FORWARDER magazine issue 63

PALLET NETWORKS UNITED PALLET NETWORK celebrates 20 years of success and growth

HOW PALLET NETWORKS CONTRIBUTE to expansion and supply chain efficiency

THE HAZCHEM NETWORK ...hazardous goods specialist pallet network

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MD, ACTION ROADWAYS

b e W n g i s de e h t for ht g i e fr stry u d in

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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

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CONTENTS

elcome to

19 IDCOVOVERY K RECUNCING BAC

BREXIT BRIEFING AIR FREIGHT

SEA FREIGHT ROAD FREIGHT

2

BO

Move

16

STEP Like...

THOM HEN PS MD o ON

Actio n

it

26

f Road ways

40

RAIL FREIGHT

66

PROJECT CARGO

70

AIR & SEA PORTS

76

TECH & DIGITALISATION

82

EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

102

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

110

INDUSTRY SERVICES

114

TRAINING & RECRUITMENT

126

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

146

MEDIA & MARKETING

156

GIVING BACK NEW SECTION

164 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE63

3

OPERATIONS

ACCOUNTS

making information flow…

4 FORWARDER magazine boxtop.net

ISSUE63

CRM

BOXTRAX

WAREHOUSING

WEB API’S

PO MANAGEMENT

WELCOME TO FORWARDER...

A WORD FROM

FORWARDER

MEET THE TEAM

W

elcome to the pallet networks issue. When you get

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

to the road freight section you'll find some excellent content from some of the movers and shakers in the

craig@freightsolutions.com

pallet game, such as Pall-Ex and Pallet Track.

ALAN EDITOR

editor@forwardermagazine.com

As you've no doubt seen on the cover, we're featuring Stephen Thompson

LUKE SALES MANAGER

from Action Roadways as our Move it Like... this month, interviewed by

luke@freightsolutions.com +44 (0)7368 976 852

our Editor. Stephen talks to us about his trials, tribulation and successes in recent months, from Operation Stack to the acquisition by DGS.

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MOVE IT LIKE... STEPHEN THOMPSON, MD, ACTION ROADWAYS POST-BREXIT EFFICIENCIES THE BREXIT SITUATION

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1

BREXIT BRIEFING

We delve into the opportunities (and the challenges) presented by Britain’s departure from the EU. Related topics Global trade agreements Border control Import/export balance

Sponsored by

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ISSUE63

WANT TO KNOW MORE? 13 APRIL 2021

STATEMENT FROM LOGISTICS UK...

Further information can be found at logistics.org.uk

ONS FIGURES ON UK TRADE IN FEBRUARY 2021

S

peaking about the figures published by the ONS today (13 April 2021) for February 2021, Alex Veitch, Logistics UK’s

ABOUT LOGISTICS UK

General Manager of Public Policy, said:

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping

Logistics UK is encouraged to see that the ONS figures show an

the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly

improvement to the volume of goods moved between the UK and EU.

employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.

We expect this trend will continue as many of the factors which may

With COVID-19, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive

have caused friction to trade in recent months, including COVID-19

forces driving change in the way goods move across borders

restrictions, stockpiling, and challenges with the implementation of new

and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more

post-Brexit trade processes, continue to dissipate. Now, Logistics UK is

important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands

urging government and industry to ensure that the entire supply chain

up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group

is ready for the introduction of further EU-UK border controls from

which represents the whole industry, with members from

1 January 2022 to keep trade moving as smoothly as possible in the

the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of

coming months and years.

freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.

For more information about the organisation and its work, including its ground-breaking research into the impacts of COVID-19 on the whole supply chain, please visit logistics.org.uk

FORWARDER magazine

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3

BREXIT BRIEFING NEWS 20 APRIL 2021

LOGISTICS UK COMMENT ON

KENT ACCESS PERMIT & OPERATION BROCK REMOVAL

H

ABOUT LOGISTICS UK

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups,

eidi Skinner, Policy Manager for the South at Logistics UK

representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK

comments:

The government’s decision to abolish the Kent

trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in

Access Permit is a reflection of the hard work undertaken

the making, selling and moving of goods. With COVID-19, Brexit,

by logistics businesses across the supply chain to ensure operations

new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the

are border ready before hauliers embark on travel to the Channel

way goods move across borders and through the supply chain,

ports. The Check an HGV service has been an effective tool in guiding

logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK

businesses to the paperwork needed to cross the border. Today’s news

supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and

is positive for the industry and, in conjunction with the deactivation of

is the only business group which represents the whole industry,

the M20 Operation Brock contraflow, will support the smooth flow of

with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as

trade to and from the UK. Logistics UK is now urging government and

the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers

industry to ensure the entire supply chain is ready for the introduction

whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For

of further EU-UK border controls from 1 January 2022 to keep trade

more information about the organisation and its work, including

flowing freely in the months and years to come.

its ground-breaking research into the impacts of COVID-19 on the whole supply chain, please visit logistics.org.uk

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at ccctransport.com

R

Over the past 12 months CCC has invested substantially in technology and systems to improve customer experience, using a new inhouse IT TMS platform, with added elements developed specifically to support CCC.

oll-on roll-off (ro-ro) specialists Continental Cargo Carriers (CCC) reports that normal service has now resumed following

CCC continue to invest in its future by improving and streamlining

the challenges at the start of the year – with the end of the

operations. As part of its ongoing plans to improve efficiencies, the

Brexit transition period.

company has now fully implemented the bespoke Leonardo IT system.

Created by Europa’s in-house development team, Leonardo is continuously

Established in 1973, CCC is one of the biggest players on the roll-on

being developed to ensure customers have access to full trackability and

roll-off market between Europe and the UK, delivering full and part-

management of their shipments. The system brings operational benefits

load consignments daily. It operates a fleet of 270 trailers, with a

for CCC, improving efficiencies and offering visibility.

4000 m2 warehouse and employs a team in Belgium and the UK. CCC was acquired by Europa Worldwide Group in 2018 but is a wholly

Carlo added:

We’re looking forward to a year now that Brexit is

separate division.

complete so that we can continue to improve and enhance our services, and we have exciting investment plans in the pipeline.

We are increasing volume traffic week on week and are now experiencing minimal delays. The start of the year presented a huge test for us – from customers stockpiling and limiting shipments to the confusion over new regulations. Volumes for March are now back to pre-Covid levels and are continuing to increase. We want to thank all of our valued customers, partners, agents and colleagues for their support throughout what has been a difficult start to the year for the logistics industry. Brexit, as well as Covid-19 has brought us many challenges, but we invested and adapted to ensure customers faced the least possible disruption.

Carlo Turner, General Manager, Continental Cargo Carriers To minimise disruptions CCC created a DDP product called Continental Flow which has helped to keep imports and exports running smoothly.

With Continental Flow CCC acts as an EU Global VAT representative for its important and export customers, resulting in customer not paying VAT at point of import and duty being charged back to the sender in a simple two-step solution.

PLAIN SAILING 22 APRIL 2021

RO-RO SPECIALIST REVEALS BREXIT SUCCESS FORWARDER magazine

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5

BREXIT BRIEFING EXPERTS

M

onths ahead of the end of the transition period, there

9 in 10 companies have experienced disruption in their ability to trade

was, understandably, significant uncertainty around

in and out of the EU in 2021. At the same time, almost one fifth (19%)

Brexit. In the midst of the pandemic, two thirds of

are actually thriving in a post-Brexit economy. So what differentiates

businesses admitted their Brexit preparation had been disrupted by

those businesses that are enjoying post-Brexit success?

COVID-19 and less than a quarter (23%) had high confidence in their ability to cope with the extra administrative burden of Brexit, with

Challenging Outlook

two thirds (67%) of large firms very or extremely concerned about

Confidence is a huge component of successful business and our

longer delays in their supply chain impacting business post-Brexit.

survey confirms that nearly two in five companies think the economy wasn’t ready for the end of the Brexit Transition Period on 1st

As Andrew Tavener, Head of Marketing at Descartes, argues,

January 2021. This lack of preparedness by individual businesses has

with the next phase of Brexit changes commencing July 2021,

had a severe knock-on effect on the rest of the supply chain: even a

there are lessons to learn about the value of preparation. When

company that is totally prepared can have its businesses disrupted

it comes to successful international trade, planning is not just

if suppliers have failed to make the required changes.

essential for compliance – it makes a tangible difference to successful business operations.

But is this the reality after the initial, expected border glitches? If companies have the right paperwork and processes in place, delays

Brexit Realities

should be minimal. And while traffic volume dropped initially in

In March 2021, Descartes commissioned independent research to

January, in response to the stockpiling undertaken by many

assess the specific elements of EU trade that have been affected, as

companies, figures are back up. By February, it was reported that

well as the resultant disruption, the level of preparedness for Brexit

UK-EU freight trade was back to 90% of normal levels at Dover.

and the expected performance of supply chains in 2021.

With markets beginning to re-open, there is a huge pent-up demand for goods in every sector – so are companies ready?

• Mixed performance: 43% of businesses have been impacted negatively by Brexit in 2021 – but 19%

COVID-19 and Brexit preparation

of businesses are thriving in a post-Brexit world

In March 2020, when companies should have been gearing up for Brexit, the vast majority were wrestling with global disruption to

• Disruption reality: 90% of businesses have faced

supply chains, unknown customer demand and the need to put many

disruption since the end of the transition period

staff on furlough simply to survive. Three quarters (76%) of companies confirm that COVID-19 disrupted their Brexit response. Hardly the

• Economic impact of Brexit: 53% expect their 2021 turnover

best preparation for the biggest upheaval in European trade in 50 years.

to be lower than if the UK had remained in the EU – and the average reduction is 29%

It is extremely telling that the businesses that are thriving postBrexit are those that started to prepare sooner: 24% in the second

• Preparation delay: 46% of Brexit preparations happened

half of 2019 and 33% in the first half of 2020. Preparing early not

during 2020, especially during the second half of the year

only allowed these companies to work closely with experts who understand the complexities of global trade but also train staff in

• Pandemic impact: 76% had their Brexit response disrupted by COVID-19

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new supply chain software and procedures to ensure they were confident and up to speed on 1st January.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at descartes.com/brexit

Next Steps

Conclusion

With the next phase of Brexit changes – an end to deferred

Brexit has thrown many businesses into a spin, especially those whose

import declarations from July 2021 and safety and security filings

plans were derailed or delayed by COVID-19. But as this research

required from 1st January 2022 – there is still much for businesses

shows, when it comes to business success, planning is crucial not only

to prepare for.

for compliance – but also growth and resilience. Those companies that prepared earlier are performing better, they are more confident

There is little doubt that the huge demand for customs brokerage

about the future and they are able to maximise the opportunities left

services is having an impact on prices – and smaller companies are

by competitors unwilling or unable to trade in the EU.

struggling to gain access to services, with brokers not taking on new clients. But this is not a finite market – and there are a number of

With the changes due from July through to January 2022, early

new organisations stepping up to provide additional services.

preparation is, once again, key to avoiding expensive disruption.

Plus, once companies have successfully embraced trade with the EU,

Alternatively, companies can invest in dedicated supply chain

why not expand into the rest of the world? An effective post-Brexit

software solutions and handle customs declarations in-house. With

EU trading model opens the door to a huge new global opportunity.

a cloud-based solution, all the vital customs and shipping data is secure yet accessible 24x7. It provides immediate insight into landed

For more information see www.descartes.com/brexit and to

costs – allowing integration with point of sale systems to provide

download a copy of Beyond Brexit Research Whitepaper see

customers with an immediate, complete and accurate view of all

descartes.com/lp/brexit-realities-whitepaper

costs, from tax to delivery. This approach not only adds control but also provides companies with an easy route to scale up exports in both the EU and the rest of the world, without adding costs.

BREXIT REALITIES ...EARLY PREPARATION REMAINS

CRUCIAL TO SUPPLY CHAIN SUCCESS FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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COVID-19 RECOVERY

Hopefully the most short-lived section of FORWARDER, we'll bring you word on how the industry is recovering from this crisis and focus on positive stories about a world bouncing back.

Related topics SARS-CoV-19 coronavirus Government measures Industry reactions

8 8 FORWARDER magazine

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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

9 APRIL 2021

NEW LEEA RESEARCH REVEALS

Further information can be found at leeaint.com

OPTIMISTIC POSTPANDEMIC OUTLOOK

D

espite the Covid-19 health crisis impacting significantly on the Lifting Industry, Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) Sector Benchmark Research reveals optimism for the post-

pandemic future, and a move towards new and possibly more productive ways of working. Indeed, 72% of firms reported being optimistic for the next 6 months, with this increasing to 80% for the next 12 months.

However, the breadth of specialisms and the number of supply chains in the sector have produced a varied picture in the research.

which gives reason for optimism looking forward. Nevertheless, there has been a dramatic impact on the workforce with an incredible 50%

LEEA does not expect the sector to return to pre-pandemic patterns

of respondents making job losses attributable to the pandemic across a

of work as there are now clearly different expectations around training,

range of roles. Half the respondents expect the workforce to be smaller

travel and work patterns, according to the research. The majority of

in March 2022 than it was in March 2020. While we can speculate about

firms (over two thirds) reported their attitude towards e-training had

the reasons behind the ups and downs, further research will be required

changed in the past 12 months, with it being seen much more as an

to fully understand which parts of our sector did better than others.

option. Training by Zoom specifically has its supporters, with nearly three quarters of firms reporting that they now see it as a more likely

2020 has been a year that none of us expected. Our personal and

option. However, there is clearly a view that face-to-face training

work lives have all been impacted and as we look forward, we are now

remains the preference, regardless of company size or specialism.

trying our best to predict what the future will look like. A year on from the initial lockdown in the UK, LEEA has issued this research aimed

Most firms are looking at more focused travel, however, with 65%

at helping us to understand the implications of the pandemic on our

reporting that they expect to make changes to their business travel

industry. It allows us to see the huge financial effects on our industry and

budget post lockdown.

the retrenching we are expecting concerning the size of the workforce, how training is conducted and changes to everyday work.

Few can be surprised to see such a large percentage of respondents

Ross Moloney, CEO, LEEA

recording revenue falls due to the economic impact of the pandemic and associated lockdowns. Surprisingly, however, the survey reveals a larger

The LEEA Sector Benchmark Research was disseminated to LEEA

percentage recorded an increase in revenue. The picture improves when

members and broadly to the industry using social media between

looking over the duration of the crisis: during the initial pandemic period

February and March 2021. Of the 118 firms responding, a third reported

(April to June 2020), there was an equal split between those reporting

that their Head Office was located in the UK, a quarter in the Middle

revenues up or down compared to the same period in 2019 (45% each).

East and 13% within Africa. The size of firms ranged from micro,

But, across the longer period of April 2020 to February 2021, the balance

employing less than 10, through to firms employing more than 50. For

shifts to 54% reporting revenues up compared to 39% seeing a drop,

further information visit leeaint.com.

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COVID-19 RECOVERY NEWS 12 APRIL 2021

IAG CARGO TRANSPORTS

2.5 MILLION DOSES OF COVID-19 VACCINES

INTO LATIN AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

I

AG Cargo continues its efforts to transport COVID-19 vaccines

IAG Cargo started transporting COVID-19 vaccines in December 2020,

across the world. The business has now delivered 2.5 million doses

and to date has delivered shipments to Canary Islands, the Balearic

into Latin America and the Caribbean since January.

Islands, Ireland, Austria, the Americas and also to Melilla, a Spanish autonomous city located on the northwest coast of Africa. Many

The shipments were transported using IAG Cargo’s specialist Constant

shipments are being transported via its charter service, introduced at

Climate service via its airside hubs at London Heathrow and Madrid

the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Barajas, two of its three specialist pharmaceutical GDP certified hubs, to the approved Constant Climate stations in the region.

In February it was announced that IAG Cargo has been appointed as one of the airlines to support UNICEF’s Humanitarian Airfreight Initiative

We are delighted to be able to support Latin America and the

to support the COVAX facility.

Caribbean with their vaccine rollout – a region that is a key part of our network. With our sister airlines, British Airways and Iberia, we’ve already transported vaccines into El Salvador, Mexico and the Dominican Republic, and we partnered with Crown Agents to support the delivery efforts into several British Overseas Territories including Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos. With our world-class cool chain facilities supported by highly trained teams and a seamless service, we are committed to supporting the logistics to deliver COVID-19 vaccines in the Latin American and Caribbean region, and worldwide.

Daniel Byrne, Regional Commercial Manager UK & Ireland, IAG Cargo In the global race to secure doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, we strike to ensure no country gets left behind. We’re proud to be working with IAG Cargo to ensure even the most remote regions of the globe get their fair share of the vaccine.

Fergus Drake, CEO, Crown Agents

ABOUT IAG CARGO IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at gw-world.com

Usually, air freight shipments of goods are handled, to a large extent, via the hold of passenger aircraft. Since this option is no longer possible to the usual extent due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting

I

restrictions on air traffic, other solutions have been sought after for

n recent weeks, Gebrüder Weiss has made a significant contribution

about a year. To meet the high demand for rapid tests, the company

to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a chartered

developed an air bridge consisting of five charter flights between China

Airbus A330 specially converted for transport, the logistics company

and Austria. After the aircraft had landed, several Gebrüder Weiss

has been handling shipments of two to three million COVID-19 antigen

trucks ensured the smooth onward transport of the medical devices

tests per flight since the beginning of March. This project contract for a

to their respective recipients. The majority of the cargo was destined

leading company in the medical trade was concluded for the time being

for pharmaceutical wholesalers.

with the latest flight from Shanghai to Linz on April 1. A Boeing 747 was chartered for this transport, which alone carried five of the urgently needed 14 million test kits from China to Austria.

GEBRÜDER WEISS SUPPLIES COVID-19 ANTIGEN TESTS 6 APRIL 2021

TO AUSTRIA

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COVID-19 RECOVERY NEWS 7 APRIL 2021

CEVA LOGISTICS LAUNCHES

‘FORPATIENTS’ HEALTHCARE LOGISTICS SUB-BRAND,

NEW TEMPERATURE-SENSITIVE SOLUTION

I

customers, CEVA Logistics announced today, on World Health

More than 40 temperature-controlled airfreight stations to support global demand

Day, a new sub-brand to support better patient outcomes through

The new CEVA Logistics’ solution requires investment in temperature-

the company’s broad range of healthcare logistics services. CEVA

controlled facilities around the world. With the support of its parent

FORPATIENTS now offers healthcare and pharmaceutical companies

company, the CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics,

end-to-end logistics solutions that place the patient at the center of

CEVA has committed to operating a network of more than 40 such

the supply chain. As part of the suite of solutions, the company is also

airfreight stations by the end of 2021. Some of the stations will also

introducing a new temperature-sensitive logistics product that will begin

offer other services, such as contract logistics support.

n an expansion of its support for global healthcare and pharmaceutical

service in the second quarter of 2021.

In all, the stations will allow CEVA to not only service major healthcare

Patient-centric services will remain the focus

gateways in regional markets, but also to supply more than 1,450

The CEVA FORPATIENTS suite of healthcare logistics now

healthcare trade lanes globally. Through the global network, CEVA will

encompasses temperature-sensitive solutions, pharma and biopharma,

welcome a broad range of customer shipments in conjunction with its

medical devices, consumer health, hospital and home care, as well as

temperature-sensitive packaging solutions, including active and passive

diagnostic and laboratory services. Centralizing its global healthcare

packaging, as well as solutions for out-of-gauge goods.

offerings under the FORPATIENTS umbrella gives greater visibility of CEVA Logistics’ range of services to its customers and assures them

As part of its product offerings, CEVA will provide leading visibility and

of the central position of the patient. The company is also launching an

monitoring solutions for real-time decisions through embedded location

advertising and social media campaign to show how logistics solutions

and temperature IoT devices. Information will flow into the company’s

support common medical procedures and healthcare needs.

award-winning Matrix® supply chain management tool, as well as its global control tower technology for 24/7 shipment monitoring. This

In view of better patient outcomes, CEVA’s healthcare solutions address

multi-layered approach ensures shipments are maintained at required

quality, privacy and compliance requirements, including being fully GxP

temperatures — a major concern for healthcare customers. With

and GDP compliant and meeting all national and international regulatory

vaccine and medicine transport growing globally, CEVA will focus its

requirements. The company ensures these areas are managed from

efforts on the 2- to 8-degree Celsius spectrum of products, including

pick-up to delivery. Specific regulation and compliance information, as

certain COVID-19 vaccines, though the company is capable of

well as additional information about CEVA’s healthcare solutions can

supporting customers with products, including vaccines, requiring lower

be found on the dedicated website www.cevalogisticsforpatients.com.

temperatures throughout transport.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at cevalogistics.com

In addition, CEVA’s approach includes lane risk assessment, performance and capability management as well as a fully integrated cold chain transportation and storage management solution.The company also provides insight on the sustainability and carbon impact of various routing, packaging and mode of transport choices.

CEVA Logistics, a global expert in healthcare and pharmaceutical logistics In healthcare and pharmaceutical markets, CEVA already serves more than 500 healthcare and life science companies globally, more than 50 healthcare contract logistics operations worldwide and 20 of the top 30 medical device supply chains. The company recently hosted a webinar titled “Optimizing Healthcare Supply Chains Beyond 2021” where an

THIS IS AN INSULIN INJECTION

expert speaker panel explored the global pharma and healthcare industry, analyzing how the sector is changing and what the future may hold.

Our customers supply the vaccines, medical devices, medication

cevalogisticsforpatients.com

and other support products on which patients around the world depend. For example, diabetic patients should not have to worry about supply chain reliability for their insulin. At CEVA, we’re expanding our temperature-sensitive solutions to ensure that, no matter the logistics challenges faced, patients’ needs are met. Behind every shipment, we see a patient.

Niels Van Namen, Executive Vice President, CEVA’s Global Healthcare Sector The global healthcare market has seen enormous change over the last year as a result of the pandemic that continues to affect daily life.

The pandemic is also combining with the advance of technology and at-home treatment to usher in a new era of healthcare. As an agile logistics provider, CEVA will continue to offer new healthcare logistics solutions for our customers, and ultimately their patients. Today’s new FORPATIENTS sub-brand confirms our commitment as a responsive and reliable supply chain for better patient outcomes.

Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics

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COVID-19 RECOVERY NEWS

37 COMPANIES OFFER THEIR SITES FOR USE 1 APRIL 2021

IN THE NATIONAL VACCINATION PROGRAMME

A

total of 37 Italian packaging machinery manufacturers

their sites available for use as vaccination centres. This operation will

have responded to Confindustria’s appeal to voluntarily

allow millions of people working at the companies and belonging to

make their sites available for use in the national Covid-19

the local communities to be vaccinated simultaneously. Confindustria

vaccination programme.

initially approached large trade associations such as Ucima whose members tend to be highly structured organisations with suitable

A large number of companies based in many areas of the country

infrastructure for an operation of this scale.

have responded to the call to create a map of potential “community factory” sites throughout Italy, an initiative that has seen a total of

The Covid-19 emergency that broke out last year did not catch the

more than 10,000 factories proposed. This figure reflects businesses’

sector’s businesses unprepared, as their decision to adopt Industry 4.0

strong spirit of service towards the country and represents a social and

technologies for remote control of installations, testing and assistance

entrepreneurial response to the period of uncertainty that has been

have enabled them to maintain close contacts with their customers all

afflicting the entire global economy for over a year.

over the world.

The Italian employers’ federation Confindustria launched the initiative

A faster and more structured vaccination programme will enable Italian

following discussions with the Covid-19 Emergency Commissioner,

companies to once again offer their renowned expertise and know-how to

General Figliuolo, with the aim of identifying companies willing to make

all international markets and respond rapidly to their customers’ needs.

1 APRIL 2021

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT ON

TESTING FOR DRIVERS

& LOGISTICS WORKERS ARRIVING IN THE UK

R

esponding to the announcement that logistics drivers, air

However, it is worth remembering that drivers are, by the nature of

crews and rail workers are to be tested for COVID19 on

their jobs and thanks to contactless delivery procedures, a very low risk

their arrival to the UK from France, Sarah Laouadi, European

category – as has been borne out by the testing carried out on drivers since

Policy Manager at Logistics UK said: “It is vitally important to protect

the start of the pandemic where only 0.1% of them have tested positive for

the UK and it’s highly interconnected supply chain from the threat of

COVID-19. Any testing regime must be proportionate and not discriminate

new Covid19 variants, and the nation as a whole. Rapid testing of drivers

against those who are tasked with keeping British businesses and consumers

on arrival in the UK will provide additional confidence that businesses

stocked with the goods and services they need. We would urge the

can be supplied safely.

government to maintain a watching brief on the testing regime to ensure it remains appropriate and reacts to the situation on the ground.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at unilabs.com

U

Unilabs will be able to securely upload test results in IATA Travel Pass, which are then checked against the IATA Timatic global registry of national health requirements, to produce an 'OK to Travel' status.

Through the app, passengers can share their status and the digital test

nilabs, the leading European diagnostic services provider,

certificates with authorities, airports, and airlines.

and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world’s airlines, have signed

Unilabs and IATA are currently running a pilot program in the UAE.

an agreement to incorporate Unilabs’ worldwide Covid-19 testing

Once the processes are successfully up and running, the initiative will be

network into IATA Travel Pass.

rolled out to other entities of the Unilabs network in many countries.

The agreement will make Unilabs one of the first major lab groups to

Alongside PCR tests, Unilabs also performs antigen and serology tests.

be integrated into IATA’s Travel Pass app. Proof of a negative Covid-19

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, the lab group has performed

test is required by many governments as a condition of entry, and the

close to 10 million Covid-19 tests across its network in 17 countries.

app makes the process seamless, secure, and easy.

Covid-19 testing will play a role in re-starting international travel.

Travelers will need to understand test requirements, locate labs, verify

ABOUT UNILABS

their identity to the lab and transfer their test results to relevant parties

Unilabs is one of Europe’s largest diagnostics companies. It offers a

– airlines and governments – as needed. Our partnership with Unilabs

complete range of laboratory, pathology, and imaging services for

will give travellers access to Unilabs’ extensive network and help them

patients all around the world. With 12,700 employees across 150

securely and efficiently manage their test results.

imaging centres and 250 labs in 17 countries, we perform more

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA

than four million lab tests a week – saving lives every single day.

We are delighted that IATA has chosen us for this initiative. As international travel starts coming back, we are ready to do our bit – delivering the fast, effective, and reliable Covid-19 tests that will get

ABOUT IATA

people moving again.

IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some

Michiel Boehmer, President & COO, Unilabs

290 airlines comprising 82% of global air traffic.

IATA Travel Pass provides information on entry requirements, directs

You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy

travellers to trusted labs, and allows passengers to receive and manage

positions, and other useful industry information.

digital certificates for Covid-19 tests or vaccinations.

20 APRIL 2021

IATA & UNILABS PARTNER TO

HELP PASSENGERS MANAGE COVID-19 TESTS FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE63

15

AIR FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by aircraft.

Related topics AOG (aircraft on ground) OBC (on-board couriers) Air charter

Sponsored by

16 16 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE63

13 APRIL 2021

CEVA LOGISTICS JOINS UNITED AIRLINES’

ECO-SKIES ALLIANCE AS INAUGURAL PARTICIPANT

At CEVA, we deliver responsive logistics for our customers, and as part of the CMA CGM Group, we’re strongly committed to acting for the planet in the areas of climate change, air quality and biodiversity.

With our participation in the United Eco-Skies Alliance, CEVA is taking tangible action today, with an eye on the solutions of tomorrow.

Offering a SAF option to our air cargo customers in partnership with United demonstrates CEVA’s commitment to a more sustainable supply chain. We applaud the participation of each member of the Alliance.

Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics

C

While we’ve partnered with companies for years to help them offset

EVA Logistics announced today its involvement as an inaugural

their flight emissions, we applaud those participating in the Eco-Skies

participant in United Airlines’ Eco-Skies AllianceSM, a first of

Alliance for recognizing the need to go beyond carbon offsets and

its kind program involving leading global corporations working

support SAF-powered flying, which will lead to more affordable supply

with the airline to power future flying in a more sustainable way.

and ultimately, lower emissions. This is just the beginning. Our goal is to add more companies to the Eco-Skies Alliance, purchase more SAF and

CEVA Logistics and other Eco-Skies Alliance leaders will work with

work together to find other innovative paths towards decarbonization.

United to collectively purchase approximately 3.4 million gallons of

Scott Kirby, CEO, United

sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) this year. With its nearly 80 percent emissions reductions on a lifecycle basis compared to conventional jet fuel, this is enough SAF to eliminate approximately 31,000 metric tons

ABOUT CEVA LOGISTICS

of greenhouse gas emissions, or enough to fly passengers more than

CEVA Logistics, a world leader in third-party logistics, provides

200 million miles.

and operates transportation and supply-chain solutions for large- or medium-size national and global companies. CEVA

As an inaugural participant, CEVA Logistics is taking a lead in the air

Logistics offers a broad range of services in both Contract

cargo industry to reduce the logistics-related impact on the environment

Logistics and Freight Management thanks to its approximately

at the source by creating demand for more SAF. In addition to the Eco-

78,000 employees and 1,000 facilities in more than 160

Skies Alliance program, which is designated for corporate customers,

countries. CEVA Logistics’ experienced specialists focus on

United is also inviting individual customers to join in the airline’s efforts

seamlessly designing end-to-end customized solutions to meet

by contributing funds to purchase SAF, which United will use to help

the complex and rapidly evolving supply chain needs, whatever

lower the greenhouse gas emissions from its flights compared to

the business sector. CEVA Logistics is part of the CMA CGM

traditional jet fuel. Companies and individuals interested in learning

Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics.

more can visit: united.com/ecoskiesalliance.

FORWARDER magazine

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AIR FREIGHT NEWS 8 APRIL 2021

IAG CARGO CELEBRATES ITS

10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

T

his month, IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International

Today IAG Cargo operates in 60 countries, across 5 continents and

Airlines Group (IAG), celebrates its tenth anniversary –

employs more than 2,250 professionals worldwide. The business has

marking a decade of transporting vital shipments safely and

grown significantly in its first ten years – integrating Vueling in 2013, Aer

efficiently for customers across the world.

Lingus in 2015 and Level in 2016 to expand its network; invested in new facilities to increase capacity and developed innovative and specialist

IAG Cargo was created in 2011 following the merger of British Airways

product offerings in areas like pharmaceutical, live animals and high

World Cargo and Iberia Cargo, bringing together two distinct brands

security shipments.

focused on providing a quality services for their customers to unlock the full potential of their networks. Since then, IAG Cargo’s mission – to be

This is a major milestone for IAG Cargo. It’s been exciting to see the

‘always moving’ – has led it to become one of the largest cargo operators in

business grow and transform into one of the largest cargo carriers in

the world, serving key sectors of the global economy including ecommerce,

the world today. We’ve built a strong relationship with our customers

tech, manufacturing, automotive, pharmaceutical and aerospace.

across the world to understand their needs and adapted our products, as well as launched new products and routes to support them. We’re

In total, in the last decade it is estimated that IAG Cargo has served nearly

very proud of our ‘always moving’ spirit to provide some of the most

14,000 freight forwarders, operated 950,000 flights, transporting millions

flexible options for customers, helping them get their freight across the

of tonnes of cargo and flown to over 450 destinations worldwide using 30

world 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We look forward

models of aircraft. Today, the business is trusted by some of the world’s

to continuing to expand our offering in the years to come.

best known brands to transport their precious cargo, from ancient

John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer, IAG Cargo

artefacts for The British Museum, endangered animals for BornFree, vaccine shipments for Biological E to airplane parts for Boeing.

ABOUT IAG CARGO IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011.

Following the integration of additional airlines into the business, including Aer Lingus, Vueling and Level, IAG Cargo now covers a truly global network.

In 2020 IAG Cargo had a commercial revenue of €1,306 million. It has a combined workforce of more than 2,250 people. Its parent company, International Airlines Group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 533 aircraft on 31st December 2020.

For further information on IAG Cargo, please visit the IAG Cargo YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/IAGCargo

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at iagcargo.com

HIGHLIGHTS:

10 YEARS OF IAG CARGO 2021 marks ten years of IAG Cargo.

Major moments from the last decade include...

Covid-19, 2020: IAG Cargo focused on the fight against COVID-19,

Product, 2016: IAG Cargo launches ‘Critical’ its premium product for

transporting over 20,000 tonnes of PPE and large quantities of sanitiser,

urgent and emergency shipments, serviced by its own customer service

ventilators and COVID-19 testing kits. In 2021, COVID-19 vaccine

team – within 6 months of its launch over 1,000 shipments were delivered

shipments are a priority shipment, and the business had already transported over one million doses by the end of January and has joined the UNICEF

Aircraft, 2011-2020: The last ten years has seen the fleet available to

Humanitarian Airfreight Initiative to support the COVAX initiative.

IAG Cargo increase by 53 per cent from 348 in 2011 to 533 in 2020.

The fleet has also seen significant upgrades, with the introduction of

Facilities, 2019: IAG Cargo opens its start-of-the-art pharmaceutical

the fuel-efficient A330-200 and A330-300 in 2013 and 2015 to Iberia’s

centre in Madrid. In its first two years, it processed over 20,000

metal, as well as the A350-900 in 2018. British Airways also saw the

consignments of pharmaceutical cargo, including life-saving vaccines for

Boeing 787 enter service, with the B787-8 in 2013 and B787-9 in 2015,

diseases such as polio, diphtheria, and measles. The centre complements

an extra 20 feet and offering more capacity. In 2019, the A350-1000 was

the Constant Climate centre at London Heathrow that opened in 2013.

brought on board for BA, while the latest iteration of the Dreamliner joined the fleet in 2020.

Customer, 2017: IAG Cargo launched a new loyalty programme named FORWARD.REWARDS allowing businesses to earn points every time

HKG-LHR-UIO, 2012: Launched a seamless route for customers

they ship, converted into commercial flights, hotel stays or cargo credit.

looking to transport cargo from Hong Kong to Quito.

Digital, 2017: IAG Cargo enhanced its e-booking portal, offering

Wide-body airbridge LHR-MAD, 2011: Launched a wide-body

customers the chance to book shipments in under 2 minutes, and track

'Airbridge' between London and Madrid, facilitating a seamless journey

shipments automatically from the start to the end of the journey.

for cargo to any corner of the world.

FORWARDER magazine

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AIR FREIGHT NEWS

AIR CARGO DEMAND UP 9% IN FEBRUARY 7 APRIL 2021

COMPARED TO PRE-COVID LEVELS

T

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released February 2021 data for global air cargo markets showing that air cargo demand continued to outperform pre-COVID levels

• The operating conditions remain supportive for air cargo: › Conditions in the manufacturing sector are robust despite the recent spike in COVID-19 outbreaks. The global manufacturing

with demand up 9% over February 2019. February demand also showed

Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) was at 53.9 in February.

strong month-on-month growth over January 2021 levels. Volumes have

Results above 50 indicate manufacturing growth versus the

now returned to 2018 levels seen prior to the US-China trade war.

prior month. › The new export orders component of the manufacturing PMI

Because comparisons between 2021 and 2020 monthly results are

– a leading indicator of air cargo demand– picked up compared

distorted by the extraordinary impact of COVID-19, unless otherwise

to January.

noted all comparisons to follow are to February 2019 which followed a normal demand pattern.

› Supply chain disruptions and the resulting delivery delays have led to long supplier delivery times – the second longest in the history of the manufacturing PMI. This typically means

• Global demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), was up 9% compared to February 2019 and +1.5% compared to January 2021. All regions except for Latin America saw an improvement

manufacturers use air transport, which is quicker, to recover time lost during the production process. › The level of inventories remains relatively low compared to

in air cargo demand compared to pre-COVID levels and North

sales volumes. Historically, this has meant that businesses had

America and Africa were the strongest performers.

to quickly refill their stocks, for which they also used air cargo.

• The recovery in global capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-

Air cargo demand is not just recovering from the COVID-19 crisis,

kilometers (ACTKs), stalled owing to new capacity cuts on the

it is growing. With demand at 9% above pre-crisis levels (Feb 2019),

passenger side as governments tightened travel restrictions due

one of the main challenges for air cargo is finding sufficient capacity.

to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases. Capacity shrank 14.9%

This makes cargo yields a bright spot in an otherwise bleak industry

compared to February 2019.

situation. It also highlights the need for clarity on government plans for a safe industry restart. Understanding how passenger demand could

ABOUT IATA

recover will indicate how much belly capacity will be available for air

IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some

be a key element for overall recovery.

290 airlines comprising 82% of global air traffic.

Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA

cargo. Being able to efficiently plan that into air cargo operations will

You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.

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The ultimate in blue-sky thinking We’ve been developing our air freight experience for decades and we’re now proud to announce the launch of Allair - our dedicated air freight services division.

We’ve built great relationships with international air carriers around the world offering a full, market-leading logistics package. All delivered by industry experts and supported by transparent, leading-edge information management. We make logistics simple, no matter what the challenges.

Logistics specialists working across: • Automotive • Aerospace • Ornamental Aquatic • Military • Projects

For exceptional air freight service:

Call: 0333 988 4848 www.allairglobal.com

FORWARDER magazine

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21

AIR FREIGHT NEWS 14 APRIL 2021

DUTCH INNOVATION FOR DUTCH CARRIER:

KLM CARGO INTRODUCES NEW CARGO SEAT BAG FOR ITS CARGO IN CABIN FLIGHTS

2

020 was an unprecedented year for our industry and adaptation has been the name of the game ever since the Covid-19 pandemic began. KLM has responded to the new

reality by operating Cargo in Cabin (CIC) flights carrying medical relief goods and PPE material on seats secured with plastic sheeting and straps. Initially, these flights (more than 150 so far) were operated on the airline’s remaining three KLM Boeing 747 Combis. Now that these aircraft have been retired from our royal blue fleet, however, the Boeing 777s have taken over. Since they are also fully operational for passenger flights, flight safety is a major concern. Boxes must be loaded into the seats with enormous care to avoid damaging the interior, seats and entertainment systems.

KLM Cargo has partnered with its long-time Cargo equipment supplier

Thanks to close collaboration between many different KLM departments

Trip & Co to design a user-friendly, easy- to-install (and remove) quality

and between KLM and Trip & Co, this innovative concept became reality,

product. Basing its design on KLM’s considerable Cargo in Cabin

passed the official tests and received authorisation in record time.

experience, Trip & Co has produced the tailor-made Cargo Seat Bag

This 'just in time' operation meets the need for extra cargo capacity for

(CSB). Working with KLM’s Cargo in Cabin project team, Trip & Co

medical equipment (including PPE and vaccine equipment).

has fine-tuned the CSB and adapted it to KLM’s specific needs. The product has been submitted to the Dutch Civil Aviation Authority

It remains extremely inspiring for me to be part of the close- knit

(IL&T) for approval and authorisation under Art. 71(1) of Regulation

team working on Cargo in Cabin. We have been active for over a year

(EU) 2018/1139 (EASA). The bags not only protect the interior, but

now, with involvement throughout KLM and including our partner Trip

also double loading capacity on the seats, reduce physical strain during

& Co. By doubling CIC capacity on our 777s, we now have capacity

handling and prevent plastic waste.

similar to what we had on our 747s. I’m proud of the many KLM colleagues who have made this innovation happen and of the smart

KLM received the first set of 172 Cargo Seat Bags (single-seat, double-

and exceptional product that we developed and delivered with them

seat and triple-seat versions) on 8 April and undertook its first

and Trip & Co. This is an example of creativity and perseverance that

operational flight using CSBs on 13 April, carrying about 950 boxes

will be key in the years to come.

(10 tonnes) of medical relief goods and Covid-19 test kits from Shanghai

Ton Veltman, in-Cabin Project Manager, KLM Cargo

to Amsterdam.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? We are very proud that our joint effort has resulted in a flexible, easyto-use, lightweight solution that gives the airline an opportunity to offer

Further information can be found at afklcargo.com

extra cargo capacity in the passenger cabin and avoid having to convert the cabin permanently. It reminds me of the ‘quick change solution of the seventies’: within an hour, the cabin is transformed from ‘cargo’ to a place ready to welcome passengers for a comfortable flight.

Edwin de Jongh, Chief Commercial Officer, Trip & Co

ABOUT AIR FRANCE KLM MARTINAIR CARGO The Air France-KLM Group is a global airline group with a

Cargo Seat Bags are available in three versions, i.e. single-seat, double-

strong European base. Its main areas of business are passenger

seat and triple-seat. They can be used on KLMs Boeing 777-200/300,

transport, cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance. Air

Boeing 787-10 and Airbus A330-200 aircraft.

France KLM Martinair Cargo is the Air France-KLM Group’s dedicated air cargo business. Air France-KLM Cargo is a member of SkyTeam Cargo (www.skyteamcargo.com) offering an even larger network coverage.

Please go to our press releases online or visit afklcargo.com for more information about Air France KLM Martinair Cargo.

FORWARDER magazine

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AIR FREIGHT NEWS 13 APRIL 2021

ANTONOV AIRLINES DELIVERS

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS FROM ASIA TO THE USA UNDER OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT

A

ntonov Airlines has safely transported 80 tonnes of

These flights were not your run-of-the-mill charters. Due to the

automotive parts on a route from Indonesia and Vietnam

nature of the cargo and the double pick-up in two different countries,

to Ohio, USA to support increasing demand from vehicle

the planning had to be precise and executed perfectly. All the cargo

manufacturers as plants across the States reopen.

was Just-In-Time, to support a large automotive manufacturer; with the help of the consignee V. Alexander in the USA, each flight went off

The Open Skies Agreement between Ukraine and the USA, which

without a hitch.

promotes an increase in travel, trade, productivity, and economic

Adam Green, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, The Flight Lab

growth between the two nations, meant Antonov Airlines was able to

Aviation Consulting LLC

rapidly provide one of its AN-124-100’s to carry the cargo.

There has been an increase in demand across the globe for automotive The AN-124-100 picked up 40 tonnes of parts in Yogyakarta, Indonesia,

parts since the beginning of 2021 as vehicle manufacturing resumes after

and a further 40 tonnes in Hanoi, Vietnam.

slowing in 2020.

We have seen an increase in demand for automotive cargo, and a

Antonov Airlines operates seven AN-124-100s, as well as the unique

double pick-up is not usual in the day-to-day operations of the AN-

AN-225 'Mriya', the largest cargo aircraft in the world with a payload

124-100. There were additional challenges ensuring compliance with

of 250 tonnes.

COVID-19 restrictions in different nations, but thanks to well-organised work and communication with The Flight Lab Aviation Consulting LLC, which chartered the flights, the cargo was safely and successfully transported in full and on time.

Iryna Kyianytsia, Commercial Executive, Antonov Airlines It took four days to complete the route with technical stops required in Japan and Alaska to accommodate crew rests and aircraft refuelling before reaching Ohio.

Aircraft crew received rapid COVID-19 tests during each rest window prior to receiving clearance to travel to the next technical stop airport.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at cevalogistics.com

ABOUT CEVA LOGISTICS CEVA Logistics, a world leader in third-party logistics, provides and operates transportation and supply-chain solutions for large- or medium-size national and global companies. CEVA Logistics offers

C

a broad range of services in both Contract Logistics and Freight

EVA Logistics announced today its involvement as an inaugural

Management thanks to its approximately 78,000 employees and 1,000

participant in United Airlines’ Eco-Skies AllianceSM, a first of

facilities in more than 160 countries. CEVA Logistics’ experienced

its kind program involving leading global corporations working

specialists focus on seamlessly designing end-to-end customized

with the airline to power future flying in a more sustainable way.

solutions to meet the complex and rapidly evolving supply chain needs, whatever the business sector. CEVA Logistics is part of the

CEVA Logistics and other Eco-Skies Alliance leaders will work with

CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics.

United to collectively purchase approximately 3.4 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) this year. With its nearly 80 percent emissions reductions on a lifecycle basis compared to conventional jet

At CEVA, we deliver responsive logistics for our customers, and as

fuel, this is enough SAF to eliminate approximately 31,000 metric tons

part of the CMA CGM Group, we’re strongly committed to acting for

of greenhouse gas emissions, or enough to fly passengers more than

the planet in the areas of climate change, air quality and biodiversity.

200 million miles.

With our participation in the United Eco-Skies Alliance, CEVA is taking tangible action today, with an eye on the solutions of tomorrow.

As an inaugural participant, CEVA Logistics is taking a lead in the air

Offering a SAF option to our air cargo customers in partnership with

cargo industry to reduce the logistics-related impact on the environment

United demonstrates CEVA’s commitment to a more sustainable supply

at the source by creating demand for more SAF. In addition to the Eco-

chain. We applaud the participation of each member of the Alliance.

Skies Alliance program, which is designated for corporate customers,

Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics

United is also inviting individual customers to join in the airline’s efforts by contributing funds to purchase SAF, which United will use to help

While we’ve partnered with companies for years to help them offset

lower the greenhouse gas emissions from its flights compared to

their flight emissions, we applaud those participating in the Eco-Skies

traditional jet fuel. Companies and individuals interested in learning

Alliance for recognizing the need to go beyond carbon offsets and

more can visit: united.com/ecoskiesalliance.

support SAF-powered flying, which will lead to more affordable supply and ultimately, lower emissions. This is just the beginning. Our goal is to add more companies to the Eco-Skies Alliance, purchase more SAF and work together to find other innovative paths towards decarbonization.

Scott Kirby, CEO, United

CEVA LOGISTICS JOINS UNITED AIRLINES’ ECO-SKIES ALLIANCE 13 APRIL 2021

AS INAUGURAL PARTICIPANT FORWARDER magazine

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SEA FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by ship.

Related topics Shipping lines Biofuels Ships' parts

Sponsored by

26 26 FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE63

16 APRIL 2021

UECC FLOATS FIRST OF THREE

LNG BATTERY HYBRID PCTCS

I

n a major step toward achieving sustainable shipping, the first of three

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at uecc.com

The introduction of batteries is an excellent demonstration of our

LNG battery hybrid PCTCs commissioned by United European Car

deepening commitment to next-generation sustainability,

Carriers (UECC) was launched in an official ceremony Monday 12

says. Battery power on the new vessels will improve operational

April at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. The remaining two vessels

efficiency and further reduce emissions through peak shaving, in addition

are scheduled for delivery in 2022.

to handling partial accommodation load and driving auxiliary equipment.

With the launch of our first LNG battery hybrid PCTC, we are

Edvardsen

Battery power also provides an option for reducing emissions while in port, a feature that more and more cities are demanding,

he notes.

ushering in a new era for UECC and short sea shipping in Europe.

These ships prove that decarbonization of the industry is possible using

The ships are also equipped with dual-fuel LNG engines for main propulsion

currently available technologies.

and auxiliaries. As more biofuels are set to become commercially available

Glenn Edvardsen, CEO, UECC

in the future, UECC plans to increase the proportion of carbon neutral and synthetic fuels in their future fuel mix.

We aim to be in front

The new UECC PCTCs are built to the latest energy efficiency criteria,

of the move to sustainability in shipping. This is the motivation behind

meeting the Tier 3 IMO NOx emission limitations in place for the Baltic

our decision to invest in dual-fuel solutions for these newbuildings.

and North Sea. All three will be equipped with battery hybrid solutions that will enable UECC to far exceed the IMO’s target of 40 percent

With a length overall of 169 meters, a width of 28 meters and a car

reduction in carbon intensity by 2030.

carrying capacity of 3,600 units on 10 cargo decks, the new vessels are highly flexible, enabling them to accommodate a wide range of high & heavy and break-bulk cargoes, in addition to cars and trucks.

FORWARDER magazine

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SEA FREIGHT NEWS

CALL FOR COLLABORATION:

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

7 APRIL 2021

Further information can be found at cyshippingstrategy.com

CO-CREATING A STRATEGIC VISION FOR CYPRUS SHIPPING

T

he Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM) has launched a

1. Environmental sustainability: 7 April – 22 April

consultation campaign to gather feedback on key maritime issues, used to co-create a long-term strategic vision for

2. Digital transformation: 23 April – 6 May

Cyprus shipping.

3. Global persisting challenges (a) Social issues - seafarers’ living

This open consultation will continue throughout April and May and

and working conditions, crew changes and seafarers’ vaccination

focus on three main topics: environmental sustainability, digital

(b) Piracy and armed robbery against ships: 7 May – 20 May

transformation, and external factors such as crew changes and piracy.

The Cyprus SDM will then consolidate all the information to determine

4. Issues pertaining to maritime transport activities of high

a clear vision, mission and objectives to lead positive industry-wide

local and regional interest such as coastal navigation, marine

progress. The strategy will be officially launched at the Maritime Cyprus

pollution, and maritime education: Throughout May

2021 conference in October this year.

Regarding the launch of the campaign, Vassilios Demetriades, Cyprus To create an accurate, sustainable and progressive strategy for the

Shipping Deputy Minister, said,

We are really excited to launch our

maritime industry, Cyprus SDM recognises the need to carefully

consultation campaign. Cyprus’ connection to the sea is fundamental

consider the key challenges and opportunities facing the maritime

to who we are, both as a nation and an economy. We have a proud

sector today and into the future, from multiple perspectives. Cyprus

maritime history and are committed to ensuring this continues into

has always prided itself on being a collaborative and proactive nation.

the long-term future. To achieve this, we know we must continue to

The consultation will ask all stakeholders to share thoughts and ideas on

act and proactively drive progress on both a regional and international

certain topics during three separate two-week windows. With so many

level. We also know that to lead effectively we must also listen, which

factors influencing shipping, maritime, and marine-related activities, on

is why we want to co-create a long-term strategic vision for Cyprus’

both a micro and macro scale, Cyprus is committed to striking the

shipping, maritime, and marine-related activities. In true Cyprus-style,

right balance between achieving transformation while safeguarding

we are opening our doors and inviting you to participate in determining

competitiveness.

the right, coordinated approach.

SEA encapsulates the new approach for the Cyprus Shipping Strategy,

For more information on the Cyprus SDM, to be part of leading positive

standing for Sustainable, Extrovert and Adaptable. The open consultation

change, and to contribute to Cyprus’ strategic vision for shipping, please

will take place throughout April and May in four phases:

visit the website here: www.cyshippingstrategy.com A video invitation message by the Shipping Deputy Minister to the President, Mr Vassilios Demetriades is available on the following link: https://youtu.be/v-eAgqHFlAg

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WE DO OUR

BEST THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

Who wants to just fit in, like everyone else?

Bring us your misfits, your non-standard, your oversized cargo.

It’s where our passion for problem solving comes into its own.

We’ll find a way www.allseasglobal.com

FORWARDER magazine

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29

SEA FREIGHT NEWS 20 APRIL 2021

SEA-LNG WARNS AGAINST

DELAY IN ADDRESSING SHIPPING DECARBONISATION

W

aiting for future fuels and not fully utilising LNG, which is safe,

To suggest that investments not be made in the LNG sector is unwise,

proven, competitive and available today, is a mistake. We

will prolong the use of higher emissions fuels and slow down shipping’s

need to take advantage today of the confirmed reduction

decarbonisation.

in GHG of up to 23% (Well-to-Wake) and the obvious air quality benefits of LNG as a maritime fuel. To continue to wait for unproven alternatives only

Technologies are constantly evolving, and it is essential to use up-to-date

makes the current GHG and local emissions problems worse.

data when evaluating different propulsion alternatives for the maritime sector. Based on the primary data and methodology of SEA-LNG’s latest

The World Bank’s recent report, ‘The Role of LNG in the Transition

research, we are unequivocally confident that Sphera’s 2nd Lifecycle

Toward Low- and Zero-Carbon Shipping’ attempts to prescribe

GHG Emission Study on the use of LNG as a Marine Fuel is the definitive

solutions and predict the timing of future technology development.

study on the essential role that LNG has to play in shipping’s pathway

SEA-LNG believes strongly that the transition to future fuels must not

to decarbonisation. The findings are based on the latest primary data,

follow this prescriptive approach. It is far too early to decide what

assessing all major types of marine engines and global sources of supply,

the real potential of various alternatives fuels will be for such a highly

follows ISO standards and is peer reviewed by neutral academics. This is

complex, hard-to-abate, global industry.

in contrast to some of the studies that the World Bank cites which are based on out-of-date technologies used in niche maritime operations.

Theoretical arguments are an important starting position, but the 50 plus years of proven, safe operational experience that the Industry has

The SEA-LNG study, published last week, shows that LNG as a marine

with LNG speaks for itself. Further, bio and synthetic LNG offer an

fuel provides GHG benefits of up to 23% on a Well-to-Wake (WtW)

incremental pathway for the decarbonisation of the global shipping

basis and up to 30% on a Tank-to-Wake (TtW) basis compared with

industry – one that is already being implemented by a growing number

current oil-based marine fuels.

of shipowners. The existing LNG infrastructure is being used today and is interchangeable with its bio and synthetic cousins, thereby providing

While methane slip is an issue that needs to be addressed, its effect must

a low risk, long-term decarbonisation alternative.

be quantified using up-to-date and accurate information. Using current engine information, as the SEA-LNG study does, shows that methane

By focusing on theoretical, unproven solutions, the World Bank stifles

slip does not impact LNG’s GHG reduction potential to the extent that

innovation in technologies that can also provide answers in the decades

the World Bank report claims. LNG engine solutions are already in use

ahead. We strongly encourage all institutions around the globe that

today with minimal methane slip. Manufacturers are on a pathway to

have a place in the policy debate to set standards and targets that drive

continue to reduce methane slip even further through measures which

real and immediate reductions in GHG emissions not prescribe specific

include design changes, and the implementation of advanced combustion

technology solutions that are untried and unproven in the real world.

algorithms. LNG-fuelled vessels being built today have much lower

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at sea-lng.org

By investing in LNG dual-fuelled vessels, the shipping industry begins the decarbonisation process now. This creates a direct pathway to significantly lower carbon emissions and facilitates the introduction of zero-carbon alternative fuels as and when they become commercially

levels of methane slip than what is often cited in academic studies,

and operationally viable.

including the IMO 4th GHG study. As Peter Keller, Chairman of SEALNG recently noted, “often based on outdated data, methane slip has

SEA-LNG encourages informed debate of future fuels. It is important

become an overused argument for those wishing to justify inaction.”

however, to base this debate on objective, up-to-date Lifecycle Analysis and recognise that we need to start with proven technologies not future

The World Bank report also fails to acknowledge the very rapid

concepts that are currently no more than wishful thinking.

acceleration in the availability of Bio-LNG. The European Biogas Association expects a ten-fold increase in Europe by 2030 and according to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), every part of the world has significant scope to produce biogas and/or biomethane,

ABOUT SEA-LNG

the gaseous form of bio-LNG. The 2020 Bio and synthetic fuels study

SEA-LNG is a UK-registered not for profit collaborative industry

by CE Delft highlights that large-scale bio-LNG supplies produced

foundation serving the needs of its member organisations

from sustainable biomass resources could be available in the 2030s,

committed to furthering the use of LNG as an important,

presenting the maritime sector with a safe and scalable alternative fuel.

environmentally superior maritime fuel.

While highlighting green ammonia and hydrogen as the only viable

SEA-LNG has members across the entire LNG value chain

future fuels, the World Bank report fails to mention the major

including providers of the product, users, engine and asset

challenges associated with these fuels. Considerable research and

suppliers, and class societies. SEA-LNG is already recognised

development as well as extensive operational testing is still needed.

as an international leader in LNG matters. Each member

Major technological and regulatory hurdles need to be overcome

organisation commits mutually agreed human resources, data

before ammonia and hydrogen can be safely used as fuels in the marine

analysis and knowledge sharing in support of SEA-LNG initiatives

environment. Investment cases will be hindered by the low energy

and activities and financially contributes via a membership fee.

density of these fuels. The massive investments that will be required in

SEA-LNG is guided by a board, which is led by chairman Peter

new infrastructure will have to be co-ordinated with ship-owners and

Keller, who was elected as Founding Chairman in 2016.

other stakeholders. The World Bank’s untested theoretical approach risks delaying the shipping industry’s decarbonisation and at worst it can

SEA-LNG’s members include: ABS, Carnival Corporation &

lead the industry down a technology cul-de-sac.

plc, Chart Industries, DNV, Eagle LNG Partners, Fearnleys, FortisBC, Gasum AS, GTT, JAX LNG, “K” LINE Group, Lloyd’s

The global health benefits resulting from the use of LNG as a marine

Register, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA),

fuel are well known and accepted. LNG-fuelled vessels emit virtually

NYK Line, Port of Corpus Christi, Port of Long Beach, Port of

no SOx while dramatically limiting emissions of NOx. It also virtually

Rotterdam, Port of Virginia, PugetLNG, Qatargas, Shell, Société

eliminates particulate matter, including black carbon or soot, which

Générale, Sohar Port & Freezone, Stabilis Energy, Sumitomo

while not yet regulated, is an environmental concern. We should not

Corporation, Total, TOTE Inc., Toyota Tsusho, Uyeno Group

miss this opportunity, especially in developing economies where air

of Companies, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Wärtsilä, and

pollution is a significant and growing problem.

Yokohama-Kawasaki International Port Corporation (YKIP).

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SEA FREIGHT NEWS 21 APRIL 2021

NORSEPOWER AGREEMENT SIGNALS

GLOBAL INSTALLATION CAPABILITY FOR ROTOR SAILS

N

orsepower Oy Ltd., the leading global provider of auxiliary

regulatory drivers are collectively having an immediate impact on how

wind propulsion systems, has signed a framework agreement

charterers are selecting their vessels for the near-term as well as further

with Offshore Technology Development (OTD), Keppel

ahead. Now that fuel efficiency and environmental performance are

Offshore & Marine’s technology arm specialising in the provision of

becoming critical to shipowners’ survival, it is clear that wind propulsion

critical equipment which supports the offshore oil and gas, marine, and

can provide significant emissions reductions and fuel savings while

offshore wind industries.

making vessels more attractive to charterers.

Under the agreement, OTD can assist to provide the initial survey,

The Norsepower Rotor Sail Solution is the first third-party verified

design and engineering works, and organise the equipment installation

and commercially operational auxiliary wind propulsion technology

for Norsepower’s Rotor Sails. Norsepower will deliver project

for the global maritime industry. The solution is fully automated

management, delivery, and installation supervision to support smooth

and detects whenever the wind is strong enough to deliver fuel and

installation, servicing and warranty support of Rotor Sails.

emission savings, at which point the Rotor Sails start automatically.

Norsepower has completed five installations to date and is due to

The shipping industry is under intensifying pressure from regulators

complete its sixth installation of five tilting Rotor Sails on a bulker

and non-regulators to decarbonise. The International Maritime

during the first half of this year.

Organisation’s (IMO) proposed Energy Efficiency Existing Shipping Index (EEXI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) are likely to come into force in 2023. Non-regulatory drivers from financiers, through the

ABOUT NORSEPOWER

Poseidon Principles, and cargo owners, under the Sea Cargo Charter,

Norsepower Oy Ltd is a Finnish clean technology and engineering

have also ratcheted up the pressure to modernise fleets. In order for

company pioneering modern auxiliary wind propulsion for the

shipping to manage this transition at scale, more collaboration between

global maritime industry. Norsepower’s Rotor Sail Solution is a

reliable, innovative and independent engineering experts and technology

proven, low-maintenance, easy to use, and reliable fuel-saving

providers is required.

technology, supporting the decarbonisation of the shipping industry.

Since its establishment in 2012, Norsepower has generated

Today’s announcement represents a significant step in fully

more than €20 million of funding and has now installed Rotor

commercialising the Rotor Sail which is capable of achieving, on average,

Sails onboard five vessels, including the latest installation on the

between 5 and 20% reductions in carbon and other emissions, as well

SC Connector.

as fuel and fuel costs in suitable conditions.

For more information on the Norsepower Rotor Sail Solution, Imminent regulatory drivers from the IMO, including EEXI and CII, pressure for shipping to enter an Emissions Trading Scheme, and non-

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please visit norsepower.com

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at poferries.com

We are the leading provider of smart logistics, enabling the flow of global trade. I would like to thank everyone at P&O Ferries who has worked hard to keep trade flowing during the last 12 months and am

P

excited by the opportunities which the arrival of a fifth ship on Dover-

&O FERRIES has announces the return of a fifth Ro-Ro ship on

Calais brings, both in terms of our offer to customers and also returning

its Dover-Calais route in order to take back market leadership

P&O to growth.

on the English Channel.

Mike Bhaskaran, Chief Operating Officer – Logistics and Technology, DP World

Pride of Burgundy – a 28,000 ton vessel with capacity to carry 120 lorries - will return to the vital arterial route in June, restoring the P&O

P&O is a leading pan-European ferry and logistics group at the heart

Dover-Calais fleet to its pre-pandemic strength of five and expanding

of the Europe’s economy and a part of DP World, the leading provider

options for customers looking to transport goods between Britain and

of smart logistics solutions and enabler of the flow of trade across

the EU. The ship will sail in freight-only mode.

the globe. P&O Ferries is a major provider of freight transport and passenger travel services, sailing on eight major routes between Britain,

In 2019, P&O Ferries’ share of ferry freight volumes on the Dover Strait

France, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Holland and Belgium.

was more than 50 per cent. P&O Ferries has since become part of DP

Its logistics business, P&O Ferrymasters, operates integrated road

World, the leading global provider of smart logistics, which reported

and rail links to countries across the continent including Italy, Poland,

robust financial results for 2020 with revenue growing by 11 percent

Germany, Spain and Romania, and facilitates the onward movement of

to $8,553 million.

goods to Europe from Asian countries via the Silk Road.

I am delighted to welcome a fifth ship back to our Dover-Calais fleet which will increase flexibility for customers and enable us to deliver a cost effective freight service on the English Channel as the economy returns to normal. Dover-Calais is a vital trade route both for the UK and EU economies as well as the thousands of businesses which rely on our services and we aim to return our market share back to where it belongs.

My message to our freight customers is simple: P&O will do everything it can to continue being the brand you can trust to deliver your goods from beginning to end, with the aim of solving the most complex logistical challenges using our integrated ferry and logistics assets.

David Stretch, Chief Executive, P&O Ferries

P&O FERRIES TO LAUNCH FIFTH DOVER-CALAIS SHIP 28 APRIL 2021

TO TAKE BACK MARKET LEADERSHIP ON PRINCIPAL UK-EU TRADE ROUTE FORWARDER magazine

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33

SEA FREIGHT EXPERTS

Y

ou might be used to the idea of being able to order goods

The main process

or services from practically anywhere and have them

Here is a simplified summary of how container shipping works:

delivered within a reasonable amount of time. Yet how

do these goods travel to you? Here is an overview of container

1. Export Haulage: The exporter or shipping company will

shipping and some key terms and processes.

forward the freight (generally by truck or train) to the port. Often the shipping company can or will arrange for this. Export haulage

Types of containers

generally ends when the cargo reaches the port for export.

There are many different types of containers available and range in size from 8 feet long to 40 feet long. The most common size is 20

2. Export Customs Clearance: The first of two main

feet by 8 feet wide. Here are the main types of containers:

documentation steps required (at least for international shipping.)

Key shipping terms

A licensed customs broker will clear the cargo to leave the country

Importer

and receive a cargo declaration. Documents and information will

Party or company that wants to receive cargo.

be required, but those documents vary by country, and you should carefully check the details of what is needed. Generally, this step

Exporter

will be handled by the exporter or shipping company.

Wishes to send the cargo to the importer, likely after selling it.

3. Origin Handling: Origin handling can refer to all of the activities Shipping Company

that occur after the container or items to be shipped have reached

If the importer or exporter is not handling shipping in-house, they

the exporting port but have not left yet. Following this, the cargo is

may use a shipping company's services. 'Freight forwarder' might

generally placed into the port's warehouse, and it waits there until

also be used here.

it is time to load it onto a ship.

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HOW CONTAINER SHIPPING WORKS

...A GLOBAL SOLUTION

4. Ocean Freight: This varies from ship to ship. The freight

7. Import Haulage: Once the cargo is in the import warehouse,

forwarder (shipping company) will usually enter a shipping contract

it will travel to the address of the final destination. This last step is

with the shipping line, owner, or freight vessel. Parties may or may

called import haulage. It can be done by the shipping company if they

not be able to track where your shipment is at any given point It is

have the capabilities, or it might be outsourced. Some importers

not uncommon for a cargo container to be transferred to multiple

might also decide to have the cargo picked up. How exactly it

cargo ships through multiple ports (much like how people might

happens will vary depending on the shipping agreement.

change subway lines).

Delivery models & possible pricing How long the ocean freight step takes naturally depends on the distance

Shipping costs are a significant expense for many companies,

is between the ports and how many stops are made along the way.

especially with large products. While economies of scale impact container shipping and business, it still means that dedicated

5. Import Customs Clearance: To determine levies, duties,

professionals must work to keep costs low.

and other payments and make sure goods are as they should be, cargo must go through import customs clearance, much like export

Delivery and pricing models vary, but there are a few common

customers clearance. Naturally, the exact process and requirements

ones you might see offered. You can read more about this at

will vary from country to country. It is often the importer's

conexboxes.com/blog/how-container-shipping-works-a-

responsibility to handle the matter, but the task can be assigned or

global-solution. As with most things shipping, it's wise to consult

forwarded elsewhere.

professionals about the process.

Sometimes the freight forwarder will be unable or unwilling to

Conclusion

perform customs clearance services, but the importer can generally

Anyone who has worked with container shipping before can tell you

find a broker if this happens.

that there is a lot more to it than the simplified concepts and steps listed above. It is a massive industry, a career for many, and a key

6. Destination Handling: Much like how cargo is onboarded,

reason we enjoy so many amenities of modern life.

there must also be an unloading process. Documents are checked, and the container is unloaded and brought to the warehouse. The

This article was originally published at

importer can collect the cargo directly, or other shipping processes

conexboxes.com/blog/how-container-shipping-works-a-

(trucks, etc.) can ensue.

global-solution

FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

ISSUE63 ISSUE63

35

Shipping and Transport is the cornerstone of any economy Companies involved in international trade understand that and require partners that provide an efficient service coupled with economical pricing.

Seafreight • Airfreight • Warehouse & distribution Cargo Insurance • Customs Clearance

The Daygard Logistics Group of Companies

Freight Movers International

Cargo Movers International

Daygard Clearance

World Freight Movement

Daygard Logistics Group Unit B1/B2 • J31 Park • Motherwell Way • West Thurrock • RM20 3XD

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daygard.com/365Days

01708 630 448 • info@daygard.com

daygard.com

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37

Ocean freight visibility at its best

Track all of your containers in real-time 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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ISSUE63

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

ISSUE63

39

ROAD FREIGHT

A system of transporting goods by road.

Related topics Groupage Couriers Last mile

Sponsored by

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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

13 APRIL 2021

LOGISTICS UK CELEBRATES

Further information can be found at logistics.org.uk

11 YEARS OF VAN EXCELLENCE

A

s Logistics UK celebrates the 11-year anniversary of Van

Stephen Turner, Sales Director Vehicle Enhancement Division, Bott Ltd,

Excellence – its scheme that promotes the safe and efficient

comments:

operation of vans – the organisation’s Head of Consulting &

Partner and a recognised Van Excellence van operator. We embrace

Standards, Sharon Mitchell, says now is the ideal time to celebrate the

the aims of the scheme in improving best practice amongst fleets of

incredible determination of van drivers to support UK society and the

all sizes and we provide advice and mentoring to help others gain this

economy during the COVID-19 pandemic:

valuable recognition. The improved efficiency and safety, coupled with

Our organisation is both a long-term Van Excellence Gold

the knowledge that the vans are being operated legally and to current From March 2020, the van community stepped up to serve the

standards, helps to enhance an operator's reputation. We have also

nation, from delivering food shopping to the most vulnerable to keeping

been proud to play our part in assisting with driver wellbeing initiatives

businesses moving behind the scenes and their efforts were recognised

launched by Logistics UK as part of the scheme.

with official acknowledgement as “key workers” by government.

80% of businesses in the van industry said they had adapted their services to better serve their community, with van drivers reporting working

ABOUT LOGISTICS UK

an additional 20 hours a month, according to the Mercedes-Benz Vans

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups,

Business Barometer. Operators in the Van Excellence scheme – who

representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping

represent the best in the community – are no exception; we would like

the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly

to thank them for their incredible efforts over the past 12 months as

employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With

we mark one year since the first lockdown.

COVID-19, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders

Launched in 2010, the Van Excellence scheme provides operators

and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more

with the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to safer,

important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands

more efficient and sustainable van fleets by passing a series of tests.

up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group

The scheme is sponsored by its Gold Partners: The AA, Bott Ltd,

which represents the whole industry, with members from

Brigade Electronics, Hertz UK Ltd, Lex Autolease, Quartix, and TVL.

the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose

Ms Mitchell continues:

The Van Excellence scheme has gone from

businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For

strength to strength since its inception 11 years ago, with many

more information about the organisation and its work, including

household names – including National Grid, Wayfair and Sainsbury's –

its ground-breaking research into the impacts of COVID-19 on

achieving certification. Whether a business is operating a fleet of a 100

the whole supply chain, please visit logistics.org.uk

or a small fleet of one or two, the need for safe, compliant and efficient operations remains the same, and thanks to Van Excellence, more vans than ever before are being operated to the highest standards.

FORWARDER magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS 15 APRIL 2021

BLUESEAL AIR CURTAINS TO FEATURE

INTEGRATED BLUECONTROL UNIT

TO HELP MONITOR DOOR OPENINGS

F

or over a decade Brightec have helped companies to keep goods fresh during distribution with BlueSeal air curtains, an efficient and invisible climate barrier that prevents cold air from mixing with

outside air during deliveries. This month Brightec are pleased to announce the next generation of BlueSeal air curtains featuring an integrated BlueControl unit which helps operators to more accurately monitor door openings that are the leading cause of temperature loss in refrigerated transport.

Plug & play device Studies have shown that transporting frozen goods at -20°C without a climate

The BlueControl unit also makes installation easier for bodybuilders.

barrier increases fuel use by cooling units to several thousands of litres of Diesel

The BlueSeal air curtain is connected directly to the vehicle’s battery

a year. In the past this has been solved by PVC curtains which are becoming

making this a plug-and-play device that significantly reduces the

obsolete due to easily breaking and being moved to one side by drivers during

installation time for vehicle manufacturers and convertors.

deliveries. BlueSeal air curtains offer a solution that is free from contact with drivers and works in harmony with vehicles to reduce cooling energy use by 30-

Vehicle battery life is now monitored with an integrated battery guard

45% (according to the Centre for Sustainable Energy use in Food Chains, Brunel

function that will switch the air curtain off when the voltage has dropped

University), creating a more effective and environmentally friendly solution to

below a certain point set by the user. This prevents the possibility of

cold chain management during distribution.

battery drainage and ensures that BlueSeal could not hinder the vehicle's ability to operate if doors are left open unnecessarily.

BlueControl features a range of developments to the existing model including an LED display which alerts users to the time that doors are

We have always been confident of BlueSeal's ability to control

open, encouraging drivers to minimise the duration of door openings to

temperature loss in vehicles and shown through various independent tests

ensure that goods are not compromised and thereby reducing cooling

that we have created the most effective means of climate control on the

fuel consumption.

market. These new developments aren't so much about fixing existing problems as ensuring that BlueSeal remains unmatched in its ability to

The new units also feature an integrated light sensor and options for

offer the best protections to customers in a time when transporting

an external magnetic switch and infra-red sensor that help the unit to

temperature-controlled goods is such a critical part of our supply chain.

detect door openings in every possible situation.

Hans Opdam, Founder, Brightec

The units also contains a timer function and is suitable for an input range

The new units will be available from the Summer from Brightec.

of 10 - 28 volts. A test button directly indicates the battery voltage on

Learn more about BlueSeal at Brightec.nl or get in touch with Tom at

the display.

t.opdam@brightec.nl

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at highwaysengland.co.uk

CVIPT, who championed the ground-breaking system along with a host of other commercial vehicle safety initiatives, scooped Highways England Chairman’s Award and the Excellence in Safety Innovation Award. The team

C

was one of 30 winners rewarded at the third Highways England Awards,

utting edge technology that monitors tyre pressures, tread

designed to recognise activities which further the company’s imperatives of

depth and the axle weight of HGVs has been hailed for its

safety, customer service and delivery. This year the award ceremony was

potential in boosting safety on the roads.

held online. Individuals and teams from within Highways England as well as its supply chain partners were among those recognised in the awards.

Trials, funded by Highways England’s designated fund for innovation, have proved hugely successful with one in 12 of 100,000 tyres checked

We are constantly looking for ways to ensure everyone who travels

found to be underinflated and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency

or works on our network gets home safe and well and CVIPT can be

(DVSA) identifying 5,000 overweight vehicles a month.

very proud of the work they are doing to help us achieve this. The awards that the team have won not only endorses their work, but

Now there are plans to roll the system out at strategic route locations

also the companies and partners helping to bring forward the ground-

across the country.

breaking innovations employed to embed improved safety in the commercial vehicle sector.

Highways England’s Commercial Vehicle Incident Prevention Team

Mike Wilson, Chief Highway Engineer, Highways England

(CVIPT) backed a pilot of the sophisticated WheelRight quartz senor system at Keele Services on the M6 before running year-long trials with

We’re really pleased that vehicle safety has been recognised in

John Lewis at Milton Keynes, AW Jenkinson Transport at Penrith, and

this way, and that DVSA and Highways England continue to work in

the DVSA check site at Cuerden, on the M62.

partnership exploring new and innovative ways of ensuring the compliant operation of commercial vehicles on the roads network.

The system comprises a set of high-intensity strobe lights, all-weather

Marian Kitson, Director of Enforcement, DVSA

cameras and drive-over pressure instruments – all collecting huge amounts of data within seconds which allows for adjustments to be

Other projects that CVIPT have brought forward include working with

made to ensure that tyres are compliant with safety standards.

tyre firm Bridgestone to analyse the causes of tyre-related incidents and tyre damage by analysing 1,000 pieces of debris, launching a free smart

This data is analysed to provide results instantly and reports include: tyre

phone app in collaboration with the Transport Research Laboratory

pressures (pass or fail based on predetermined levels); tread depths (pass

that simulates HGVs blind spots and working with the Health and Safety

or fail based on specified levels); tyre temperatures (early identification of

Executive and industry to drive forward load security best practice.

problem tyres or wheels); tyre condition (via a 360o photographic image of the tread); and Weigh in Motion data/axle weights.

Judges noted CVIPT had delivered a range of initiatives with partners delivering innovative measures which build on best practice.

8 APRIL 2021

CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY ON RIGHT TRACK TO

IMPROVE TYRE SAFETY FORWARDER magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS 8 APRIL 2021

HIGHWAYS ENGLAND JOINS TEST BED FOR

CARBON-NEUTRAL FUTURE TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS

H

ighways England has formally joined the Innovation Community

SMLL , a TRL company, provides a London-based real-world

of the Smart Mobility Living Lab (SMLL), the world’s most

connected environment for testing and developing future transport

advanced urban testbed of its kind. The company joins a

and mobility solutions.

growing membership of organisations who are invested in shaping the transformation of transport in the UK.

It enables businesses to see a digital version of an entire connected environment, from components, cars, the roads they drive on, the

SMLL is a multi-million pound joint initiative between industry and

infrastructure supporting them, the way a service is delivered as well

government to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable, carbon

as studying the environmental impact.

neutral, transport system. The testbed supports the deployment of automated vehicle technologies, and new mobility concepts for the

The test bed can demonstrate and evaluate the use, performance,

movement of people and goods. Highways England has joined the

safety and benefits of Connected and Autonomous Vehicle (CAV)

initiative to further conversations and research into intelligent transport

technology and Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) in a real-

solutions, to ultimately help reach the government’s goal of achieving

world city environment.

net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The SMLL Innovation Community brings together a range of stakeholders I'm excited that Highways England is joining the Smart Mobility

including network mobile operators, vehicle manufacturers and industry

Living Lab Community. It will support our future decision making for

experts such as: Nissan, Cisco, Imperial College, CoMoUK, Telefonica,

the strategic road network by facilitating collaborative working and

Hastings, Appyway.

unlocking knowledge that will create new opportunities and improve the future of mobility. I look forward to sharing expertise across this

Highways England has joined the SMLL Innovation Community to work

Community and accelerating the delivery of Highways England’s strategic

together with this wide variety of stakeholders in order to develop

goals and commitments.

greater learning and work towards achieving intelligent transport

Phil Proctor Head of Research, Highways England

solutions and ultimately, decarbonisation.

We are delighted to welcome Highways England to the Community.

The decarbonisation of the UK economy involves the process of de-

The Highways England vision and mission is the bedrock for innovation

coupling energy supply and economic growth from greenhouse gas

on our strategic network. Our members will benefit from their long-term

emissions (GHG). Transport as a whole is the UK’s second largest emitting

view - necessary to make infrastructure changes - and Highways England

sector of GHG, two thirds of which are related to road transport.

will benefit from the immediate disruptive ideas our disparate members bring to the table to improve the customer experience. Their collaboration will create insight to drive new strategic initiatives, accelerating the UK’s delivery of a modern transport system rich in social value.

Paul Zanelli, Director of Strategic Ventures, TRL

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For more information, please visit smartmobility.london

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Please call us for immediate quotation +44 (0)1656 656535 enq @ eurgent.co.uk www.eurgent.co.uk FORWARDER magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS APRIL 2021

FORTEC LAUNCHES

NEW PALLET DIMENSIONS TO SECURE GROWING RESIDENTIAL MARKET

Barry Byers is Managing Director – UK Business Units for Pall-Ex Group and oversees Fortec. Barry explains why the new pallet sizes and

F

services were introduced and the benefits they will bring to members and customers alike: ortec Distribution Network has launched a range of services specifically designed to capture the increasing B2C pallet delivery market.

The new pallet sizes we have introduced create a range of options for our customers who are looking for more commercially attractive solutions when sending freight. The rise of e-commerce and the subsequent demand

The network recently introduced two new pallet sizes, Micro and Full

for B2C and residential deliveries has been accelerated by Covid-19 and

Light which cater for specialist products including building supplies,

this is why we decided to introduce these new options. The new Micro

garden furniture and flooring.

pallet size in particular is ideal for customers who have traditionally sent large multi-parcel consignments, as the palletised freight distribution

There was an unprecedented increase in demand for residential

model is more cost effective for items of this size.

deliveries at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, one which has not fallen over a year later.

With the continual growth of the B2C market, the introduction of Fortec’s new pallet dimensions and services looks to have helped the

As Fortec, now part of Pall-Ex Group, continues to strengthen its

network gain an increased share in the sector.

service offering, the senior management team saw an opportunity to introduce innovative pallet options that would appeal to a growing

Find out more about how Fortec can support your business by visiting

customer segment.

www.fortec-distribution.com

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ogistics businesses are reaping the rewards of Pall-Ex’s

Moody Logistics and Storage was one of the first members to become

shareholder offering, with members enjoying growth

a shareholder member.

over the last 12 months.

Caroline Moody, managing Director of the Cramlington-based

The year of 2020 was challenging for so many businesses around

business explains why it chose to do so:

For us it was a no brainer.

the UK and further afield, but the stability and strength offered

We believe in what Pall-Ex is looking to achieve and we want to be a

by Pall-Ex’s shareholder membership opportunities has allowed

part of the journey to becoming the leading palletised freight network.

haulage firms throughout the UK to invest in their future and

Investing in the network means we share a common interest with our

unite with likeminded business industry experts.

fellow shareholder members, so we all work together to succeed and improve. Its win-win!

Having launched the offering to its UK membership in late 2019, the uptake has been phenomenal, with the total percentage of

Another member who saw the benefits of the shareholder opportunity

shareholder members within its network approaching 90%, and

was Magnus Group of Ipswich.

interest being shown every week.

Olly Magnus describes the impact becoming a shareholder has had on Following the buy-out of the palletised freight distribution

his business:

network by the senior management team and a group of Pall-

Covid-19 and other factors, it has been great to know that we have

At a time when there was a lot of uncertainty due to

Ex members, a unique shareholder offering was introduced to

secured our future by becoming shareholders. There are so many

the network – one which holds equality and shared success

benefits, it is impossible to describe just one, but knowing that every

at its heart.

shareholder is looking out for each other and that everyone is working for each other’s shared success is something that is really important.

As the network continues to grow, shareholder opportunities follow, and logistics businesses will continue to see the benefits of becoming a shareholder member of Pall-Ex. Find out more by visiting www.pallex.co.uk/become-a-member

BUSINESSES DRIVING FORWARD APRIL 2021

THANKS TO PALL-EX’S SHAREHOLDER MEMBERSHIP

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS 14 MARCH 2021

CONNECTED FLEET MANAGEMENT

BOOSTS MPG BY 12% FOR STRATA LOGISTICS

S

trata Logistics has seen its fleet mpg soar by 12 per cent thanks

We had previously relied heavily on manual planning, but the

to connected technology introduced to improve productivity,

introduction of the integrated WEBFLEET and TransMaS solution has

driver behaviour and tachograph compliance.

been revolutionary. We have seen fantastic gains in productivity and now have full visibility over our entire operation.

The Letchworth-based haulier’s integrated solution combines Webfleet Solutions’ fleet management platform WEBFLEET, connected cameras

In addition, the combination of WEBFLEET TachoShare with TDi’s

from VisionTrack, TDi Software’s TransMaS traffic management system

disc-check is making life easier for Strata to remain compliant with

and disc-check tachograph software.

tachograph regulations.

WEBFLEET’s OptiDrive 360 functionality highlights dangerous or

TachoShare has taken responsibility away from the company’s drivers

inefficient driving, profiling drivers based on incidents such as harsh

by automating the remote download of driver card and vehicle unit

braking, sharp cornering or speeding. VisionTrack’s connected cameras,

data, saving them time through reduced administration. Disc-check then

meanwhile, provide associated video evidence for every event.

simplifies back office analysis and reporting, helping to monitor and reduce the likelihood of future infringements.

The improvement in our average fuel consumption has been helped in no small part by a 75 per cent reduction in speeding and a 50 per cent

Strata Logistics’ investment in the fleet management solution was

drop in vehicle idling incidents. We also expect our maintenance spend

supported by TDi Software, an official Webfleet Solutions partner.

to fall as we experience less wear and tear on vehicle components, such as tyres and brakes.

Paul White, Managing Director, Strata Logistics By using a single software interface, Strata has also streamlined its workflow management and seen a significant reduction in fleet admin time. Jobs can now be scheduled dynamically, with daily job itineraries sent to drivers via Webfleet Solutions’ PRO 8375 TRUCK ruggedized terminals.

As jobs are accepted by Strata’s drivers, the system automatically provides truck-specific navigation instructions and accurate ETAs, meaning customers can be notified when their deliveries are due to arrive.

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ROAD FREIGHT NEWS

THE BIGGER PICTURE APRIL 2021

FROM TURF TO TILES, SLABS TO STATUES, PALLET-TRACK’S GOT THE UK COVERED

T

he logistics sector has demonstrated how critical it is to the

Pallet networks are not only helping to keep the wheels of the UK

UK’s infrastructure, keeping the wheels of UK plc turning

turning, but they are an inherently green solution as the whole hub and

during the pandemic by putting food on the tables and vital

spoke model is built upon operating to the highest standards and load

PPE and health equipment into our NHS hospitals.

optimisation to avoid empty trailers on any leg of the journey. During last year, networks delivered 27.8 million pallets, a 3.2 per cent growth year

Our network is made up of high quality transport and logistics

on year and averaging 76 per cent trailer utilisation. Tellingly, as a result of

companies who offer a wide range of different supply chain services but

COVID-19, 63 per cent of those shipments were next day delivery. While

all share a common goal. As shareholder members of our pallet network,

we have all been focused on the customer journey, we have also had to

they play a crucial part in the bigger picture ensuring that their customers’

be cognisant of other key factors, such as the welfare of our staff and the

palletised products are delivered across the four corners of the UK every

ongoing stewardship of the environment by reducing our carbon footprint

day, even during what was a major crisis for this country.

while increasing our business profile. Across the UK’s pallet networks,

Caroline Green, the new CEO of Pallet-Track, one of the eight

service levels remain at 96 per cent despite the challenges facing the

Association of Pallet Network (APN) members

industry – staff and skills shortages, furlough and colleagues having to home school their children during lockdown – it makes you extremely

The businesses achieve this national coverage by delivering into a

proud to be part of something that can demonstrate its resilience and

centralised or regional hub, owned by Pallet-Track. This means that

agility in the midst of a global pandemic.

everything from turf and tiles from Lands End can be collected and onward delivered to John O’Groats by a fellow Pallet-Track shareholder

Caroline's pride in the industry and its people shone bright when the

member. The result is nationwide coverage and greater efficiency

business launched a national #HoorayforHauliers campaign to celebrate

through fleet optimisation, as well as reduced mileage and costs by

the role of the key worker drivers with specially-designed liveries on

individual members.

Pallet-Track member vehicles – PW Gates in Welwyn Garden City, JMS of Doncaster and Alan Firmin Ltd in Kent – and a high-profile

From bathrooms to barbecues, slabs to shrubs, the networks deliver

advertising hoarding campaign at the intersection of the M6 and M5

overnight with the record shipments in recent weeks, as household

motorways, viewed by millions of motorists throughout March and April.

spending on DIY and staycation luxuries replaced cash splashed on the overseas travel put on hold until 2022.

Today, with a 267,000 sq ft landmark central hub in Millfields Road, Wolverhampton, a southern hub in Welwyn Garden City and another for the north in Wigan, Greater Manchester, the business tranships in excess of 20,000 pallets per day through its UK-wide network and, importantly, has never lost a single consignment since trading began.

Now the business is about to open a new 150,000 sq ft facility with scope for an additional 3,000 pallets per night to relieve pressure on the main hub.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE?

ADVERTORIAL

Further information can be found at pallet-track.co.uk

The new facility in Woden Road West, Wednesbury, is just yards away

Now, after a record start to 2021, which has seen the

from the original Black Country facility it launched from 17 years ago.

addition of three new network members the business has seen growth in excess of 20 per cent compared to last year.

Part of its network success is the continual investment in technology and both its online tracking system and proof of delivery solution keep

Our strategy is to continue to grow in line with our

the business focused and able to retain the no-loss record through

members, so we all succeed. A network is only as strong as

a totally transparent end-to-end process. This includes Pallet-Track’s

its weakest member so our job is to ensure we support all

online portal, which gives users the ability to enter consignments

our members such that we all add value by being the best

directly into the depot system to access real-time delivery information.

we can be,

said Caroline.

For more information about Pallet-Track, call 0870 385 0055 or visit www.pallet-track.co.uk

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ROAD FREIGHT COVER FEATURE

MOVE IT LIKE...

STEPHEN THOMPSON MD, ACTION ROADWAYS

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FACT FILE FOUNDED 1981 TURNOVER

SITES One site in Belvedere, Kent MAIN TRADE LANES Covering the whole of the UK, but our group services extend this around the world

£3.5 million Sales increase: +10% SPECIALISMS Pallet network EMPLOYEES

MODES Road MILESTONES & AWARDS Achieving 40 years in business Being bought by DGS

4 office + 5 warehousing + 10 drivers = 19 people

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ROAD FREIGHT COVER FEATURE

IN A VERY GOOD PLACE A

He says:

I joined Action Roadways when I was 22. I was working

as a clerk at the South Eastern Electricity Board. A friend’s father had started Action Roadways and I joined the company. I have never left the firm even though I have had offers since.

This reflects Mr Thompson’s strong loyalty to the company and its hard-working staff. This notion of hard work is a good reflection of the company’s founder, the father of Mr Thompson’s friend, who famously worked hard for 15 hours day and played hard on the weekend.

He retired 15 years ago and has just turned 80,

says Mr Thompson.

A relative of the founder has worked in the company for a number of years. Mr Thompson has known her since she was eight years old. She is now over 50. “One of the reasons I joined and have stayed is that it was a family-run business.

SERVICES Action Roadways provides distribution solutions for businesses in South East London and North Kent. It has an extensive distribution

ction Roadways is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

network and its rates are competitively priced to give clients’ business

The Belvedere, Kent-based pallet handler has a great deal to

an advantage. The company’s current road fleet are a mixture of 13.6m

satisfied with, while not resting on its laurels as they look

Curtain-siders, 7.5 tonne lorries, a flatbed trailer and Transit vans.

towards their half century in 2031.

Manufactures include DAF, MAN and Renault vehicles. All are operated

by CPC-trained drivers.

One key measure of the health of Belvedere, Kent-based transportation and warehousing company Action Roadways is the very low rate of

In terms of pallet distribution, Action Roadways offers next-day,

staff turnover it enjoys. The higher the rate of leaving, the more likely

and economy and non-standard cargo delivery options supported by

that staff morale is in the basement. By that measure, the fact that the

competitive rates and a dedicated customer service team. More urgent

most recent employee, a driver, has already been there for 18 months

consignments can be sent by the company’s Express Van service available

complements director Steve Thompson who has worked for the firm for

for time- sensitive shipments.

32 years as a sign of the success in creating a healthy company. Which is why Mr Thompson thinks it is in a very good place.

Storage solutions are provided by the company’s Belvedere depot’s 600 pallets space of storage space available. These can provide a short-term

Mr Thompson reflected with FORWARDER magazine on his three

storage solution, longer-term options or even a devan or consolidation

decades’ career with a company that formed his first introduction to

facility if required. In terms of staff, the company has four staff members

the world of haulage back in the late 1980s.

in the office, five in the depot warehouse and some 19 drivers.

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THE PALLET NETWORK

TEAM ACTION ROADWAYS

Action Roadways has been a keen member of The Pallet Network (TPN)

Clients looking to use Action Roadways’ transportation are

for 2003 and Mr Thompson cannot speak too highly of the network or

buying into a ‘team’, considers Mr Thompson.

the benefits of being a member. He says:

team but no-one lauds it over anyone else. We have a hierarchy

We have been members for

We are a small

18 years and I cannot say too much about how the TPN has transformed

of roles but we all work closely together to get the job done,

the business.

he said. At times, Mr Thompson will get hands-on with working.

We offer continuity of staff and service as well as reliability.

He added that Action Roadways had once been a member of a hazchem network but found the pallet business was growing so much they pulled

Being an SME, Mr Thompson and his team have considerable

out of chemical movements. TPN is the UK’s leading pallet network,

freedom in how they can help clients without the constricting

with more than 100 members and over 120 sites throughout the UK.

straitjacket rules larger companies may have in place. He says:

Together with TPN, Mr Thompson considers that his company offers

We always work for the benefit of customers. This means that

excellent service levels for next-day, timed or economy deliveries for

if we can’t undertake the project, we will find another company

any palletised goods.

that can help them.

As a result, Action Roadways offers full, half or quarter pallet sizes.

It is not only staff who remain for a long time at Action Roadways.

It can also take oversized freight which requires more than one pallet

While many customers go back years, Mr Thompson points to

space. For out-of-gauge freight, which measures 2.6m or more in length

two very long-term clients.

or width, the company offers a bespoke service.

and logistics specialists DGS, also based in Belvedere, Kent who

action

ROADWAYS

One client is freight forwarding

has been with us for 20 years. Another is Asphalt Reinforcement Services who have been with us for 18 years, since they started.

Three years ago, DGS (Daily Groupage Services) took the ultimate step and acquired Action Roadways, the ultimate customer vote of approval. Bedfordshire-based Asphalt Reinforcement Services offer geosynthetic and steel mesh systems to provide a sustainable solution for road surface maintenance.

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ROAD FREIGHT COVER FEATURE

They have been with us from when they started. We have transported their material for years and stored items for them. They have never forgotten the service we have provided.

Currently Action Roadways stores some 1,500 to 2,000 rolls of asphalt repair material for the company.

BREXIT & ‘STACK’ & DRIVERS

One threat that has appeared over the horizon is a growing shortage of qualified drivers. Many in the transport industry have concerns about the shortage of suitable drivers.

With the majority of its business being UK domestic transport, Brexit did not have such a great impact on Action Roadways and its business. Of

Mr Thompson concludes by relating the ambition that over the next few

greater concern is when Operation Stack, a procedure used by Kent Police

years the company will purchase more of its own vehicles and perhaps

and the Port of Dover to park (or 'stack') lorries on the M20 motorway

a second warehouse in the area to expand their services.

in Kent when services across the English Channel, such as those through the Channel Tunnel or from the Port of Dover, are disrupted. While it is in Kent, Belvedere is not necessarily on the radar of Operation Stack, its disruption can be felt my Mr Thompson and his team.

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Alan Smith, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

action

ROADWAYS

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY

Action Roadways has recently teamed up with E-Gistics to implement live quoting, track & trace and all the other technological advancements that people now expect of their movers and shippers.

Keep an eye on their website at

action-roadways.co.uk

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ROAD FREIGHT EXPERTS

T

he Hazchem Network is unique in the world of pallet networks in that it is the only network that is capable of handling dangerous goods. Every member of the network

is an ADR-specialist, this means they are fully trained and able to handle chemicals and hazardous goods, ensuring compliance every step of the way.

The Hazchem was started in 2004 and has developed a long way since those early days. The hub was originally located in Rugby but outgrew this and moved to a 10-acre site in Hinckley, Leicestershire at the start of 2019. The hub is ideally located in the heart of the Midlands and is close to all of the main motorways.

The network is run by Robert Symes, who is a trained chemist and DGSA. He is backed up by additional on-site DGSAs. All hub employees have been personally trained by Robert in ADR awareness and chemical safety. The hub is kitted out with specialist equipment to enable it to deal with a spillage and ensure that both

The network is primarily a B2B network. This means that members

people and the environment are always protected.

are not required to do large amounts of residential deliveries.

This will continue to be the ethos of the network, which our

To further back up the members and the hub, the network is part

members wholeheartedly agree with.

of the Hazchem Emergency Response Service (HERS). This is a service that is provided to all of the Hazchem Network members

There are over 60 member depots within the network now and

and allows them to call an emergency number at any time of day

there is continual interest in joining from transport companies.

or night and speak to a trained chemist at the National Chemical

The majority of members are family-owned businesses who

Emergency Centre (NCEC). This trained emergency responder will

concentrate on servicing their local areas. Most of the members

provide advice to, and support, the member. When needed, further

have been in the network for many years and have built-up a loyal

assistance can be provided and a clean-up crew from Ambipar, part

customer base, being able to offer a good service via the network.

of HERS, can be sent to the incident and they will take full control

We are always interested in hearing from anyone who would like

of the situation.

to become a member.

All of these measure combine to ensure that any freight that is sent

The network offers a next day service to mainland GB, with an

through the network is handled by trained personnel and has the full

economy service available for the more remote areas. Northern

support of the HERS scheme. No other network can provide this.

Ireland, Republic of Ireland and mainland Europe are all serviced.

Members of the network are in the envious position of being able to

If you want a network that can guarantee full-compliance with ADR,

offer the full range of services to their customers. Alongside their

including limited quantities, and is still small enough to care about

general freight, they can offer full-ADR, limited quantities and low

every customer, then contact The Hazchem Network.

damage rates, and can even offer a parcel service.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at hazchemnetwork.co.uk

ABOUT THE HAZCHEM NETWORK The Hazchem Network is the only ADR and hazardous goods pallet network in the UK. We transport over 2000 pallets and parcels a night throughout the UK mainland and islands, as well as to 27 European countries.

THE HAZCHEM NETWORK:

HAZARDOUS SPECIALIST PALLET GOODS NETWORK FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT EXPERTS

P

allet networks are now much more sophisticated and are an accepted part of the transport and logistics manager's portfolio of support. There is increasing confidence in the

sector as it becomes more intelligent and established.

Increasingly, high tech and high value goods are being trusted to pallet networks. Big brand retailers, multi nationals and big 3PLs are now entrusting networks and taking full advantage of the flexibility and convenience that they can provide. However, they still demand the service levels that they have come to expect from other supply chain routes, what is more, they are getting them.

An on-going focus on organic growth with and for its members has enabled UPN to build solid foundations in service and reputation. Its stated mission has been to plan for the long term as a network that is quality driven not volume driven.

Now in its twentieth year United Pallet Network (UPN) proudly sits as the only privately owned pallet network in the UK, a unique position that is enabling the company to act uniquely rapidly and strategically to support its members and the on-going growth of its network.

With a defined focus on service quality rather than volume business, the Lichfield-based palletised freight distribution specialist has maintained a strong, steady, stable growth trajectory since its inception in 2001 that is almost an absolute in performance predictability.

We continue to see our membership grow and grow with high quality new additions. This growth is allowing us to consolidate areas and provide even greater levels of service across the board.

UPN services continue to maintain over 99% service level performance even with the additional volume growth that we have seen this year. With a hub and spoke system Pallet Networks operate a truly green approach. This type of distribution system ensures a minimum of stem mileage, and maximum fleet utilisation, David Brown, Managing Director, UPN

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UNITED PALLET NETWORK CELEBRATES

TWENTY YEARS OF SUCCESS &GROWTH Today there are no bad pallet networks around but it’s a question of which network is the best 'fit.' In terms of service provision, its which one best meets the needs of the client and the job. In terms of membership, it’s about what the pallet network can offer the haulier to improve their own offering to their clients. It’s all about 'Added Value', 'Quality Control' and 'Technology.'

At the beginning of 2020 UPN secured its new home for the decade

Cutting-edge 'Smart' initiatives from UPN's IT team help keep the

ahead, its purpose developed SmartHUB. An investment of over

company as market leaders in the Pallet Network Sector. Rather than

£3 million pounds in a 200,000 plus sq. ft. facility with room for further

go to market and source third party applications, UPN a while ago took

expansion. SmartHUB is managed by UPN’s own bespoke SmartHUB

the strategic decision to set up its own specialist IT development team.

cross-network IT platform. The new technology platform has been

It is a decision that is paying real dividends as UPN is actively controlling

developed in response to members requests for greater support and

its own destiny and growth curve.

control across the nationwide UPN operation.

We have an excellent nationwide member team to further UPN provides members and customers with a comprehensive range

boost the expansion and development of our UPN business.

of palletised freight delivery services across the UK and Europe

A SmartNetwork to link through a SmartHUB,

said David.

underpinned by the most advanced technology available. Building its competitive advantage through technology UPN continues to lead the way in IT development for the Pallet Network Sector.

ABOUT UPN

UPN are known for innovative, market leading IT systems, which I

The UPN network is now over ninety strong, a cohesive

believe are the best in our sector. UPN also offer the widest range of

network of expert hauliers, as it takes big steps forward to

pallet options, with our 2.2-metre full and half pallets and our quarter,

provide the stability and platform for all its members to expand

micro, Euro and oversized pallet options. Customers are wide ranging,

their own businesses over the coming years. As UPN reaches

from the NHS to the big motor manufacturers – and everything in

its twentieth anniversary next year the future looks very bright

between. Our unique Micro Pallet is great for sectors such as the print

for continued strong, steady, stable growth through the next

sector with heavy small pallets. Our client range is vast, and we aim

decade and beyond.

to offer them all the same level of respect, expertise and efficiency.

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ROAD FREIGHT EXPERTS

P

allet networks are co-operative organisations made up of

Trailer utilisation increased during the pandemic and in the latter part

groups of professional hauliers working together as members,

of 2020. In Q2 it reached 76.2%, and the average between April and

shareholders or licensees, providing cost-effective, nationwide,

December was 75.1%. The improvement of trailer utilisation is crucial

next-day freight delivery services. That is the description of a pallet

to lower emissions and developing a truly environmentally sustainable

network from trade body the Association of Pallet Networks (APN).

road transport service. By contrast, according to the DfT, the industry as a whole runs at 54% utilisation for rigid vehicles and 62% for artics.

Founded in 15 years ago by current chairman Paul Sanders, it has attracted membership from the eight leading pallet networks in the UK:

The inclusions of different pallet

Palletforce, Fortec, Pall-Ex, The Pallet Network, Pallet-Track, Palletline,

sizes has been proven important

Palletways and UPN.

to UK plc, offering a more flexible service, but also to pallet network

Because of the way they operate, pallet networks are the most

members as it offers different

cost-effective and environmentally efficient forms of road freight

opportunities for load fill. 49.4% of

transportation.

pallets were full-sized, with 29.2% half pallets and 21.4% quarter.

Forwarders can use a pallet network to benefit from economies of scale in transport, without the need for investment in equipment and IT. Pallet

News roundup

networks offer next-day deliveries to the vast majority of the UK, some

In December, Palletways partnered with Mates in Mind, a UK charity

offer weekend and Bank Holiday deliveries too. Forwarders have access to

that helps organisations improve their workforces’ mental health. Mates

the latest track and trace technology ensuring security of their freight and

in Mind was established in 2017 to address mental ill health in the

providing high levels of customer service.

construction sector and more recently, has partnered with an increasing number of logistic and transport companies. They specialise in providing

Turning to a pallet network, forwarders can enjoy the advantage of

training and support for staff and employers to raise awareness, improve

allowing relatively small pallet loads to be delivered cost-effectively and

understanding and address the stigma that surrounds mental health.

quickly, with savings for both the transport operator and forwarder, while also handling large consignments.

Rob Gittins, Palletways’ UK managing director, said: “This year has been incredibly challenging for everyone, and we recognise the impact

Sector performance

it has had on our employees. The mental health and wellbeing of

In its review of pallet network members’ activities during the

our employees is of paramount importance and that is why we are

unprecedented UK business environment of 2020, APN reveals the

committed to investing in our staff.”

poor forecasts and a slow start to the year, pallet volumes remained strong with unexpected growth. APN members delivered 27.8m pallets,

The Pallet Network (TPN) has invested in e-learning platform HebeData,

a 3.2% growth overall year on year. The average pallet weight in 2020

which it is populating with entirely bespoke content to complement the

was 380.5kg.

work of onsite trainers at all levels of the operation.

Many sectors, especially those with urgent freight or delivering to live,

This is a substantial investment in the skills of our workforce and the

just in time sites, require next-day delivery. That is why 63% of all pallets

quality of our operation. Although the platform itself is very cost-effective,

delivered were on a next-day service.

we are developing our own modules, videos and learning opportunities which can be completely tailored to the role and to our operation.

Lynn Statham, Head of HR, TPN

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TPN has role-specific trainers on both day and night shifts, for instance, to teach and refresh fork-lift truck skills. Statham says the new content will provide an additional opportunity for staff to consolidate their learning and prove their understanding through quizzes and online assessments.

It is very helpful to team members if the terminology in the training material matches their experience of the job. Therefore, generic courses are only of limited use. Our pallet network environment is not a generic logistics environment, either operationally or in the quality standards and safety protocols we have in place. The HebeData learning platform will enable us to teach our teams using the in-house terminology and with reference to our specific standards and protocols.

Logistics business Pallet-Track has launched a national ‘Hooray for Hauliers’ campaign to celebrate the role of the key worker drivers who kept Britain moving throughout the pandemic, as well as navigating Brexit to deliver for the nation.

The campaign, which is taking the form of ‘#Hooray for Hauliers’ liveries on Pallet-Track member vehicles and a highprofile advertising hoarding campaign at the intersection of the M6 and M5 motorways.

Alan Smith, Editor, FORWARDER magazine

HOW PALLET NETWORKS WORK TOGETHER

TO DRIVE FORWARDERS’ BUSINESS FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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ROAD FREIGHT EXPERTS

W

hether you’ve recently started a business or you’re

So before you choose a courier, you need to determine important

just looking to make some changes, a reliable courier

aspects such as how they communicate with clients, how they do

service is important for your shipping and logistics.

their invoicing and how you go about arranging bookings with them.

Look for a courier service that is going to make the process as

Not only can the right courier partner save you money, but your

seamless as possible and who are always (within reason) on hand

delivery service also contributes towards the customer experience

to help should you encounter any issues. You also want them

and your reputation.

to be professional in terms of the service they provide to your customers. This means you want couriers with clean, tidy vans and

So you really need to get this right.

well-presented delivery drivers. This is because the professionalism of their employees will also reflect on your business.

However, finding the perfect courier service can be tricky and is not a decision to take lightly. That’s where we come in. To help you get this right, we’ve pulled together a list of the things you need to look for when choosing a courier partner for your business. These are:

1

3

Speed of delivery In a world where same-day delivery is possible, consumers

are increasingly expecting faster delivery times. As such, the speed of delivery is important and is something you need to consider when

Reliability

choosing a courier.

One of the most important things you need to consider when

choosing a courier service is how reliable they are. An unreliable

You want to choose a courier who can offer express shipping and rush

courier partner could not only cost your business money but could

orders when required. You might also wish to choose a provider that

negatively impact your reputation. The good news is there are

offers same-day, next-day or overnight delivery as these options are

several ways you can find out about the reliability of a courier and

very well received by consumers. So look at the company website and

these include:

speak with the couriers before deciding. They will be able to advise you on the types of delivery options they have on offer.

• The company website • Testimonials from other clients • Online reviews and feedback from customers • Review sites such as Trustpilot

4

The range of services on offer We’ve briefly touched on some of the services you might

want. but before you settle on any courier partner, you need to make sure they offer all the services you need or might need in the future.

So before you settle on a provider, be sure to do thorough research and check out the reliability of each provider you’re considering.

So take a careful look at the variety of services on offer. And

Then you can make an informed decision and ensure you choose

remember, you might be a small business only offering local delivery

the most reliable service provider.

right now, but if you plan to expand in the future, you want a courier

2

partner that can handle the logistics and shipping of your growth.

Professionalism and communication Another important consideration is how professional the

service providers are and whether they’re good at communicating

Plus, if you already ship internationally or you hope to do this in the future, you’ll need a service provider that offers this service.

when you need them. After all, you want working with them to be as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Some of the services that a good courier partner should provide and therefore the things you should look out for include:

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? • Same-day delivery • Next-day delivery

Further information can be found at niparcels.com

• UK overnight shipping • International shipping • Freight and cargo shipping • Office solutions such as digital print and postal services • Specialist services (such as warehouse storage and pick & pack)

5

You should be able to find out or ask about these on the company website or by getting in touch with the customer service team.

6

Environmental considerations People are increasingly becoming aware of their environmental

footprint and as such, they are making more environmentally friendly choices. And businesses are no exception. If you’re hoping to reduce your carbon footprint, you should look for a courier

Security

service that works with eco-conscious suppliers and has systems

We are hearing a lot more about security these days, whether

in place to reduce emissions. For example, some couriers now use

online or offline, as people are sharing more of their data than ever

bikes for local deliveries, while others use electric eco-vans. So if

before. And security is something you also need to consider when

this is something that is important to you and you think it can have a

choosing a courier.

positive impact on your brand, speak to couriers about what they’re doing to be more eco-conscious.

Not only this, but you want a service provider that is going to

7

require proof of ID where necessary and that will ensure they are

you want, you also need to consider the costs. You need to find

not taking any unnecessary risks with your packages. A good way

a balance to ensure you get everything you need from your new

to check the security of a courier is to find out whether they offer

courier partner but at an affordable price that suits your budget.

any of the following:

The great news is there are plenty of courier services out there

Depending on the nature of your business, your courier could be shipping packages containing sensitive information or items. This means you want a courier that provides multiple ways of keeping your packages safe.

Price Last but by no means least, you need to consider the price

of your courier service. While you want a courier service that is going to offer all the services, security and customer service

that offer both; it’s just about shopping around and doing your • Real-time GPS tracking

research until you find the right one.

• Secure parcel deliveries NI Parcels

• Full audit trails • Transparency throughout the chain of custody • Employees who are trained about security practises

7 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A

COURIER PARTNER FOR YOUR BUSINESS FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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RAIL FREIGHT

The use of railroads and trains to transport cargo, as opposed to human passengers.

Related topics Belt & Road Initiative HS2 Rail terminals and depots

Sponsored by

66 66 FORWARDER magazine

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22 APRIL 2021

LOGISTICS UK PART OF JOINT CALL FOR

ELECTRIFICATION OF RAIL

L

ogistics UK has urged government to begin a rolling programme

Logistics UK has consistently called for a structured programme

of rail electrification, in a joint letter to the Transport Secretary,

of rail electrification to help deliver net-zero emissions by 2050 and

Grant Shapps, co-signed by more than 15 business, industry and

to support further private sector investment in the UK’s rail freight

campaign groups.

sector. The latest research from RIA provides compelling evidence on the importance of electrification for both business and the environment.

The letter follows significant research by Railway Industry Association

An electrification programme would not only be beneficial to the UK’s

(RIA) into why decarbonisation of the rail sector is only possible with large-

green recovery, but would also support jobs, improve efficiency for

scale railway electrification and how hydrogen and battery alternatives

freight operators and aide economic growth: rail freight currently

must have a role on the network but cannot act as a replacement.

delivers around £1.7bn of economic benefits each year. It is now crucial that government acts swiftly to introduce a clear programme of electrification to ensure that goods and services can continue to move through the economy with minimal environmental impact.

Zoe McLernon, Multi Modal Policy Manager, Logistics UK

28 APRIL 2021

UNLOCK CAPACITY FOR

I

RAIL FREIGHT TO MEET NET ZERO EMISSIONS SAYS LOGISTICS UK

n response to the publication today (28 April 2021) of the Rail

UK is urging the government to heed the report findings – which

Delivery Group’s Value of Rail Freight report, Zoe McLernon, Policy

revealed that freight services on some underutilised off-peak passenger

Manager of Multi Modal at Logistics UK comments:

routes deliver greater economic value than passenger use – and allow freight operators access to these lines. Logistics UK is also urging the

Logistics UK is urging the government to unlock capacity for rail

government to commit to electrifying the UK’s railways, with today’s

freight services to help meet the target of a net zero emission economy

report showing that on delivery of a decarbonisation strategy and the

by 2050. Currently taking seven million lorries off the roads each year,

potential growth in domestic movements, the environmental benefits

rail freight can play a vital role in achieving the UK’s decarbonisation

of rail use over road could increase by six to ten-fold.

targets, but capacity for freight services is severely constrained. Logistics

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RAIL FREIGHT NEWS

BAMIN WINS BID TO OPERATE FIOL RAILWAY, 12 APRIL 2021

A BOOST TO ERG’S IRON ORE PROJECT IN BRAZIL

E

urasian Resources Group ('ERG' or 'the Group'), a leading diversified natural resources producer, and its wholly-owned Brazilian subsidiary BAMIN, today announced that BAMIN

has won the auction on the Bovespa (São Paulo Stock Exchange) to complete and operate the first 537 km stretch ('FIOL Stage 1') of the FIOL (East-West Integration) railway. FIOL will provide a high capacity and low cost link between ERG’s Pedra de Ferro mine in Caetite and its Porto Sul port in Ilhéus, Bahia state.

The bid follows the commencement of commercial operations at the Pedra de Ferro Mine with an initial capacity of 2 mtpa of high-grade iron ore, and the beginning of construction of Porto Sul in late 2020.

ERG is continuing to demonstrate its industry leadership via a pipeline of projects internationally. The current announcement from BAMIN is a vital milestone for our shared ambition to respond to growing demand for a host of commodities, including iron ore, in a sustainable and responsible manner. Our business plays a strategic role in Bahia’s socioeconomic development, and the addition of the FIOL railway marks an important achievement for our integrated portfolio of mining, processing, energy, logistics and marketing operations.

Benedikt Sobotka, CEO, Eurasian Resources Group FIOL Stage 1 together with our Porto Sul project will have a transformative impact on the region, providing environmentally friendly, safe and reliable logistics for mining, agriculture, and a range of other industries. For BAMIN, FIOL is critical to enable the expansion of Pedra de Ferro production to 18 mtpa, uniquely positioning BAMIN as a low-cost supplier to sustainably meet the demand for high quality iron ore globally.

Erik Gaustad, Chairman, BAMIN

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at hafen-hamburg.de

With Hamburg, the Xuzhou-Europe Railway Express offers its customers an additional connection with Central Europe. From Tongshan freight terminal in SW Xuzhou, via Erenhot, Mongolia, Russia,

T

Belarus and Poland, freight reaches the Hanseatic City in just 18 days.

he Port of Hamburg is a top destination for rail services

Xuzhou Huaihai International Land Port

between China and Germany. Since November last year, a new link has become established between Xuzhou and Hamburg.

Last year alone, 300 trains from Xuzhou transported consumer goods and building machinery made by Xugong, Liebherr, Hitachi and CAT to

The Port of Hamburg expects at least two more trains from the Chinese

Europe. On average, a block train departs with 94 containers and weighs

city of Xuzhou in May. This latest service by Xuzhou-Europe Railway

almost 470 tons. Depending on traffic, on average it will need 15 days

Express signals its established status in the Hanseatic City, where its sixth

to cover the route of over 6,000 kilometres.

train has meanwhile arrived, and the service will be further expanded.

Conditions are favourable, since Xuzhou is one of China’s top hubs for The first train to Hamburg departed in November last year from

rail traffic. Several high-speed routes – e.g. between Beijing-Shanghai and

Tongshan rail freight terminal. Its route encompassed Russia, Poland

Lianyungang-Lanzhou – meet there. Operated by China Railway, the rail

and Hamburg, among other points. The containers still on board are

freight terminal is Eastern China’s largest. The city is also directly linked

despatched onwards throughout Europe. In recent years, 232 links have

via canals with the ports of Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shanghai and Lianyungang

been established between 20 Chinese destinations and Hamburg. In 2020

on the East coast. This autonomous city is situated in the North of the

throughput on intercontinental rail traffic between Hamburg and China

Eastern Chinese province of Jiangsu. Xuzhou’s administrative area covers

alone increased by at least seven percent. Total volume therefore climbed

11,257 square kilometres and has a population of around 8.6 million.

to 107,000 TEU. Almost 40 trains per week are meanwhile running between various provinces in China and Europe’s largest rail port.

Xuzhou is also the home of Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group – XCMG. The group develops, manufactures and distributes building

The New Silk Road is an important addition to seaborne services on the

machinery, including trucks, cranes, earth-moving and road-building

global supply chain between China and Germany. Positive developments

equipment. It is the world’s fifth-largest construction machinery group,

stress the welcome being given to what is being offered.

despatching its products, some on its own train, via the New Silk Road

Axel Mattern, Joint CEO, Port of Hamburg Marketing

to Central Asia, Russia and Europe. These were aboard some of the 300 trains that last year transported quantities of consumer goods

Throughput is also growing at the same rate. Xuzhou Huaihai International

and construction machinery from Xuzhou to Europe. These included

Land Port provides one example. Throughput in the first eleven months

products from companies such as Xugong, Liebherr, Hitachi and CAT.

of last year increased to 24,190 TEU. That represents a 56 percent gain

On average, a block train departs with 94 containers and a weight of

on 2019. The Chinese operator is pursuing ambitious aims to make the

almost 470 tons. Depending on traffic, it will need an average of 15 days

location an essential hub for Silk Road services to Europe:

to cover the route extending over 6,000 kilometres.

NEW SILK ROAD 30 APRIL 2021

... SERVICES BETWEEN HAMBURG & XUZHOU SUCCESSFULLY ESTABLISHED FORWARDER magazine

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PROJECT CARGO

The transportation of large, heavy, high-value or critical (to the project they are intended for) pieces of equipment.

Related topics Heavy lift Abnormal load OOG (out of gauge)

Sponsored by

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AAL SHIPS GIANT BARGE FROM CHINA TO TAHITI 22 APRIL 2021

ON MONTHLY ASIA–AMERICAS TRADE LANE

M

ultipurpose and project heavy lift carrier, AAL Shipping

It was important for us to deliver a high-quality solution for our

(AAL), demonstrated the lifting and cargo intake capability

customer, with a focus on cost control, risk management, and schedule

of its mega-size A-Class fleet and parcelling capabilities of

integrity. AAL not only had the cargo expertise we needed but was

its ‘Asia – Americas Trade Lane’ chartering team with the transport

also active on the transpacific trade with suitable tonnage options. The

of a heavy lift barge from Taicang, China to Papeete, Tahiti. The barge

safe transport of this cargo required a lot of planning and coordination

weighed-in on hook at 410 t and measured over 53 m in length and

between us, the customer, and AAL. Ultimately, the loading onto the

3,657 cbm, and was stowed on the 31,000 dwt AAL Dalian with another

AAL Dalian was well executed and all parties fully satisfied. The barge

29,000 cbm of cargo comprised of large and small parcels loaded in

will eventually be deployed by owner, Travaux Maritimes de Polynesie,

China, South Korea, and Japan to be discharged along the US West

in the French Polynesia for civil works.

Coast and Gulf.

Floris Schorsch, Managing Director of Martin Bencher France SAS

The barge was designed by Alwena Shipping in France and arranged

The Asia to Americas trade is one that we have employed significant

to be built at the Yangzhou Hairun Shipyard, China. Our own planning

resources into developing and have served with a sailing practically every

for this heavy cargo operation started in September 2020 providing

month. With our extensive liner experience, we can put together voyages

time to analyse technical details of the lift and make pre-preparation

for large and small parcels of practically any cargo type. This is perfectly

recommendations to the customer, like welding special padeyes onto

evidenced on this sailing, which accommodated steel pipes, containers,

the deck of the barge to facilitate safer lifting by the AAL Dalian’s port

large tanks, cooler units and turbines, electrical equipment, a heavy lift

side cranes, without the need for lifting beams.

dismantled crane, and of course Martin Bencher’s barge – and all at the

Yahaya Sanusi, Deputy Head of Transport Engineering, AAL

same time. This type of parcelling means cargoes can be transported faster and with significant economies of scale for every shipper, big or small.

Felix Schoeller, General Manager, AAL

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PROJECT CARGO NEWS 27 APRIL 2021

STAR SHIPPING BUSY

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at starship.com.pk

CARRYING PROJECT CARGO FROM PORT QASIM

S

tar Shipping Pakistan have finished the project movement of a compressor and cooler, with their accessories, from Port Qasim to the Daharki project site.

• Loading Port: Houston, USA • Discharging Port: Port Qasim, Pakistan • Final Site Delivery: Daharki, Sindh • Compressor: 18.00 x 5.18 x 5.44m / 50tn • Cooler: 14.32 x 2.44 x 2.74m / 30tn M. Kamran at Star Shipping says,

Multi-axles and multiple low-beds and

flat-beds along with a heavy-duty mobile hydraulic crane were utilised to lift this project. There were a few challenges in transit including obtaining the road permissions, wildlife and dry weather but the job was done successfully and the cargo delivered in a safe and sound condition with our operations team and all the other workforce also remaining safe.

T

LIVO LOGISTICS WITH

TRANSPORTATION OF REACTOR FROM ITALY TO BELGIUM

he team at Livo Logistics executed the over-dimensional road

transportation of a reactor from Italy to Belgium. The reactor

measures 20.00 x 4.20 x 4.00m with a total weight of over 46tn.

Another successful project securely handled by Livo Logistics! www.livologistics.com

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at antonov-airlines.aero

A

ntonov Airlines has transported fourteen pieces of mining equipment, weighing 216 tonnes in total, on two AN-124-100 flights from Istanbul, Turkey to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

and Monrovia, Liberia.

The 113-tonne cargo for the second flight was safely loaded in minimal time to meet the tight deadline required by the mines, both in the process of expanding operations.

These two flights from Turkey to Africa were meticulously planned and both flights were completed with maximum payloads on each route. Antonov Airlines provided the flexibility required by our partner Skyair Chartering to perform these air shipments within the customer’s deadlines.

Eugene Kiva, Commercial Executive, Antonov Airlines Antonov Airlines has seen an increase in charters for mining projects The airline made a single technical stop in Algiers, Algeria for the

since the beginning of the year and just last month completed three flights

103 tonne Burkina Faso-bound cargo and two stops in Casablanca,

of equipment weighing 370 tonnes to Latin America from Australia.

Morocco, and Diass-Thies, Senegal for the journey to Liberia to refuel and provide crew rests.

ABOUT ANTONOV AIRLINES

As per our customer’s request for the delivery of large quantities of

Antonov Airlines specialises in the transportation of outsized

oversized drill machinery in a short timeframe, the two flights provided

and project cargo worldwide using its fleet of seven AN-124-100

by Antonov Airlines made sure the needs of the expanding mining

“Ruslan” aircraft with up to 150 tonnes payload, its 60-tonne

facilities were met. Antonov’s AN-124-100s are equipped with ramps,

payload AN-22, and its unique 250-tonne payload AN-225

which are ideal to transport heavy and oversized loads safely and easily,

“Mriya”, which is the largest aircraft in the world, as well as

contributing greatly to the delivery of a seamless operation.

smaller AN-74 and AN-26 aircraft.

Tekin Ertemel, Director Business Development, Skyair Chartering 21 APRIL 2021

ANTONOV AIRLINES TRANSPORTS

216 TONNES OF DRILLING MACHINES

TO MINES IN BURKINA FASO & LIBERIA FORWARDER magazine

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PROJECT CARGO NEWS 12 APRIL 2021

ARK GLOBAL HANDLES

SHIPPING & DELIVERY OF CO2 STORAGE TANKS

A

rk Global recently facilitated the delivery of two vacuum insulated CO2 storage tanks from Haydarpasa in Turkey to Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The units are for the Al Jubail SWRO

Desalination Plant (Phase 2) Project.

The shipment, which had a total volume of around 186tn (each storage tank weighing 93tn), was safely and successfully offloaded at Dammam Port and delivered.

The Ark Global team guaranteed that all necessary precautions and preparations were in place to ensure the safe and secure delivery of the shipment to the project site. ark3000.com 21 APRIL 2021

POLARIS REPORTS SHIPMENT OF

P

HYDRO HAMMER ON STEEL CRADLES

olaris Shipping Agencies were recently appointed as the

The entire operation was carried out under supervision of third-party

project partner in the UAE by one of their close associates in

independent surveyors and their strict quality control to ensure everything

Singapore for the shipping of a S800 hydro hammer on steel

was handled in line with the guidelines issued by the clients. As usual with

cradles. The cargo weighed around 90mt with shipping dimensions of 14.50 x 2.20 x 2.50m.

In order to keep competitive freight solutions, the over-dimensional and heavy cargo was carefully planned to be transported out of the shipper's closed warehouse using a suitable gantry crane to the Polaris nominated customs-bonded storage yard in Jebel Ali Free Zone and then transferred to the carrier's heavy duty MAFI for shipping to the final destination on RORO tonnage.

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Polaris, the project ran smoothly and successfully. polarisdubai.com

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at chrprojectlogistics.com

C

.H. Robinson have handled and the safe loading and shipping of 24 seismic vibrator vehicles by ocean vessel to Saudi Arabia.

Their project logistics experts were onsite at the Port of

Houston right up to Christmas Eve 2020 to oversee the operations.

The vehicles measure 10.21 x 3.29 x 3.44m and weigh 30.4mtn each.

This type of cargo would usually be transported onto the ocean vessel using a RORO ramp, however the available vessels did not have that option and the equipment was urgently needed by the customer.

Instead of pushing the timeline back, we arranged for a part-charter through BBC which allowed the vehicles to be lifted onto the vessel by the ship's crane. The majority of the cargo was loaded and secured in the hold of the ship, but one of the vehicles failed to start and needed to be placed on a MAFI trailer and towed to the ship for loading. Ocean logistics was only one aspect of the job and our team also handled the export customs brokerage. The team had to get the original titles validated by US Customs before the shipment was loaded which usually takes a minimum of 72 hours. However, the customer did not have that much time to spare so we managed to liaise and work with local customs to get the cargo released in time and avoid any vessel detention.

The vessel, carrying 2,626cbm and 729.4mtn of the customer's cargo, arrived safely at the Port of Dammam in Saudi Arabia seven weeks later.

22 APRIL 2021

C.H. ROBINSON HANDLES

URGENT SHIPMENT TO SAUDI ARABIA FORWARDER magazine

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AIR & SEA PORTS

Any place where persons and merchandise are allowed to pass, by water or land, into and out of a country and where customs officers are stationed to inspect or appraise imported goods.

Related topics Cargo handling Container terminals Drayage

Sponsored by

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WFS AWARDED GDP CERTIFICATIONS 21 APRIL 2021

FOR PHARMA HANDLING FACILITIES IN MADRID & BARCELONA

W

orldwide Flight Services’ (WFS) stations in Madrid and

WFS’ highly-trained pharma handling teams at Madrid and Barcelona

Barcelona have obtained Good Distribution Practice

airports use dedicated docks and maneuvering areas for the safe

(GDP) certifications, strengthening its leadership in

loading and unloading of temperature-sensitive shipments, supported

pharmaceutical handling facilities at major airports around the world.

by specialised trucks, trailers and dollies. Located in the heart of each airport’s cargo areas, the WFS stations in Barcelona and Madrid have

Among WFS’ 14 dedicated pharma facilities in Europe, USA, South Africa

approximately 640m2 and 450m2 of landside and airside acceptance

and Thailand, several have already been awarded GDP certification

capability respectively, with the latest technology for warehouse

(Cape Town, Copenhagen, Cork, Dublin, Johannesburg, London

management, real-time temperature monitoring, shipment tracking,

and Paris CDG), or are in the process of obtaining this certification

CCTV monitoring and security alarms. The two stations currently

(Amsterdam, Bangkok, Brussels and Frankfurt). A number of these

handle over 8,600 tonnes of temperature-controlled pharma shipments

stations, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid and Paris CDG, also

a year for six main airline customers, for products needing to be stored

have IATA CEIV Pharma certifications.

between +2°C to +8°C and +15°C to +25°C. Both stations are playing an important role in the handling and distribution of COVID vaccines

GDP certification is awarded after a rigorous independent audit to

for the Spanish population.

confirm a pharma facility’s temperature management capabilities, as well as the suitability of its auditing processes, risk assessment and

Significant investment in a global network of temperature-controlled

corrective/preventive measures. It provides WFS customers with a

pharma handling facilities over the past three years means WFS has

guarantee that temperature-controlled pharmaceutical products are

already become the preferred partner of many of the world’s biggest

consistently stored, transported and handled under the product-specific

transporters of pharmaceuticals and medical devices. These competencies

conditions required by the pharma industry.

have proved all the more relevant since the start of the COVID pandemic, with WFS teams ensuring vital medical supplies are handled quickly and

Humberto Castro, WFS’ Managing Director – Cargo, Spain, said:

securely at airports for hospitals and medical centres.

As the world’s leading air cargo handler, WFS is already at the forefront of best-practice for pharma shipments in terms of compliance

In October last year, WFS reinforced its COVID response with the

and our ability to safeguard product integrity. Now that our Madrid

launch of Project Coldstream, an internal taskforce to coordinate the

and Barcelona stations have both GDP and IATA CEIV certifications,

group’s participation in the global air transport of billions of doses of the

customers have the added assurance that we meet the highest global

COVID-19 vaccine. Project Coldstream is working closely with airlines,

standards for handling air cargo shipments of pharmaceuticals.

forwarders and logistics providers, government agencies and industry organisations to clearly define temperature and handling requirements, ensure the readiness of WFS’ pharma handling facilities, and anticipate demand for additional capacity.

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AIR & SEA PORTS NEWS

PORTS BRACE FOR THE POST-SUEZ ONSLAUGHT 13 APRIL 2021

AS SHIPS BEGIN ARRIVING AT PORTS

W

ith bottlenecked ships making their way to ports in the

already close to the one-week mark —a worrying increase over 2020,

wake of the Suez Canal incident, cumulative delays for

when median port delays on the same route were 2.79 days.

cargo ships are at 1,017 days, threatening to swamp ports

with bottlenecked cargo for weeks to come. With more than 1.9 million

Other routes where delays are on track to get worse include Shanghai

TEU of capacity involved in the incident, supply chain visibility company

— New York, where the median March delay was 8.05 days (up from

project44 is warning shippers that their headaches are not yet over.

1.09 days in March 2020); Shenzhen — Hamburg, where median delays last month were 9.23 days (up from 3.52 days in March 2020); and

At major ports such as Singapore, more than 370,000 TEU of capacity

Shenzen — Newark-Elisabeth, where median delays reached 12.92 in

are en route to the port, where 83 vessels representing 299,310 TEU

March (up from 0.29 days in March 2020). Project44’s ongoing post-

were already at the port or anchored and waiting to unload as of 12 April.

incident analysis provides the maritime shipping industry stakeholders

The picture is similar at Rotterdam, where 15 ships representing 196,600

with a clearer understanding of the incident, providing the analytical

TEU will arrive over the next week, lining up behind 85 ships already at

tools to create more robust supply chains in the future.

port or waiting to enter the port. Other major ports bracing for the influx of volume are New York, with 76,500 TEU either having arrived

The Suez Canal incident brings home the message that shippers must be

or still inbound from the Suez Canal incident; Port Kelang, at 103,900

prepared for unexpected disruptions in their supply chain. With real-time

TEU; and Jebel Ali, at 75,879 TEU. According to project44’s port delay

visibility and advanced alerting capabilities, disruptions as well as the ability

tracking, the influx of ships will also exacerbate port delays measured

to form strategies to avoid them, are more manageable than ever before.

in days. With delays on major trade routes like Shanghai — Rotterdam

Josh Brazil, VP Marketing, project44

North Sea (26) Rotterdam (15) Hamburg (3) Antwerp (2) Felixstowe (2) Southampton (2) Others (2)

US East Coast (10) New York (7) Newark (2) Halifax (1)

Iberia (9) Algeciras (3) Barcelona (3) Sines (2) Valencia (1) Tanger Med (6)

Delayed Vessels After Suez Canal Incident

North Mediterranean (13) Piraeus Athens (4) Istanbul (3) Others (6)

South Mediterr. (4) Malta/Marsaxlokk (3) Misratah (1)

Israel (2) Ashdod (1) Haifa (1)

Persian Gulf (10) Jebel Ali (8) Others (2)

Pakistan (2) Karachi (1) Muhammad Bin Qasim (1)

North of Suez (13) Port Said (8) Damietta (3) Others (2)

India (5) Mundra (3) Others (2)

Red Sea (8) Jeddah (6) Others (2)

Vung Tau (3)

Salalah (6) Djibouti (1) Colombo (3) Muqdisho (1)

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Malaysia (16) Port Klang (9) Tanjung Pelepas (7)

ISSUE63

Singapore (26) Port Louis (1)

China (5) Shanghai (3) Ningbo (1) Yantian Shenzhen (1)

Kobe (1)

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at container-xchange.com

T

Shanghai prices fall Across the eight biggest ports in China, average prices for used 20 ft. containers climbed 38% from $1,251 in November 2020 to $1,733 in March 2021. There are indications that equipment is being funnelled

he container shortages that have been adding to logistics

to China’s largest container hubs. At the port of Shanghai, the world’s

logjams in Asia and beyond are showing few signs of

largest box port by volume, the average used container price in January this year was $2,162 marking it as the most expensive port in China to

being resolved, according to the latest data from Container

procure a used box. By March, however, the average price of a used 20

xChange, the world’s leading online platform for the leasing and trading

ft. container at Shanghai had fallen to $1,686. The port of Dalian is now

of shipping containers.

the most expensive location in China to purchase a used 20 ft. container with prices in March averaging $2028. Equivalent prices at Qingdao and

In China, average prices for used twenty-foot containers increased 94%

Tianjin were $1,850 and $1,800, respectively.

between November 2020 and March 2021. The surge from an average price of $1,299 per box in November last year to $2,521 in March

In India, Chennai was by far the most expensive port to buy used

indicates that container scarcity is continuing to worsen.

containers in March 2021 with an average price of $2,220 per 20 ft container. Average prices in March at Nhava Sheva were $1,667 per 20

The latest Container Availability Index (CAx) data also reveals that

ft container. Mundra was the cheapest location in India to procure a

equipment shortages are also now driving up container prices at major

used box with an average price of $1,455.

Indian ports. Between June 2020 and March 2021, average used 20 ft. container prices across the ports of Chennai, Mundra and Nhava Sheva

New vs. used container prices

rose from $1,106 to $1,755, an increase of 58%.

Such is the urgent demand for boxes in the current highly stressed ocean container market that the cost of procuring a used container has now

The relentless pace of container shipping trade since the summer of 2020 is not easing and this is reflected in equipment shortages in

increased far beyond what was previously considered a ‘normal’ price for a newbuild container.

Asia, and elsewhere. We expect markets will tighten even further in the coming weeks as the ripple effect of the Suez Canal closure

It always depends on the exact equipment type, but before shortages

at the end of March further disrupts container shipping services and

became critical a standard used container which was a few years old

equipment availability.

would cost around $1,000 in China, while a brand-new container would

Dr Johannes Schlingmeier, CEO & Founder of the container leasing

be about double the price,” said Schlingmeier. However, in the current

and trading platform Container xChange

market, used containers are selling at $2,300-$2,600 across China, while prices for brand-new containers at Shanghai, for example, have skyrocketed by 64% in 2021 to an average of $3,390.

CONTAINER PRICES SURGE IN CHINA & INDIA

19 APRIL 2021

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AIR & SEA PORTS NEWS 5 MAY 2021

AMSTERDAM AIRPORT SCHIPHOL SCOOPS

CARGO AIRPORT OF THE YEAR PRIZE

AT THIS YEAR’S WORLD AIR CARGO AWARDS

A

msterdam Airport Schiphol won the Cargo Airport of the Year award at the 15th Air Cargo Week World Air Cargo Awards (WACA) last night.

It is the second time Europe’s fourth busiest air cargo hub has been recognised by Air Cargo Week, organisers of the event.

Schiphol’s Cargo Community took home the prize after gaining the most votes from thousands of Air Cargo Week readers.

Leading companies in the cargo, logistics, and supply chain sectors took home awards in ten categories.

The last year and a half has challenged the air cargo industry like never before. Throughout the pandemic the Schiphol cargo team and its Cargo

ABOUT SCHIPHOL

Community has stayed focused on supporting people in need of PPE

Schiphol is Europe’s fourth largest air cargo hub, and welcomed

materials with smart solutions to carry cargo on passenger seats and

1.44 million tonnes of cargo in 2020. Schiphol initiates and co-

continuing to maintain the high standards for freight moving through our

creates smart cargo solutions to help the airfreight community

Smart Hub. This award is a recognition of their hard work and I would

excel at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. One such initiative is

like to thank them for their dedication. Thank you also to everyone that

the Smart Cargo Mainport Program (SCMP) in which Schiphol,

voted for us and our Cargo Community.

together with supply chain partners, aims to integrate data

Anne Marie van Hemert, Senior Manager Business Development

and digitalise the air cargo supply chain by optimising landside processes and launching new innovations. Schiphol, together with KLM Cargo and Royal Flora Holland, are the founding

Winners were announced during a digital ceremony on Tuesday evening

fathers of the Holland Flower Alliance. An initiative formed

held in conjunction with International Messe München’s Transport

to optimise the logistics of the floricultural supply chain in

Logistic Online, including Air Cargo Europe.

East Africa and South America. The alliance focuses on the smooth transportation of flowers and plants from growers to

The winners were selected from an initial nomination stage, followed by

wholesalers, and is dedicated to the pursuit of innovation and

the announcement of a shortlist and final decision by a public vote.

sustainability in the floral supply chain.

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I

nfrastructure investment firm Ventus LLC and Singapore company Sky Logistica Pte. Ltd. have today acquired Prague-based Skyport a.s., a central European air cargo infrastructure company.

Skyport is the leading cargo handler at Prague Airport in the Czech Republic and also has operations in Bratislava and Košice, both in Slovakia.

Skyport operates in a modern semi-automated airside facility and processes more than half of all air cargo passing through Prague Airport.

The airside cargo handling facility in which Skyport operates was acquired by Singapore-headquartered Elite Logistics Fund in connection with the acquisition of Skyport by Ventus and Sky Logistica.

The last twelve months have proved the importance of air cargo infrastructure as a strategic component of global trade. Investing in automated facilities and modern operations is the future of this industry

Ventus LLC is an infrastructure investment and asset management firm

and we are excited to work with our institutional capital partners to

headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

further invest in this asset class. Skyport has huge potential for growth and we are focused on optimizing the existing facilities and unlocking

Founded in 2020, it focuses on investing in air cargo and robotic

additional capacity by deploying technology to enhance operations."

industrial infrastructure mainly in Europe and North America.

Andy Popovich, Chief Executive Officer, Ventus For more information about Ventus visit vent.us 28 APRIL 2021

AIR CARGO INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT FIRM

VENTUS & SKY LOGISTICA

ACQUIRE PRAGUE AIRPORT’S LEADING HANDLER

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TECH & DIGITALISATION Digitalisation: leveraging digitisation to improve business processes.

(Digitisation: converting information from a physical into a digital format. Digital Transformation: the use of new, fast and frequently changing digital technology to solve problems.)

Related topics Robotics Drone technology Cloud data

Sponsored by

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+44 (0)1279 940018 WANT sales@e-gisti cs.com TO KNOW

MAKE DRONES ll your AStiPART 13 APRIL 2021

MORE?

Further information can be found at itf-oecd.org

OF THE OVERALL freight business, TRANSPORT SYSTEM!

now online

D

rones should be treated as a part of the whole transport system

This issue had received surprisingly little attention, Kim noted. Drawing

and of society more broadly. Only then will we all reap the full

a parallel to the electric scooters, which were promoted as green but

often turned out to be less so, Kim pointed out that The easiest way to take delivery bookings online

economic and social benefits from drone technology. This was

drones, too,

ITF Secretary-General Young Tae Kim’s core message in his keynote for

need to be judged on their life-cycle emissions. The benchmark for

Give new and existing customers a tool to book pallet deliveries directly, without picking up the phone. their carbon footprint must include the greenhouse gases generated in Take orders, manage assets and make money without lifting a finger!

the “Drone Enable” symposium organised by ICAO, the International Civil Aviation Organization, held online today, 13 April 2021.

production and scrapping. Policymakers will need to carefully evaluate and manage the environmental pros and cons of drones.

In his speech, Secretary-General Kim outlined five areas 'that should be at the forefront of our thinking when we consider how drones should be integrated' into the transport system.

Policymakers generally need to examine the use cases for drones, said Kim:

Join the 1% already doing business digitally.

By use case, I do not mean what engineers think possible, and

businesspeople hope they can monetise. I mean how drones can fill the The first area is the economics of drones, according to Kim: One of the questions policymakers need to think about is this: Is the

gaps in today’s transport offer in ways that serve broader societal goals.

He proposed that, as a basic principle, drones should not operate in

isolation but put to use where they are suited to fill gaps in the transport See your data, wherever you are. or not? Is it even necessary? system. Drones could complement existing services, for instance, by economic regulation of drones under the existing frameworks beneficial,

providing last-mile delivery or mobility, Kim explained. In others, they The second area Kim highlighted is how to create public acceptance

could be more efficient, or safe, or reliable substitutes for today’s

for drones.

transport options; and they may even create new forms of demand. fifthnew area forcustomers, policymakers to be attentive to is Infrastructure for Get accessTheto everywhere.

For citizens to embrace a new technology, the benefits need to be crystal-clear to them.

drones, Kim said.

He warned that if drones services were accessible to but a few, while

This will not be a big issue in rural areas, where drones can do

downsides like noise had to be borne by all, acceptance might suffer.

much to connect remote communities better – but in cities, it will be a

Policymakers should not skimp over the equity aspect if the aim is to

different story. Urban drone landing zones will require careful planning,

Future-proof your business.and they will not pop up overnight. Where access to drone services is

make drones an integral part of the transport system.

not equitable because some have landing hubs and others do not, there The third area for regulatory focus emphasized by the ITF Secretary-

may be a case for government funding or regulation.

General is drones’ impact on the environment.

e-gistics.com

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS 6 APRIL 2021

CARGO IQ TO

INCREASE REACH & COVERAGE IN 2021

C

argo iQ will increase its reach and coverage in 2021, testing

The pandemic did teach us a lesson in agility, and we should embrace

new trucking milestones as part of its mission to measure

a ‘create and they will follow’ mentality. The next year will see us further

100% of shipments along its Master Operating Plan (MOP),

push for 100% reporting, ensure we are the true quality management

members heard at its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM).

system that the industry uses to facilitate its commercial customer promise, and we must broaden and grow our membership, including

The group, which aims to create and implement quality standards for

with SMEs. The SME Solution already has three Cargo iQ users and

the worldwide air cargo industry, is working on new rules to prevent

was developed by third party IT provider Cargo Start, working with

'unreportable' shipments along the MOP, Cargo iQ’s Route Map

Cargo iQ use cases and reporting definitions for the Airport-to-Airport

following the end-to-end journey of air cargo shipments.

section of the MOP. Enabling independent freight forwarders to work with air cargo carriers is a benefit for the overall air cargo industry,

Cargo iQ will also focus on further engagement with independent

Gianni Mauri, Director Business Processes Air Cargo, Cargo Start

forwarders to grow take-up of its Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Solution aimed at forwarders who work with member airlines on a small-scale or regional basis.

Forwarders that have started using the SME solution have chosen to do so to improve visibility and to streamline internal processes when it comes to air cargo shipment planning and quality measurements.

It enables a Route Map and status updates to be made available to the forwarder for individual consignments in line with the common business

Cargo iQ will continue pilot schemes for its Care Mapping and Product

practices and milestones set out in the MOP.

Parameter Projects in 2021.

The last year has proven that the air cargo industry can rise to the

The Care Mapping Pilot aims to develop tools and standards for planning

occasion, now we should learn from what we have just been through

and control, as well as for process, and evaluation of the conditions

and move from ambition to lived reality,

under which shipments move.

Henrik Ambak, Chair of Cargo iQ and Senior Vice President, Cargo Operations Worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo

It will initially focus on pharmaceuticals, with other Special Care services, such as valuables, live animals, and perishables, being road-tested once the methodology has been finalised.

Under the Service Parameters Project, Cargo iQ is developing definitions for time-specific products, allowing members to better plan and control their shipments in line with time-definite promise to customers.

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We must ensure that we are keeping up with rapid developments

We launched more training than ever before, and the videos of

in the industry so that our members have access to a single version of

those sessions are now online for members to learn from as a resource.

the truth and complete data that they can use to improve the quality

We are pushing ahead with changes to the Audit and Reporting to

of their services.

improve the quality of the data we provide. After the unique and

Kerstin Strauss, Vice Chair of Cargo iQ; Vice President, Air

challenging year that we have had, we are ready for 2021.

Logistics Operations, Global Air Logistics, Kuehne + Nagel Management AG

Seventy-two Cargo iQ members attended the Annual General Meeting, which was held virtually for the second time.

Making that happen is the responsibility of every member and we are confident that by working together we can achieve our plans for

Members will be voting over coming weeks on new Board Appointments

the next two years.

and preferences for changes to the Audit.

Cargo iQ Executive Director Ariaen Zimmerman said that despite a difficult twelve months, the group had adapted well to new working

ABOUT CARGO IQ

conditions, and Working Groups had pushed ahead with ongoing projects.

Cargo iQ is a cross-stakeholder supply chain quality management organisation that works to enhance its members’ customer service experience through collaboration: Plan • Deliver • Learn | Together

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS

DCSA TRACK-&-TRACE STANDARDS ADOPTED 7 APRIL 2021

BY MAJORITY OF MEMBER CARRIERS

D

igital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), a neutral, nonprofit group established to further digitalisation of container shipping technology standards, today announced that a

CARRIER PERSPECTIVES MSC

majority of its member carriers have adopted DCSA Track & Trace

MSC has long recognised the importance of digitisation across

(T&T) standards and are currently or will soon be providing customers

the shipping industry and has been one of the pioneers behind digital

with access to the standards-based API. The DCSA T&T API provides

change, with the aim to improve efficiency and transparency across

a streamlined way for shippers to receive real-time, cross-carrier data

the supply chain and deliver a greater customer experience. While

regarding the whereabouts of their containers. Widespread adoption

a variety of digital innovations exist in the maritime industry, MSC

of DCSA standards will advance the industry in terms of visibility and

believes that new solutions will only be fit for purpose if they can be

real-time responsiveness, resulting in greater reliability and a better

operated across multiple carriers, service providers and geographies.

customer experience.

Collaboration is essential in this regard, so we can establish the same technology standards throughout the industry. The ‘Track & Trace’

The DCSA T&T standard comprises an information model and interface

(T&T) standards establish a consistent method for exchanging data

standards that can be freely downloaded from the DCSA website; API

between carriers and customers. We’re proud to be one of the first

definitions are available on SwaggerHub. The data model ensures track

to implement these new standards with our customers, thus shaping

and trace data definitions are consistent for all users, leveraging any

the technological future of the shipping industry.

system. These definitions are based on the Industry Blueprint, published

André Simha, Chairman of the DCSA Supervisory Board; Global

by DCSA and its carrier members in 2019, which established a consistent

Chief Digital & Information Officer, MSC

vocabulary and proposed a common set of industry processes. The T&T standards are aligned with the UN/CEFACT (United Nations Centre for

ONE

Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business) standards to provide a global

Our mission is to provide optimal solutions for our customers

industry framework that preserves existing investments and streamlines

through innovation and collaboration. Today, optimization in the way

communication among all supply chain participants.

we envision requires digitalization. Done properly, digitalization will provide a foundation for integrating all aspects of global trade, uniting geographies and connecting stakeholders in a way that will not only enable ONE to deliver on its vision, but for container shipping to be seen as a leading light of industry. DCSA is enabling digitalization to be done properly, and we are proud to be among the first to offer a Track & Trace API based on DCSA standards that will improve cargo visibility for shippers.

Yu Kurimoto, Managing Director, Corporate and Innovation for ONE (Ocean Network Express)

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Evergreen Striving to offer our customers productive and efficient service has always been core to our mission. In the increasingly connected shipping supply chain, digital collaboration is important for giving customers the experiences they want. We are convinced that standardization is the prerequisite for all stakeholders to realize effective digitalization and interoperability, which are urgently needed, not only by us, but by the industry as a whole. Standardizing on the DCSA Track & Trace API will

CMA CGM Providing innovative products that enable a seamless shipping experience is one of our core benefits to customers. The standards work being done

allow us to give customers fast and easy access to accurate, real-time information about their shipments which will be of great benefit not only to our customers, but to ourselves and every industry stakeholder.

in conjunction with DCSA will enable a level of seamlessness that has been difficult to achieve to this point due to a lack of interoperability across

Eric Wang, Executive Vice President International Marketing

the industry. Digital standards will not only enable this interoperability,

Division, Evergreen

they will make it easier for carriers to achieve customer excellence and operational efficiency. But adopting standards and collaborating across

We’re very pleased that adoption is gaining traction among the

the industry requires more than standards alone, it requires a cultural

carriers. But digital transformation of the container shipping industry,

change in the industry which will hopefully start now. We are not only

and the resulting improvements in efficiency and customer experience,

proud to be a founding member of this standardization initiative, we are

simply can’t happen without even more widespread adoption of digital

excited about the benefits our DCSA standards-based Track & Trace API

standards. DCSA’s focus for 2021 is to promote adoption among all

will provide for our customers.

stakeholders. Without adoption the industry will not benefit from the

Nicolas Sekkaki, Executive Vice President IT, Digital, SSC &

digital foundation that is being created.

Transformation, CMA CGM

Thomas Bagge, CEO, DCSA

Yang Ming We are dedicated to digital transformation to provide quality services to our customers. There is great complexity in global logistics services

ABOUT DCSA

due to regulations, business factors, network sizes, and information

Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) is a neutral, non-

flow between parties. The timely exchange of data and the ability to

profit group founded by major ocean carriers to digitise and

respond to factors that arise during the transportation process are

standardise the container shipping industry. With the mission

key to providing service reliability. Reliability requires visibility and

of leading the industry towards systematic collaboration, DCSA

high-quality data, which is why we are happy to be early adopters of

drives initiatives to make container transportation services

the DCSA T&T standard. With the T&T standards-based API in place,

transparent, reliable, easy to use, secure and environmentally

shippers will have real-time information about container whereabouts

friendly. DCSA’s open source standards are developed based

and receive notification of delays. Equally as important, shippers

on input from DCSA member carriers, industry stakeholders

who have implemented the Track & Trace API with us preserve their

and technology experts from other industries. DCSA member

investment because they can easily connect with all carriers that have

carriers include: MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, ONE,

implemented the DCSA standards.

Evergreen, Yang Ming, HMM and ZIM. Please download DCSA

Steven Tsao, Chief Information Officer, Yang Ming

standards at dcsa.org

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS 7 APRIL 2021

HELM OPERATIONS, SHIPTRACKS LAUNCH

NEW HARBOUR AUTOMATION TOOLS

L

eading marine operations software developer, Helm Operations,

When we traditionally look at AIS, what we’ve focused on is

and AIS services provider, ShipTracks, have launched a new set

situational awareness. But with this integration with Helm CONNECT

of integrated features for harbor docking companies designed

we can now offer customers true 'revenue awareness' and help them

to ensure that companies “never miss another job” in their ports.

not only plan for safe operations, but also track and automate every potential job and source of revenue in the port to help them maximize

The new integration links Helm CONNECT Jobs, the most widely

returns and market share. By notifying companies when a vessel enters

used dispatch software in the harbour docking market, and ShipTracks’

their region, displaying who the job belongs to and what its status is,

AIS technology to streamline and automate the creation of towage

then letting them enter orders directly into Helm CONNECT from

orders directly from the AIS system. The result is greater operational

the ShipTracks screen, we can make it so they never miss a job again.

awareness, reduced workloads for dispatchers, and increased revenue

Charles Riley, CEO, ShipTracks

as operators identify and capture jobs that were previously lost to their competitors.

Modern harbour docking operations use a variety of tools to monitor their ports and ensure operational efficiency, including AIS systems to track vessel speed and movements, and tug dispatching and invoicing systems like Helm CONNECT Jobs to schedule and manage towage.

Up until now, these systems have operated largely in isolation, but by integrating the systems, dispatchers can now not only receive automated notifications of vessels entering port, but also see immediately if their company has a contract with the vessel, if the towage work has been scheduled, and even automatically import the vessel and related jobs into the dispatch schedule – all from the AIS screen.

Beyond just identifying new and potential revenue, the integration also provides operators with new tools to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

On the commercial side, many companies still have staff who watch AIS screens throughout the day to identify when new ships are arriving in port. With this integration we can automate that.

Paul Cyr, Senior Account & Integration Manager at Helm Operations and a 20-year veteran of the industry

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On the dispatch side as well, we can automatically populate jobs for inbound vessels for review and approval by the dispatcher, reducing human error and saving hours of manual data entry. Even better, we can improve the dispatcher’s cost awareness by letting them know if tugs are moving without assigned work or if vessels are going too fast while mobilizing. This really makes it possible for dispatchers to reduce operational costs in port.

The results are dramatically increased efficiencies and, although the integration is new to market, operators are already pleased with the results.

John Buchanan, President of Harbor Docking and Towing, was an early user of the system.

This integration has allowed us to automate our processes and

improve data quality. With ShipTracks, our dispatchers can create an order just by grabbing the vessel and dragging it to the order slot, prepopulating the form with vessel data provided by ShipTracks. What used to take them 5 or 10 minutes now only takes them 30 seconds and we know the information they're using is accurate. With margins getting narrower in the tug industry there is less room for error, so I would absolutely recommend this integration; you will realise efficiencies in your operations with it.

ABOUT HELM OPERATIONS

The partners say this is just the starting point for the integration, and

Helm Operations is the developer behind the world’s fastest

they are exploring ways to more deeply integrate Helm CONNECT

growing marine operations platform, Helm CONNECT, which

with ShipTracks’ AIS technology to improve vessel operations.

provides vessel dispatch and billing, maintenance, compliance, and personnel management to some 250 companies and more

At Helm, we realise that through partnership with other innovators

than 4500 assets worldwide.

and market leaders, such as ShipTracks for AIS, we make operations simpler, faster, and more efficient for our users.

Nolan Barclay, CEO of Helm Operations

ABOUT SHIPTRACKS

Working with ShipTracks, we’re looking to make even more data

New Orleans-based ShipTracks helps the maritime industry

available to operators within their AIS screen, including operational

make better decisions with real-time vessel position information

events like crew changes or planned maintenance, which affect the

through AIS mapping. Today, the company works with 7 of

capability of the vessel. Beyond just harbour towage, we want to give

the top 10 inland towing companies in the US, including Foss

operators of all kinds the ability to leverage this type of data in their

and Enterprise, as well as major oil companies, and shipping

planning to increase the efficiency of their operations, and we plan to

companies such as Mediterranean Shipping Company.

announce more of these efforts throughout the year.

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TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

N

NR were recently announced by the British International

remote working, customer engagement and e-commerce fulfilment. NNR’s

Freight Association, as this year’s winners of the

quest remains to attract the best logistics technicians, complemented

prestigious SPECIALIST SERVICES AWARD.

by technology brains; those that have the vision and technical expertise to transform business and industry in general. The Nishitetsu Group is

The award was bestowed on NNR due to the ability to be resilient during

fortunate to have such enterprising superstars in their team. People that

the outbreak of Coronavirus; continuing with the strategic deployment

enjoy both the stability of a large traditional organisation and the licence

of a brand-new, purpose-built, state of the art logistics fulfilment centre,

to make amazing things that will leave an indelible impression on business

whilst combatting ‘lockdown’ and the challenges it presented. NNR

for the future. People that make a difference, create a legacy.

successfully implemented new hardware and customer-connected software, with their customary keen eye on a deadline. New ‘Application

As we turned the corner into 2021, NNR gained welcome support

Programming Interfaces’ at their flagship fulfilment centre afforded the

from new household-name customers, due to a desire to find solutions

ability to scale-up order processing to be able to dispatch thousands

for e-commerce fulfilment, Brexit challenges and ocean capacity

of orders every day. Two-way systems integration provided a timelier

concerns. Griffiths says the basis of their success is easy to identify:

positive customer experience and greater efficiency; helping NNR and

Once again, our people’s creative abilities and experience were the

its customers to thrive in a booming E-Commerce environment.

driving force in moving cargo. However, looking back, each success story was supported by a unique technology enhancement, delivered in

The dedication and positivity shown by NNR throughout the

the blink of an eye with a sensible investment by us, for our customer.

difficulties of 2020 ensured these Specialist Services were available on-time. NNR Global Logistics UK were thrilled to win such an

Currently NNR are moving swiftly forward with enhancement of

accolade from the industry trade association, among over 1500

visibility and customer experience platforms, providing exceptional,

members. The BIFA awards are strongly supported by excellent

maybe unique, collaboration tools for order tracking and analysing

and proud organizations, recognizing innovation and excellence.

data. Griffiths believes that, in all honesty, most of their customers,

The awards also represent a passion from those organizations to

competitors and carriers are a fair way behind.

demonstrate why their teams are to be considered the best in the land. NNR UK Managing Director, Lee Griffiths, enthused,

It appears the majority still can’t monetise the value of removing

It’s an absolute honour and testimony to our team’s dedication

the burden of re-keying data and perpetuating a paperless

and ability to execute to a strategy and deadline. Even during the

environment, yet remain prepared to invest a few hours to haggle

most unprecedented circumstances, we achieved the unimaginable,

for $25 on a container movement from Asia.

battling and overcoming so many challenges. We are delighted!

So, the message from NNR is: low tech = low chance of survival.

Whilst logistics and Supply Chain have been severely under attack

NNR’s digital transformation teams have the technical ability to understand

from a multitude of forces, both internal and external, NNR reacted

the ‘what to do’ in equal measures of the ‘how to do’. The distinct advantage

positively to the challenges. With a resilient business, built on strong

here is that ideas are relative and specific, and implementations, swift. The

foundations for the long-term - with industry experts in situ - NNR

cultivation of old-school OCR techniques, complemented by data scraping

thrived by supporting loyal customers rather than taking the short-

programs and slick API’s make light work of sharing information between

term-high-margin opportunities available.

supply chain partners. That is NNR’s focus; ease of use and delightful experiences. Omotenashi as the Japanese call it.

Highly skilled industry stalwarts were undoubtedly absolutely crucial in success. The power of technology took a momentary back seat in this

Lee Griffiths, Managing Director, NNR Global Logistics in United

respect, whilst still firmly in the driving seat with regard to facilitating

Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Poland & Czech Republic

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TECH & DIGITALISATION EXPERTS

L

ong recognized as integral to the logistical efficiency of

Internet Connectivity Drives Innovation

shipping agents and international freight forwarders (IFFs),

To take advantage of emerging technologies that improve efficiency

the Internet has also transformed B2B supply chains. In

and lower costs, logistical intermediaries must harness the

today's data-driven environment, the web delivers real-time info

capabilities of a functional Internet. For example, the widespread

on procurement and supplies. It also facilitates direct transactions

deployment of IoT devices reduces operational costs through

and collaboration between suppliers and customers.

improved fleet management and optimal asset utilisation. Also, by analysing the data stream between warehouse and distribution,

These processes demand reliable and cost-effective communications.

shippers can reduce inventory and predictive maintenance costs

A customised software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN)

with end-to-end visibility.

solution can keep suppliers and customers 'on the same page.'

It can often cost less than multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) or

Consider blockchain technology, now used for bills of lading.

point-to-point (P2P) options.

Blockchain will transform the freight industry by making transactions more transparent, strengthening data security, improving

A Nightmare to Elm Street

trackability, digitising processes, and reducing costs.

If you're a freight forwarder, no doubt you've had to ship 'nightmare' cargos such as livestock. Imagine the number of contacts needed

Another technology on the horizon for shipping is artificial

to ship a thoroughbred racer from Kentucky to Dubai. In 2014,

intelligence (AI). These applications will...

shipping a single container of refrigerated goods from East Africa to

• Mirror human perception in decision-making

Europe involved 30 people with over 200 different interactions. In

• Optimise maintenance and reduce inefficiencies

either case, a global SD-WAN can digitally streamline processes by

• Quicken shipping speeds

reducing manual transactions and improving supply chains.

• Precisely predict shipping times • Improve security

Many IFFs incur avoidable costs such as demurrage, detention, or port storage fees because they lack real-time data on container

Fortunately, today's shippers have a wealth of Internet connectivity

turnarounds from warehouse to port. Indeed, 'demurrage and

options at hand. From the muscle of a dark fiber network to

detention charges can accrue up to 20x the value of the container

managed services provided by telcos, logistical intermediaries can

itself.' A comprehensive SD-WAN solution utilising emerging

customise a WAN solution to fit their needs.

technologies such as IoT and blockchain integration can reduce or eliminate inefficiencies that result in these per diem fees.

Different Wide Area Network (WAN) Options Apart from a P2P configuration, shippers can choose from either MPLS or SD-WAN solutions. MPLS is the legacy option, offering outstanding QoS over dedicated circuits but at a higher cost than SD-WAN. A newer technology, SD-WAN routes traffic over the Internet. Both are highly secure, but SD-WANs offer greater scalability, more flexible redundancy, and user-friendly network management applications.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at lightyear.ai

What's Next?

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has upended international shipping. The recent blockage of the Suez Canal disrupted global

When deciding, weigh the urgency of various network metrics.

supply chains. Ocean freight rates have doubled, and air freight rates

In other words, how critical are elements such as cybersecurity,

have quadrupled during the past year. Given the challenges, logistics

reliability, and uptime, and redundancy? Do some applications

services providers would do well to examine in depth all their supply

demand reserved bandwidth or ultra-low latency? Is ease of

chain elements, including telecommunications.

scalability a priority? Service thresholds determine which WAN type is right for your company.

What about deploying both options? Many enterprises do, reserving

Ginger Woolridge, Head of Growth, Lightyear

mission-critical data for MPLS while routing less sensitive traffic

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

across an SD-WAN. Remember that while MPLS providers offer

Ginger Woolridge is the Head of Growth at Lightyear, a web

service-level agreements (SLAs), generally, SD-WANs do not.

platform that helps businesses comparison shop for network services (dedicated internet access, WAN solutions, VoIP, managed services, etc.). Ginger is based in NYC.

AVOID SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTIONS WITH A RELIABLE

SOFTWAREDEFINED WIDE AREA NETWORK

(SD-WAN) FORWARDER FORWARDER magazine magazine

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS

HD FORWARDING SHINES 30 APRIL 2021

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at hdforwarding.co.uk

AT PRESTIGIOUS AWARD CEREMONY

D

oncaster based forwarder HD Forwarding limited, have been

Through this entire time TeamHD has never failed to seize the

awarded the 'start up business of the year' award in a prestigious

opportunities in front of them and diversify where needed, the CV19

albeit different award ceremony due to CV19 restrictions.

lockdowns have presented various opportunities, we have moved Vaccines and more recently launched our own in house customs and

From humble beginnings the company has come on leaps and bounds,

transit form service!

Kerry started HD forwarding as a dream to have a flexible working place that still enabled her to collect her children from school and not worry

More recently to add to HD’s

about upsetting any bosses or working situations.

recent award winning we have also become accredited members

On the 4th November 2019 the business started, on a laptop in the

of BIFA and the FIATA. This

kitchen. Kerry quickly started gaining traction and had built a good

cements our position as a trusted

customer base and expansion was on the horizon,

freight forwarder and the need to look no further!

By April 2020 the next team member was bought on board, and then August another team member to manage the day to day accounting. The next big step was to eliminate remote working on laptops and in homes and the HD head office build was underway, In the closing months of 2020 TeamHD was well and truly well underway. The office was built and a new operations assistant joined the team.

With projected turn over’s blown clean out of the water 4 months before the end of our first financial year the spotlight turned on to the upcoming 2021 expansion plans.

The year started strong with an early recruitment just 2 weeks into January and the South west office was launched just south of Bristol, Just one short month later the third HD base of operations was launched in Congelton and The HD forwarding brand had an overhaul including new marketing material a snazzy new website and social media to match.

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www.HDFORWARDING.co.uk Congleton • DONCASTER • Bristol FORWARDER magazine

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TECH & DIGITALISATION NEWS

MAKE DRONES A PART 13 APRIL 2021

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at itf-oecd.org

OF THE OVERALL TRANSPORT SYSTEM!

D

rones should be treated as a part of the whole transport system

This issue had received surprisingly little attention, Kim noted. Drawing

and of society more broadly. Only then will we all reap the full

a parallel to the electric scooters, which were promoted as green but

economic and social benefits from drone technology. This was

often turned out to be less so, Kim pointed out that

drones, too,

ITF Secretary-General Young Tae Kim’s core message in his keynote for

need to be judged on their life-cycle emissions. The benchmark for

the “Drone Enable” symposium organised by ICAO, the International

their carbon footprint must include the greenhouse gases generated in

Civil Aviation Organization, held online today, 13 April 2021.

production and scrapping. Policymakers will need to carefully evaluate and manage the environmental pros and cons of drones.

In his speech, Secretary-General Kim outlined five areas 'that should be at the forefront of our thinking when we consider how drones should be integrated' into the transport system.

Policymakers generally need to examine the use cases for drones, said Kim: By use case, I do not mean what engineers think possible, and businesspeople hope they can monetise. I mean how drones can fill the

The first area is the economics of drones, according to Kim:

gaps in today’s transport offer in ways that serve broader societal goals.

One of the questions policymakers need to think about is this: Is the

He proposed that, as a basic principle, drones should not operate in

economic regulation of drones under the existing frameworks beneficial,

isolation but put to use where they are suited to fill gaps in the transport

or not? Is it even necessary?

system. Drones could complement existing services, for instance, by providing last-mile delivery or mobility, Kim explained. In others, they

The second area Kim highlighted is how to create public acceptance

could be more efficient, or safe, or reliable substitutes for today’s

for drones.

transport options; and they may even create new forms of demand.

For citizens to embrace a new technology, the benefits need to be crystal-clear to them.

The fifth area for policymakers to be attentive to is Infrastructure for drones, Kim said.

He warned that if drones services were accessible to but a few, while

This will not be a big issue in rural areas, where drones can do

downsides like noise had to be borne by all, acceptance might suffer.

much to connect remote communities better – but in cities, it will be a

Policymakers should not skimp over the equity aspect if the aim is to

different story. Urban drone landing zones will require careful planning,

make drones an integral part of the transport system.

and they will not pop up overnight. Where access to drone services is not equitable because some have landing hubs and others do not, there

The third area for regulatory focus emphasized by the ITF SecretaryGeneral is drones’ impact on the environment.

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may be a case for government funding or regulation.

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Where the focus

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+44 (0)20 3918 0500 commercial@aspenfreight.com aspenfreight.com FORWARDER magazine 1 Meadlake Place • Thorpe Lea Road • Egham • Surrey • TW20 8BF

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Building apps for the freight industry

We create tailor-made apps for freight and logistics companies, so you can communicate better with your customers and clients.

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Some of the benefits of FreightApp 100

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Some of the functions Company profile Easy access to your company overview.

Employee directory Showcase the brains behind your business and have a searchable directory with profiles for each of your staff members.

Quote request

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Track your shipment’s location and delivery with your chosen third-party platform intergrated with your app.

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List your capacity / return loads with real-time notifications directly to your customer mobile devices.

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Recruitment platform on which companies can post their latest vacancies. Candidates can apply directly from the app.

Booking form

Make it easy for clients to get in touch with their requirements directly from the app.

Push notifications

Schedule your notifications to be sent at specific times or send geofenced notifications to your clients based on their location.

+44 (0)1454 628 777 hello@freightapp.design FORWARDER magazine FreightApp.design

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS Opportunities to network and promote your services.

Related topics Conferences Expositions Networking

Sponsored by

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20 APRIL 2021

DIGIFREIGHT LAUNCHES

MOST ADVANCED VIRTUAL IN THE MEETING PLATFORM INDUSTRY

D

igiFreight digifreight.live has launched its trailblazing Meeting

Hub containing all the tools their Members need to build, manage, and engage with their overseas partners.

DigiFreight Founder, Rachel Crawford says “Good communication is vital in business and this has been exceptionally important since the COVID-19 outbreak with many people working remotely. DigiFreight is designed to enable forwarders to connect better and more easily so that they can achieve and maintain strong working relationships, essential in the freight industry.”

The sophisticated platform has many advanced features …

On 10-12 May 2021, all Members will be invited to participate in a Virtual

• The Meeting Hub shows a personal calendar allowing Members to

Meeting Event where each company is entirely in charge of their own

keep track and manage all their meetings in one place. Entries are

schedule and can decide when they will make themselves available for

displayed in their local timezone but in case they are travelling,

meetings. A great opportunity to ‘meet’ new Members! The virtual

they can change the viewing timezone in the calendar toolbar.

event will then take place every 6 months.

• Each calendar entry contains all the information needed for a successful virtual meeting, including who is responsible for

Additionally, when browsing staff in the Member Centre, users will be

starting the meeting, the chosen communication platform,

able to see if they are attending upcoming events and book with them

notes, ID address/details, etc.

immediately … or request a spontaneous meeting at any date or time

• A project has come up and there is no time for a long, back and

of their choice.

forth email trail? The powerful interface enables Members to quickly schedule a virtual meeting with their global DigiFreight partners.

Plus! DigiFreight management know how important it is to meet in

• When a meeting is requested, the system will automatically show

person and are delighted to announce that they have organised an

both the Member’s local timezone plus their overseas partners…

exciting 3-day event in Croatia from 29-31 May 2022. Rachel adds “How

so a mutually convenient time can be suggested.

great will it be to meet up face-to-face again!”

• Does everyone use the same communication platform? No! Therefore, the system makes it possible for Members to select their

DigiFreight offer Semi-Exclusive Membership (2 forwarders per

preferred platforms from Skype, Zoom, Google Meet or WhatsApp.

country) and as their goal is to create a world class organisation, they

• Members can add notes to each meeting, either private for their

are currently offering 2 year’s membership for the cost of 1 to give the

eyes only, or for all involved parties to ensure adequate

network time to build on quality, not quantity. For more details, please

meeting preparation.

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS NEWS 1 APRIL 2021

OPEN CHALLENGE TO EVENTS ORGANISERS TO

SET & TRACK GENDER BALANCE GOALS FOR SPEAKER LINE UPS

W

omen in Aviation and Logistics, an inclusive initiative

Although some organisers have undoubtedly been making progress,

pushing for gender equality in the industry, has

we estimate that on average only around 18% of speakers are women

launched an open challenge to event organisers to help

at the moment, with more than one event organised recently having

redress gender balance on speaker line ups and delegate attendance at

not a single female voice on any of the panels. We need to change that

conferences globally.

quickly, not only because we are missing out on valuable insight, but also because we must have visible role models to encourage the next

The call is for organisers – private businesses, media companies and

generation of talent to join a vibrant and inclusive industry.

international organisations – to invite more women subject-matter

Emma Murray,

experts to speak at their events, and encourage more female delegates

Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Meantime Communications

to attend, starting this year and setting annual targets for improvement.

Over 70 supporters joined the first Women in Aviation and Logistics We are pulling together a database of women who are experts in

Seminar last week, hearing from keynote speaker Henrik Kofod-Hansen,

their field and we invite event organisers to make use of this unique

Co-Founder of Novosensus, that while only 13% of senior leaders are

resource as a solid starting point to begin making a change. We are

female, research shows they make better leaders when scored across

also asking for targets to be set and for organisers to report back

a variety of categories.

on numbers so that we can chart progress and celebrate success.

We are result-oriented and we are offering a concrete solution with

Delegates agreed that the lack of gender equality within the aviation

the database and calling for more tangible actions: we see the open

and logistics sectors is very visible at events, in the media and in senior

challenge as a natural next step to positively embrace change, making a

leadership representation, especially at Board Room level.

great impact in just five easy steps.

Celine Hourcade, Founder & Managing Director, Change Horizon

With no conscious decision to address the issue, it will not resolve by itself, so it is time to do something about it and join forces to reach

Organisers answering the call to action will be asked to make a public

gender equality by 2030 as part of the overall sustainable transformation

commitment and report back on numbers of both female speakers and

of our industry,

said Hourcade.

delegates in order to build reliable data on which to base further targets and measure development.

A survey of Women in Aviation and Logistics supporters ranked collecting and sharing transparent data about gender diversity as a top priority and today’s initiative will be a start for this next action point.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at changehorizon.ch

ABOUT CHANGE HORIZON Change Horizon Sarl was founded in September 2019 by Céline Hourcade driven by her ambition to support aviation and logistics organisations with their development and transformation programmes.

Gender equality is everybody’s responsibility: from individuals, to companies and trade associations. This is not, and should not be, a

For more details, visit the Media Room and for regular

women-only issue, responsibility, or discussion. This is an inclusive

announcements follow Change Horizon on LinkedIn.

movement, and we do, and will, proactively invite men to join us and help to push the agenda,

said Murray.

changehorizon.ch/women-in-aviation-logistics

Since launching the Women in Aviation and Logistics Pledge and database last week, 52 people have signed up including 13 on behalf of

The database will be live over the coming weeks, but in the meantime,

their organisation, and already 28 women have submitted their profile,

the information is available on request to event organisers who have

listing their subject matter expertise. 93% have indicated they are open

accepted the challenge. To find out more and take part in any of the

to Board positions as well.

initiatives contact reachout@changehorizon.ch

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS NEWS

SUPPLY CHAIN EUROPE 2021 17 MARCH 2021

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at reutersevents.com

RETURNS ON 19-20 MAY, ONLINE

T

his May, 2000 supply chain, logistics and technology executives

live, Q&A panel discussions and - new for this year - a series of

will be logging in to join Reuters Events Supply Chain Europe

interactive workshops and roundtables, Supply Chain Europe will

2021 (19-20 May, Online) and explore how best to execute a

deliver the connectivity and learnings that supply chain leaders have

digitally collaborative, valued-based and customer centric supply chain.

been starved of.

This year’s edition of the leading supply chain event for the European market, focuses on the crucial transformations and increases in

Discussion pillars that are the driving force behind this year’s agenda:

flexibility that supply chains must embrace, now. No matter the

• Positioning supply chain as the driving force in your business

industry, strengthening operations against risks and for customer

• Digitally enabled visibility to maximize supply chain resilience

demands is critical, creating the backbone for a sustainable and digital

• Crucial strengthening of supplier and partner relationships to

future for businesses.

protect business continuity • Delivering empirical successes of sustainable supply

The event will feature the expert, industry leading insights of a stellar speaker line-up including, David Boulanger, CSCO, Arla Foods, Linzell

chain excellence • Technology innovations to power supply chain performance

Harris, SVP Global Supply Chain, AstraZeneca, Karen Reddington, President, FedEx Express Europe, Ewan Andrew, President, Global

Visit reutersevents.com for a full breakdown of the agenda and

Supply & Procurement and Chief Sustainability Officer, Diageo, Jennifer

speaker lineup plus details on how to secure your place at Supply

Han, Head of Supply Chain – Food and Refreshments, Unilever and Paul

Chain Europe 2021

Campbell, SVP Supply Chain Europe, PepsiCo.

Why you must join this crucial supply chain event

ABOUT REUTERS EVENTS

Supply Chain Europe 2021 has been created to provide the industry

Grown through endeavour… powered by results

with the crucial information and connections that are needed to bring strategies to life. This has been sorely absent over the past

Operating from a single central London base, Reuters Events is

twelve months. Combining specific case studies and interviews with

now one of the largest and fastest growing events companies anywhere in the world.

Reuters Events serves a diverse range of industries and places a focus on the challenges and opportunities resulting from technological and strategic innovation.

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ABOUT SUPPLY CHAIN EUROPE 2021 Investing in your supply chain is key to executing a digitally

However, despite the impressive efforts to respond quickly, there

collaborative, value-based and customer centric operation. Reuters

are still huge amounts optimization and reconfiguration needed. Old

Events is bringing together the best supply chain leaders and specific

fashioned, linear supply chain models that lack a digital structure

subject matter experts that you need to hear from - and connect

do not provide the required flexibility of operations and are not

with - to deliver a successful evolution of your supply chain.

sustainable for the future. They will place your business at increased risk from impacts and shocks. A reanalysis of your partner network,

Given the extraordinary events set in motion by the ongoing global

digital processes and delivery capabilities is now critical.

pandemic, historical supply chain and logistics models have been forced to adapt fast to ensure companies can still rely on them to

Supply Chain Europe Virtual 2021 is the only place to set yourselves

deliver for their customers.

up to thrive through 2021. Bringing together retailers, manufacturers, logistics and technology leaders, the entire suite of executives will provide a 360-degree view of how to maximize your network and operations, eradicate silos and deliver a flexible and sustainable supply chain future.

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EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS NEWS MARCH 2021

IT DUO

JOIN FORCES FOR MULTIMODAL

W

ith a new date secured for Multimodal 2021 two leading specialist technology providers are teaming up to attend the show together, for the first time.

Brands Forward Computers and BoxTop Technologies - part of the Freight Software Group – both provide specialist technology for the freight and logistics sectors but with different solutions, aimed at distinctly separate customer sectors. Together the duo has an existing portfolio of over 300 customers.

Multimodal organisers recently announced a new date for the exhibition

The Forward Computers team is one of the longest established freight

of 19-21 October 2021. The annual flagship exhibition, brings together

software development companies, providing an end-to-end solution for

thousands of people from across the supply chain, taking place at the

a wide range of operators in the UK, Europe, Asia and the US.

NEC in Birmingham and features conference sessions, networking and awards, spanning three days.

With Brexit causing a huge headache for many in the sector there continues to be massive growth in the market for specialist technology. According

BoxTop has been a regular exhibitor since 2012 and Forward Computers

to a recent report the logistics industry continues to prioritise operational

has been a less frequent attendee. Forward Computers is the UK's

efficiencies and investment in technology adoption. Freight forwarders that

leading independent supplier of freight forwarding software to the

offer innovative online solution offerings including customs brokerage, and

logistics sector and was acquired by Freight Software Group in 2019.

transportation management solutions are expected to lead the way and use technology to improve the customer experience.

Now part of the same group but with a distinctly different proposition, by joining forces we can offer freight and logistics customers, of different

Both Forward Computers and BoxTop Technologies are long-

sizes the perfect technological solution.

standing customers of Multimodal and we value their ongoing support.

Richard Litchfield, Managing Director, Forward Computers

I am sure that their collaboration will be a great success and we wish them all the best going forwards.

BoxTop is delighted to be back at Multimodal – we’ll be attending in

Robert Jervis, Logistics portfolio director, Clarion Events

force this year and are looking forward to meeting our customers both new and old in a safe face to face environment.

Richard added:

Forward Computers has a long-established and

Paul Richardson, Business Development Manager, BoxTop

reliable product developed over two decades but we’re looking forward to unveil our latest product development directly to customers at Multimodal 2021.

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TW A N ER T W P X L S D > 21 P TE E 20 ER C R W DA N BE NT U M O|A EW O CE XP N NN DE P E A 9 ER TW

7

SH

AP

IN O GT F H BR E EA FU KB TU U RE LK

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Host sponsor

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

Documented permission to pass that a national customs authority grants to imported/exported goods so that they can enter/leave the country.

Related topics Bonded warehousing Customs brokerage Duties & taxes

Sponsored by

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4 MAY 2021

BREXIT. IT'S HERE NOW...

KEEP YOUR BUSINESS MOVING

T

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As a result of this change many businesses like yours are facing new

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in their logistics operations and supply chain, by enabling them to take

elements to enrich the declaration

control of their import and export declarations, prioritise their safety

• Retaining historic declaration data

and security fillings, and keep their VAT and tariff payments compliant.

• Offering copy and clone functionality • Allowing the use of Excel Spreadsheets to upload data.

Sign up for e-customs at ecommshop.descartes.com

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CUSTOMS CLEARANCE NEWS 28 APRIL 2021

RATIFICATION OF WITHDRAWAL AGREEMENT

WILL PROTECT TRADE WITH THE EU, SAYS LOGISTICS UK

B

usiness group Logistics UK, which represents all sectors of

The UK currently does not make checks on goods arriving in the UK

the industry, has welcomed news today (28 April 2021) that

but the situation at the border will change from 1 October 2021, when

the European Parliament has accepted the terms of the Trade

requirements on products of animal origin and other high risk foods will

and Customs Agreement (TCA) which was announced on 24 December

be implemented. The option to defer the submission of the full customs

2020. As Sarah Laouadi, European Policy Manager for the organisation

declaration up to six months from the point if import will be phased out

explains, the ratification will give certainty to businesses on both sides

on 1 January 2022. Safety and Security Declarations for imports, as well

of the Channel. It will also enable industry, UK and EU authorities to

as physical checks on products of animal origin (also known as Sanitary

take part in the agreement’s cooperation bodies to focus on effective

and Phytosanitary checks, or SPS) will be required from 1 January 2022.

implementation of the deal and keep goods and services flowing freely across the UK’s borders:

Our advice to members which import goods from the EU is to familiarise themselves with what will be required in plenty of time and

The ratification of the TCA is great news for businesses across the

review their contracts, Incoterms and processes with suppliers and

UK’s highly interconnected supply chain and will provide them with

partners on the other side of the Channel. All the preparations that

greater certainty about how and when goods can move across the UK’s

have been made for GB to EU trade ahead of 1 January, in terms of

borders. However, there are still gaps in the agreement, for instance

customs formalities, safety and security declarations and sanitary and

for touring companies that will need to support their customers in the

phytosanitary documentation for animals and agrifood products must

cultural sector when the concert and event season re-starts but will

now be replicated for EU to GB trade. This will ensure the continued

be prevented from touring freely in Europe under the current terms

smooth movement of goods across the UK’s borders, and protect the

of the agreement. It is crucial not to let down this sector, which makes

nation’s trading relationships.

the UK a vibrant cultural hub, supplies events across the continent and provides thousands of jobs, directly and indirectly. Logistics UK is urging government to continue to strive for an agreed solution that meets the

ABOUT LOGISTICS UK

needs of this sector. Despite the ratification of a long-term framework

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups,

for the trading relationship with the EU, it is also important to remember

representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping

that there are still changes to come in import conditions: the UK is yet

the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly

to introduce checks and other requirements on inbound goods, which

employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With

are expected to be phased in gradually over the next year. Business and

COVID-19, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive

government must ensure that all necessary preparations have been made

forces driving change in the way goods move across borders

in a timely fashion, to protect the supply chain and prevent unnecessary

and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more

or avoidable delays at the border or at destination.

important to UK plc

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INDUSTRY SERVICES

Organisations and bodies that provide essential support to the freight and logistics industries.

Related topics Warehousing Insurance & legal Vehicles & equipment

Sponsored by

114 114 FORWARDER magazine

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SCB VEHICLE DISMANTLERS PUT BRAKES ON SEARCH 8 APRIL 2021

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at palletways.com

FOLLOWING PALLETWAYS HIRE

S

CB Vehicle Dismantlers in Edinburgh has put the brakes on

Our commitment to customer service combined with the transparency

the search for a logistics partner after appointing Palletways

of our ETA technology has resulted in our appointment. The ETA

Edinburgh, which is part of Palletways UK, an Imperial

function helps us provide exceptional customer service excellence and

Group Company.

the delivery time certainty sets us aside from competitors.

Vanda Roberts, General Manager, Palletways Edinburgh

SCB required a logistics partner to make scheduled collections of car parts and accessories from its Edinburgh depot and deliver to car garages

Palletways offers a range of Premium services for both domestic and

and private customers. Palletways Edinburgh will handle daily collections

international delivery. Domestic is typically delivered within 24-hours.

and provide a next day/economy service to customers in the UK and

With its economy service, domestic consignments are typically delivered

take responsibility for SCB’s international shipping requirements.

within 48 hours and international deliveries made within 72-96 hours, depending on the location.

Palletways’ industry-leading IT systems, reputation for offering firstclass customer service and competitive pricing were deciding factors in

SCB Vehicle Dismantlers provides salvage and breaking vehicles, spare

the hire. Peter Irvine, operations manager at SCB, said: “We needed

parts and accessories from a vast range of vehicle manufacturers and

a carrier that could provide an economy and next day delivery service,

models and sells to the auto industry and private customers from its

which we knew Palletways Edinburgh could handle. Its IT systems

site at Newbridge, Edinburgh. In association with the Northern Salvage

particularly impressed us, especially the Track and Trace facility and ETA

Automobile Auctions (NSAA), SCB also holds a weekly online auction,

updates. Providing a two-hour window means our customers don’t have

selling a variety of salvage vehicles to the public and trade.

to wait in all day for their delivery plus we receive an SMS notification once the consignment reaches its delivery point. This visibility is unrivalled and adds further value to the customer experience.”

The service we receive from Palletways Edinburgh is head and shoulders above anything we’ve received before. The level of detail it provides reduces our costs, improves our efficiency and helps us deliver first-class service to our customers.

Martyn Ryrie, Customer Support Manager, SCB

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INDUSTRY SERVICES NEWS 22 APRIL 2021

WORLD OPTIONS:

‘WE’RE LOOKING FOR FRANCHISEES…’

W

orld Options operates a successful franchise model

A world options franchise offers...

based in the UK and we are looking for freight

• Value for money – Low entry cost

forwarders to join our network.

• Huge earnings potential • Dedicated ongoing training and support

World Options offers a BFA (British Franchise Association) approved

• Non – exclusive franchise – choose where you work

franchise model, starting with a low cost, value for money entry into

• Unique software solutions – offering customers multiple carriers

the industry with ongoing mentorship enabling the right, hardworking

(UPS, FedEx, DHL, TNT, Hermes & more)

candidates, access to huge earnings potential.

• Minimum overheads – no vans, trucks, stock or warehousing

World Options offers businesses discounted shipping rates from leading

With minimal overheads and franchises starting at £32,500 +VAT it’s a

carriers such as, UPS, FedEx, DHL, TNT and Hermes among others, in

top-drawer opportunity. All you need to do, is bring your best.

addition to other shipping solutions and services. All of these are offered via unique and industry-leading software solutions.

For more details, email: howard.mccormick@worldoptions.co.uk Tel: 07500 926 688 or 0330 335 8100

Joining World Options as a franchise businesses owner in the UK could be ideal for individuals who would like to start an online business, operating from home in an increasingly vibrant and sustainable industry sector, where online courier and delivery services are in constant demand.

And as e-commerce grows ever more important, World Options franchisees are perfectly positioned to take advantage.

You’ll be given full training and support in getting to grips with the various jobs they tackle including freight, pallets and small pack courier, as well as import and export projects.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at worldoptions.co.uk

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INDUSTRY SERVICES NEWS

RUSSIAN CARGO THEFT TRENDS 2020 13 APRIL 2021

T

he joint report published by international freight insurer, TT

The second largest cargo category remains metals but with much

Club; IMPACT, a digital cargo theft information and prevention

reduced share; 13% in 2020 against 24% the previous year. Once more

exchange and the Transported Asset Protection Association

there was a ‘value shift’ but this time to more valuable cargoes; the

(TAPA EMEA) details trends in the prevalent modus operandi of thefts

average per incident rising from US$28,000 to US$44,000. The year-

and the type of cargo commodities lost within the Russian road freight

on-year increases were seen in small increments across other categories

sector, analysing the data by month and federal region.

including electronics, auto parts, household goods and clothing.

The COVID-19 pandemic that took hold through 2020 impacted

Kiril Berezov is Managing Director of Panditrans, TT Club’s Network

historical cargo theft trends in a multitude of ways. Local and national

Partner in Russia. He emphasises the dominant role that fraud plays in

restrictions on general movement affected the thieves’ ability to move

losses overall.

undetected when undertaking their activities, influencing how they

2020 report highlights that thieves in Russia rely heavily on fraud as a

operated. The economic impact of the pandemic influenced market

means of accessing cargo. The methodology of criminal organisations are

forces and therefore the cargoes primarily targeted by criminals.

distinct and fall into two primary categories: the driver being diverted by

The overall number of recorded incidents reduced year-on-year by

phone to unload at an unauthorized location and the use of fraudulent

approximately 35%, despite a 10% annual growth in the total road

identities to access cargo. The ingenuity of the fraudsters is remarkable.

freight market. The average value of each loss also reduced to nearly

They have sound knowledge of how the supply chain operates.

In contrast with many other countries, data from our

US$39,000 in 2020 from US$43, 000 in 2019.

The report contains detailed case studies that describe, step-by-step As in the previous year the 2020 report pinpoints various methods

how such diversions are arranged and how types of fraud are employed

of fraud as by far the most common modus operandi of thieves, with

to ultimately complete the thefts. Mike Yarwood, TT Club’s Managing

such methods once more accounting for around 83% of incidents. The

Director of Loss Prevention highlights the report’s important role

balance was almost entirely theft from parked vehicles. Food and

in mitigating these incidents.

beverages also remain the most common type of commodity targeted.

Everyone within transport and supply chain service companies need a

The volume of incidents fell by nearly a third, but these goods still made

degree of knowledge of the risks and how perpetrators of theft operate.

up 28% of total losses. Interestingly, the average value of goods taken

Our report is aimed at providing detailed data but also provides a wealth

fell by 22% indicating a focus on essentials rather than more attractive

of guidance on creating this awareness as well as further actions to be

products of higher value.

taken by operators in avoiding loss and damage to their customers’

Above all else awareness is crucial.

cargoes and their own business reputations.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at ttclub.com

ABOUT IMPACT IMPACT is a partnership initiative for information exchange and industry collaboration to minimize risks in the supply chain and reduce cargo losses in Russia. Industry’s first innovative digital platform for collecting and analysing intelligence on cargo theft, providing online vetting services to identify individuals, forwarding and transport entities, and vehicles that routinely take

Thorsten Neumann, President & CEO of TAPA in the Europe, Middle

part in fraudulent pickup and full truck loss incidents. IMPACT

East & Africa (EMEA) region, says companies can take action to increase

was established in 2019 by leading experts in supply chain and

the resilience of their supply chains in Russia.

TAPA’s Incident

corporate security with a vision to establish open collaboration

Information Service (IIS) has recorded hundreds of cargo thefts and

within the industry for legitimate data exchange on cargo theft

millions of euros of product losses, and this increases every month. In

threats in Russia, as well as share intelligence and best practices

a high number of these crimes, losses could easily have been prevented

with leading international institutions and companies who are

by companies carrying out simple due diligence checks on the transport

active in security risk management, fraud prevention and cargo

partners they are working with. There is now so much evidence of Fraud

protection to enable effective incident data exchange, improve

and Deception impacting supply chains in Russia, businesses should be

security awareness and theft prevention, referencing various

well aware of the risks. This new report will help prevent losses.

consulting services and solutions. impact.ru.com

Ilya Smolentsev is Co-founder of IMPACT. He comments,

Cargo theft

in Russia is heavily under-reported as in many other parts of the CIS area and Europe. The accumulated annual losses exceed RUB 10 billion (US$130

ABOUT TAPA

million) and exhibit a growing trend of producing negative influence on local

The Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) is a

and international businesses. IMPACT, as the leading independent cargo theft

not-for-profit industry Association founded in 1997 to help

data source in Russia, created a unique risk management tool that helps the

Manufacturers/Shippers and their Logistics Service Providers

industry in understanding the magnitude of the problem in both Russia and

minimise losses from their supply chains resulting from cargo

the CIS region and in developing effective mitigation strategies.

thefts. Today, the Association provides a host of industry standards, training, incident intelligence, route planning and

ABOUT TT CLUB

networking tools and opportunities which are used by its member

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider

programmes to mitigate risk and optimise loss prevention. Its

of mutual insurance and related risk management services to

membership also includes Insurers, Security Service Providers

the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s

and Law Enforcement Agencies. tapa-global.org

companies as part of their own in-house supply chain security

primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1100 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 93% of its Members with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more.

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INDUSTRY SERVICES NEWS

LOCKDOWN VERSUS LOCKDOWN...

23 APRIL 2021

ONLINE SALES ROCKETED 62% THIS MARCH OVER LOCKDOWN MARCH 2020

D

espite the temptations of an imminent return to shopping

Of course, March’s retail figures are just the warm-up act. High Street

in ‘real’ stores, March online sales still boomed 0.6% against

retailers are really waiting for the ONS retail figures for April, when they

February’s sales and over 60% against the first month of

are released next month. Footfall soared over 80% during the first week

Lockdown 1.0 last year.

that non-essential stores reopened, but the early signs are that in-store shopping was still down by 25% on 2019’s pre-Covid levels. April’s ONS

Today’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) retail sales figures for

figures will help give a fuller picture.

March reveal the value of online sales boomed by 62% against the same month last year, which was the first-ever lockdown month.

Only stores that embrace their websites as their most important shop window and ensure their online service matches the standard of their in-

The home delivery expert ParcelHero says shoppers decided not to

store experience will survive in the long-term. Our report revealing the

wait for the reopening of stores in April and continued to splash the

measures High Street retailers can take to ensure they have a future is

cash online.

available at parcelhero.com/blog/news-updates/2030-dead-endfor-the-high-street

Shoppers ignored the siren call of the High Street and continued to spend online rather than save their money for ‘real’ stores in April.

Online sales boomed by 0.6% this March over the previous month.

This was the largest monthly online sales growth since June 2020, with retailers suggesting that the upcoming easing of lockdown restrictions had encouraged people to ditch joggers in favour of smarter clothes for reunions with people they hadn’t seen for months.

March’s sales results were positive in general, with the value of all sales – both online and in-store – up 5.5% over February. Even more fascinating is that these figures allow us to compare how we shopped online this year against March 2020, the first month of lockdown across the UK. Some analysts had been expecting a slump in e-commerce year-on-year sales growth as, back in March last year, non-essential stores had closed and everyone was suddenly forced online for the first time. Instead, this March crushed web store sales values for March 2020. Last March, online sales took just 23.1% of the UK’s entire retail spend; this March, that figure had climbed to 34.7% of consumers’ overall spend.

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David Jinks MILT, Head of Consumer Research, ParcelHero

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12 APRIL 2021

FREIGHT ASSOCIATION WELCOMES

FURTHER GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR APPRENTICE RECRUITMENT

T

he British International Freight Association (BIFA), the

Hobbis adds:

Given the much publicised shortage within the sector

trade association that represents UK freight forwarding and

of staff with Customs processing knowledge, we are reminding members

logistics companies, says that it welcomes the news that the

that whilst there are ten apprenticeship standards in the transport

government is increasing incentive payments to companies that hire a

and logistics sector, the International Freight Forwarding Specialist

new apprentice.

apprenticeship is the only one with Customs as a mandatory module.

Employers will now receive £3,000 for new apprentices of any age who

BIFA Director General, Robert Keen says:

join their organisation from 1 April 2021 to 30 September 2021.

are currently rightly focused on significant business continuity issues,

Whilst our members

we welcome the additional funding. As one of the largest providers of Carl Hobbis, BIFA’s Executive Director, who has management

freight forwarding and Customs-related training courses, we are ready

responsibility for BIFA’s training and development services, says:

to help any of our members that are seeking to take advantage of the

The latest increase in funding support is a further reason for our

additional funding being made available to recruit apprentices. There

members to consider the apprenticeship pathway as a means of adding

is also a dedicated area of the BIFA website (apprentices.bifa.org) that

fresh talent to the industry.

can help both employers and potential recruits to better understand apprenticeship opportunities in the freight forwarding industry.

Having been actively involved in the creation of an International Freight Forwarding Specialist apprenticeship, BIFA has committed to promote

Hobbis concludes:

For SMEs, the apprentice programme can cost as little

its availability since it was introduced in 2018.

as £450 per apprentice, and includes a BTEC qualification for the apprentice as well, which makes it great value. BIFA is committed to encouraging its members to capitalise on apprenticeship opportunities.

Image: apprentices.bifa.org

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING APPOINTMENTS WELCOMING TO

JOHN DAVID THOMAS

CRANE WORLDWIDE LOGISTICS

IN THE POSITION OF

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

C

rane Worldwide Logistics has announced that

Based in the world's energy capital, JD has seen many

John David Thomas has been appointed to

ups and downs, but the COVID-19 pandemic presented

Regional Vice President, South-Central Region

a new set of challenges.

in the Americas.

As a logistics provider, we have due diligence to do our

The South Central region covers Crane Worldwide's

part to support the needs of the communities we serve.

expansive headquarters in Houston as well as Central

I asked each business leader to help their communities

and West Texas, Louisiana, and the U.S./Mexico border.

during the pandemic. JD made this a priority by acting with a keen sense of urgency to develop strategic solutions to

John David, known as JD with clients and throughout the

broaden Crane Worldwide's life sciences vertical.

business, first joined Crane Worldwide Logistics on the

Keith Winters, CEO at Crane Worldwide Logistics

Leadership Development Program in 2009, shortly after the company was founded.

JD focused on building relationships with medical professionals in Houston to understand the urgent needs.

The Leadership Development Program provides

As a result, Crane Worldwide was able to source and

management and logistics leadership capabilities

deliver personal protective equipment and medical supplies

to graduates entering the industry. Investing and

to provide essential support to hospitals throughout Texas

developing talent from the onset by providing a range

and health care facilities throughout the world.

of opportunities to learn the logistics business from an operational and strategic level helps create future leaders at Crane Worldwide.

We are delighted to share this announcement of JD's promotion to Regional Vice President. Since joining the business on the Leadership Development Program, JD

During his twelve years at Crane Worldwide, JD has

has established himself as a widely respected leader

held multiple positions within the organization and was

within our organization and externally supporting a vast

instrumental in Houston's success and growth during his

range of clients with outstanding service. He is a veritable

most recent role as District Director of Houston, Texas.

asset to Crane Worldwide Logistics and our clients, and I know he is capable of taking our business to the next

Also, JD significantly contributed to expanding Crane Worldwide's U.S./Mexico border presence through successful operations in Laredo, Texas.

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level in the South-Central Region,

adds Winters.

WELCOMING TO

JULIE MUDD

SHEARS BROS (TRANSPORT) LTD

IN THE POSITION OF

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

L

ogistics and ballroom dancing are not two things

When asked about what attracted her to the role with

you usually see in the same sentence, but for Shears

Shears, Julie explains that it was the team and the range

Bros (Transport) Ltd’s new Business Development

of services that really interested her.

Manager, Julie Mudd, the two go hand in hand.

She comments:

The first thing that struck me about

Julie, who has competed in various amateur dance

Shears was the team and its approach to work. Most

championships around the UK, including those held in the

members of staff are long-standing employees who

famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom, will use her competitive

know the business inside out and really care about

drive to her advantage away from the dancefloor in her

providing the best possible service for our customers

new role with the Bournemouth-based logistics company.

– that’s really important to me. I am really excited to make full use of the service offering available here at

With a wide-ranging career in logistics, Julie brings more

Shears to ensure we deliver solutions that support and

than 20 years’ experience from her roles in international

fulfil our customers’ needs.

shipping, the parcel industry and hazardous freight as she steps into the pallet distribution sector.

Paul Bulpitt is General Manager of Shears and reflecting on Julie’s appointment, he echoes her observations about

Shears, an owned operation of Pall-Ex (UK) Ltd, has

the team and the range of services on offer.

seen significant growth in recent years after solidifying its position in the Bournemouth area.

Paul comments:

Shears continues to develop its range

of services to suit the evolving needs of its customers in Since arriving in early 2021, Julie has been looking for

the Bournemouth area. The team is made up of some

long-term service solutions for customers, further

fantastic people who work hard every day to ensure our

enhancing the portfolio of clients for the business.

customers receive the high levels of customer service the business is renowned for. I have every confidence

There are several tools in Julie’s arsenal which, with her

that Julie will continue to work well with the rest of

expansive experience, will mean she is well equipped to

the team and further support Shears’ growth over the

support local businesses with their unique requirements.

coming months.

Shears offers a range of services including pallet storage,

Shears continues to offer European distribution

pick and pack, same day delivery, full and part trailer loads,

services with minimal service disruption, in-spite of

hazardous freight and parcel deliveries. In addition to

the challenges brought about by Brexit. For more

this, the business also offers leading UK and International

information about International or any other services,

palletised freight distribution as part of the Pall-Ex network.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING APPOINTMENTS WELCOMING TO

MARK BARLOW

PALL-EX GROUP

IN THE POSITION OF

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

P

all-Ex Group is continuing its mission to recruit

Mark’s appointment is a key part of our growth

quality SMEs and expand its pallet network

strategy and his experience within the pallet sector

shareholder membership with the appointment

will be invaluable as we continue to develop both UK

of a new Network Development Director.

networks. Mark is highly knowledgeable and his energy and enthusiasm for the industry is already proving to be

Mark Barlow brings over 20 years of logistics experience to

of great benefit to networks. We have some exciting

the position, including extensive knowledge of the sector,

developments happening in 2021, along with a revitalised

having previously held roles in other UK pallet networks.

network team that are looking forward to building on the foundations we have and supporting both UK networks

Based at Pall-Ex’s head office, Mark will be tasked with

with support, service excellence and exceptional

strengthening network membership across the Group,

technology. This is an exciting time to be part of Pall-Ex

with a focus on building the Fortec Distribution Network

Group and we look forward to growing the network with

membership in several strategic locations across the UK.

Mark’s support.

Sue Buchanan, Group Network Director, Pall-Ex

The appointment follows the launch of Fortec’s shareholder model in late 2020, which has already seen over 50% of its

Mark adds:

independent depots become shareholder members.

sector along with the challenges that are multi-faceted

I enjoy the fast paced nature of the logistics

and complex; one solution doesn’t fit all scenarios and Mark comments:

As Network Development Director,

flexibility is the key. In this role the strength is about the

I will be driving forward member recruitment through

whole membership moving as a collective, emulating Pall-Ex

specific projects to reinforce and build on Pall-Ex Group’s

Groups ethos of working together, winning together!

already solid foundations. Building volume within the Fortec operation is one of my key aims. By creating greater

For more information about our shareholder

drop density and opportunity for the members, along with

opportunities or to speak to Mark directly please email:

capitalising on the synergies available within the Group,

joinus@pallexgroup.co.uk

we can reinforce Fortec’s position as a major player in the pallet sector. With market-leading technology, a robust International solution and the unique, fair and progressive shareholder model, the Pall-Ex and Fortec member offering is an attractive choice for a forward-thinking, eager to succeed, logistics business.

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WELCOMING TO

MICHELLE RODER

PALLETLINE

IN THE POSITION OF

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

P

alletline is pleased to announce the appointment

re-invests to deliver sustainable growth and innovation

of Michelle Roder to the position of Group

for our membership and customers. To be part of the

Financial Director. The appointment follows the

leadership team driving that progress is exciting and I am

departure of Mark McColl, who retired from the business

looking forward to tackling a new set of challenges.

in March this year.

We are delighted to welcome Michelle to the Palletline

Michelle, who has more than 17 years’ experience in

board. Her network knowledge, business acumen and

financial roles, joined the network as Risk Assessment

financial expertise are outstanding and I am confident

and Project Finance Manager in August 2014 and was

that she will continue to deliver exceptional results in

on a path to progression from day one; achieving five

the years to come. Looking internally for your future

promotions in seven years.

team leaders, managers or, in this case, directors ensures you retain and develop people with insider knowledge

Michelle now oversees a team of nine people across the

and enables businesses to recruit fresh talent at entry

Palletline Group and is responsible for facilitating business

level. Michelle’s journey with us is an example of what

growth through investment, whilst safeguarding the

succession planning looks like when it’s done well.

financial health of the company. She is the youngest person

Graham Leitch, Group Managing Director, Palletline

to hold the Financial Director position in Palletline’s history and is currently the only female on the board.

With the logistics sector booming, recruiting the right people to support business growth is vital. Palletline’s

Her succession to the position was planned more than

Employee Development Programme actively identifies

six months prior to the former Financial Director’s

and supports those that demonstrate potential and are

retirement, enabling Michelle to work closely with Mark,

looking to further their careers within the organisation.

shadowing him for three months, before he took a step back in January 2021.

The Group have also implemented a training programme to help tackle the shortage of fork lift drivers in the

Michelle commented:

I am really pleased to be

logistics industry. Through a partnership with Juniper

appointed to the board. I’ve been with Palletline for

Training, the scheme provides apprentices with a

more than seven years and will be using my experience

comprehensive training programme and the opportunity

to support the network’s entrepreneurial culture, whilst

to join the Palletline team on a permanent basis. Six

ensuring financial stability. Palletline is consistently

people have already been recruited at Palletline’s central

reviewing its position in the market and strategically

Hub in Birmingham as a result of the scheme.

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

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• Implements and directs quality control for all operations • Directs and ensures compliance with established DHL

• Implements and directs quality control for all operations • Directs and ensures compliance with established DHL

corporate, hub, gateway or terminal warehouse Hub/ Gateway, and airline policies, procedures and standard • Communicates with: systems operations control, flight control, maintenance control, facilities maintenance, sort, ramp, airport police, fire & rescue, Customs and agriculture • Oversees the loading and unloading of any of the following: trucks, trailers, air containers, or airline pallets • Supervises the identification and segregation of non-conforming and dangerous goods cargo • Supervises 15-25 subordinates; responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and developing staff

corporate, hub, gateway or terminal warehouse Hub/ Gateway, and airline policies, procedures and standard • Communicates with: systems operations control, flight control, maintenance control, facilities maintenance, sort, ramp, airport police, fire & rescue, Customs and agriculture • Oversees the loading and unloading of any of the following: trucks, trailers, air containers, or airline pallets • Supervises the identification and segregation of non-conforming and dangerous goods cargo • Supervises 15-25 subordinates; responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and developing staff

jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

HGV CLASS 1 NIGHT DRIVER

CLASS 2 DRIVER

Your role • Making multi drops to secure locations on a nightly basis • You will be a key holder for each location • There is a large amount of manual handling involving cages

Your role • Carry out pre and after use vehicle checks in line

ROCHESTER, UK 42 HOURS/WK + OVERTIME, MON–FRI £12.80 PER HOUR

and larger items so you must be physically fit

Requirements • Full UK driving licence (with C+E entitlement), • No more than six penalty points on your licence and no DD, DR, IN, or CD endorsements

• A valid CPC and digital tacho card • Excellent knowledge of the UK road network john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1454 275 934

SWINDON, UK MON–FRI, A.M. START TIMES £28,000

with company policy

• To accurately and safely deliver to customers as directed by the Transport Team

• Monitor and report any vehicle defects and wear and tear • Complete all paperwork accurately and on time Requirements • A HGV Licence with C entitlements • An in-date Driver Qualification Card (CPC) • A Digital Tachograph Licence • Less than 6 endorsements (not IN, DR or DD) john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1454 275 934

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VACANCIES Powered by

BUSINESS ANALYST

WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE

Overview

Overview

BIRMINGHAM, UK £ COMPETITIVE

As a Business Analyst, you will work within our UK Logistics Control Centre within our Integrated Logistics business unit. You’ll provide day to day support to our global Excellence Management community through reviewing and analysing monthly performance data, as well as preparing and creating data extracts and market intelligence for customer facing presentations.

Your role • Extract data from Tableau and analyse performance trends to identify issues regionally and globally

• Reach out to responsible parties for support to root cause issues on performance failures; analytical support to identify trends and re-occurring issues and manage causing parties accordingly • Provide support to the supply chain integrity function through assisting investigations into supply chain deviations and ensuring the global standard is adhered to across the Kuehne+Nagel regions and to the customer • Create PowerPoint presentations in line with the agreed Kuehne+ Nagel standards and working to the global calendar for presentation submissions into the monthly operational review meetings with our customer and into the monthly customer performance review.

• Manage the global action register and drive on time completion with the action owners.

• Work with the business managers and continuous improvement managers in each region to provide administrative support; as well as supporting the continuous improvement managers in the creation of business cases and pipeline • Provide support to the Excellence Managers with supply chain risk assessment and mitigation as well as providing support with collating global market intelligence and trends • Creation of the Kuehne+Nagel Snapshot monthly publication which is distributed internally and externally

DES PLAINES, IL, UNITED STATES £ COMPETITIVE

The Warehouse Associate performs various warehouse activities to ensure the full and efficient operation of the Distribution Center such as receiving, sorting, picking, packing, and shipping orders.

Your role • Use material handling (MH) equipment to unload • Verify and receive materials into inventory • Marks and inventories packages for storage or transit • May also include palletizing and shrink-wrap.

• Duties may include receiving, checking and storing • May be required to stack pallets and repeatedly lift up to 50lb • Use MH Equipment to move and store materials • Use MH Equipment to pick, verify and pack orders • Use MH Equipment or other designated means to load goods into trailers or other designated

• transport vehicles for distribution • Works from pick sheet or Radio Frequency (RF) Scanner to pull product or supplies.

• May be required to cycle count inventory • Check orders against pull sheets.

• Dangerous Goods”: when receiving dangerous goods, the necessary procedures must be

• followed and these shipments must be stored in the designated section of the warehouse.

• If/when applicable, ‘bonded’ cargo must be processed and handled accordingly, based on

• existing guidelines for this type of shipment • Maintain warehouse clean and free of debris at all times • Adhere to local, State, and Federal regulations inclusive, but not limited, to OSHA, DOT, EPA

• and other government agencies. Certification required to handle any hazardous material(s) jeremy@headfordgroup.com • +1 646 933 1264

tyler@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 780

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RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

EXPORT TRANSPORT PLANNER

TRANSPORT CLERK

Overview

Overview

PURFLEET, UK £ COMPETITIVE

A position for an Export Transport Planner has arisen at DSV Road’s location at Purfleet.

The role • Combining and planning both on-wheels collections as well as groupage cargo from our terminals out to the continent • Using a bespoke in-house freight planning system • Utilising online route planning software • Liaising with hauliers internally and externally • Monitoring vehicles during the entire transit • Ensuring vehicles are always utilised • Ensuring the revenue and costs are correct on each file john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

IMMINGHAM, UK £ COMPETITIVE

A Transport Clerk (Nights) position has arisen within DSV Road, Immingham location, working night shifts 1800-0700 hrs on a 4-on-4-off basis

The role • Operating the brief/debrief desk • Dealing with any driver or delivery issues • Administration duties supporting transport • Ensure correct paperwork and PODs are issued and returned with the warehouse and other departments

• Liaise with drivers throughout the shift and obtain updates and progress of delivery time scales, relaying feedback to the relevant departments john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

AIR IMPORT OPERATOR MANCHESTER, UK £ COMPETITIVE

The role • To fully meet customers’ expectations for safe and efficient transport from various worldwide destinations into the UK • Take direct ownership of customer relationships • Delivering an excellent standard of customer service • Use of company in-house systems • Organize operational workflow • Communicate effectively with the customer • Ensure legislative compliance in all areas • Maintain Customer profiles/SOP’s • Resolve customer issues and escalate where necessary • Liaise with sub-contractors to arrange carriage of goods from various worldwide destinations • Raise payable invoices to customers and overseas agents in accordance with agreed rates and tariffs, whilst monitoring financial Profit & Loss levels on own shipments • Complete all administration functions in accordance with company policy and procedures john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

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OCEAN IMPORT OPERATOR WYTHENSHAWE, UK £ COMPETITIVE

The role • Manage all aspects of ocean freight import/export • Obtain and communicate, internally and externally, all necessary information to ensure correct measures are in place and customer needs are met • Liaise between suppliers, forwarders and agents • Ensure customers are fully informed of the progress of their shipments • Provide transport companies with the relevant information to ensure customer delivery requirements are met • Ensure correct documentation is on file and act accordingly as set out in the instructions • Maintain all files ensuring they are costed and billed correctly in accordance with procedures provided • Cover the export operations when required • Any other duties as required by management for the smooth and efficient operation of the department. john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

VACANCIES Featuring...

Powered by

IMPORT MANAGER

TRANSPORT PLANNER

The role • Assess targerts and results to ensure financial care, cost

The role • Communicate effectively in a professional manner with all

IMMINGHAM, UK £ COMPETITIVE

awareness and budgetary targets are achieved

• Ensure appropriate resources are employed • Ensure legislative compliance in all areas • Ensure that the company operates within all agreed operational procedures, and within statutory requirements

• Implement company policy and procedures by ensuring staff have the necessary qualifications

• Promote and maintain relationship with internal and external Partners, suppliers and clients

• Review and appraise results to ensure accuracy of work • Select, train, motivate, appraise personnel • Identify, fulfil and review training and development needs • Effectively manage resources john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

ACCOUNT MANAGER, XPRESS PARCELS TAMWORTH, UK £ COMPETITIVE

The role • Exhaust all opportunities within your client base • Provide customer online portal training • New customer onboarding • Handling complaints and challenging process • Updating CRM Dynamics • Profile all existing and lost accounts, identify opportunities for development

• Identify new sales opportunities with prospect customers • Customer DSV XPress courier/parcel tariff proposals • Ensure a structured hand over, from Sales to CAM • Review monthly customer activity

TAMWORTH, UK £ COMPETITIVE

internal departments to ensure their day to day distribution requirements are fulfilled in line with the customer instructions. This includes other local DSV sites.

• Ensure legislative compliance where applicable, and that driver’s hours and WTD rules are adhered to at all times.

Ensure all DSV vehicles are maintained in accordance with planned service schedules • Ensure that the Company and its representatives, operate within all agreed operational procedures, and within statutory requirements, including the provision and maintenance of a safe working environment • Arrange with approved hauliers for transport of cargo, confirm availability of equipment and ensure all customer requirements are specified and met. Confirm these arrangements by email and Control Board • Prepare correct documentation to the Warehouse department for loading/off-loading cargo, in a timely manner. Ensure all consignments are input to TPN system and the necessary labels are produced • Perform and correctly implement all general admin. duties associated with a Transport Office; to include debrief of drivers, downloading of tachographs and analysis of drivers hours and WTD, filing, customer service queries, PODs, cost estimating, completion of departmental KPIS, in accordance with the department’s requirements • In conjunction with others, plan collection and deliveries to meet all customer needs and requirements using the most efficient and cost-effective plan of available resource • Communicate with drivers/hauliers/internal and external customers to ensure issues are resolved promptly • Maintain awareness of and follow transport regulations, where relevant, to ensure departmental compliance to all statutory requirements john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

john@forwardingjobs.com • +44 (0)1394 337 263

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139

RECRUITMENT & TRAINING VACANCIES

HEAD OF CUSTOMS

TERRITORY SALES MANAGER

Your role • Leading the Customs Compliance Team • Project managing the Brexit strategy • Building and maintaining strong relationships • Undertaking continuous analysis of the regulatory

Your role

LONDON, UK £80,000–£100,000

environment, in particular, trade tariffs/duties and trade restrictions/requirements • Managing the liaison between regulatory bodies, trade partners and relevant internal departments • Identifying risks and opportunities • Supporting relevant stakeholders in scenario planning • Building and maintaining relationships with customs brokers • Understanding the objectives and the impact of projects • Developing, implementing, and optimising processes, systems, policies and standards • Support the Director in all customs related matters and providing regular status reports up to Board level

BIRMINGHAM, UK £50,000+

The Sales Manager will be required to work closely with branch management and local branch/ops to deliver...

• A transparent and accurate pipeline which is of sufficient size to ensure targets are met, focused on high-value targets

• Reporting on all activity and performance stakeholders • Ensure good working relationships are established at all levels with stakeholders and departments, to include sales, air/ocean product management, branch operations, customer experience, finance, procurement, logistics and senior management. Use of ‘Deal Clinics’ for larger opportunities is also vital.

• Work closely with Trade Lane, Inside Sales, and Business Development to strengthen the overall Sales team effort.

• Regularly source information for sales management on opportunities, must wins, activity and other reports. michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779 UK UK

OCEAN IMPORT CLERK MANCHESTER, UK £22,000–£26,000

Your role • Obtaining freight rates and providing quotations • Arranging ocean freight • Preparation of collection notes, booking confirmations, etc • Liaising with customers, partners, shipping lines, carriers • Client reporting and KPI’s • Customs formalities including processing export and import declarations, arranging customs clearance and duty deferment processing michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

BDM, AIR & OCEAN BIRMINGHAM, UK £30,000–£45,000

Your role • Target, Identify, approach and close new business both air freight and ocean freight solutions

• Arrange face to face meetings with new and existing clients • Update the company CRM with sales activity.

• Liaise with the operational and internal sales teams Requirements: • Experienced at selling air freight and ocean freight solutions to clients

• Past sales accomplishment within the freight forwarding industry Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years freight forwarding sales experience • This role can be a purely remote role, and work around your requirements

UK

michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

UK

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VACANCIES Featuring...

CUSTOMS MANAGER, FREIGHT FORWARDING LONDON, UK £50,000–£70,000 (neg.)

Overview

Our client, based in Europe and Ireland, has 50 years of history in Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain solutions.

They are a global company with an eye to the future and they are looking to hire a leader for their Customs department that can grow with the company.

You will be commercially minded and able to switch between being the source of internal customs operational knowledge and being customer-facing.

The role

Reporting in to the MD, you will be part of the leadership team, looking after a team of customs professionals that you can hire and develop.

• Building and leading a team of customs professionals • Commercially able to drive business to the department • Control P&L and daily management duties • Inspire and motivate your team • Daily point of escalation concerning all UK Customs matters including Brexit-related questions

• Timely and accurate clearances to the Customs in the UK. • Advise and execute proper limited fiscal representation services in the UK • Monitor all Customs clearances.

Powered by

OCEAN IMPORT CLERK

FRANCE, GERMANY, IRELAND, POLAND, SPAIN £ COMPETITIVE

Overview

Headford Group is pleased to be closely working with one of our top clients to find the perfect candidates for the great roles they are offering.

The client is keen to take on any/all suitable candidates and is happy to pay a salary that reflects previous experience.

The role • Obtaining freight rates and providing quotations • Arranging Ocean freight • Preparation of collection notes, booking confirmations, etc • Liaising with customers, partners, shipping lines and carriers

• Client reporting and KPI’s • Customs formalities including processing export and import declarations, arranging customs clearance, and duty deferment processing

Skills and Experience: • A minimum of 2 years of experience within a similar role • A solid knowledge of the import and export market • Extensive working knowledge and experience of customs procedures and documentation

• Confident and effective communications skills

• Good skills with digital Customs systems • Strong Leader

(verbal and electronic), with the ability to build relationships with customers • The ability to work independently as well as within a team • Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, etc.)

• Keen attention to detail • Strong administrative and organisational skills

matt@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 787

michaela@headfordgroup.com • +44 (0)1454 628 779

Experience • Degree preferred • > 5 years’ experience within Customs activities as a Manager

UK

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141

staff forwardingjobs is a global recruitment solution for the freight & logistics industry. » Specialist recruitment service for the freight industry » Dedicated talent consultant for your roles » Brand awareness on forwardingjobs.com

» +44 (0)1454 275 937 » info@forwardingjobs.com » 8 Apex Court, Woodlands, Bristol BS32 4JT

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forwardingjobs.com

» Specialist job board for freight & logistics » A dedicated consultant to guide you in your career » Alerts to your inbox whenever a suitable role is available

Looking for your next role in freight? browse on forwardingjobs & upload your CV.

work FORWARDER magazine

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Fill your vacancies

Sales

Let us assist with your company's growth...

Back office

Europe +44 (0)1454 628 779 michaela@headfordgroup.com

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Operations Finance 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 (646) 933 1264 jeremy@headfordgroup.com

Middle East +971 (0) 45 015 675 simon@headford.ae

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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS The consolidation of companies or assets through various types of financial transactions.

Related topics Contracted partnerships Management buyouts Valuation

Sponsored by F R E I G H T

146 146 FORWARDER magazine

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ALPHA ORI TECHNOLOGIES SECURES $6M FUNDING 19 APRIL 2021

FROM HAFNIA & BW LPG

M

aritime digital solutions provider Alpha Ori Technologies

Hafnia is pleased to now be an investor in Alpha Ori. Our work

has closed a $6m investment round. The round was jointly

together thus far has empowered Hafnia to make decisions based on

led by leading ship owners Hafnia and BW LPG.

real-time and accurate data analytics. Alpha Ori helps us rest assured that we are actually making progress towards improving performance

Mikael Skov, CEO of Hafnia, has now joined the Alpha Ori Technologies

and reducing impact on the environment. SMARTShip also ensures

board of directors.

that any company is ready for all future environmental reporting requirements. I look forward to further strengthening our partnership

With a diverse range that includes SMARTShip, SMARTVoyager,

and performance through this new investment and my participation on

ShipPalm and VIO, AOT is transforming the multi-trillion dollar

the Alpha Ori Board of Directors.

maritime industry by replacing disjointed analogue systems with smart

Mikael Skov, CEO, Hafnia

digital enterprises.

Challenging the status quo and creating opportunities that have This latest financing further builds on an exceptional year for AOT, in

the power to transform the maritime industry by embracing new

which, with a rapidly growing client list, it surpassed the target of 100

technologies have been the defining objectives of Alpha Ori. We are

SMARTShip deployments by the end of 2020. The SMARTShip digital

thrilled with the support of our investors who bring in their capital,

solution is being increasingly adopted by leading maritime operators

knowledge and network to further our vision.

worldwide, and this new investment will further accelerate its product

Rajesh Unni, Founder & Co-CEO, AOT

roadmap leveraging futuristic technologies.

BW LPG is pleased to be among the earliest adopters of SMARTShip technology in our journey to digitalise our fleet. Over the years with

ABOUT ALPHA ORI TECHNOLOGIES

Alpha Ori as our partner we benefit from improved fleet management as

AOT’s mission is to transform ships and all related parts of

we build real-time, transparent and reliable ship-to-shore connections.

the logistics value chain to operate as a DIGITAL enterprise.

We look forward to continued growth with Alpha Ori as we progress

SMARTShipTM, its digital platform with AI-enabled applications,

our digital transformation journey.

is a highly successful product in the shipping industry and is

Anders Onarheim, CEO, BW LPG

known for enabling fuel savings, predictive maintenance, hull efficiency etc.

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MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS NEWS

ADVERTORIAL

WHY ARE GRANTS BEING GIVEN APRIL 2021

TO THE LOGISTICS SECTOR’S LEADING BUSINESSES?

O

ver the past few months, tax specialist Catax has given

Fuel is going to continue to be the biggest issue for the logistics

Forwarder’s readers a crash course in tax relief and how

industry. When the diesel vehicles that constitute most fleets are not

to get the most out of money that has already been spent.

allowed into any city centres, haulage firms are going to have to find another way of transporting goods the last mile to their final destination.

But lots of businesses get a big cash injection without spending a penny.

This is where a lot of the pressure for greater use of electric vehicles is coming from. What will emerge over the next few years are more

The third and final pillar in this business support series – following on

aerodynamic trucks that rely on much greener battery technology. You

from Research & Development (R&D) tax credits and Capital Allowances

don’t see many electric delivery vehicles on the roads at the moment

— is GRANTS.

but these advances in technology are needed now. There’s some urgency to this. It’s no longer about future-proofing the sector, and that’s

There are hundreds of schemes run every year that deliver millions of

why there are already plenty of grants available to companies making

pounds into the hands of industries specifically chosen because they

improvements in this area.

have a significant contribution to make to the environment and economy

Chris Parkhurst, Regional Development Director (Grants), Catax

through innovation and technological advances.

Other leaps that will complement greener vehicle technology will be The logistics sector is one of those. Catax believes that official bodies

measures that make other aspects of the delivery process more efficient.

are targeting the sector with grants for one reason and one reason only

These will include automated warehouses, navigation improvements,

— FUEL.

cleaner waterborne transport and Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility (CCAM).

Fuel is expensive, polluting, and haulage companies have been facing increasing costs because of the way the dirtiest vehicles are being

On the right is just one example of the kind of UK grant scheme

targeted by congestion charges and low emission zone penalties all

available to the logistics sector right now. Deadlines vary but the

over the world.

most successful claims are those that include a proper cost-benefit analysis that sets out the impact the funding will have on your

The way goods are delivered must change, and policy makers are using grants to encourage more rapid progress.

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business and the wider sector.

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at catax.com

Grant applications are often complex. It’s important that applicants are able to explain clearly how the money invested will be used, and what difference it will make to the organisation concerned and how the advances it is aiming

Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF)

for will benefit the wider industry.

Driving the electric revolution, supply chains for net zero.

Competition closes: Wednesday 30th June 2021 at 11:00am.

You face intense competition when you make these grant applications. The selection process itself is even called

This is aimed at companies in the Power, Electronics, Machines and

a ‘competition’ in most cases and you will be up against

Drives (PEMD) space and could include manufacturers of electric vehicle

plenty of other determined leaders in the industry. If you

drives, designers and those involved in recovering valuable materials

can’t explain why you, above nearly all others, deserve

from electric vehicles that have reached the end of their life.

the investment then you won’t succeed. We come across plenty of businesses who missed out in the past because

ISCF is working with Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation,

they weren’t able to put their best foot forward and fully

on this competition to release up to £22million to innovation projects.

explain the value they would add. It’s a crying shame when

The aim of the grants is to support the Government’s efforts to nurture

that happens because grants can have a terrific impact on

a green industrial revolution in transport, energy and industry. This will

the future trajectory of a business.

strengthen the supply chains for the electric vehicle industry in the UK and help the Government achieve its drive for net zero. Any bids for

If you want to find out more about which grants you’re eligible

funding must satisfy the objectives set out in the ‘Driving the Electric

for and how to go about applying, contact Richard Armstrong at

Revolution’ challenge and your project’s total eligible costs must be

Richard.Armstrong@catax.com

between £500,000 and £5million.

ABOUT CATAX Catax is the UK’s leading expert in specialist tax relief. Since launch, it has recovered more than £380m of tax relief for its clients in the areas of Research & Development, Capital Allowances, the Patent Box and the Remediation of Contaminated Land.

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Let Catax uncover the hidden value in your business today.

@Catax_Group Catax Group

www.catax.com

Uncover Your Hidden Value If you are investing in innovation, we can help uncover valuable grants in your sector.

Are you planning any innovative projects that would provide a significant contribution to the environment or economy? If so, you could be eligible for grant funding!

Our dedicated technical experts provide a support service to identify, apply and manage the most appropriate grant scheme – helping to fund and bring to market your innovative products/services.

Any freight business investing time and resources into research & development in the UK has the ability to access a share of millions of pounds in funding, for plans such as the development of new materials or the advancement of technology.

We can assist in the following areas: • Grant sourcing • Bid writing • Grant claims • Project management

Catax is the UK’s leading innovation consultants. Over the past 12 years, we have recovered more than £380m for our clients in specialist areas of tax relief and grants services.

At Catax, we under that navigating the grant funding landscape can be complicated.

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Our specialists also help businesses claim back £10,000s in governmentbacked incentives, including Research & Development and Capital Allowances.

On average, our clients receive a cash benefit of £64,000!

“No matter how well you understand your business and future innovation goals, applying for grants is an art form which requires specialist skills to work through the application process and to present your case in a way that satisfies the assessors. Before working with the Catax team, I had tried and failed with a number of grant applications, however since engaging with their team has seen my success rate reach around 50% proving the value of having expert assistance in this process.”

Paul Willacy, Compact Syngas Solutions, Founder & MD

No risk-service. If no claim is identified, there is no charge.

The process is made simple. All we need is a couple of hours of your time, then our specialists will take care of the rest.

The experts in tax relief.

The team has helped over 14,000 clients receive more than £380m back in cash benefits.

An average of £64k back into your business

Contact us on: 0797 970 0003 email: richard.armstrong@catax.com FORWARDERor magazine ISSUE63 151 visit: www.catax.com

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS NEWS

IMPERIAL ANNOUNCES THE SALE OF ITS SOUTH AMERICAN BUSINESS 19 APRIL 2021

TO HIDROVIAS DO BRASIL S.A.

T

he board of Imperial is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement for the sale of its South American shipping business to Hidrovias do Brasil S.A., an independent

integrated logistics provider focused on waterways logistics services in Latin America. The closing date of the transaction was 16 April 2021.

The agreed maximum enterprise value for the interest in the South American Operations is USD90.0 million (approximately ZAR1,305 million) which equates to a multiple of 9.6X FY2020 reported EBITDA. The enterprise value includes an earn-out component of up to USD5.0 million (approximately ZAR73 million), which is payable dependent on water levels over the 4-year period commencing on 1 January 2021.

Hidrovias do Brasil S.A. is well positioned to operate the business sustainably based on long-standing customer relationships and a highly skilled, experienced and motivated work force. We believe that this

As previously communicated to the market, it is Imperial’s strategic

is the most suitable home for the South American shipping business

intent to become a ‘One Imperial’ business and serve as the ‘Gateway

and its people.

to Africa’ to our clients, principals, and customers. We are transforming

Mohammed Akoojee, Group Chief Executive Officer, Imperial

from a portfolio of regional businesses to an integrated end-to-end logistics and market access business that is focused on Africa, leveraging

This acquisition gives us a very important operational flexibility which

our scale, competitive advantages and capabilities in the healthcare,

will allow us to complement our navigation capacity and operate in

consumer, chemicals, automotive, and industrial and commodities

regions where we currently do not access.

industries. As such, we thoroughly assessed the strategic fit of our

Fabio Schettino, CEO, Hidrovias do Brasil S.A.

Logistics International business and decided to exit this business in a phased approach as it is non-core. The South American shipping

The transaction’s proceeds will be used to optimise the financial position

business forms part of this process and follows the disposal of the

of Imperial, reducing its overall existing debt in the short-term and will

European shipping business, which was concluded on 31 July 2020. The

be invested in new growth areas in line with the Group’s strategy in

remaining freight management and contract logistics operations within

due course.

the International Logistics business remain for sale and we are in the process of disposing of these, as announced at the group’s F2021 interim

The regulator y SENS announcement that includes more

results on 23 February 2021.

information about the transaction is available on Imperial’s website: imperiallogistics.com/sens.php

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at fortec-distribution.com

G

John McKail, Managing Director at Bullet Express explains how the decision to become a shareholder member of Fortec was made by the executive board at the Glasgow firm and describes the benefits it will bring...

The last year has been about solidifying our position and setting our

lasgow’s Bullet Express has invested in the Fortec Distribution

sights on growing the business, with significant investment being made to

Network to become its latest shareholder member.

ensure that happens in the months and years to come. Joining Fortec as

The logistics firm has taken advantage of the shareholder

shareholder members means we now have an increased service offering

member opportunities available with Fortec, as it looks to continue

for our customers, providing added value and increasing our competitive

its growth just months after opening a new storage facility which

advantage. As a shareholder member, we are committed to helping the

increased its overall capacity by 25%, meaning Bullet Express can now

network succeed and we have a real belief that Fortec will continue to

have capacity to handle 26,000 pallets in all.

go from strength to strength as more quality members take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.

Bullet Express’s arrival in Fortec represents the business’ standing as one of Scotland’s premier logistics operators having built its reputation

The shareholder offering has seen a strong uptake since its launch in late

connecting supply chains throughout the last 30 years, and also provides

2020 and members are benefitting from being a part of Pall-Ex Group.

increased strength to the Fortec network.

Barry Byers, Managing Director – UK Business Units for Pall-Ex Fortec, began offering shareholder memberships to its members when

Group has said that he is excited to see Bullet Express joining the

it was acquired by Pall-Ex Group in August 2020.

Fortec network...

Bullet Express consistently deliver high service

performance and their arrival to Fortec adds to the quality of members The model, which has seen a strong uptake since then, provides greater

we have within the network. Fortec has always been a close-knit

stability and opportunities to independent SMEs across the UK, who

network with a strong team ethic and the shareholder membership

share a common interest in making the palletised freight distribution

opportunities are just another element which strengthens the network

network succeed as it continues to grow.

further. We are really proud to have Bullet Express join Fortec and we are excited to see our network grow with the quality of great members

Bullet Express have prior experience of the shareholder model, having

like Bullet Express.

become shareholder members of the Pall-Ex network when the opportunity arose in late 2019.

For more information about Bullet Express, please visit bulletexpress.co.uk. Shareholder opportunities are still

Now shareholders in both networks, the business is well positioned to

available within Fortec, and more information can be found

become the go-to business for palletised freight distribution services

at fortec-distribution.com/become-a-member

in Scotland.

19 APRIL 2021

FORTEC STRENGTHENS IN SCOTLAND BY

ADDITION OF BULLET EXPRESS FORWARDER magazine

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M&A for the global freight & logistics industry enquiries@freightmergers.com +44 (0)1454 628 771 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 client’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.

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F R E I G H T

Are you planning to buy or sell a freight forwarding company?

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MEDIA & MARKETING

The promotion and dissemination of knowledge and information about products and organisations both externally and internally.

Related topics Website design Social media Promotional techniques

Sponsored by

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ARAMEX UPGRADES ITS WEBSITE 6 APRIL 2021

WITH FEMALE ARABIC LANGUAGE

A

ramex (DFM: ARMX), a leading global provider of

In Arabic grammar rules, when speakers don’t know

comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions, today

whom they are addressing, they mostly use a male

announced the official launch of its female Arabic language

gendered form of the word, the main reason why Arabic

option for its corporate website, its latest language addition. The female

websites choose to use male directed Arabic language.

Arabic language feature will directly address female visitors, in a step

For the first time ever, Aramex is giving women the

that hasn’t been implemented before for Arabic corporate websites.

option to experience website content that’s made only for them in Arabic.

The launch of the additional language feature comes after Aramex pledged to add female focused language for Arabic on its website on

The Arabic female language feature was made available

International Women’s Day, 2021, through its social media channels

starting 31 March 2021 across the Aramex website.

with the hashtags #ChoosetoChallenge and #AddressHerCorrectly.

Aramex’s values are centred on diversity and equality, and this new

ABOUT ARAMEX:

language feature is a perfect example of that. The new language option

Since its foundation in 1982, Aramex (DFM: ARMX) has grown

offers a new way for female customers to experience all of Aramex’s

to become a global leader in the logistics and transportation

services across its website. We are very proud to lead the way towards

industry, recognized for its customized and innovative services

having a more dedicated and customised communication feature for our

for businesses and consumers. Listed on the Dubai Financial

female website visitors.

Market (DFM) and headquartered in the UAE, our location

Mike Rich, Global Marketing Director, Aramex

bridges the path between East and West, enabling our reach to more customers with the provision of effective logistics

Benefits of the Female Arabic feature include...

solutions worldwide. We currently have business operations

• Aramex will connect to its female customers on a whole new level.

in 600+ cities across more than 60 countries worldwide and

• Women will feel more included when using Aramex services.

employs over 17,000 professionals. We offer innovative services

• Aramex will permanently offer this feature on its website.

and solutions including International and Domestic Express Delivery, Freight-forwarding, Integrated Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and e-Commerce Solutions. We are strategically leveraging technology for better and more efficient last-mile delivery solutions. This approach has significant benefits, and that’s why we consider ourselves a technologydriven enterprise, selling transportation and logistics solutions without owning heavy assets.

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Freight Solutions is an outsourced marketing solution for the freight industry.

Traditional marketing

Digital marketing

App design

Print is not dead. Nor is the postal

The average adult spends most of their

The ultimate in customer engagement.

system. Both work perfectly well, so

day looking at a screen. Checking their

Mobile usage now outweighs desktop,

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GIVING BACK

We know you're a generous, caring bunch in the freight world.

Let us help you get your message out there...

Related topics Charity Fundraising Awareness

Sponsored by

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12 APRIL 2021

DRIVETECH IS HONOURED TO BE PART OF THE AMDARIS CO-FOREST INITIATIVE TO

HELP COMBAT GLOBAL WARMING

A

s an integral IT partner to the creation of a significant

I am pleased to say we have taken our first steps towards carbon

new system within DriveTech, the company has been

neutrality with our Amdaris forest planting initiative. This was made possible

commissioning the services of Amdaris to provide support in

thanks to our wonderful clients, with a proportion of our profits used to

software development, application support and consultancy. DriveTech

fund the project. Our staff have given their full support with generous

is the leading provider of driver training and driver risk management.

donations and even getting their hands in the earth to help plant the first 1,000 trees. This is just the beginning of our Amdaris forest, and I’m very

A key new initiative of the Amdaris carbon neutrality commitment (neutral

proud of, and thankful to, everyone who has helped us make it happen.

in the next 5 years) includes the planting of hundreds of trees in Moldova,

Vlad Nanu, Co-CEO, Amdaris

one of the locations where Amdaris operates. In March over a hundred trees have been planted on the banks of the River Ichel with more planting plans soon, with much of the work supported by Amdaris staff.

We are really proud to be associated with such a bold carbon neutral initiative and are grateful to the team at Amdaris for giving us such a prestigious name recognition. We will be keen to watch this forest grow

Amdaris has been naming sections of their ‘co-forest’ development with

and flourish over the coming years.

key client names, and DriveTech is honoured to have a section named

Ian Dudley, IT Director, DriveTech

after it. The initiative was made possible thanks to Amdaris’ client partnerships, with a proportion of profits used to fund the project.

For more information, please visit www.drivetech.co.uk

FORWARDER magazine

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GIVING BACK NEWS

PALL-EX GROUP RAISES OVER £10K 7 APRIL 2021

FOR ‘COMBAT STRESS’

P

all-Ex Group has raised over £10,000 for Combat Stress, the veterans’ mental health charity, during its March in March challenge. The team, made up of Pall-Ex Group staff

and members, completed the annual challenge which tasks participants to march, run or walk a minimum of 10 miles during March.

I am really pleased that the Pall-Ex Group team has been able to support Combat Stress again this year in its March in March challenge.

Combat Stress is Pall-Ex’s charity partner and the money raised by

As we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we want to be able to do

the Group will support the charity in its life-saving work, supporting

something special for our chosen charitable partners, so we felt matching

veterans with complex mental health problems including anxiety,

the incredible total raised by the team was a great way to do this.

depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The initial fundraising target set by Combat Stress for its March in Overall, the 19 team members raised over £5,000 during the month

March challenge was £40,000, which would have enabled the charity to

and the Group then matched this figure, taking the total to beyond

deliver one to one psychiatric sessions to 200 veterans to help them on

£10,000. The £5,000 contribution was made from the Pall-Ex Group

their way to recovery. However, with over 800 fundraisers from around

Penny-a-Pallet fund, which is generated from a penny being donated for

the UK taking part in the challenge, this target was quickly surpassed.

every pallet moved throughout the year.

As of Wednesday 31 March, the challenge has raised a fantastic £122,995 which will allow specialist help to be provided to over 600 veterans.

The exceptional growth Pall-Ex Group has seen over the last 12 months, during the lockdown periods, has allowed the business to make even

Maggie Bennion, Senior Corporate Fundraising Officer at Combat Stress

larger contributions to its chosen charity partners.

describes how important the contribution from companies like Pall-Ex Group is to the work they carry out...

Everyone at Combat Stress is

In addition to this, one member of the team, Nigel Mackenzie from Pall-

extremely grateful for the hard work the team from Pall-Ex Group has

Ex shareholder member Nissin (UK) Ltd, raised an incredible £2,015

put in during March and for the contribution that Pall-Ex Group has made

himself, claiming third place in the fundraising leaderboard.

on top of this. The last year has been challenging for so many charities due to the pandemic, so to see such fantastic engagement with March in

This is the second time Pall-Ex Group has taken part in March in

March and to raise over £120,000 is incredible. It will help us to continue

March, having raised a few hundred pounds for Combat Stress in 2020.

delivering life-changing treatment and support to veterans across the

This year, both of the Group’s pallet networks, Pall-Ex and Fortec,

UK. Thank you to Pall-Ex Group and everyone who took part in March

celebrate their 25th anniversaries, with supporting charities at the heart

in March – without your support, we simply couldn’t do what we do!

of this year’s objectives.

Although March in March has ended for this year, there are still plenty Pall-Ex Group’s CEO, Kevin Buchanan reflects on the team’s achievement

of opportunities to support Combat Stress. View a full list of fundraising

and why the Group is proud to support Combat Stress...

challenges by visiting combatstress.org.uk/support-us/get-involved

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Further information can be found at yodel.co.uk

N

to them, so it’s well worth listening to what they value. Earth Day falls at time when the world is returning to something resembling normality, and retailers should be looking at how they can move forward and offer their customers the solutions that they’re looking for. We’ll continue

ew research from UK independent parcel carrier Yodel has

to be proactive when it comes to reducing our carbon footprint and

found that retailers should be working with carbon conscious

contributing to Britain’s 2050 net zero emissions target.

delivery partners if they want to increase their brand loyalty

Mike Hancox, CEO, Yodel

among young shoppers.

Yodel has reduced its carbon emissions by 25% despite record growth

More than half (53%) of 18-34s said they’d be more inclined to purchase

over the last five years. The significant reduction can be primarily

if the delivery company focused on reducing its emissions. Younger

attributed to the £17m investment in its fleet and technology.

shoppers are also the most likely (28%) to take the CO2 emissions of their online shopping into account when making a purchase, suggesting

Yodel has also expanded its urban bicycle delivery offering, now

that consumers are becoming more conscious of their own habits and

operating in seven cities across the UK including London and Oxford,

their impact on the environment.

which supports UK Clean Air Zones. In 2020 the business reached its goal to deliver 150k parcels via pedal power and has set a new goal of

For older shoppers however, this doesn’t resonate quite as much, with

delivering over 300k parcels in 2021.

just a third (32%) of over 55s saying the environmental credentials of the delivery company would influence which retailers they shopped with.

Zedify has been supporting Yodel with its last-mile services in Brighton and Hove for several years. We currently deliver around 7,000

The shift in attitudes towards the carbon impact of deliveries is changing

parcels a month across the city using our local fleet of zero-emission

too, with more than two-fifths (42%) of online shoppers saying they

electric cargo bikes, operating from our local microhub. Our delivery

would be prepared to wait longer for a parcel if it meant that it had a

model reduces emissions by over 98% compared with conventional

reduced carbon footprint, which suggests that speed is no longer the

diesel vans, and our local team of couriers are highly trained and paid

be-all and end-all of deliveries.

the real Living Wage which helps ensure the highest levels of customer service. In the past year alone, we estimate that our services have saved

It should come as no surprise to retailers that the environmental

Yodel around 9 tonnes of CO2 by switching to Zedify's services in

impact of deliveries is a big priority for their customers. We recognise

Brighton and Hove.

that there is no quick solution to lowering emissions and it’s often the

Sam Keam, CCO & co-founder, bicycle courier company Zedify

result of a wide range of measures that require significant investment.

Brand loyalty is as important as ever for retailers with ecommerce

To learn more about Yodel’s green practices please visit:

dominating the market and consumers having so many options available

yodel.co.uk/about/corporate-social-responsibility

DELIVERY EMISSIONS DRIVING BRAND LOYALTY 22 APRIL 2021

FOR YOUNGER SHOPPERS FORWARDER magazine

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GIVING BACK NEWS 27 APRIL 2021

XPO LOGISTICS HELPS TO DELIVER A

CAMP FOR SERIOUSLY ILL CHILDREN

X

PO Logistics, a leading global provider of transport and

I thank the Over The Wall and XPO teams for their

logistics solutions, has announced that it will be funding the

tremendous effort in adapting to the situation and working

delivery of equipment, materials, and resources across the

together to ensure kids get the support they need. We're proud

UK this year in a partnership with a national charity that provides camps

to be part of this inspiring partnership for a great cause.

for children with serious illnesses.

Dan Myers, MD, Transport – UK & Ireland, XPO Logistics

Having first partnered with the children's charity, Over The Wall, in

Logistics and transportation are critical for the camps we

2020, XPO had previously agreed to transport the residential camp

offer, so we are incredibly grateful for the support of XPO

equipment to venues across the UK at no cost. However, these camps

Logistics. This partnership means children will continue to

were unfortunately cancelled following the outbreak of Covid-19.

experience the joy of Camp, both in their homes and also in venues, when our residential camps reopen.

After the cancellations, Over The Wall developed a unique virtual,

Kevin Mathieson, Chief Executive, Over The Wall

interactive online platform called ' Camp in the Cloud' that brought the joy and magic of the residential camps into each family's home. XPO has

For companies interested in providing other support to Over

now agreed to fund the delivery of 1,000 of the 'Camp in the Cloud

The Wall and changing lives of seriously ill children, please

Seriously Fun' boxes containing games, t-shirts, puzzles, activity materials

contact Kevin Mathieson at kevin.mathieson@otw.org.uk

and other resources that children need to participate in from their homes.

Also, XPO will be the official logistics and transport partner when Over

ABOUT OVER THE WALL

The Wall's venue-based residential camps resume in 2022.

Over The Wall is a national charity providing free therapeutic activity camps for children aged 8-17 affected

Since 1999, Over The Wall has provided free, life-changing experiences for

by serious illness and their families. Our camps boost the

children affected by severe health conditions, helping thousands of children in

children's confidence & resilience, giving them access to

the UK. Through therapeutic recreation. Over The Wall's camps enable these

a range of activities whilst building up a support network

children to reach beyond their true potential, allowing them to recapture the

of friends facing similar struggles. Prior to the pandemic,

parts of their childhood that illness would have otherwise taken.

Over The Wall aimed to support over 1,200 children and families each year across our UK wide network of camps.

The residential camps ordinarily occur in several venues across the UK and require logistical support to move equipment, including arts and crafts materials, toys, games, medical supplies, medical equipment, musical instruments, and much more.

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Further information can be found at otw.org.uk

W

e are a Registered Charitable Trust, based in Vagona,

dumped at the shelter – they all need feeding, (often throughout the night,

Cola Canacona South Goa. Our shelter houses dogs

they are so young) and in a lot of cases medical help. We are still trying to

& cats and some wildlife, that we have rescued from

carry out a neutering programme to prevent more unwanted pups/kits.

either being abandoned, sick or injured and not able to live safely in

We are still carrying out essential operations and administering necessary

their natural surroundings.

medications. Our local Vet assistants still need to be paid.

We decided to help the local stray dogs and cats from the Agonda and

We ONLY survive on donations from tourists both Domestic and

Cola areas, to begin with as we only had a very small shelter based

International – without these donations we will not be able to keep

just outside Agonda. The new ASA was developed 2 years ago and

our beloved ASA going. We receive NO Government help whatsoever.

is now a purpose-built animal shelter located in Vagona, Cola on a beautiful cashew plantation, where the dogs have much more freedom

Our stocks are getting low (not everything we need is available through

in their natural habitat away from residential areas, and the traffic on

Amazon), we hoped that international tourism would have started

the busy roads.

by now, but that seems further and further away, and we miss the support from the many volunteers who have helped us over the years.

We are open daily from 10am-1pm & 4-6pm, except Saturday which we

Please, please HELP US!

reserve for operations and we have a Vet on site.

Here's a link to our Go Fund Me - this gives us the much-needed money We are so grateful to everyone who has donated to our GFM and/

to buy food, products, and medicines; maintain and keep our shelter going.

or sent food via Amazon so far, we could not have survived the last Monsoon (2020) and this season without you.

Go Fund Me: gofundme.com/f/agonda-animal-shelter-goa Amazon: amazon.in/hz/wishlist/ls/1YR3I22S8R37

Unfortunately, we are yet again facing Monsoon, and it looks like being a tough time for us - only some of the beach shacks/resorts opened this

For further information on how to make a regular monthly payment to us,

season, so we have been carrying out a feeding programmes for the street

sponsor one of our shelter cats or dogs, or for anything else, please feel

and beach dogs continuously. Puppies and Kittens are still regularly being

free to message our page or email animalshelteragonda@gmail.com FORWARDER magazine

ISSUE63

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THE LAST WORD...

THE TEAM...

CRAIG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ALAN EDITOR LUKE SALES MANAGER DOM ADVERTISING TIM DESIGNER MOHIT SOCIAL MEDIA

MOVE IT LIKE... STEPHEN THOMPSON, MD, ACTION ROADWAYS POST-BREXIT EFFICIENCIES THE BREXIT SITUATION

A FINAL WORD FROM

FORWARDER

T

hank you for your time, we hope you learned something interesting about the wonderful industry in which we work.

You can help to educate and enthral your fellow logisticians

by continuing to contribute to the cause and sending us your editorial.

This is one of our quarterly printed issues, so please let us know if you would like a copy and to be added to the distribution list.

Please keep the great content flowing our way, and we’ll present it to the freight and logistics world, with love from FORWARDER. Tim, Designer, FORWARDER

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