just for the transport industry but for everyone. At RTS we have always developed along with our clients needs. We have the ability to adapt, the training and technology to support and the infrastructure in place to deliver on our promises.
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FORWARDER SPOTLIGHT:
CROWN COURIERS
The UK's leading nationwide bespoke sameday courier
Delivered your way
E
stablished in 1990, Crown Couriers has been leading the way
With sameday delivery at the core of its business, Crown
in creating bespoke sameday delivery solutions for almost
demonstrates the importance of every consignment by using only
three decades. Operating a customer-focused approach to
dedicated vans which are fully traceable from collection through to
sameday services and with a dedicated investment to innovation,
delivery. This is replicated in its overnight service, where experienced
Crown Couriers specialises in creating solutions that are tailored
out-of-hours teams work with fully trained and security cleared
to meet its customers’ individual requirements.
drivers to ensure its high standard of service is not compromised.
A logistics partner to businesses within a variety of different
Based from a single control centre in the Midlands, Crown Couriers’
industries, from automotive and aviation to pharmaceutical and
nationwide service operates 24/365 to ensure it delivers the same
professional services, Crown Couriers has a longstanding reputation
dedicated service, day or night. Every customer is assigned an account
for being a business that prides itself on delivering a reliable and
manager who has overall responsibility for maintaining Crown’s high
transparent service to its customers.
standards of service. Crown’s quality-led approach to sameday courier
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service is reflected in the careful selection of its drivers, chosen for
and SMS notifications, Crown has been able to utilise technology to
their high standard of self-motivation, experience and customer service.
create time and cost savings for its customers, whilst increasing the level of proactive communications and maintaining its high standard of service.
Customer satisfaction is the key to Crown’s continued success. From the small sameday courier that started with just two vans
More than just a sameday courier provider, Crown Couriers is a
back in 1990, to the market leader that the business has grown to
logistics partner with a proven track record of working within a variety
become today, its mission is still the same: to be the trusted partner
of different and specialised industries. Experienced in identifying cost
to businesses that need a reliable and bespoke sameday courier.
savings and improving existing practices, find out how Crown could
Testament to that are the customers that have stayed with Crown
optimise efficiencies for your business by calling our Freefone number
from the very beginning and still value its service today.
or contacting info@crowncouriers.co.uk. Alternatively, for more
Katie Burke, Marketing Executive, Crown Couriers
information visit our website www.crowncouriers.co.uk
CALL FREE
0330 3334400
24/365
Sameday courier
Finding new ways to deliver a better service to its customers is a key priority for Crown. As the industry evolves, a higher level of fl exibility and more effective communications are becoming increasingly important. That’s why the business puts innovation right at the heart of its values. And it continues to deliver on its commitment to invest more into implementing the right technology that keeps the business at the forefront of the industry. Investment in and modernisation of the company’s infrastructure has safeguarded connectivity and enabled the development of more efficient internal processes. Implementing systems such as optimised route planning, dynamic texting/emailing, live GPS tracking, online stock control FORWARDER magazine
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FORWARDER FOCUS
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
B
rexit has been a turbulent journey, and as the weeks
It is important to ensure that the UK’s supply chains are
pass, the government’s decisions are still lacking
protected. The UK needs to be sure that foreign products can be
clarity. This has ultimately created uncertainty for
imported and UK products exported as usual. Our approach of
the transport and logistics sector, especially in terms of trade
offering access at this stage aims both to provide the reassurance
agreements and safety. Suitably, road freight is now left with the
needed for international freight flows to continue, and also to
question of which direction road haulage and trucking will be
help ensure reciprocal arrangements for UK hauliers. On its side,
driven down. The government has recently claimed to be 'making
the European Commission has proposed legislation that would
preparations to allow hauliers and other businesses to continue
allow UK hauliers basic rights to conduct operations to, from and
to transport goods between the UK and the EU', should we be
through the EU for a limited period of nine months after exit, if
leaving without a withdrawal agreement.
there is no deal. The Commission’s proposal will need to be agreed by the Council and European Parliament, and is being considered
On February 5th 2019 Jesse Norman, MP on behalf of the
by both institutions urgently. This proposal is predicated on
Department for Transport and Driver and Vehicle Standards
the UK’s granting equivalent access for EU hauliers to the UK,
Agency, published a letter from the government confirming how
and the legislation laid before the House today provides for that
the government will be focusing on road haulage, should Britain
access. Indeed, it is a more liberal offer, and we are discussing
be leaving the EU under a no deal circumstance. The online letter
with the Commission whether there is scope for them to extend
discusses the appropriate measures that may have to be enforced
the EU’s offer so as to match ours.
to ensure that foreign products can continue to be imported and UK products exported as usual. According to the Government,
In a more recent online statement from parliament, from 28 March
over 80% of haulage between the UK and continental Europe
2019, lorry and truck drivers from the UK will need additional
is transported by EU hauliers, so it is vital that the government
documentation to drive in the EU and EEA, which includes
make efforts to 'continue to license UK hauliers to the same
registering certain trailers with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing
high safety, environmental and operating standards as at present.'
Agency (DVLA) and carrying a trailer registration certificate. Furthermore, should the UK leave the EU without a deal, there is a chance that UK lorry and truck drivers will also need an international driving permit (IDP) when driving in the EU and EEA. Norman concludes,
Overall, we continue to believe that
reciprocal market access will be secured for UK hauliers. While continuing to plan for all eventualities, we also believe that it is right to underline the fact that the UK is taking a positive and pragmatic approach. Rachel Jefferies, Editor, FORWARDER magazine
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IF THERE IS NO EU EXIT DEAL...
OVER 80 % OF HAUL AGE BETWEE N THE UK & CONTIN ENTAL EUROPE IS UNDERTA KEN BY EU HAUL IERS
UK hauliers can continue to use their EU Community Licence until 31 December 2019. You will not need any extra permits to transport goods in EU countries until 1 January 2020. You’d be allowed to make these types of journeys: •• Journeys to and from the UK, for example, a journey from the UK to Germany, or a journey from Italy to the UK •• Driving through EU countries to reach another EU country, for example, driving through France to reach Spain •• Limited cabotage or cross-trade – the rules on what you can do will change from the day the UK leaves the EU Hauliers will not be allowed to drive through the EU and EEA to a third country, for example driving through France to get to Switzerland, without an ECMT permit.
WHICH ROAD WILL EU HAULAGE TAKE
AFTER BREXIT? FORWARDER magazine
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EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
W
e’ve come a long way since paper maps and long
If you don’t fancy getting hat hair, there’s also the Vigo. Worn like
road journeys with only the radio or a good
a Bluetooth headset, this lightweight device functions similarly,
buddy to keep us company. Along with the
and also takes into consideration blinking patterns, alerting you
invention of GPS and electronic logbooks, we wanted to take a
if it interprets a loss of focus. You can even choose how you’d
look at some of the other tech revolutions which are changing
like to be warned: pulsing vibrations, LED lights or even your
long-distance driving for the better.
favourite energy-inducing song.
Matchmaking on the go
Want company? Podcasts are your best friend
No, I am not talking about Trucker Tinder (although, now I’ve
True crime podcasts are excellent if you want to get lost in a
thought about it…). There are plenty of live loadboards and
mystery which keeps your brain firing, or there are comedy
freight apps which are making return-load arrangements so
podcasts if you’d rather have a more light-hearted distraction.
much easier. Some apps allow truckers to post their availability
There are even specific podcasts catered to our industry: some
and capacity, so that shippers can contact them with their
popular ones include Trucker Dump, which is hosted by a 20-
consignments. Or there is the option to scroll through available
year veteran of the haulage industry, and Supply Chain Dive.
cargo and pitch your quote to the shipper directly. Freightabase's Quick Quote is one example of an app which is matching available
One final note…
loads to carriers every day.
What might you quote as being the biggest risk to European drivers? Dangerous road-users? Severe weather conditions?
A cap which keeps your head up We’ve all been in a position where exhaustion and fatigue has hit,
Perhaps surprisingly, the biggest risk to drivers is...themselves.
and there is technology out there which can actually save lives. Safe Cap is one such device. The product was created by Ford
It has been proven that using a mobile device while driving is a
Trucks, and looks just like an ordinary cap – handy for keeping
safety risk to drivers and other road users. This risk is multiplied
the sun out of your eyes, in the first instance. But this cap also
when driving larger vehicles such as HGVs. Drivers are four
detects and interprets a drivers’ head movements and alerts them
times more likely to crash in such cases.
with vibration and sound when it detects you might be drifting off.
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Using your mobile phone while driving is an offence – you can
Department for Transport statistics show that 33 deaths were
be charged a £200 fine on the spot, or taken to court for a
attributed to drivers using mobile phones in 2018. Please use
fine of up to £1,000, or £2,500 if you’re driving an HGV. All of
your in-drive entertainment sensibly, ensure it’s hands free, and
this in addition to having six points added to your licence. You
don’t adjust any handheld device unless you’re safely parked with
could also be putting your company at risk of their professional
your engine switched off.
licence too. Are there other forms of tech that have changed your quality Reaction times for drivers using a mobile phone or handheld device
of life as a longhaul driver? Get in touch and let me know!
are drastically affected, risking the safety of both themselves and
sarah@forwardermagazine.com
those around them. A person’s average reaction time is one second, yet the following factors will inhibit your reflexes:
Sarah O'Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine
•• Exceeding the drink drive limit results in 13% slower reactions •• High on cannabis? It's 21% slower •• Using a hands-free mobile phone: 27% slower •• Texting: 37% slower •• Speaking on a handheld mobile phone: 46% slower!
LONG DRIVE AHEAD?
TECH CAN HELP OR HINDER FORWARDER magazine
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ASK THE EXPERTS
U
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
K businesses could be losing up to £180bn per year
So, how can businesses
due to machine downtime. That’s according to a study
cut the cost of the downtime?
by Oneserve.
Access to a flexible and 24/365 operational logistics partner could be the answer that businesses are looking for. Standard response times of
The supply chain heavily relies on technology and cog-turning
60 minutes and both same-day and through-the-night services (including
processes to operate smoothly. As you can imagine, this can become
weekends and bank holidays) could significantly reduce the delay and
problematic, time consuming and unproductive when machines incur
cost of downtime. A simpler answer? Crown Couriers. Working to
damage or develop issues. Broken or faulty parts could mean that
keep businesses in operation, Crown have a fleet of over 500 drivers
machines are left idle for any number of days whilst waiting to be
based across the country, who are ready to deliver the right part into
repaired. In fact, it has been estimated that three per cent of all
the right hands, exactly when it’s needed. Thanks to a dedicated service,
working days that are lost annually, specifically in the manufacturing
deliveries are taken directly to their drop-off point. So, if that means
sector, are as a result of faulty machinery.
being signed for by a specific person, Crown complies.
Another issue factories and manufacturers may face when machines
If your business is potentially susceptible to the impact of machine
are out of action is the difficulty of accessing replacement parts.
downtime, Crown Couriers has experience in working across a wide
For businesses that don’t run on weekends and bank holidays, that
range of sectors to cater to urgent delivery requirements, from
downtime can delay the process even more, potentially affecting
aviation, healthcare and manufacturing to automotive. This could be
the productivity of the entire workplace. Unscheduled maintenance
the golden solution that keeps your business up and running when
and breakages could mean that parts ordered later in the week
a spanner hits the works.
will not be delivered over the weekend, increasing the chances of not arriving until the following week. This can be bad news for
For scheduled or ad-hoc, last-minute bookings 24/365,
businesses, as this knock-on effect often significantly increases the
give the team a call on 0330 333 4400
time for which that manufacture is halted.
or email customerservice@crowncouriers.co.uk
Furthermore, it’s not just manufacturers who are suffering from the impact of this: SMEs are also feeling the strain caused by vehicle downtime. This is due to their vehicles being out of action for servicing and maintenance. Not only does this incur a cost implication for businesses, but their inability to resume with regular service could potentially cause concerns amongst the customer base.
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CUTTING THE COST OF DOWNTIME WITH CROWN COURIERS FORWARDER magazine
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ASK THE EXPERTS
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS
T
hroughout all the Brexit uncertainty, we’ve been asked several
No ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer
times about what exporters need to be doing to prepare for
to the ‘how to export’ question
changes in the international trade landscape. When asked
Knowing the HS Code therefore allows the exporter to understand
this, I’ve always been clear that it completely depends on the individual
the cost of importation which is usually paid by their customers
business. Indeed, we need to start looking at international trade as the
and partners. Exporters will need to accommodate this cost in
diverse entity that it really is. For a start there is no average tariff, there
their overall pricing to maintain competitiveness. On the other
is no average sector and, although this is sometimes inconvenient for
side, UK importers of goods need to pay duties according to the
the media, no one market solution for all industries.
UK’s tariff schedule to the WTO, whether that’s through the EU or independently set going forwards.
For example, tariffs for pharmaceuticals tend to be 0% rated, whereas ceramics can vary from 5%–25% depending on the component parts,
When identifying what they need to do to export to a new
materials and eventual shape. Agriculture can range from 30%–45%
market, businesses need to have determined their HS Code and
– or even more in some cases and champagne attracts 20%. Rules
identified how they will be affected when trading under WTO rules.
of origin differ on trade agreements but are always a key element of
With global trade set to go through a lot of change in the years to
the relationship. Importantly, the point here is, there is no average.
come due to the implications of the Brexit saga and the potential rise of trade wars, businesses will need to become more adept
5,300 different product descriptions
at completing these processes and at tracking changes to trade
There are approximately 5,300 article/product descriptions arranged
agreements and the tariffs that countries set.
in 97/99* chapters in the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS), each given its own HS Code (a six-figure
Exporting is easy when you know how
product classification number). Exporters and importers need to
Exporting, like any form of business, involves challenges as well as
know what code a product falls under to be able to establish what
opportunities. Businesses who have previously exported beyond
duty or taxes are payable. The code also triggers other factors
the EU will be very familiar with the various administrative tasks
including anti-dumping duty, quotas, inspections and licences that
and pieces of paperwork you need to complete in order to export
relate specifically to those goods being moved before they reach the
successfully without delays or fines at the border.
final destination in the UK or abroad. For those who are newer to exporting, you need not be daunted. When exporting to third-party countries where the UK doesn’t
As we often say at the Institute, exporting is easy when you know
have a preferential trade agreement, businesses need to understand
how! Researching your market, understanding what paperwork
that the duty payable for importation into their customer’s market
needs to be completed and knowing what regulations and taxes
falls under the ‘Most Favoured Nation’ rate lodged by the UK in
apply to your product type are all fundamental tasks for exporters,
that market under WTO rules. When exporting to a market with
but they are perfectly doable once you find out about learning how
which the UK has a trade agreement, businesses will need to use
to do them properly.
their HS Code to identify what the preferential rate may be for the importation of their goods into that country.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at export.org.uk
THERE IS SIMPLY
NO SUCH THING AS AN ‘AVERAGE EXPORTER’ That’s where we at the Institute of Export & International Trade
With us you can equip yourself with the knowledge and support you
are ready to support. We provide a comprehensive suite of online
need to export successfully and confidently.
and offline training courses explaining the processes of international trade, including understanding how the HS System, WTO rules and
William Barns-Graham, Senior Content Editor,
Free Trade Agreements work. You can set yourself and your team
The Institute of Export & International Trade
on a Customs Practitioners Award pathway straightway to help when looking at new markets around the world. We also offer
*There are 97 chapters in the WCO’s system and 99 chapters in the EU’s.
qualifications ranging from Level 1 to 7 in international trade, as well as various membership benefits that help you to network with other exporters and get technical support from our team of experts. FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
95
REGIONAL FOCUS
YORKSHIRE
G
overnment policy is now firmly targeting a marked improvement in air quality nationwide. From the introduction of government-mandated Clean Air
Zones (CAZs) in several cities to London’s Ultra Low Emission
LEEDS
Earlier this year, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) approved plans proposed by Leeds City Council to introduce a charging CAZ from 6 January 2020.
Zone (ULEZ), a patchwork of regulations is due to be introduced in 2019 and beyond, reflecting the fact that there is no consistent
The Zone will cover more than half of Leeds and will enforce a
nationwide policy to counteract problems in air quality
Class B charging system; this means that non-compliant buses, coaches, taxis, private hire vehicles and HGVs will be fined upon
Within the county of Yorkshire, three cities – Leeds, York and
entry to the city’s boundary. The daily fee for non-compliant
Sheffield – are set to introduce a CAZ. Any driver entering one
HGVs to enter the zone will be £50, enforced through a 24/7
of these cities with a commercial vehicle that does not meet set
network of purpose-built automatic number plate recognition
emissions standards, which are Euro VI or 6 for diesel and Euro
(ANPR) cameras.
4 for petrol vehicles, will receive a charge upon entry. FTA has been working closely with Leeds City Council and is These schemes are designed to improve air quality in highly
pleased it acted on the association’s recommendation to grant
populated areas but, according to FTA, simply act as a stealth
exemption to three core industrial areas – Holbeck, Pudsey
tax on business, sending operating costs for small companies
and Seacroft – until 2024 to mitigate the damage the Zone
soaring at a time when margins are already stretched. In the
will inflict upon the local economy. This move should also give
opinion of FTA, CAZs unfairly penalise the hard-working
logistics businesses more time to upgrade their fleets to meet
companies and individuals that keep local economies thriving,
the required emission standards.
while ignoring other contributors to emissions levels across the city; their creation places the burden for cleaning up the city in question’s air squarely at the feet of the very businesses which keep Yorkshire trading.
YORK
Unlike other parts of the country where a CAZ is a governmentmandated requirement, the City of York Council is voluntarily and proactively looking to introduce a non-charging Zone for
FTA continues to pressure the authorities to confirm how
buses to the city centre by 2020. Individual buses that enter
businesses can access funding to replace banned commercial
the Zone five or more times per day will need to meet ultra-
vehicles when the low emission zones comes into effect.
low emission bus standards (ULEB), such as Euro 6 diesel or
Without this funding, many companies will find it impossible to
gas powered and electric hybrid, but this is the only detail
replace their existing fleets and will struggle to fulfil business
confirmed at present. Alongside this, it is proposing to launch
contracts in and around the cities affected; future profitability
a campaign to stop stationary vehicles from idling with active
and trading could be threatened as a result, according to FTA.
enforcement at the roadside.
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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at fta.co.uk
SHEFFIELD
In November 2018, Sheffield City Council announced its intention
FTA is also calling for authorities tasked with setting up CAZs
to implement a Class C charging system, whereby non-compliant
to work together on a single, nationwide system for registering
buses, taxis, lorries and vans will be fined upon entering the
and charging non-compliant vehicles entering the different zones.
city’s inner ring road. The Council hopes the scheme will bring the city’s air quality in line with legal levels by January 2021; a
CAZs and ULEZs represent just two of the government
public consultation will commence early this year to finalise the
strategies currently aimed at reducing pollution and vehicle
scope of the Zone.
emissions. In its Road to Zero document, the government stated its aim of reducing vehicle emissions overall by 15% by 2025, an
In its response to this consultation, FTA will call for the CAZ
initiative fully supported by FTA. The industry has already begun
start date to be as late as possible to enable industry to adapt,
investing alternatives to diesel, with many businesses trialling
and for the Zone perimeter to be kept as small as possible. FTA
alternatively fuelled vehicles and low carbon technologies. But
will also suggest vans should only be included if the measure is
investment in suitable infrastructure – such as fast charging
proven to be essential.
stations for electric vehicles located across the road network – is vital to enable businesses to reach these emission reduction
Initially, Nottingham was of one the cities ordered to introduce
targets in a timely manner.
a CAZ, but in a landmark decision – and after much campaigning by the city council – the government agreed it does not
Malcolm Bingham, Head of Policy – North of England, FTA
require a charging low emission zone to meet its air quality targets. According to FTA, this sets a welcome precedent that government will consider more tailored plans that reflect the needs of each community and one which FTA is pressing the authorities to implement as it rolls out more plans.
A CLEANER FUTURE FOR YORKSHIRE
FORWARDER magazine
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REGIONAL FOCUS
YORKSHIRE
O
ur industry has largely been pleased this month after
that larger cities such as Leeds, York and Harrogate were the only
the annual Spring Statement, presented by Chancellor
ones to win a ‘Remain’ majority – and by a much narrower margin
Philip Hammond, demonstrated government interest
than the ‘Leave’ voting towns in the region. It’s been suggested that the
in developing the transportation industry. His speech outlines
‘forgotten’ towns and cities of Yorkshire hope for a better future upon
the need for government to support private infrastructure
departing the EU, with economic disenchantment across the region.
investment. In response, the FTA have published their own report with education and guidance for MPs, to underline the
Transport for the North has agreed a Strategic Transport Plan
importance of the sector to the UK economy.
to support the Northern region, with claims that the playing field should level out amongst cities such as London, where
58% of people across Yorkshire and the Humber voted to leave the
spending on infrastructure is currently more than triple that of
European Union. Breaking down the votes in more detail, it appears
the Yorkshire and Humber regions.
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However, this suggestion has been contested by a new report
and further utilise the Ferrybridge rail yard, and take on heavier
that has been published by the New Economics Foundation
maintenance which would in turn support the local economy.
(NEF). The report – released earlier this month – focused on the HS2 high-speed rail project’s impact on the economy, and found
And it’s not just the railway which could see benefits from
that 40% of the benefits of the project would go to London, and
investment. Many local to the Yorkshire and Humber region
widen the North-South economic divide.
will no doubt be aware of perhaps the largest recent freight development in the region: the iPort, opening in 2018. Whilst
The HS2 budget is £56 billion, rising by two thirds from the original
iPort does have its own rail hub – an independently operated
project cost estimates of £33.3 billion in 2011. Whilst phase 2b of
30-acre container site – the multi-faceted offering also serves
the project includes an extension of the route which will lead into
road, warehousing and air freight. In total, 53.4 million people
Yorkshire, it’s been suggested that only the wealthiest of the UK
live within four hours’ drive time of the multimodal logistics park:
population would use the service – a population which currently
81% of the UK population or 87% of the mainland population
has a southern majority. £18.9 billion of the project budget has
(excluding Northern Ireland). Moreover, the four main UK
been set aside for the development of northern parts of the route.
container ports are all within four hours’ drive-time of iPort.
The NEF’s report suggested alternatives to HS2, including the
This alone should make the development a leading example of
further electrification of existing railways across the country and
the good that can come from financing the region.
called on the government to bring forward a strategy which will support carrying more freight, amongst other benefits.
It’s a waiting game for much of the country when it comes to post-Brexit action. It’s important to remain positive in
An example of the good which can still be done with existing
the midst of what is a politically uncertain time. There is no
railway infrastructure includes a recent partnership between
doubt that the North-South divide is wider than ever, and
David Wagon Services and Drax Power Station, who have built
work is needed to restore the balance to areas which are
a fleet of freight wagons to deliver biomass materials to the UK’s
disproportionately affected by high rates of unemployment and
largest power station. The Yorkshire-based collaboration has
poverty. The best that those in the region can do is to lead by
also revived a disused rail yard in the area and secured a number
example where possible and continue to put pressure on the
of local jobs. Elsewhere in North Yorkshire, there is restorative
government, industry bodies and lobbying groups to change
work taking place along the historic Masham Bridge, which is a
things where needed.
major freight route in the region. John Hall, who is the managing director of Drax, has advised that work will continue to develop
Sarah O'Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine
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REGIONAL FOCUS
THE AMERICAS
S
hipping items to the United States isn’t quite as simple
All of the above information will be held by different parties –
as moving things around Europe. There are a whole
including shipper, carrier and consignee. This can cause challenges
host of additional rules and regulations you need to be
to both the shipper and consignee if they don’t anticipate them
aware of before you start importing or exporting to the USA.
before the cargo goes to port.
Security is unsurprisingly tight at American ports, so if you don’t
Challenges of IMPORTING to the USA
tick all the necessary boxes, there’s every chance your delivery
As you can see, importing goods to the USA for the first time is
will be seized and fail to arrive at its intended destination. You
complicated. Many people simply aren’t aware of the AMS and
could even be liable for sizeable fines.
ISF systems. And because it’s the importer’s responsibility to file the ISF alongside the AMS, it’s easy to slip up when preparing
But don’t be put off – with a little guidance, you can navigate the
for a shipment.
rules and regulations of shipping to the USA. Here’s everything you need to be aware of as a shipper or consignee.
Failing to go through the correct channels results in fines and even blacklisting – meaning shipping to this part of the world
What are AMS and ISF
suddenly becomes impossible. All parties can be held liable for
and why are they important?
the same violation, too, with fines of typically $5,000 per party
First of all, you must know about the Automated Manifest System
involved in the mistake.
(AMS) and Importer Security Filing 10+2 (ISF). Introduced in 2004 and 2009 respectively, these processing systems are
As a result, it’s wise to use a customs broker if you want to
designed to clamp down on security threats to the USA.
avoid fines, delays or future problems. A good customs broker will provide the necessary forms you need to send to all parties
The former relates to the process of reporting cargo to US
concerned, and liaise with third parties on your behalf to ensure
customers before a vessel sets sail. The latter is supposed to be
smooth filing and shipment.
filed alongside the AMS, and requires more in-depth information on where and who the cargo is going to.
Challenges of EXPORTING to the USA Anyone shipping to the USA should check that the importer
Both processing systems demand information on the shipper,
has a customs broker before proceeding. As outlined above,
consignee, manufacturer and final receiver. They also rely on
those that don’t have a broker risk making costly mistakes
details about the cargo, such as exact piece count (pallets
for everyone involved.
are not a recognised piece count) and weight, along with a breakdown of the ports the vessel is calling at – especially the last port and first US port.
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THE RULES & REGULATIONS OF
SHIPPING TO THE USA Another benefit of ensuring your consignee has a customs
An additional benefit of working with a customs broker is that
broker is that it can fast-track your route into the USA. If you’re
it can overcome non-disclosure issues if you don’t want the
not registered with the US customs, obtaining a foreign bond
consignee to know who the real manufacturer is.
can prove tricky. However, if the consignee has a bond already, they can sign a Power of Attorney that lets us quickly process
Forward planning is essential when importing or exporting to
the shipment.
the USA for the first time, especially if you don’t have a bond and/or power of attorney already in place. Our advice, use a
This doesn’t dictate that they have to pay duties and taxes,
freight forwarder agent to get support on timings to ensure no
especially if you’re shipping on a DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
delays occur, compliance every step of the way, and take care of
basis. It simply means they can be listed as the ‘importer of
everything on your behalf.
record’ to speed up the process. Allseas Global
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REGIONAL FOCUS
T
he United States (US) is the largest, most competitive and technologically advanced economy in the world. US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has consistently seen growth of
1.8% or more since 2011. It is the UK’s top export destination. The US is the world’s largest market and it has the world’s largest private sector. It also has: •• Low regulatory barriers •• Minimal language barriers •• Access to global supply chain, which can lead to exports for other markets •• A strong rule of law Industries importing into USA
Challenges doing business in USA
•• Electrical machinery and equipment
The US is a large market in which to do business. This can lead
•• Machinery and mechanical appliances
to some unique challenges:
•• Vehicles
•• Vast regional differences between the 50 markets/states
•• Mineral fuels and oils
•• Strong competition, causing saturation of products or services
•• Pharmaceuticals
•• High customer service expectations
•• Optical, photo/cinematographic, measuring and precision equipt
•• High cost of living in major cities
•• Furniture, mattresses and soft furnishings
•• Significant time difference (between 5 and 8 hours behind)
•• Pearls, precious and semi precious stones and metals
•• High cost for business insurance
•• Organic chemicals
•• Litigation is common
•• Plastics
•• Expensive and time-consuming process for work visas
EXPORT
TO THE USA
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LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
TAX & CUSTOMS
You should always get qualified legal guidance before entering
Taxation
into any agreement. Ideally, your contracts should be
Taxes can be imposed by both the US federal government and
reviewed by lawyers who understand both US and UK law.
individual states, counties and cities. The Internal Revenue
You can also find useful information at:
Service governs federal taxes in the US. UK companies with
•• www.gov.uk/government/publications/usa-list-of-lawyers
US customers may be subject to US direct or indirect taxes.
•• The US Embassy, which maintains a list of American attorneys based in the UK
This can vary according to whether it does business:
•• The American Bar Association, which has a list of US law firms
•• Through a US subsidiary
All corporations in the US have to register with a government
If you conduct US transactions entirely from the UK, you may
body in the state they incorporated in. Business filing documents
be classed as withholding US federal income tax. You may
are available through the relevant state government authority.
be eligible for benefits under the US-UK income tax treaty.
US publicly traded companies (PLCs) have to file with the
In some circumstances you may be wholly or partially exempt
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and must make
from certain US federal income taxes under this treaty. You’ll
their annual reports available to investors.
need tailored tax advice from a certified accountant or tax
•• Through a US office or US-based employees or agents •• Directly from the UK
lawyer about tax consequences if your UK company conducts Privately held companies don’t have to make this information
activities in the US or transactions with US customers.
available to the public. There is no Value Added Tax (VAT) in the US. Each state Controlled goods export licences for the US
determines and collects sales tax on an individual basis.
A licence to export to the US is required for:
If you’re VAT registered you can zero-rate the VAT on most
•• Goods on the UK Military List
goods you export to the US. You will need to get evidence
•• More sensitive items on the EU Dual-Use List (goods along with their associated technologies that can be used for both civil and military purposes)
of the export within 3 months from the time of sale.
•• Goods that could be used for restraint, repression or inhumane treatment.
You must make export declarations to HMRC through the
Check with the UK’s Export Control Organisation (ECO)
You must classify your goods as part of the declaration, including
whether you require an export licence for your goods.
a commodity code and a Customs Procedure Code (CPC).
Importing controlled or restricted goods into USA
The following documents are generally required for the
The US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
importation of goods into the United States:
is a set of US government regulations that control the export and import of certain defence related articles and services on the United States Munitions List (USML). Before attempting to export military or dual use goods to the US, UK companies should research whether they are subject to ITAR. You must consider any future restrictions
Customs National Export System (NES) to export your goods to the US.
•• Air waybill
•• Entry/immediate delivery
•• Bill of lading
•• Importer security filing and additional carrier requirements
•• Binding ruling •• Cargo release /simplified entry
•• Manifest for aircraft •• Manifest for vessels
that may be placed upon your export as a result of ITAR
•• Customs bond
before entering into any formal contract.
•• Customs import decl'n
www.gov.uk/guidance/exporting-to-the-usa
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v1.0. FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39
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FORWARD TECH
I
n today’s digital world, market leadership increasingly depends
If any unwarranted updates do occur, the altering of any unit
on innovation and the ability to utilise the latest technologies
of information on the blockchain alerts the whole network of
such as artificial intelligence and blockchain. Although
nodes and makes the adjustment public. It would take a huge
blockchain is still in its infancy, it has the potential to greatly
amount of computing power to override the entire network of
impact business processes as well as improve the visibility and
nodes making the data virtually incorruptible.
transparency offered to those involved in the global supply chain. What could blockchain mean for the automotive What is blockchain?
and manufacturing industry?
In short, blockchain is a technology that allows digital information
Businesses in the financial sector have been among the earliest
to be distributed without being modified or replicated. Each
to see the potential of blockchain technology, along with other
group of updates is referred to as a ‘block’; these are added to
highly digitised sectors such as gaming.
the entire system and are accessible by all users, providing total transparency and verifiability. For example, a spreadsheet that
As a time-critical logistics specialist supporting the automotive,
is owned by one organisation could be made available across
aerospace and other manufacturing sectors, it is particularly
a network of thousands of individual computers, designed to
interesting to see the potential developments as we move into
regularly update this spreadsheet simultaneously.
the fourth industrial revolution. One of the most exciting areas of development associated with the application of blockchain is the
Security
concept of ‘digital twins’ – a dynamic, digital representation of a
Rather than using a ‘username/password’ system to protect online
physical asset which provides companies with the ability to track past,
identities and assets, blockchain uses encryption technology as
current and future performance throughout a product’s lifecycle.
a security method, using public and private ‘keys’ to make data more secure. The ‘public key’ (a long, randomly-generated string
All testing and analysis can be performed on the digital twin
of numbers) is a user’s address on the blockchain. The ‘private key’
before the physical one is designed. For example, Tesla deploys
is a password that gives its owner access to their digital assets.
digital models and runs multiple automation and ‘what if’ scenarios before building models and manufacturing engines.
In addition, blockchain technology has an extra level of security.
The same goes for designing and producing large-scale aircraft
The contents are hosted by millions of nodes (any computer
engines or other systems. Digital twins in manufacturing keeps
connected to the blockchain performing the task of validating
the risks and manufacturing defects to a minimum and it allows
and relaying transactions) meaning that the blockchain cannot be
engineers to test and update the digital models thoroughly.
controlled by any single entity. Similarly, there is no centralised version of the information, eliminating the risks associated with
From assembly and manufacturing, all the way to customer
the information being corrupted or hacked.
usage and product expiration, these digital twins keep evolving and updating their product status as they move through the
production cycle. Consider it as a digital passport of physical products,
Digitalising manual processes, such as customs documentation that
being stamped at every stage by stakeholders, from sourcing all the
rely on physical data entry and paper-based documentation, would
way through to disposal. This concept works particularly well within
improve both visibility and transparency across the industry. And
the automotive industry. With the digital twin fully transferable on
adopting blockchain technologies at an international level would
the blockchain-based system, each vehicle’s maintenance history
significantly reduce friction across the global supply chain.
remains connected to the physical version, even when there is a change of ownership – a very useful and practical data management
Blockchain can also accelerate the flow of physical goods, enable
service that automotive companies can provide to their customers.
tracking of a product’s lifecycle and ownership transfers from origin to display, even as it changes hands between the manufacturer,
This evolvement of digital twins, using blockchain technology,
logistics service provider, wholesaler, retailer and consumer,
shows how manufacturers can increase data credibility and
creating a trusted relationship between each participant.
protect public safety; it also has value for regulators, fleet owners and drivers who need access to trusted data on used vehicles.
As blockchain continues to evolve, markets are expected to adopt its potential with increasing speed over the coming years.
What could blockchain mean to the logistics industry?
Overall market demand is expected to rise drastically due to
Logistics involves working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders
investments from the finance industries, continued development
– partners, suppliers, customs and border controls, as well as
of blockchain and growth of major vendors.
clients – to optimise the supply chain and maintain a complex flow of information. Digital twin information can be shared among
This is the right time to explore how this technology can
stakeholders, organisations, teams and countries. It enables all parties
enable ground-breaking innovations, the obstacles that must be
to keep track of products and their corresponding information as
overcome and the likely value and tangible rewards that can be
they are sourced, shipped, purchased, used or consumed. Blockchain
delivered, especially as it will form part of the logistics landscape.
has the potential to improve security, drive transparency and trust, and achieve greater efficiency and sustainability.
Andrew Austin, Group Operations Director, Priority Freight
BLOCKCHAIN TECH: WHAT IMPACT COULD IT HAVE ON SUPPLY CHAINS?
FORWARD TECH
G
oogle has demurely stepped back into the world of robotics
across the world and a number of further opportunities identified for
in a reboot of a programme which was originally launched
development. But current robotics are only capable of handling one
in 2013. Andy Rubin, VP of engineering at Google, named
task: for example, turning identical screws repetitively, or picking up
the project ‘Replicant’ in a nod to 80’s Sci-Fi blockbuster, Blade
objects (one type of object, moving it in the same motion).
Runner. The ambitious and troubled venture closed its shutters in 2018, shortly after Rubin left the company amid sexual harassment
Inside the Google robotics lab now is a machine called TossingBot.
accusations. Parts of the experimental Google arm were auctioned
This robotic arm doesn’t look much more complex than the
off, with a number of assets sold to Japanese company, SoftBank,
ones you’d see in a manufacturing plant or a 3PL centre, but the
but the deal to sell Replicant collapsed.
software difference is incredible. As demonstrated in a research paper published this month1, the robot was faced with a bin full
In a characteristically corporate way, Replicant was all but quashed.
of items including ping pong balls, bananas and plastic toys. When
There was no further comment from Google about a revival; no hint
the machine was first presented with the bin, its task being to
at what would remain for the projects which had been left behind: a
‘toss’ specific items into an adjacent empty container, the arm
‘human-like’ robotic hand, bipedal robots which ‘stood’ upright and
wasn’t programmed with the direct code which would allow it
could effectively climb, along with various other futuristic designs
to complete the task. In simple terms, the arm didn’t ‘know’ how
which were all worked upon behind closed doors at the company’s
to identify, pick up, and throw the items. Over 14 hours, the arm
Mountain View headquarters. All that has changed with the rebirth
not only taught itself how to perform the task, but continuously
of Google’s focus on robotic hardware.
analysed and improved its own success rate.
The revamped team is now led by Principal Scientist Vincent Vanhoucke, and by the looks of things they are keen to shift away from the show-boating efforts of Rubin’s rule. Where once there
TossingBot uses machine learning to decide how to grab an object, which it uses for more accurate throws.
were dog-like constructions and walking robots, the focus is now on solving more immediate global issues with practical technology. There’s less focus now on the aesthetics of the hardware, and a more ‘back-to-basics’ view of the possibilities of automation and AI. The shift in approach is reflected in the new name: Robotics at Google. Vanhoucke was a key figure in the development of AI mega-project Google Brain, and although outward appearances look simplified, there are more advanced technologies beneath the surface. Before you scoff, it’s essentially an innate skill for humans to grasp Believe it or not, there is a very real possibility of these robotics being
an object and throw it again. But when broken down into separate
applied in the world of logistics and warehousing before many other
acts and sets of calculations, it quickly becomes clear how difficult
sectors. There are already plenty of robotics used in warehouses
this might be: the shape of the object, the purchase or grip the
INSIDE ROBOTICS AT GOOGLE
Other research projects in the same lab include training robotic hands to push, pull and spin objects, undoubtedly also useful in a warehouse setting. DHL attempted a robotic Parcel Robot back in 2003, but the technology wasn’t sufficiently mature to roll out completely. With newly mobile robots enabled with machine-learning capability, there is a real chance for progression. And, if we allow ourselves to think outside the warehouse, we can imagine a not-so-distant future where robots can clear debris in the event of an accident or consignment spillage. So, the question always arises: what does this mean for our current workforce? The employees who are already working in similar
…& WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE FUTURE
positions as those which Google and others have claimed could
robot ‘fingers’ have on it, the distance to the target destination (the
those more repetitive tasks with high risk of physical or cognitive
empty bin), calculating the velocity required to get the object there
fatigue, and other ‘non-skilled’ tasks. But what needs to complement
considering its mass…the variables are myriad.
this effort is the education and re-skilling of the current workforce.
To write the code which enables a machine to do this is
In order to keep our socioeconomic status stable and encourage
incredibly complicated. But the result actually saw the robot
growth, people shouldn’t be forced out of jobs, but instead retrained
arm outperform the team of researchers by 5% accuracy. It goes
and assigned roles with different – perhaps greater – responsibilities.
without explanation that these intelligent robots could have
It’s my hope that in the near future, the general population, children
significant uses inside distribution warehouses, such as those used
and adolescents in the academic system and the existing workforce
by Amazon and UPS. The robotic arm has astonishing dexterity. It
will be exposed to these emerging technologies – and the mechanics
could be utilised for unloading cargo, consignment sorting, order
and ideas behind their introduction. This seems to be how our future
fulfilment, packaging and the like.
will remain economically assured.
be filled by robots with higher efficiency? There will always be conversations to be had about robots taking away the jobs of people, and unfortunately even the best market analysts seem to disagree. I do not claim to be an expert but I will say this: there is a gap in the workforce in both distribution and operations. Robotics could help to plug this gap, and it should be used to do so in the cases of
Sarah O’Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine 1
https://tossingbot.cs.princeton.edu/paper.pdf
Image credit: Regina Hickman for Princeton University
FORWARD TECH
I
f you’ve had the opportunity to visit Japan, there’s no doubt
As you board your flight to depart, reminiscing about the amazing
you’ve enjoyed unrivalled hospitality from the moment you
interactions you had in Japan, you’ll notice the crew on the runaway
disembark from your airplane. You’ve likely returned home
politely bowing as the plane pulls back, giving you your last glimpse of
sharing your experiences of a beautifully hand-wrapped apple,
exceptional service and hospitality before returning to the 'real world.'
Instagram-worthy toilets or a taxi door that opened automatically. So how does NNR USA leverage this spirit of omotenashi whilst also
The Japanese offer a customer experience this is unrivalled in the
embracing the digital future? We are whole-heartedly bringing Silicon
world – and downright luxurious for most of us. They have a unique
Valley technology and Tokyo-style service to the logistics industry.
Japanese word that does not quite translate in most languages. This
We believe that technological advancements are rapidly evolving
word, this unique culture of hospitality and service, is omotenashi.
in a way that will allow for automation of many redundant, simple
It includes the distinctive belief that excellent customer service should
tasks whilst also providing greater visibility of the entire supply chain.
be delivered without expecting any reward or recognition in return.
Tasks that once required human intervention (tracking shipments, typing in status events, calling vendors, etc.) will be handled by AI,
The attention to detail that goes into each customer experience
machine-learning, IoT and robotic-process automation.
may seem excessive to some. However, in Japan, this unique brand of hospitality stems from caring for each customer the same way
NNR is investing in this technology not to reduce costs or provide a
you would care for someone who is most precious to you. Typical
fancy web portal. These technologies will allow us to cost-effectively
customer service interactions many of us have experienced around
deliver a one-two punch of high-tech solutions and enhanced
the world can be pleasant – and may even reach certain levels of
customer experience by freeing up our valuable team members to
omotenashi – but there is one thing that sets this culture of service
anticipate client needs, solve problems and deliver omotenashi.
apart from a normal customer service interaction: anticipation. Anticipating others’ needs before they ask, removing friction from
How do we train our US team on this unique concept? The most
all customer touch points, is the standard in Japanese omotenashi.
effective way: we import it! We openly welcome Japanese expats from our parent company, NNR Japan, to our offices large and small. From
These experiences never cease to amaze even the most frequent
Los Angeles to New York and everywhere in between, Americans and
visitors to Japan. When staying in Japan, the carpet in the hotel
Japanese work hand in hand not only in senior management positions
hallways often creates static electricity. To combat this, an anti-static
but in account management, client services and sales in order to
patch is placed next to the elevator keypad to eliminate the shock.
transfer this spirit through on-the-job training and daily interaction.
As you exit the hotel, the taxi driver pulls up wearing his white gloves and the doors open automatically whilst a voice translator helps you
At NNR Global Logistics USA, we are investing in the technology of
communicate. Did we mention the attention to detail?
tomorrow whilste doubling down on the ancient Japanese spirit that guides our culture of service and hospitality: omotenashi. Jeff McDonald, EVP & Austin Rabah, Marketing Co-ordinator, NNR Global Logistics USA
NNR USA SAYS, 'HAI, SO DESU!' (YES, IT IS!)
IS CUSTOMER SERVICE A DIFFERENTIATOR IN THE DIGITAL AGE?
ECO 2020
W
e’ve all seen the documentaries: the turtles swimming
diverting to countries like Vietnam, Taiwan and Indonesia. Malaysia was
with their fins mutilated by plastic binding; the
another country which saw a huge influx of plastic scrap. But so much of
whales dying of starvation as their stomachs are full
the material which was labelled as recyclable was in fact not: plastic bags,
of plastic bags; our colourful reefs stricken with crisp packets, water
black plastic and other non-recyclable or contaminated waste made up
bottles and cellophane. We already know this story.
a huge proportion of the imported material, pointing to illegal practices of hauliers moving the waste from the UK. It put local health at risk
So, we do as we’re told, diligently sorting our plastics, glass and
in Malaysia, as the waste was either dumped or incinerated, pumping
cardboard into the correctly-coloured bins. We put our paper waste
tonnes of harmful carcinogens into the environment. This isn’t a simple
in the paper recycling next to the printer, and ensure our children know
mistake. This is clear misrepresentation, and it has exposed the UK’s
not to litter. The UK currently recycles 44% of its own waste – still
own sceptical practices.
the target of 50% by 2020 looks sadly unattainable, but we’re trying. The rest ends up at landfill, in the sea, rivers, and oceans, polluting our
Exporters of waste from the UK earn millions each year, charging by
environment and killing wildlife. We already know this, too.
the tonne to recover plastic goods. Last year, The Guardian revealed that the system is being heavily abused, apparent from the results
But what we don’t all know, is that recycling itself is problematic.
of an investigation by the Environment Agency. Companies were
It’s damaging. And logistics is a huge part of the issue.
responsible for self-reporting exactly how much waste they were recycling leading to inaccuracies and false records. Data analysed
The UK exports twice as much plastic to be recycled in other
by the Guardian’s investigation found that British exporting firms
countries as it processes itself. The majority of our exports head
were claiming to have shipped 35,135 more tonnes of plastic than
to Asia. As last month’s Eco 2020 report touched upon, China all
HMRC have recorded leaving the country. It’s clear-cut fraud, and
but ceased imports of recycled material in 2017, citing ‘hazardous’,
it’s far from the only malpractice in the trade. There is also talk of
‘dirty’ and ‘loathsome’ foreign waste as compromising the process.
plastics being laundered through The Netherlands to take advantage
It shook global industry. China was the world’s largest customer
of looser regulations.
for exported paper and plastic scrap from the G7 countries, but in the space of 12 months it went from taking on 60% of G7’s plastic
The full allegations made by the Agency are as follows:
exports, to less than 10%.
•• There are illegal shipments of UK plastic recycling waste that are being redirected via The Netherlands to the Far East
In its wake has been left a complicated situation for those hauliers and
•• Several UK companies with serious charges have been allowed
shippers who were previously responsible for transporting recyclables
to continue to illegally ship contaminated plastic waste out of
overseas. Companies which were charging £60–£70 per tonne for
the country
shifting waste are seeing their business stall and, as a result, are witnessing the dark and murky underbelly of the trade.
•• The UK’s plastic waste is, in fact, being left to pollute rivers and oceans rather than being recycled •• Some UK plastic exporters are making fraudulent claims for tonnes
When China began restricting its waste intake, surrounding South-Asian
of plastic waste that might not even exist – reaching into the tens
countries began to pick up the difference. Waste-laden ships began
of thousands
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Jacob Hayler, executive director of the Environmental Services
Of course, it’s not right to say that couriers and shippers are causing
Association was quoted at the time, saying,
this issue: that lies with the retailer using responsible methods
There is organised
crime, and criminal gangs exploit the system; that does go on.
of packaging. But the truth is that we all have a responsibility to apply pressure to those companies to do so, and to apply the same
Six shippers were suspended pending further investigation in
pressure to the government over implementing new standards.
late 2018. The companies affected have not been named, and the
E-commerce is booming, and it’s not going to slow down. By wilfully
Environment Agency does not comment on individual cases.
distributing over-packaged products in unrecyclable plastics as part of the delivery process, we are a core enabler of the behaviour.
Exporting waste is not the only way that logistics is harming efforts to lower wastage. Online shopping is suggested to have driven a rise
For those who think that it’s out of shipper’s hands, take just one
in certain types of recycled materials: paper, cardboard and card.
example from DHL. A client company of theirs in the United States ships
These aren’t so difficult to manage: in fact, cardboard is a valuable
approximately 170,000 parcels each year, containing more than 1 million
material. However, some other rising materials (including black
cases of product. Part of the company’s repeat customer feedback was,
plastic you might see in food packaging and coffee lids) have very
Why is there so much empty space in each parcel?
Together,
little value as they are difficult to recycle and repurpose. Polystyrene
the client and DHL reassessed the way these items were packaged,
is another 'non-renewable' material, meaning it cannot be recycled
and the results were significant. Average cases packed per outbound
except in less than 1% of cases and only using specialist equipment.
parcel increased from 5.9 to 8.52 and 'air/void' in box decreased to
A DIRTY TRADE EXPOSING THE PLASTIC RECYCLING SUPPLY CHAIN
<10%. A huge amount of material was saved. As if this weren't enough, the density of outbound trailers increased 19%, reducing outbound trucks needed, parcel shipping cost savings of over $350,000 per year – surely enough to make any corporation happy. Their average customer feedback scores also shot up by 13% with zero complaints. Those logistics providers who support packaging processes in their warehouses have a responsibility, but that’s not to say couriers and forwarders who form long-term partnerships can’t advise these companies on best practice and waste elimination. Is your business impacted by the issues discussed in this article? Are you contributing in a positive way? Let us know at team@forwardermagazine.com Sarah O’Connell, Senior Editor, FORWARDER magazine www.logistics.dhl/gb-en/home/all-products-and-solutions/green-logistics.html FORWARDER magazine
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ECO 2020
W
e've heard the adage since grade school â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reduce, reuse,
First, talk to your customers. Find out what they would change
recycle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but most of us aren't doing so well at living by
about your packaging if they had the option. Is your package too
those three R's. Of the 250 million tonnes of trash that
hard to open (we're looking at you, plastic clamshells) or does it
we throw away every year, only 34 per cent ever makes it to the recycling
contain too much plastic for the eco-friendly consumer to justify
centre to be turned into something new. Redesigning old packages could
its purchase? Is it made entirely of plastic or are you utilising more
help to improve our recycling numbers and make it easier for consumers
sustainable materials?
to stop throwing away plastics and other recyclables. How the packaging looks also impacts its success. You don't have What changes should manufacturers consider making
to make an ugly package to utilise sustainable materials. Reducing
to their packages?
waste and improving sustainability on the manufacturing line could go a long way toward improving our collective recycling numbers.
Eco-conscious consumers Consumers as a whole are becoming more mindful of their impact on
A focus on recycling
the environment. Companies that refuse to transition to sustainable
Currently, most manufacturers only focus on their production
suppliers or packaging are being left behind in favour of more eco-
process. It will take a shift in focus to improve recycling and reduce
minded manufacturers. Plastic, especially, is a growing problem.
the amount of plastic that is ending up in the ocean every year.
Right now, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is floating between
Instead of just paying attention to the product before it makes its
Hawaii and California, collecting millions of tonnes of plastic waste.
way into the consumer's hands, manufacturers will need to start
The patch is twice the size of Texas, and experts estimate that by
paying attention to the 'new plastics economy' â&#x20AC;&#x201C; focusing on their
2050, there could be more garbage in the ocean than fish, by weight.
packaging both pre- and post-consumer.
Consumers are aware of these facts, and it works to influence their
Paying attention to post-consumer plastic usage will give
purchasing decisions. Millennials, especially, are much more careful
manufacturers the tools that they need to reduce unnecessary
of where they're spending their money, preferring companies that
waste, both during their production process and after the product
use sustainable business practices and maintain ethical standards.
goes home with the consumer. Right now, most plastics are used
They'll choose a company that has shunned plastic packaging over
and discarded, and if the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is any indicator,
one that hasn't updated their design in a decade, and businesses are
we need to make a change.
starting to notice this. Looking toward the future A successful redesign
Plastic is a popular packaging material because it's durable, versatile
Packaging isn't just something to hold your product until consumers
and lightweight, but it's also creating a problem that's growing larger
purchase it and take it home. Experts have proved that packaging
by the day. We use nearly a trillion single-use plastic grocery bags
design has a direct impact on how well the product performs in
every year and more than half a billion disposable straws, leading
the marketplace.
some states to ban plastic straws altogether.
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Manufacturers are in a perfect position to start leading the charge
Plastic waste in packaging is a huge problem â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and one that won't be
when it comes to improving the post-consumer life of plastic
going anywhere anytime soon unless we start to make small changes
packaging. By relying on recycled plastics and reducing packaging
to nudge the world in the right direction. We don't have long if we
size, it's possible to slowly reduce the amount of plastic waste
want to be able to enjoy the ocean for generations to come. No one
that ends up in landfill and the ocean every year. Some may even
wants to go fishing if all they're going to catch is last year's plastic waste.
decide to encourage recycling, offering bonuses or coupons to those customers who take the time to separate out their recyclables.
Megan Ray Nichols
Sources: Credit Donkey | Earth Day Network | Forbes | The Ocean Clean Up | Packaging Digest | Phase 1 Prototypes | Supply Chain Dive FORWARDER magazine
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WELCOME TO FREIGHTABASE
F
reightabase is an online digital platform for sourcing specialist
At Freightabase we understand that consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs are changing,
carriers to or from any part of the globe. You can source
and with constant time constraints freight buyers need to make
all carrier types, ranging from airlines, shipping lines, freight
educated decisions quickly. The idea of a shipping manager being able
forwarders and parcel carriers.
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FORWARDER magazine
to source information to make a well-informed decision is exciting. ISSUE39
QUICK QUOTE
The ‘Quick Quote’ is designed to assist busy cargo owners who may not have the time to do an advanced search. Simply complete a very simple form and our customer services team will do the rest for you. The service is available on desktop and mobile and the app is being released soon.
DIRECTORY
The ‘Directory’ is recommended if you are looking for a carrier by name or in a specific location. You can also select carriers by key words, e.g. ‘perishables’ or ‘project cargo’. The Directory also lists service suppliers to the industry, e.g. marine insurance or mergers & aquisitions.
LOADING LIST
The ‘Loading List’ is a more advanced search where users can find carriers that specialise in a specific trade lane or shipping route. You can select mode of transport, collection and delivery point. This will then produce a list of specialist carriers to consider for your shipment.
FORWARDER magazine
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WELCOME TO FREIGHTABASE
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
LV Shipping & Transport is an international logistics
Millennium Cargo – freight company with all aspects
provider. We offer a full range of logistical services to
of transport, logistics and freight management. With
our clients through our worldwide network of own
over 20 years in business and REAL people on the
offices and dedicated agents.
phone, we’ll make moving your goods fast, easy and hassle free.
As an independent, privately owned company, we focus on a long-term relationship with our customers.
At Millennium Cargo we won’t confuse you, bamboozle you or ever let you down. But we will…
Our international teams of specialists are dedicated to offer
•• Get Your Quotes To You Fast – Usually within 2 hours!
our clients a personal service that can be summarized as pro-
•• Handle Your Booking Efficiently – You’ll get a fast
active and responsive. It is in our company’s DNA to offer
response and a swift turnaround, every step of the way.
our clients reliable and cost effective transport solutions that
•• Turn Your Documentation Around Quickly – Within 24
can be qualified as best in industry.
hours of departure. No fuss. No dawdling. •• Negotiate Your Credit Terms – Need extended credit
Find out more at
terms? Multi Currencies? No problem, talk to us.
freightabase.com/lv-shipping
•• Work With You Globally – We’re everywhere, so you don’t have to be. We’ll make moving your goods, anywhere in the world, hassle free.
SERVICES AIRFREIGHT CUSTOMS MANAGEMENT OCEAN FREIGHT ROAD TRANSPORT SHIPPING AGENCY WAREHOUSING BARGING & INLAND
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Find out more at freightabase.commillennium-cargo
SERVICES SEA FREIGHT ROAD FREIGHT AIR FREIGHT CROSS TRADES
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
ASAP Express offer same day, overnight and
Europe’s number-1 website for transporters and
international services along with warehousing
express freight forwarders.
and specialist distribution. Managed by a team of experienced professionals, we pride ourselves on our personal service and believe that our success is due to exemplary customer focus to engender a strong relationship with our clients.
•• Cost-effective solutions for the movement of timecritical consignments. •• Our global network of agents and partnerships will ensure your cargo is flown in a timely and cost-effective manner. •• From shipper to consignee we can guarantee an
Our customers receive a flexible partnership approach with
excellent service coupled with comprehensive rates.
the dedicated team that understand your requirements and therefore provide a customer service that you deserve.
What makes up special? Eurgent Ecspress have been supplying Europe’s leading
Every customer has their own individual requirements, ASAP
forwarders and transporters with cost effective solutions for
Express will work with you whatever the size of your business
the movement of time-critical consignments since 1996 – over
to ensure you have a tailor made solution. ASAP Express will
95 of our clients are from within the freight and manufacturing
offer you a dedicated Account Manager who will ensure you
industries – and our network of partners offer the assistance
are happy with our services at all times.
to make you consignment our top priority.
Find out more at
Find out more at
freightabase.com/asap-express-ltd
freightabase.com/ecspress-60-ltd
SERVICES EXPRESS COURIER INTERNATIONAL WAREHOUSING
SERVICES AIR FREIGHT SEA FREIGHT FORWARDER magazine AIR CHARTER EXPRESS SPECIALIST
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M&A for the global freight & logistics industry
+44 (0)20 3872 6906 â&#x20AC;˘ enquiries@freightmergers.com 11 Gower Street, London
Freight Mergers are specialists in selling owner-managed freight forwarding, transportation and logistics businesses. For most company owners, selling their business is the most important financial transaction of their life. Therefore, we tailor our services to each individual clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs, utilising our mastered, proactive approach to selling businesses that connects strategic buyers with sellers who are aiming to realise the value of their business. We have over ten years of experience in the sector and, due to our specialist approach and unparalleled network, we can put you in touch with international and domestic trade buyers.
www.freightmergers.com 118
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F R E I G H T
Are you planning to buy or sell a freight forwarding company? FORWARDER magazine
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M&A FOCUS
F R E I G H T
WITH
D
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at freightmergers.com
avid Roberts of corporate finance team Freight Mergers
we are always keen to talk about the types of offer you could expect
gives his thoughts on the first quarter of 2019 and what lies
to achieve, were you to begin the sale process in the current market.
ahead for deal activity for the rest of the year... Sector appetite
In a time where Brexit has hijacked the media, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been an incredibly
Growth by acquisition presents an opportunity for both companies
tough time for UK businesses that simply seek clarity on what a
in the process and their respective shareholders, staff, customers and
departure from the European Union could look like. The freight
suppliers. The strategic benefit for freight companies is the opportunity
industry is a cornerstone for the British economy and a sector that
to cross-sell services and to enable better buying power with the
desperately requires political certainty. It is reassuring to see so many
carriers, due to the increased freight volume a merge brings. The fact
companies working closely with their customers to form plans on
remains that many companies establish themselves and later solidify their
how to navigate the process in the most seamless manner. Developing
position within the market by acquiring successful, service-oriented,
contingency plans and enhanced supply chain and customs structures
family-owned companies. Finding opportunities which fit culturally as
will certainly mitigate the impact Brexit has on their customers.
well as strategically is still very high on the agendas of both private and listed, forwarding and transportation companies, which aim to further
As we are aware, with volatility comes opportunity. It is evident that
capitalise on the fragmented market that remains.
many freight forwarders are trying to capitalise on this uncertainty by exploring new international markets and trade lanes, whilst also
I envisage further activity for the remainder of the year, as companies
identifying opportunities to deliver new domestic services, should we
attempt to enhance their network and coverage both domestically
leave the single market and the EU customs union.
and internationally. Currently, we are seeing many owner-managed businesses engaging in the sale process, whether that is to secure a
Successful transaction
long term future for their employees and customers, or to continue
The Freight Mergers team successfully advised the shareholders of an East
their growth with the additional financing a larger group can bring.
Midlands-based freight forwarder on the sale of the business. The buyer
Additional skillsets, knowledge and experience which arise during
provides a full range of air, land and ocean freight services globally. This deal
M&A help buyers enhance their service offering and geographical
completed in February and saw the management retained in the business,
coverage. This should in turn deliver higher levels of customer
helping to ensure that synergy benefits are fully realised, whilst maintaining
satisfaction, an objective for nearly all privately owned companies.
a smooth flow in the day-to-day operations. I am optimistic for the M&A market during 2019; I still observe a lot UK meetings
of confidence amongst our clients that there is economic growth and,
It has been fantastic to meet key decision makers throughout the UK
as such, M&A appetite remains strong amongst C-suite executives.
in recent months. The freight industry has some of the most dynamic,
We are always seeking dynamic, growing businesses to work with.
driven and proactive people within it. It is reassuring to see businesses
If you are considering your strategic options for 2019 and beyond,
performing well in such uncertain times. The team and I have discussed
I would be delighted to discuss this with you and share my thoughts.
various stages of the M&A process with an array of business owners
Please contact me or a member of my team on the details below.
during Q1, with a large proportion of our meetings revolving around market appetite and valuations. It is an ever-changing landscape and
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David Roberts, Senior M&A Consultant, Freight Mergers
Direct: +44 (0) 203 872 6906 Mobile: +44 (0) 7766 501 202 david@freightmergers.com
OUR TAKE ON
2019 ACTIVITY
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M&A FOCUS
F R E I G H T
WITH
COMPANIES
FOR SALE FRENCH FREIGHT FORWARDER
GERMAN FREIGHT FORWARDER
Ref. 898FM | France
Ref. 763FM | Germany
Key business features
Key business features
•• Established in early 2000s
•• International air & ocean freight forwarder
•• Privately owned
•• Privately owned – one shareholder
•• International air & ocean: 70%
•• 3 offices across Germany
•• Logistics & road freight: 30%
•• 19 staff
•• 46 staff (2 locations)
•• 50% air freight, 50% sea freight | 70% export, 30% import
•• Clearly defined 2nd-tier management structure
•• Sectors: events logistics and general cargo
•• Export: 66% (China, India, S.E Asia) | Import: 33%
•• Export to China, South America, North America
•• Sectors: aerospace, events, AOG, general cargo
•• Import from China
•• Turnover €16m
•• Turnover €7.0m
•• EBITDA €1.0m
•• PBT €1.0m
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ANY OF THESE OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CONTACT... FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39
122
SELLING OR BUYING A FREIGHT COMPANY? GET IN TOUCH
+44 (0)20 3872 6906
enquiries@freightmergers.com
GERMAN FREIGHT FORWARDER
SOUTHERN & SOUTH AMERICAN N.V.O.C.C. & FORWARDER
Ref. 290FM | Germany
Ref. 448FM | South East USA & South America
Key business features
Key business features
•• Established in 1980
A licensed, national customs broker, freight forwarder and NVOCC
•• Privately owned
•• Established 20 years ago
•• 2 offices across Europe, 44 staff combined
•• Privately owned – looking to continue under new ownership
•• 90% sea freight – Asia, EU, Far East | 10% air freight
•• 20 staff across 3 locations
•• Imports: FAK Cargo, consumer, textiles, industrial
•• Sector: focus on moving large mining, construction and oil/gas machinery, also moving general freight
•• Exports: Automotive, chemicals, industrials
•• 60% ocean | 30% road | 8% air | 2% rail
•• Owner would look at retaining a minority stake in the business
•• Turnover $10m
•• Turnover €20m | PBT €200k •• No debt
DAVID ROBERTS, M&A CONSULTANT, FREIGHT MERGERS
david@freightmergers.com +44 (0)20 3872 6906 FORWARDER magazine ISSUE39
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M&A FOCUS
F R E I G H T
COMPANY SUMMARY:
WITH
MULTIMODAL FREIGHT FORWARDER
Ref. 2232FM | London Heathrow (LHR) Key business features
AIR
Import 17% Export 48% OCEAN
•• Company trading 10+ years •• Six full-time members of staff including two Directors •• IATA and BIFA accredited •• Diverse spread of clients, top 15 represent 78% of T/O •• Global network of partners offering multimodal solutions •• Moved 683,218 kg of air freight in 2017 ••157 LCL and 175 FCL shipments in 2017
Financials
Import 18% Export 8% ROAD
Import 3% Export 1% UK DOMESTIC
4%
FINANCIALS
T/O: £1.3m Adj. PBT: £200k
2018 ••Turnover: £1.30m
GET IN TOUCH
+44 (0)20 3872 6906
•• Gross profit: £410k •• Adj. Profit Before Tax: £200k 2017 ••Turnover: £1.43m •• Gross profit: £454k
SELLER OF THE MONTH •• Adj. Profit Before Tax: £220k
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Ref. 4356FM | UK, US & Germany Overview •• My client offers global freight forwarding, customs brokerage and supply chain management providing air, ocean & road services alongside value-added services •• Having grown organically over a period of 45 years, they are now generating annual consolidated revenue of €300+ million •• Originally established in Europe, they now have a worldwide presence with 20 offices and 1,000+ employees whilst still remaining privately owned ••The primary markets for my client are China, U.K, Australia, South Africa, the Middle East and the U.S. •• With consistent profits and a capital fund, my client is in a strong position with the ability and capacity to acquire privately owned companies
Investment remit •• Focus on international freight (air and ocean), with limited trucking or domestic operations •• Companies located in UK, U.S and Germany ••Turnover of the business to be a minimum of €5.0m, preferably €10m - €50m •• Privately owned companies •• 5+ staff •• Gross operating margin: Expected to be in region of 15 to 30% •• Company must control business rather than large amounts of agent-routed cargo
BUYER OF THE MONTH FORWARDER magazine
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M&A FOCUS
F R E I G H T
WITH
ARE YOU
READY TO EXIT? D eciding to sell your business is most likely
If you are unable to answer these questions now, then start to think
the biggest decision you will ever make
about what you want. If you know the answers to them, then you
as a business owner.
are on the right path.
Are you thinking of selling?
Can you take a break?
Careful thought and planning is vital if you want to successfully sell
Day to day I speak with business owners heavily involved with their
your business. Making your business as attractive as possible to allure
companies. If you are relied upon, it is time to reduce this dependence!
prospective acquirers is critical. Freight, logistic and transport providers are people businesses so What do you want to achieve?
step back and make sure you have experienced management in place
Gaining clarity on what you want before starting the exit process is
that can shoulder the responsibility for these key relationships.
paramount to the transaction. You should have an idea of who you would
This will only enhance the value of the company.
like to purchase your lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. Just anybody is not going to cut it. Preparation Early planning significantly increases the chances of a successful
Maximise value?
outcome. Preparation puts the seller in a strong position. Think like an outsider, identifying key risk areas and taking steps to ensure that
Preserve the culture?
these risks are mitigated. Have ammunition prepared to receive a
Is now the right time to exit?
Being able to provide accurate, timely financials is imperative to a
favourable price for your business.
smooth transaction. Preparing forecasts and making comparisons is a good place to start. This goes hand in hand with having a strong Maintain family heritage?
finance director who has a clear understanding of methods to improve financial management. If confidence can be secured by investors the
Remain involved and experience the growth investors can facilitate?
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transaction is less likely to slip up during financial due diligence.
Keeping financials up to scratch assists the process but portraying the story of your business helps the acquirer understand the peaks and troughs you have experienced. Most importantly, it helps them understand the plan for the future. The underlying focus of your 'story' should be what separates you from your competitors and what drives your success. During the sale process, it is critical to keep the business running on its trajectory. Transactions are complex and highly emotional, but you should aim to minimise the impact on your employees and ensure key client relationships are maintained. This is hard, but is important to ensure that value is solidified for the potential purchaser. Realistic You need to understand the business's value drivers, industry benchmarks and market trends to ascertain what you can expect prior to the process beginning. Many factors affect the value of your business that are not in your control. You should note this and be prepared. All ready? When you are ready to transition, you should be confident everything is prepared to allow the transaction to progress. If you have thought about the above points, the rest should take care of itself. Luke Mitchell, M&A Consultant, Freight Mergers
Luke Mitchell
David Roberts
M&A Consultant
Senior M&A Consultant
Direct: +44 (0)20 3872 6905
Direct: +44 (0)20 3872 6906
Mobile: +44 (0)7824 874 839
Mobile: +44 (0)7766 501 202
luke@freightmergers.com
david@freightmergers.com
www.freightmergers.com FORWARDER magazine
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RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY
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RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY
BRANCH START-UP WEST YORKSHIRE ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
•• £110K GP new business so far this year and more within pipeline •• Business to bring: 80% road, 10% air & 10% sea •• Mode experience: 50% sea, 25% air & 25% road •• Trade routes: Far East, USA, Eastern & Western Europe •• Salary: £45,000
MANAGING DIRECTOR (WILL RELOCATE UK-WIDE)
BRANCH MANAGER MANCHESTER
jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• 10 years’ experience within the industry •• Multi-modal (air, sea & road) •• Directly in charge of 5+ employees •• Operations, sales & business development experience
UK Multimodal Managing Director available for relocation UK wide. Ideally looking for another senior executive level role within an international forwarder of any size. Previous experience primarily with large multinationals. •• Air, Ocean, Road, Rail, 3PL experience •• Managed over 450 employees across multiple UK offices •• Led and overseen merges between companies •• Experienced in aerospace, oil & gas, healthcare and chemical •• Over 30 years of international experience
ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
BUSINESS DEV. MANAGER SOUTH EAST – £50k jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Over 10 years within logistics field sales •• Air, ocean & road sales experience •• Won major accounts for a global forwarder •• Specialist in RORO, machinery & automotive sectors •• Based in the South East
EUROPEAN ROAD FREIGHT OPERATOR ESSEX, UK – £25,000 john@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 932
•• 10 years' road freight experience •• Stable career history, 2 jobs in the past 10 years •• Dealing with Euro imports and exports across Europe •• Dealing with all documentation from A-Z
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CANDIDATES GLOBAL ACCOUNT DIRECTOR ESSEX
jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
SALES EXECUTIVE, GOVERNMENT, DEFENSE & FMS WASHINGTON DC, USA
•• 20 + Years industry experience •• Handles £5 mill GP on blue chip accounts •• Won multiple awards within the industry •• Previous shipping line experience •• Asia, Far East & USA focus
danny@headfordgroup.com | +1 646 915 1495
AIR & OCEAN SALES EXECUTIVE SFO, CA
AIR & OCEAN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER MIAMI, FL
samuel@headfordgroup.com | +1 312 496 6624
•• Achieved $450K+ GP in 2017 •• Territory: National •• 75% new business - 25% existing •• 50% air & 50% ocean – 65% import & 35% export •• Trade routes – Asia, Europe & Latin America •• Verticals: general cargo including high-tech, solar, medical, machines, packaging, temperature controlled, •• Salary: $95K
•• Handles medium – large Project accounts •• Close to $1m GP – 2018 YTD •• Main lanes are Middle East, Africa & S. Asia •• 70% Air, 20% Ocean, 10% Trucking •• Handles accounts nationwide •• No non-compete
lewis@headfordgroup.com | +1 404 592 6315
•• GP for 2017 was around $710,000 •• Territory – Florida with a focus on Miami •• 30% air & 70% ocean – 60% export & 40% import •• Domestic trucking (brokerage LTL & FTL), warehouse & distribution •• Trade routes: Latin America, Asia & Europe •• Salary: $85K
RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY
LCL EXPORT OPERATOR SOUTHAMPTON, UK – £26,000–£31,000
OCEAN IMPORT OPERATOR SOUTHAMPTON, UK – £23,000–£28,000
tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
•• Manage Export process from
•• All ocean import documentation from A-Z •• Will be dealing with customs entries •• Ocean import experience needed
start to finish •• Receive bookings from clients and issue booking confirmation •• Manage load factors to ensure optimum loading •• Create export customs entries
CUSTOMS CLERK SOUTHAMPTON, UK – £18,000 ROAD FREIGHT OPERATOR LEEDS, UK – £23,000–£26,000 paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
•• Keeping customers advised and updated at all stages •• Can complete all documents from A-Z •• Experienced in Groupage, LTL, FTL
MULTIMODAL OPERATOR BIRMINGHAM, UK – £neg. paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
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tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
•• Will be completing customs entries for ocean imports
•• Will be assisting operations team •• Experience of processing customs entries required
OCEAN FREIGHT BDM SOUTHAMPTON, UK – £40,000 + CAR jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Covering Solent area •• Selling FCL & LCL freight services •• Global forwarder
VACANCIES UNITED KINGDOM
CUSTOMS CLEARANCE CLERK HEATHROW, UK – £22,000–£30,000
GENERAL MANAGER, UK & EUROPE HEATHROW, UK – PACKAGE UP TO £90,000
tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Completing a high standard of air/sea import customs entries •• Working accurately in fast-paced environment •• 3 or more years’ experience with customs entries
•• Air, ocean & road freight •• Managing around 30 employees •• Strong people management required •• Commercially focused
IMPORT OPERATOR HEATHROW, UK – £27,000–£31,000 tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
•• Working full import process from start to finish •• Over 2 years’ experience required •• Will be working in a fast-paced rates and bookings department
PRICING SPECIALIST BIRMINGHAM, UK – £26,000–£30,000 paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
OCEAN EXPORT OPERATOR BIRMINGHAM, UK – £neg. paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
AIR FREIGHT SPECIALIST (4 ON, 4 OFF) HEATHROW, UK – £28,000–£32,000 tom@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 934
OCEAN EXPORT TEAM LEADER BIRMINGHAM, UK – £neg.
•• Dealing with exports, AOG, entries, cutting AWBs and
paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
completing data entry •• Strong experience in exports •• 3 years+ experience required
AIR & OCEAN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER KENT, UK – £40,000 + CAR + COMMISSION jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
OCEAN IMPORT OPERATOR BIRMINGHAM, UK – £neg. paul@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 785
•• Mid-sized forwarder •• Covering Dartford, Essex & Solent •• Selling air & ocean services
RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY
EXPORT MANAGER C. KILKENNY, R.O.I. – €40,000–€45,000 ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
•• Leading the Export Operations team •• Acting as the point of escalation for any issues •• Implementing and monitoring KPI’s •• Managing continuous improvement within the department •• Staff appraisals •• Visiting customers where necessary
ROAD FREIGHT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER C. KILKENNY, R.O.I. – €40,000–€50,000 + CAR + BO. ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
AIR & OCEAN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER C. DUBLIN, R.O.I. – €45,000–€60,000 +CAR + BO. ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
•• Building and maintaining a customer network and hunting for new business
•• Client development •• Maintaining existing relationships •• Presenting monthly and quarterly performance figures to the board and sales team members
DEPOT OPERATIONS MANAGER C. DUBLIN, R.O.I. – €60,000–€70,000 +CAR + BO. ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
•• Building and maintaining a customer network
•• Manage a team of supervisors with the responsibility
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER FRANKFURT (JW555) – €60,000
ROAD FREIGHT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER C. DUBLIN, R.O.I. – €40,000–€50,000 + CAR + BO.
and hunting for new business •• Client development •• Maintaining existing relationships •• Presenting monthly and quarterly performance figures to the board and sales team members
jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Selling Air & Ocean solutions •• Global Forwarder •• Covering Frankfurt region •• Asia, Indian subcontinent, Australasian route focus
for drivers, P&L, warehouse sortation, delivery and operations •• Managing a busy depot with 100+ staff •• Drive and lead the change process to deliver a fully integrated service centre operation
ryan@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 787
•• Development of new business •• Retention of existing business, maintain and develop customer relationships
•• Customer negotiation to achieve competitive cost structures •• Handling quotation requests •• Issue sales reports & quote requests and ensure appropriate follow up on all replies
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VACANCIES INTERNATIONAL
SALES MANAGER AMSTERDAM – €5,000 PER MONTH +CAR + BONUS
OCEAN FREIGHT SALES EXECUTIVE COPENHAGEN – COMPETITIVE +CAR + BONUS
john@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 935
john@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 935
A mid-size forwarder in the Amsterdam area are expanding due to growth. They are now looking to hire an experienced Sales Executive, so sell airfreight services across The Netherlands. This is a new business role, where you will work closely with operations to ensure the smooth onboarding of new clients.
An international top 25 freight forwarder are looking to increase their business development team based in Copenhagen
•• 10% Bonus for life of accounts •• Car, Laptop & mobile included
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER ISTANBUL – €5,000 PER MONTH +CAR + BONUS john@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 935
A small forwarder in Istanbul area are now looking to hire an experienced Sales Executive, to sell air & ocean freight services across Eastern Europe. This is a hunter role with lots of opportunities to progress, and grow a team around you.
•• 15% Bonus for life of accounts •• Car, Laptop & mobile included
BRANCH MANAGER STUTTGART (JW890) – CIRCA €80,000 jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Air & Ocean operations •• Managing around 30 employees •• German forwarder with 4 + German offices
•• Work as part of a large international company •• Competitive salary expectation •• Highly generous bonus / commission plan
DECLARANT / CUSTOMS OFFICER ROTTERDAM – NEGOTIABLE, ~€3,200 PER MONTH john@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 935
A large freight forwarder have several vacancies to join their team of declarants in Rotterdam. You will work as part of a team to make sure the company meet their customs requirements to maintain the smooth running of accounts
•• Must hold a declarant license •• Salary is negotiable, approximately €3,200 per month •• Support & training from a well know international freight forwarder •• Highly generous bonus / commission plan
INSIDE SALES EXECUTIVE FRANKFURT (JW221) – €45,000 jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• Air & Ocean focused •• Assisting sales team with leads, cold calling •• Inside sales team of 6
RECRUITMENT FOCUS POWERED BY
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER NEW YORK, NY – $80 - 100K
AIRFREIGHT EXPORT OPERATOR HAMBURG (JW443) – €40,000
danny@headfordgroup.com | +1 (646) 915 1495
jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• 4 offices in the US – New York x 2, L.A. & New Jersey •• Air, Ocean, Road, Warehousing & Distribution, CHB,
•• Handling all documentation start to finish •• Fast pace air export team of 6 •• General Cargo with worldwide trade routes
PO Management and more
•• Industry coverage: Fashion & Retail, Hospitality, Consumer, Food/Beverage
•• Technology is a big aspect, utilizing CargoWise and offering real-time visibility & tracking
EXPORT AGENT CHARLOTTE, NC – $41K - $45K tom@headfordgroup.com | +1 (470) 558 2953
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER ATLANTA, GA – $70 - 90K + 5% OF ALL GP lewis@headfordgroup.com | +1 (404) 592 6315
•• Air, Ocean, Trucking, Customs Brokerage,
•• 2-3 years export experience required •• CargoWise experience would be a plus •• Working with both air and ocean exports •• Fast paced export department
Warehousing/Distribution
•• Specialize in Government & Bio-Pharma Logistics while also covering FAK
•• Average tenure of 10.6 years per employee •• 10% growth 2017 to 2019
VICE PRESIDENT – CUSTOMS BROKEAGE LOS ANGELES, CA – $110 - 200K lewis@headfordgroup.com | +1 (404) 592 6315
OCEAN IMPORT CO-ORDINATOR LOS ANGELES, CA - $45 - $55 DOE ben@headfordgroup.com | +1 (470) 481 1844
•• Work with President to grow the US business •• Lead branch start-ups •• US offices already in LA, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle •• Services include customs brokerage, consulting, Air/ Ocean freight forwarding
•• Must be comfortable with full Import process (including billing)
•• 2+ years of experience is required (with a Freight Forwarder)
•• Located in Inglewood, LA
OCEAN EXPORT OPERATOR HAMBURG – JW442 jamiew@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 275 951
•• All export documentation start to finish •• Global top 20 forwarder •• Team of 8
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VACANCIES INTERNATIONAL
IT / SOFTWARE MANAGER FELTHAM/HEATHROW
jason@headfordgroup.com | +44 (0)1454 628 779
Our client is a medium-to-large-sized freight forwarder, which has kept a focus on excellence in service and personalised solutions for our customers. Facilitating this service-driven culture is an experienced staff with a wealth of knowledge in all facets of international forwarding and logistics.
•• Full-time position •• Salary discussed on application •• Excellent benefits Position
The client is aiming to bring in an IT/software manager on a full-time basis to manage their in-house system, which is currently outsourced. This role may be suited to a Senior Software Manager looking at moving into IT management where they will be in charge of this product. The client wishes to separate this software to run the logistics side of the business. Skills and knowledge
•• SQL •• Cloud (AWS preferable) •• e-Commerce •• Some coding will need to implemented but is dependent on the candidate, C# .NET is suitable •• Should be able to manage integrations For more information, please contact Jason Pocock for further details and the next stage of the interview process.
Fill your vacancies
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Let us assist with your company's growth...
Finance
Europe +44 01454 275957 ryan@headfordgroup.com
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Operations Sales Management
USA Sourcing market-leading talent.
www.headfordgroup.com
Your strategic growth partner. Executive Search • Branch Startups • Senior Appointments • Mergers & Acquisitions • Media
Considering a change? More responsibility? Fairer pay? Better commission? Send us your CV today...
Asia +1 404 592 6315 lewis@headfordgroup.com
Middle East +971 (0) 45 015 675 simon@headford.ae
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MARKETING FOCUS WITH
A
s a business, it is easy to feel as though you are not allowed to talk about your success – you often have to wait for others to give the praise, be that existing or previous
clients and customers. We’re living in a digitalised world, and let’s be frank: nobody would be interested in LinkedIn if their feed were clogged with constant pushy, boastful posts from companies.
1
Brand awareness Publishing a company report gives you the perfect opportunity to discuss your business, what you specialise in, what your
audience demographic is and any recognisable praises such as testimonials from clients. Not only this, but the layout and design of your report will maximise your brand's impact. Branding (as discussed in issue 37) is an integral part of your company and is the
In a modern world full of myriad marketing intelligence and business
identity that allows you to stand out. You should ensure that your
strategies, companies try to stand out whilst still maintaining a
newsletter conforms to your corporate identity from cover to cover,
modicum of dignity. Oh, and don’t you dare get caught talking about
which will solidify your presence.
From reaching a milestone or anniversary achievement, to informing
2
potential customers that you offer impressive services to the
reason, be they a potential client, potential candidate or out of research/
freight and logistics industry. These credible achievements can be
interest). So keep this in mind and blow your trumpet loud and clear
showcased in a tailored, sleek and professional format without the
– your audience aren’t LinkedIn scrollers, they’re here for business.
how modest your company is, because you will immediately fail and be labelled with the same boastful behaviour you’re trying to avoid in the first place. Reality check: it’s immodest to claim modesty. Where exactly do we draw the line between smug and confident?
Blow your own trumpet (you’re in the right acoustics) Granted, this article opened up about how businesses need to consider their marketing strategies and not sound too
boastful. However, the purpose of a newsletter? Company news.
There is a way you can shout about your company, professionally.
fuss of crossing any lines. The solution? A company newsletter, and here’s why you’re missing out...
Anyone reading it will fully expect to be reading about the ins and outs of your company (and are likely viewing this information for a
3
Marketing strategy A company report is brilliant for an additional marketing strategy. What better way to clinch a sale or get your brand
‘out there’ than with a sleek, shiny newsletter? This booklet will more or less be your company bible, so make sure you utilise it as much as possible. With over 25 years of team experience, Freight Media are marketing professionals, specialising in freight forwarding and logistics. At Freight Media, we understand that there’s competition to set yourself apart from other freight businesses, and to do so requires the right tools. Perfect to take to trade shows, client meetings and on display at your office, a company report can provide useful and insightful information to enhance your business' image. Rachel Jefferies, Editor, FORWARDER magazine
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READ ALL ABOUT IT!
WHY COMPANY NEWSLETTERS SHOULDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T BE NEGLECTED FORWARDER magazine
ISSUE39
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MARKETING FOCUS WITH
N
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at freightwebsite.design
obody likes a poor website. Weak design, difficult
Introducing freightwebsite.design…
navigation, overwhelming content, slow loading images:
Specialising in both freight and web development, Freightwebsite.
these are all factors that could be dragging your website
design is an end-to-end service, specifically developed and tailored
– and subsequently business – down. Not convinced? Studies
to the logistics sector. Giving as much or little assistance required,
have shown that 38% of visitors will exit a website if the layout is
jargon-based terms such as web hosting, SEO, backlinks and canonical
unattractive or the content isn’t engaging. This could be problematic
links won’t seem so daunting if you’re not specialised in web design.
for e-commerce-led industries like freight. Is your website the reason your company could be missing out on business? How do you ensure your website is at its optimum quality for a user-friendly experience? You need to remember that your website homepage is essentially your “shop front”. In freight and logistics, it’s very rare you’ll have a physical shop front. Your website is the number one place users (and potential customers) will visit before making a decision to invest in
MARKETING RESEARCH REVEALS THAT 47% OF PEOPLE EXPECT A WEB PAGE TO LOAD IN 2 SECONDS OR LESS. FURTHERMORE, 48% OF PEOPLE RANKED WEBSITE DESIGN AS THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR WHEN DECIDING THE CREDIBILITY OF A BUSINESS.
your services. The overall growth of online trade has significantly
Sometimes, an in-depth discussion is what it takes to work out
increased, estimating that by 2040, around 95% of purchases will be
how your site might benefit from a makeover. Whilst it may seem
facilitated by e-commerce. Therefore, it’s surely a no-brainer that
like appearance is everything, there's much more to consider when
your website should be your number one priority. Are you likely to
looking to improve the quality of your website. If you want your
visit a dingy, old fashioned store that has nothing to offer on display?
company to reach the first page of Google's search results using
When it’s as easy as reverting to the next Google search result, you
general search terms, you need to consider factors such as Search
want to make sure you’re the brand freighters decide to stick with.
Engine Optimisation (SEO). Refreshed, unique content and being clued up about strategic backlinks could really boost your website's
Okay, I hear you, but where do I start?
traffic stats.
Finding the right web developer can be a challenge in itself. You wouldn’t get your hair cut by a sheep sheerer, so why get your freight
Covering web design, web development, Search Engine Optimisation
website designed by just a general web developer? Freight forwarding
(SEO), hosting, maintenance, support, social media marketing
is a niche industry, so it’s important that your web developer
and logo/brand design, freightwebsite.design is built by a team of
understands the nuts and bolts of the industry. Representing the
specialists who truly care about the freight industry. Offering a
freight sector isn’t just about plastering each page with aeroplanes
combination of sector knowledge and professional, experienced web
and ships. While some freight companies choose to refrain from
developers, your website is safe in our freight industry specialist
the cliché “trucks and ships” imagery, others embrace a traditional
hands. No misinterpretation, no hassle, no bull. Just the perfect
freight style. In order to stand out, it's imperative for your web
formula of expert knowledge and passion.
developer to appreciate the balance between your company and its services and keeping up with the latest news and trends in the sector.
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Rachel Jefferies, Editor, FORWARDER magazine
FORWARDER magazine
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A WORD FROM...
ELLENA AUSTIN
W
ith the outcome and consequential aftermath of Brexit
The Kaizen model also provides a degree
remaining as an unknown (at the time of writing),
of protection in times of uncertainty
businesses are understandably delaying significant
by providing a means to improve upon
decisions and investments until greater clarity around
processes without jeopardising the overall
the future of the trading agreement between the EU
operation. This is because low-cost changes
and the UK is known. The past 2 and a half years of
can be implemented in one specific area of
Brexit negotiations have impacted the UK economy and, as a result, The Bank of England
the business to tackle a particular challenge
have since revised their original forecast for GDP growth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reducing it by 1.2% compared
with instant results.
to original expectations three years ago. Although the uncer tainty of Brexit
S uch uncer t aint y risk s businesses
continues to impact businesses and stagnant
becoming stagnant, unable to effectively
their future moves across both the UK and
form decisions due to a lack of detailed
the EU, the Kaizen methodology can help
information. Furthermore, the impacts and
to continue driving businesses forward until
uncertainty of Brexit seem to be far from
the road ahead is clearer.
over, and at least set to continue for the remainder of 2019. So, how can you keep
Ellena Austin, Yusen Logistics
moving forwards with the uncertainty of Brexit hanging over your operations? In a time where investment and resources
approach, every person is encouraged
are limited, the focus shifts to small
to share suggestions for improvements.
improvements that can be implemented
Through the collective individual efforts of
quickly with a minimal cost. This is the
an entire organisation, small improvements
key principle behind the Kaizen philosophy.
can be actioned across every area of the
From the Japanese Kai (improvement) and
business to achieve incremental innovation
Zen (good), the Kaizen approach originated
â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over time, making a significant overall
in an era of austerity and focused on
impact and continuing to drive the business
identifying improvements for the current
forward, all whilst minimising the resources
workforce, equipment and technologies to
required.
provide quick wins at a low cost.
employees to have a say on changes in the
Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, empowering
workplace boosts morale which, in turn, The success of Kaizen lies in the involvement of all employees at every level of a company. Rather than a top-down or bottom-up
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leads to higher productivity levels.
linkedin.com/company/yusen-logisticseuropelinkedin.com/in/dreambiggerdigitalmarketing/ @YusenLogisticsE
HOW CAN YOU MOVE FORWARDS IN STAGNANT TIMES?
FORWARDER magazine
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A WORD FROM...
FLORIAN FREESE
D
emurrage and Detention quickly become a shipper’s nightmare and can result
How can you avoid demurrage
in thousands of dollars in per diem charges. Costs that arise because of bad
and detention charges?
planning, unforeseen circumstances, and bad communication can play such a
Demurrage and Detention are in most
big role in the final cost of freight.
cases out of your hands and hard to control. However, there are ways to minimize the
Demurrage and Detention charges are a
risk and avoid unnecessary charges.
matter of the allowed free days – if these days are exceeded, the container user has to
1. Negotiate terms
pay a charge calculated per day. Oftentimes,
Always try to negotiate terms instead of
carriers such as Maersk and COSCO charge
accepting a freight quote as it is. Negotiate
up to $400 per day per container.
with your carrier and request more free days to buy you more time. That might
In this article, we explain Demurrage and
work as a strategy to avoid Demurrage
Detention terms and provide shippers with
and Detention as carriers sometimes grant
five tips on how to avoid high costs when
shippers with large volumes of cargo some
planning freight.
more time.
Meaning of demurrage
2. Always have a plan B
and detention in export...
Asses alternative truck rates, other truck
Detention charges happen in export when
services or even look for available terminals
the empty containers have been picked up
Demurrage and detention
nearby in case your cargo needs to be
for loading and are not returned within the
for importers...
rerouted. If everything goes wrong with the
set free days. Typically, carriers allow for up
Pick up and move your containers out of the
initial plan, it is important to have another
to 5 free days and charge shippers for extra
port once they are discharged from the vessel.
option to avoid large costs.
days before the container is moved inside
In conventional shipping the free days are often
the terminal or depot. Demurrage charges
somewhere from 3 to 5 days. A Demurrage
3. Efficiently manage time
occur when containers cannot be shipped
charge is levied should it take you longer
Most importantly, dispatch your cargo as
due to the lack of documentation or other
than that to get your containers. Detention
far in advance as possible! This gives you
non-carrier related errors. The carrier will
refers to the time outside the port, where
more flexibility and a bigger time frame for
not be able to load the container to the
the shipper holds the container beyond the
handling unforeseen challenges such as bad
scheduled vessel in that case and will charge
allowed free-days. This is done in an attempt
weather or backlogs at the port. The same is
you storage costs for the period until the
to decrease the containers turnaround time
applicable to loading times, where just small
next scheduled vessel is ready.
and make shipping more efficient.
time-buffers can make it for you!
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4. Be well prepared Don’t make the mistake of signing a contract just as it is. Always be informed and read through it carefully, as the per-diem charges and fees are ultimately determined in your contract. Further, ensure that you are in good knowledge of the customs clearance processes and port regulations. Be on the safe side and understand that even geography plays a huge role, as different countries have different definitions. 5. Bring your own container It was always a pain in the arse to find shipper owned containers (SOC) as you had to reach out to your network, get lucky, and organize everything on your own. Container xChange now made it easy to use or supply containers for SOC for one-way use on their neutral online marketplace. Using their online platform, you save up to $400 or completely avoid Demurrage and Detention as their perdiem fees are below $5 per container. Florian Freese, Container xChange
HOW TO AVOID HIGH DEMURRAGE & DETENTION CHARGES
linkedin.com/company/containerxchange/
@ConXchange
FORWARDER magazine
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THE LAST WORD...
T
he production of this issue of the magazine went on in
Instagram. This has made me question whether young adolescents
March, wherein lies International Women’s Day – so what
(or perhaps even genders) are exposed to industries that are outside
better article to write than one for the ladies in logistics?
of the educational curriculum and traditional gender norms. Despite the nature of freight being a 24/7 industry, perhaps the logistics
Women’s Vote Act 1928; Abortion Act 1967; The Equal Pay Act and
sector hasn’t fully embraced flexible working to the extent that it
Sex Discrimination Act 1975; Parliament’s first female Prime Minister
could have, meaning that it could appeal to a much wider audience,
1979: this is just a handful of pinnacle turning points for women and
particularly females.
way, yet there is still more progress to be made.
WOMEN IN FREIGHT
gender equality throughout history. Gender equality has come a long
Freight is one of the most male-dominated industries in the world.
Women in Transport’s findings from Department for Transport (DfT) prove this:
Women are severely under-represented in the freight sector. The whole industry, including warehousing and office roles, is around 92-94% male. Gender balance among drivers is almost non-existent; the workforce is 99% white male, with an average age of 54.
Figures like these in this day and age are surprising. You tend to
assume these gender figures would be more evenly weighted on
both ends of the see-saw. As a young woman working in the freight and logistics industry myself, I can’t help but notice the shortage of
women I come across, especially during freight and logistics events. Women in Transport voice that the sector has an estimated driver shortage of 45,000.
It relies to a large extent on EU nationals
working in the UK to make up its workforce. Encouraging more women into the logistics sector would help address the driver shortage.
Before I worked in this industry, I had no idea what freight was, let alone did it ever occur to me that every item of food, clothes and furniture has most likely been involved in freight at some
point. It wasn’t something I ever learned about in school, and it’s highly unlikely I would have every scrolled past a logistics post on
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... THIS IS FOR YOU
Interested in whether recruitment would hold any significant figures
With all of the above said, the freight and logistics industry seems
regarding gender and the industry, I asked the freight forwarding
to be moving in the right direction. Working in logistics can be an
recruitment manager at Headford Growth USA, Lewis Bunn,
attractive industry to dive into, as salaries in the industry are higher
whether he had any findings...
than in traditionally female dominated sectors, such as hospitality and hairdressing, which could be used to attract more women to the sector.
Spend half an hour with any of our consultants while they email and call clients and candidates across the UK & US and you’ll see
Organisations such as Women in Logistics, CILT International and
an abundance of male names with the odd female name thrown in.
S.H.E. Trucking have been set up in support and celebration of women in the logistics industry. Whether the role is behind the wheel trucking,
While I don’t have any official statistics to hand, our database is a fairly
freight forwarding or in the back office, the sense of community for
accurate representation of the makeup of the market as we make
women in logistics is definitely something to raise a glass to.
a point of adding to it every freight & logistics professional that we come across. I can see that 36% of the placements Headford made into freight forwarders across the US and the UK in 2018 were female.
Rachel Jefferies, Editor, FORWARDER magazine
I can also see that less than 15% of UK based freight forwarding professionals at Director level or above on our database are female, and it tends to be less the further north you go. It’s impossible to say why this is and could be down to numerous factors such as industry bias; fewer women staying in the industry long enough to move into more senior roles; fewer women actually wanting to take the helm in such a male dominated industry or any number of other factors. Whatever it is, it doesn’t seem right and it’s certainly far from representative of the general population. That being said, I can positively say that we have seen, certainly over the past five years, a steady increase of not only female applicants, but also more female applicants making it through to interview stage and ultimately taking positions. There does seem to be a correlation between increasing numbers of women in larger, more corporate forwarders, leaving behind the smaller, family run businesses, but I don’t believe this is a conscious decision by the smaller companies; more a drive by the larger corporations to be more inclusive, and looking to take advantage of the many bonuses that come with more women in business. FORWARDER magazine
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THE LAST WORD... THE TEAM...
CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SARAH SENIOR EDITOR RACHEL EDITOR RICHARD ADVERTISING DOM ADVERTISING TIM DESIGNER
A FINAL WORD FROM
THE EDITOR...
N
ext issue, FORWARDER will be shifting onto project
cargo and abnormal loads. With the unknown of Brexit and its outcome (yes, even after March), we will be
analysing the industry and how these turbulent last few months have and will continue to affect the freight industry. We will be checking in with the North East and Benelux, which are our regional foci for issue 40. There’s plenty to talk about in project cargo, and we want you to be part of the discussion. If you have something you would like to contribute, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us. Rachel Jefferies, Editor, FORWARDER magazine
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NEXT MONTH...
MONTHLY FOCUS
PUBLISHED BY
Project cargo & abnormal loads
REGIONAL FOCUS
UK: North East | Global: Benelux
INDUSTRY NEWS
More news and press releases from the world of freight
FOCUS ROUNDUP
Articles from the last 12 months relevant to the focus
ASK THE EXPERTS
Topical knowledge from the FTA and other industry experts
FORWARD TECH
Industry knowledge focused on technology and advancements
MARKETING FOCUS
We help you to get your message out to the industry
M&A FOCUS
More from the world of mergers & acquisitions in freight
RECRUITMENT FOCUS
Current jobs and candidates from Forwardingjobs
Please be aware, in this dynamic industry these topics and features are subject to change.
Unit 8 Apex Court, Almondsbury Business Park, Bristol BS32 4JT twitter.com/ForwarderMag ForwarderMag facebook.com/forwardermagazine linkedin.com/company/forwarder-magazine www.FORWARDERmagazine.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Craig Headford craig@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 275 946 SENIOR EDITOR
Sarah O'Connell sarah@forwardermagazine.com EDITOR
Rachel Jefferies rachel@forwardermagazine.com ADVERTISING
Richard Booth richard@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 275 952 Dom Roberts dom@freight-media.com • +44 (0)1454 628 794 DIGITAL MARKETING
Darren Glasspool d.glasspool@freight-media.com
I
f you would like your editorial to feature in next month’s magazine, please contact our editors Sarah & Rachel using the contact details to the right. If you would like to advertise in FORWARDER
magazine, full details of our rates and technical specifications can be found in our media pack. Please email us for a copy.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Tim Headford tim@forwardermagazine.com SUBSCRIBE
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FORWARDER magazine is free in the UK. Please email for a subscription form. Please visit us online at
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FORWARDER magazine
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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMING UP...
Manchester Australasia WCA
#26
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North East Benelux
Trevor Paul, Twente Express
South West Middle East
Sela Koydengoctu, DGS Group
HAZARDOUS GOODS
Northern Ireland Africa Eddie Buist, Peter Murphy, Action International
#30
PUBLISHEDOCTOBER2018
Karl Hodgkinson, Howard Tenens
PROJECT CARGO
#28
ISSUE39
Scotland Far East
UK DISTRIBUTION & NETWORKS
AIRFREIGHT & AIRLINES Solent Scandinavia
Introducing... Freightabase
#32
UK & GLOBAL COURIER Midlands Mediterranean Introducing... Loadie
PUBLISHEDNOVEMBER2018
AIRPORTS & SEAPORTS
PUBLISHEDAUGUST2018
Simon Beechener, Simpex
SUPPLY CHAIN
PUBLISHEDSEPTEMBER2018
15
Yorkshire The Americas
#33
#31
PUBLISHEDJULY2018
Ipswich ope
EUROPEAN ROAD
PUBLISHEDJUNE2018
Caroline Barber, Transaid
#29
PUBLISHEDAPRIL2018
Liverpool & North Wales Indian subcontinent
PUBLISHEDFEBRUARY2018
PUBLISHEDJANUARY2018
CE
TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED
PUBLISHEDMARCH2018
#27
#25
WARE & STO
Essex, Eastern
#34
PUBLISHEDDECEMBER2018
#35
#37
OCEAN FREIGHT & SHIPPING LINES Heathrow & London Iberia
#39
TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED
Liverpool & North Wales Indian subcontinent
Kent & Sussex n Europe
EUROPEAN ROAD & EXPRESS Yorkshire The Americas
SUPPLY CHAIN & RETAIL Scotland Far East
Featuring... Retail Transport Services
Featuring... Antwerp XL
EHOUSING ORAGE
#41
CUSTOMS CLEARANCE & BONDED Wâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;HOUSING Felixstowe & Ipswich Western Europe
AIR PORTS & SEA PORTS Manchester Australasia
PROJECT CARGO & ABNORMAL LOADS North East Benelux
HAZARDOUS & DANGEROUS GOODS Northern Ireland Africa
George Baker, George Baker Shipping
#36
#38
#40
#42
= printed issue
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READ ALL ABOUT IT! MDXpress is the culmination of more than 30 years of freighting experience.
EXPRESS FREIGHT
Our aim is to be your partner and provide a firstclass customer experience, guiding you through the transport process and treating every shipment with the same high level of attention as your first booking. The partner philosophy is... 'It’s not just a shipment, it is our shipment.'
ROAD FREIGHT
OCEAN FREIGHT
AIR FREIGHT
Midlands office
Scotland office
MDXpress Ltd Station House Station Road Shenstone Lichfield, WS14 0NW +44 (0)1543 484346
MDXpress Ltd MDXpress Ltd Ancaster Business Centre 29 Hill Top Cross Street Tonbridge We're into our third year Callander FK17 8E TN9 now 2UNand all of our issues are available on ISSUU.com – just search 'Forwarder'. Of course, you can always Stirlingshire Kent read the latest issue on our website, at... +44 (0)1360 602000 +44 (0)1732 440582
South East office
FORWARDER please call or email info@mdxpress.co.uk and we will contact you as soon as possible. MAGAZINE.COM /READ-FORWARDER To receive a quotation or more information about MDXPRESS,
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VACANCIES TO FILL? BUSINESS DEV. MANAGER BRANCH MANAGER SALES DIRECTOR OPERATIONS MANAGER TRANSPORTATION BROKER AIR FREIGHT SALES EXEC. GENERAL MANAGER IMPORT OPERATOR KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER ROUTE DEV. MANAGER OCEAN FREIGHT BDM
GET THEM NOTICED IN FORWARDER'S RECRUITMENT FOCUS Get your freight and logistics vacancies
Your roles will also be seen at
seen by the cream of the forwarding
FORWARDERmagazine.com in the
industry. FORWARDER goes out to
Recruitment Focus section. Call us now
thousands of freight executives and
on +44 (0)1454 628 775 or email us at
managers every month.
team@freight-media.com FORWARDER magazine
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