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Month: September 2021

Optimising logistics operations

Posted on by Keith McKinley

BG Log UK is a specialist in supporting Lean Manufacturing projects, with a particular specialism in the organisational aspects of factories.

Managing the logistics processes taking place within a company is very complex. BG Log UK was formed in 2020 to provide a credible and cost-effective option for Automotive, Aerospace and Warehouse Fulfilment businesses who required a reliable supplier to provide a sustainable product in a timely manner.

Supply chain management requires a clear vision to take into account several intertwined factors. With a highly experienced team in terms of Lean Management and CI implementation techniques, and the capability to work hand in hand with a customer’s Lean engineers and facilitators, BG Log says it can design a solution and build it in the UK, using a robust 28mm range of steel materials that provides structural support and satisfies QHSE (quality, health, safety, environmental) requirements.

BG Log says its concept is based on the design, implementation and construction of complete and fully operational solutions. It selects and provides the best materials for a project, and offers all the advice needed to best produce the solution, as well as constant support with a keen focus on safety.

Its BG SMARTUBE product range includes:

Dunnage racks: created to form bespoke transport solutions for multiple parts that can be easily transported to the point of use or between stations. The bag creates a protective environment for the part and can also be lined with micro fibre material to stop damage and retain the quality finish of the surface. Access can be gained from either side or closed off. Compartments can be numbered for ease of identification.

Gravity Feed conveyors: these work by creating an incline within the flow racks to prompt movement of carriages or parts within the rack. Gravity feeds the part from A to B using rollers or surfaces created to suit the individual requirement. The Operator can feed each part and leave to run to point of use and also have return lanes to form a closed loop for production.

Flow racks: these assist the cell to move products from point A to B by using feed lanes and take off lanes for each operator. The rack helps reduce or remove the several of the wastes in terms of transport and over/under production by creating Kanban positions. Kanban solutions help the Lean transformation of the production line by using a pull system and therefore flow racks are built to host only the right number of parts required for the process. Flow racks can be mobile or static and can be designed to the exacting and unique needs of each customer.

Workstations and trolleys: can be tailored according to the need by adding multiple accessories such shadow boards, drawers, screen arms and tooling rails. BG Log can provide a wide range of surfaces according to either budget or specific needs such as ESD or duty rubberised work tops. Stations can be mobile or static.

5S Solutions: Sort, Straighten, Shine, Standardize, Sustain. BG Log’s systems help promote 5S in terms of shadow boards, cleaning stations and trolleys and information cubes to help report KPIs and SQCDP metrics. It provides screen printed boards with your company branding and design projects tailored specifically for your facility.

Customised Projects: BG Log has undertaken several special projects that it says have been extremely well received, and says it is willing to discuss customer requirements and provide advice and expertise in best practice.

How to avoid common warehouse hazards

Posted on by David Priestman

Some warehouse hazards are more obvious than others. The lesser-known hazards are often the most dangerous, especially when they go unreported. Warehouses are complex workplaces full of different moving parts and a high volume of staff where even the most minor accidents can cause damaged stock or equipment.

With the increasing popularity of online shopping, warehouses are seeing an increased demand for work. This means companies are hiring underqualified staff to make up numbers. Therefore, warehouse health and safety is more important than ever. This post will cover some of the most common warehouse hazards, along with shocking figures to show how dangerous these hazards are and ways accidents can be avoided.

Slips and Trips

Studies found that 37% of all reported workplace injuries resulted from a slip, trip, or fall in one year. Also, falls caused a staggering 28% of all fatalities in the workplace. These hazards are not always easy to spot, some of the culprits being puddles and sawdust. Falls do not have to be from a height to be dangerous; ground-level falls are especially hazardous when carrying something heavy.

Falls From Height

In the construction industry, falls from height were responsible for 47% of fatalities recorded in one year. Wherever there is a significant drop between floors, a guard railing and clear warning signage are essential.

Companies should always give staff properly accredited training in how to work safely at a height. This includes ladder safety, as unstable ladders can be dangerous. Warehouses should always use high-quality ladders, and the area around the ladders kept clean and clear.

Fires

Fires can destroy a whole warehouse, but luckily fires are also one of the most manageable hazards. Warehouses should always have marked exits, routine fire drills and practice alarms, fire extinguishers and fire doors. Fires spread fast in warehouses due to various flammable goods and packaging often stored there.

Always keep an eye out for worn and exposed wires and old extension cords, as well as extension cords being overused. Warehouses that hold flammable fluids and gasses need to be extra careful; staff must report any leaks. Also, avoid running electrical wires under carpets.

Lack of Training and Education

Warehouses have been known to skip proper training to save money and time; this creates all kinds of hazards and should never be done. Lack of training and education can result in injuries, compensation payouts, lawsuits, and fines.

Unlike forklifts, electric tow tugs can be used without official training or acquiring a license. This is because they are safe and easy to use, so switching your machinery to tow tugs means training is no longer an issue.

Bodily Strain & Fatigue

Most warehouse injuries are due to sudden accidents. Still, strain and fatigue can build up and eventually lead to severe injuries. Fatigue causes risk since it can lead to staff failing to use equipment properly on not concentrating at work.

All warehouse staff should be trained in proper lifting techniques, and investing in equipment that reduces physical strain is crucial. Electric tow tugs are a great investment thanks to being small in size. They are easy to operate, meaning staff will not become fatigued by using them.

Forklifts

Statistics show that, shockingly, forklifts are the most dangerous form of workplace transport in the country, and they are still used in many warehouses across the country. 25% of workplace injuries directly result from forklift truck accidents, meaning 1,300 employees are hospitalised each year with serious injuries.

The leading cause of many forklift-related injuries can be linked to a lack of employee training. Industar believes that, for a safer option, tow tugs are easier to use, so no license is required. They hold loads closer to the ground, meaning visibility is better, and stock is less likely to be dropped. They are also easier to store, meaning they don’t get in the way.

Hazard Reporting

Inform all staff of the importance of reporting hazards. Maybe tell them to read this post to realise just how dangerous warehouse hazards can be. Reporting hazards early can avoid injury. Ultimately, warehouse safety relies on policies, training, and safety equipment.

All workplaces should have a risk assessment, but it is essential due to the added risk in warehouses. https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/warehouse.pdf

Check out this guide to creating a warehouse risk assessment. It is vital to identify all hazards your premise currently has and put measures in place to avoid injury. The guide covers many different safety topics, such as lifting and handling, transport, working at a height, and avoiding fires.

Tugs For Warehouses

Industar stocks a wide range of tow tugs, guaranteed to make transporting goods in your warehouse safer and easier. Not only this, but it also has a variety of industrial vacuum cleaners to keep your warehouse clean and hazard-free.

How to avoid common warehouse hazards

Posted on by David Priestman

Some warehouse hazards are more obvious than others. The lesser-known hazards are often the most dangerous, especially when they go unreported. Warehouses are complex workplaces full of different moving parts and a high volume of staff where even the most minor accidents can cause damaged stock or equipment.

With the increasing popularity of online shopping, warehouses are seeing an increased demand for work. This means companies are hiring underqualified staff to make up numbers. Therefore, warehouse health and safety is more important than ever. This post will cover some of the most common warehouse hazards, along with shocking figures to show how dangerous these hazards are and ways accidents can be avoided.

Slips and Trips

Studies found that 37% of all reported workplace injuries resulted from a slip, trip, or fall in one year. Also, falls caused a staggering 28% of all fatalities in the workplace. These hazards are not always easy to spot, some of the culprits being puddles and sawdust. Falls do not have to be from a height to be dangerous; ground-level falls are especially hazardous when carrying something heavy.

Falls From Height

In the construction industry, falls from height were responsible for 47% of fatalities recorded in one year. Wherever there is a significant drop between floors, a guard railing and clear warning signage are essential.

Companies should always give staff properly accredited training in how to work safely at a height. This includes ladder safety, as unstable ladders can be dangerous. Warehouses should always use high-quality ladders, and the area around the ladders kept clean and clear.

Fires

Fires can destroy a whole warehouse, but luckily fires are also one of the most manageable hazards. Warehouses should always have marked exits, routine fire drills and practice alarms, fire extinguishers and fire doors. Fires spread fast in warehouses due to various flammable goods and packaging often stored there.

Always keep an eye out for worn and exposed wires and old extension cords, as well as extension cords being overused. Warehouses that hold flammable fluids and gasses need to be extra careful; staff must report any leaks. Also, avoid running electrical wires under carpets.

Lack of Training and Education

Warehouses have been known to skip proper training to save money and time; this creates all kinds of hazards and should never be done. Lack of training and education can result in injuries, compensation payouts, lawsuits, and fines.

Unlike forklifts, electric tow tugs can be used without official training or acquiring a license. This is because they are safe and easy to use, so switching your machinery to tow tugs means training is no longer an issue.

Bodily Strain & Fatigue

Most warehouse injuries are due to sudden accidents. Still, strain and fatigue can build up and eventually lead to severe injuries. Fatigue causes risk since it can lead to staff failing to use equipment properly on not concentrating at work.

All warehouse staff should be trained in proper lifting techniques, and investing in equipment that reduces physical strain is crucial. Electric tow tugs are a great investment thanks to being small in size. They are easy to operate, meaning staff will not become fatigued by using them.

Forklifts

Statistics show that, shockingly, forklifts are the most dangerous form of workplace transport in the country, and they are still used in many warehouses across the country. 25% of workplace injuries directly result from forklift truck accidents, meaning 1,300 employees are hospitalised each year with serious injuries.

The leading cause of many forklift-related injuries can be linked to a lack of employee training. Industar believes that, for a safer option, tow tugs are easier to use, so no license is required. They hold loads closer to the ground, meaning visibility is better, and stock is less likely to be dropped. They are also easier to store, meaning they don’t get in the way.

Hazard Reporting

Inform all staff of the importance of reporting hazards. Maybe tell them to read this post to realise just how dangerous warehouse hazards can be. Reporting hazards early can avoid injury. Ultimately, warehouse safety relies on policies, training, and safety equipment.

All workplaces should have a risk assessment, but it is essential due to the added risk in warehouses. https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/warehouse.pdf

Check out this guide to creating a warehouse risk assessment. It is vital to identify all hazards your premise currently has and put measures in place to avoid injury. The guide covers many different safety topics, such as lifting and handling, transport, working at a height, and avoiding fires.

Tugs For Warehouses

Industar stocks a wide range of tow tugs, guaranteed to make transporting goods in your warehouse safer and easier. Not only this, but it also has a variety of industrial vacuum cleaners to keep your warehouse clean and hazard-free.

New functions for Linde Logistic Trains

Posted on by David Priestman

With new trailers and a cloud-based tugger train guidance system, Linde Material Handling (MH) is making horizontal packaged goods transportation even more attractive. Innovative functions for C-frame and Bridge-Frames ensure greater safety and flexibility.

The tugger train guidance system determines the optimal route for drivers, reduces error rates and employee training time, and responds to order-related changes with adjustments in real time. Thus, even complex tasks become manageable and can be reliably carried out.

Horizontal goods transportation by means of tugger trains is particularly advantageous where large quantities of different parts and components have to be delivered over long distances to the right place at the right time. This is the case in the automotive industry, as one example, where each vehicle consists of many thousands of components that are assembled piece by piece until the finished car finally rolls off the production line.

“Here, bundled material transport using tugger trains makes more economic and ecological sense than individual transports and furthermore, they are in line with the Lean philosophy,” explains Mal Rexhepi, Product Manager Automation & Load Train Solutions. Further advantages of production supply enabled by tugger trains include the reduction of in-house traffic volume and the associated lower accident potential combined with plannable processes.

New frame features

From September 2021, Linde MH will be launching new trailer models for the Linde Logistic Train – including the LT-C with C-frame, the LT-B with Bridge-Frame and the LT-BM with Bridge-Frame and movable middle support. The improved frame functions ensure even greater safety and flexibility.

One new feature is the innovative and patented lifting profile mechanism for the Bridge-Frames. It not only enables the transport of a wide variety of rolling racks and trolleys, but also, with the appropriate design, the lifting of pallets without load carriers if these have been placed in the trailer with a pallet truck, for example. For this purpose, the lifting profiles are initially concealed in the trailer frame at the beginning of the loading process so that the operator can push in the trolleys unhindered.

The optional middle support, which can be moved freely against the direction of travel, allows the use of several different container sizes in the same trailer without significantly increasing the train length.

The highlight of the C-frames is the fork stabilisation control. The patented solution prevents the forks from sagging even under the highest possible loads and thus ensures safe transport of the load. The ergonomic ejection mechanism is another helpful feature: When the driver releases the lock using the foot switch, the load is pushed away from the back of the forks, making it easier to pull the load carriers out of the trailer.

All Linde MH frame models are fitted with a mechanical load locking mechanism as standard: As soon as a container is placed in the frame, the lock closes automatically. When the driver gets into the train, the frames are automatically lifted, upon leaving the driver’s platform, the load is lowered. When the tugger train is moving, the lowering of the frames is technically impossible. Conversely, it is impossible for the operator to set the tugger train in motion with the frames lowered.

For outdoor use, the frames can – beside many other options – be equipped with a weather guard to protect the load. The mechanical all-wheel steering ensures the high directional stability of the tugger trains: No matter how many trailers are used, the entire train remains on track. Thanks to a standardised interface, the trailers are even prepared for semi- or fully automated operations. Trolleys have also recently been included in the scope of delivery. They are available in various designs and can be further equipped, for example with modular rack superstructures.

Guidance system

The changeover from individual to bundled material transportation brings with it many advantages – as well as greater complexity with regard to logistical planning for warehouse employees. “It is necessary to organise routes and load carrier changes as efficiently as possible in order to avoid time losses and errors. To accomplish this, the entire cycle from upstream production to final assembly must be carefully planned and coordinated,” explains Oldrik Wagner, Product Manager Software Solutions. “With our tugger train guidance system, we can now provide step-by-step support to operators in carrying out their tasks.”

The tugger train control system receives all relevant information on material transports from the ERP or WMS system without any media discontinuity. From this, it generates individual driving orders and displays them on a large touch screen in the cockpit. Order by order, the drivers are directed to the respective assembly workstations along the predetermined, optimal route.

This process is preceded by the configuration of the tugger trains, trailers, stops, routes and reports by means of multilingual software. Via the dashboard, warehouse managers have an overview of the entire application and can trigger key figures and reports to further optimise its use.

25% of electric Toyota FLTs are Lithium-ion

Posted on by David Priestman

Nearly a quarter of all Toyota electric-powered forklift trucks ordered for delivery in the UK now feature Lithium-ion battery technology.

“While lead acid remains by far the dominant battery type within the electric-powered forklift market, sales of Lithium-ion forklifts have been on a sustained upward curve for some time,” says Gary Ison, Sales Training & Product Development Manager at Toyota  Material Handling UK.

“Lead acid batteries have been a highly capable forklift power solution for years, and it is estimated that in the region of 90% of all electric forklifts in operation throughout the world are still running on these battery types. But Lithium-ion battery technology is now seen as the next evolution in forklift efficiency.”

Lithium-ion’s share of the electric forklift market is widely expected to proliferate significantly over the next five years with a report recently undertaken by India-based analyst, Research Dive, forecasting that the global Lithium-ion forklift battery market will be worth close to US$1,348.5m by 2026.

Gary Ison says: “Over the last decade or so, electric-powered forklifts have become an increasingly popular choice for businesses across all industry sectors who find themselves under growing social and legislative pressure to operate in as environmentally sensitive way as they can.

“Traditionally, electric lift trucks have relied on lead-acid battery technology but the Lithium-Ion solution has now become well established as a viable alternative. Today, in the right applications, Lithium-ion is revolutionising the way some companies operate their intralogistics processes.”

Growth in the Lithium-ion powered forklift market is being driven by a number of factors, not the least of which are the energy efficiency benefits and savings on fleet running costs that Lithium-ion offers.

But of equal significance are the advances in both battery and charger technology that have alleviated the health and safety issues that, for a while, were linked with Lithium-ion  batteries following a number of high profile fires at industrial buildings reportedly started by malfunctioning Lithium-ion batteries.

“There is no doubt that, some of the problems experienced by the early adopters of Lithium-ion battery technology made people cautious, but the science has moved on and it is easy to understand why more and more electric truck users are interested in Lithium-ion,” says Gary Ison.

He continues: “Lithium-ion batteries have the ability to be recharged in as little as one hour – which increases a truck’s overall availability. One hour’s charging will give in the region of 4 to 5 hours of operating time. Also, as these batteries allow for opportunity charging, trucks can be recharged anywhere by the operator during breaks in a shift or other periods of downtime. As a result, there is no need to swap batteries – so dedicated charging rooms and spare batteries aren’t necessary.”

Lithium-ion’s quick and easy opportunity charging functionality means that Lithium-ion battery fleets are most beneficial at sites where trucks are working at high intensity over multiple shifts or extended periods.

“Lithium-ion’s suitability as a power source for lift trucks is not driven by the number of forklifts in operation at a site but by the intensity of their schedule. A company that runs one reach truck 24 hours-a-day will benefit from switching to Lithium-ion batteries while a facility with a dozen machines that are used for light duties from 9-to-5 would commercially probably still be better served by trucks powered by lead acid batteries,” explains Gary Ison.

Infrastructural considerations

“But,” he cautions, “at any multi-shift operation with a high number of trucks working it is essential to manage and schedule operator break periods and consider the scenario where several trucks are ‘plugged in’ for recharging at the same time.

“This is because during the shorter ‘opportunity’ recharging process a Lithium-ion  battery can draw down up to four times the power from the National Grid than that which is needed to charge a traditional lead-acid battery over 8 – 12 hours.

Gary Ison continues: “If charging schedules are not properly managed and too many Lithium-ion  batteries are on charge at the same time there is risk that a building’s power supply could be overloaded.

“At Toyota we advise customers considering switching to Lithium-ion to speak to their utilities provider to flag up any potential power supply issues from the outset. But good charging discipline will deliver the consistent power levels required to allow the trucks to work around the clock – even within the most demanding environments.

“At Toyota we employ bespoke simulation software that enables us to consider all aspects of a client’s operation from the outset and model the optimum choice of battery and battery charging regime for any facility. From there we can advise on power requirements and help customers considering switching to Lithium-ion batteries to look at the bigger picture when assessing Lithium-ion batteries’ suitability for an application

“So, if you are considering switching to Lithium-ion, make sure your MHE supplier really understands your business and undertakes a thorough survey of your handling operation as well as – most importantly – the infrastructure of your site.

“With Lithium-ion offering so many benefits it is easy to forget that, for some users, the traditional lead acid battery will still represent the best option. Our pride in the Toyota brand means that we will always provide the right power solution for every electric truck application. It doesn’t matter if it’s Lithium-ion or lead acid – as long as it’s right for the customer.”

Reach trucks are Lithium-ion ready

The first three models in Toyota’s recently-launched BT Reflex family of reach trucks – the high-performance R-series, the E-series (which features Toyota’s iconic and unique tilting cab) and the flexible O-series for inside and outside use – are  all Lithium-ion ready.

The new trucks come with a choice of three intelligent energy packages to suit every customer’s application requirements: a 300 amp/hour battery for lighter duties; a 420 amp/hour battery for medium intensity work; and a 630 amp/hour solution for high intensity workhorses. All three packages are based on Toyota’s own modular Lithium-ion battery system and deliver a high degree of operational flexibility.

25% of electric Toyota FLTs are Lithium-ion

Posted on by David Priestman

Nearly a quarter of all Toyota electric-powered forklift trucks ordered for delivery in the UK now feature Lithium-ion battery technology.

“While lead acid remains by far the dominant battery type within the electric-powered forklift market, sales of Lithium-ion forklifts have been on a sustained upward curve for some time,” says Gary Ison, Sales Training & Product Development Manager at Toyota  Material Handling UK.

“Lead acid batteries have been a highly capable forklift power solution for years, and it is estimated that in the region of 90% of all electric forklifts in operation throughout the world are still running on these battery types. But Lithium-ion battery technology is now seen as the next evolution in forklift efficiency.”

Lithium-ion’s share of the electric forklift market is widely expected to proliferate significantly over the next five years with a report recently undertaken by India-based analyst, Research Dive, forecasting that the global Lithium-ion forklift battery market will be worth close to US$1,348.5m by 2026.

Gary Ison says: “Over the last decade or so, electric-powered forklifts have become an increasingly popular choice for businesses across all industry sectors who find themselves under growing social and legislative pressure to operate in as environmentally sensitive way as they can.

“Traditionally, electric lift trucks have relied on lead-acid battery technology but the Lithium-Ion solution has now become well established as a viable alternative. Today, in the right applications, Lithium-ion is revolutionising the way some companies operate their intralogistics processes.”

Growth in the Lithium-ion powered forklift market is being driven by a number of factors, not the least of which are the energy efficiency benefits and savings on fleet running costs that Lithium-ion offers.

But of equal significance are the advances in both battery and charger technology that have alleviated the health and safety issues that, for a while, were linked with Lithium-ion  batteries following a number of high profile fires at industrial buildings reportedly started by malfunctioning Lithium-ion batteries.

“There is no doubt that, some of the problems experienced by the early adopters of Lithium-ion battery technology made people cautious, but the science has moved on and it is easy to understand why more and more electric truck users are interested in Lithium-ion,” says Gary Ison.

He continues: “Lithium-ion batteries have the ability to be recharged in as little as one hour – which increases a truck’s overall availability. One hour’s charging will give in the region of 4 to 5 hours of operating time. Also, as these batteries allow for opportunity charging, trucks can be recharged anywhere by the operator during breaks in a shift or other periods of downtime. As a result, there is no need to swap batteries – so dedicated charging rooms and spare batteries aren’t necessary.”

Lithium-ion’s quick and easy opportunity charging functionality means that Lithium-ion battery fleets are most beneficial at sites where trucks are working at high intensity over multiple shifts or extended periods.

“Lithium-ion’s suitability as a power source for lift trucks is not driven by the number of forklifts in operation at a site but by the intensity of their schedule. A company that runs one reach truck 24 hours-a-day will benefit from switching to Lithium-ion batteries while a facility with a dozen machines that are used for light duties from 9-to-5 would commercially probably still be better served by trucks powered by lead acid batteries,” explains Gary Ison.

Infrastructural considerations

“But,” he cautions, “at any multi-shift operation with a high number of trucks working it is essential to manage and schedule operator break periods and consider the scenario where several trucks are ‘plugged in’ for recharging at the same time.

“This is because during the shorter ‘opportunity’ recharging process a Lithium-ion  battery can draw down up to four times the power from the National Grid than that which is needed to charge a traditional lead-acid battery over 8 – 12 hours.

Gary Ison continues: “If charging schedules are not properly managed and too many Lithium-ion  batteries are on charge at the same time there is risk that a building’s power supply could be overloaded.

“At Toyota we advise customers considering switching to Lithium-ion to speak to their utilities provider to flag up any potential power supply issues from the outset. But good charging discipline will deliver the consistent power levels required to allow the trucks to work around the clock – even within the most demanding environments.

“At Toyota we employ bespoke simulation software that enables us to consider all aspects of a client’s operation from the outset and model the optimum choice of battery and battery charging regime for any facility. From there we can advise on power requirements and help customers considering switching to Lithium-ion batteries to look at the bigger picture when assessing Lithium-ion batteries’ suitability for an application

“So, if you are considering switching to Lithium-ion, make sure your MHE supplier really understands your business and undertakes a thorough survey of your handling operation as well as – most importantly – the infrastructure of your site.

“With Lithium-ion offering so many benefits it is easy to forget that, for some users, the traditional lead acid battery will still represent the best option. Our pride in the Toyota brand means that we will always provide the right power solution for every electric truck application. It doesn’t matter if it’s Lithium-ion or lead acid – as long as it’s right for the customer.”

Reach trucks are Lithium-ion ready

The first three models in Toyota’s recently-launched BT Reflex family of reach trucks – the high-performance R-series, the E-series (which features Toyota’s iconic and unique tilting cab) and the flexible O-series for inside and outside use – are  all Lithium-ion ready.

The new trucks come with a choice of three intelligent energy packages to suit every customer’s application requirements: a 300 amp/hour battery for lighter duties; a 420 amp/hour battery for medium intensity work; and a 630 amp/hour solution for high intensity workhorses. All three packages are based on Toyota’s own modular Lithium-ion battery system and deliver a high degree of operational flexibility.

Drivers shortage fix “will please no one”

Posted on by David Priestman

Delivery expert ParcelHero is warning that the Government’s decision to allow just 5,000 foreign drivers into the UK is a compromise that has infuriated Brexiteers while doing nothing to plug the shortfall of 100,000 drivers.

The Government’s faint-hearted decision to grant just 5,000 temporary UK visas to foreign lorry drivers will do more harm than good, warns ParcelHero.

The delivery company’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., says: “The decision to take the plunge and beg for EU-based drivers to return to Britain, but then cap their number at 5,000, will please absolutely no one. 5,000 drivers are less than the paltry number of poultry workers (5,500) the Government has also invited back because it couldn’t see a Christmas turkey shortage coming. Brexiteer ministers are foaming at the mouth at the news any EU drivers will be returning, while retailers and logistics bosses are howling that the move is far too little, far too late.

“Other panic measures revealed over the weekend, such as using Ministry of Defence examiners to increase HGV testing capacity, will also do little to fix the immediate problem. And the plan to send a million letters to former drivers who hold an HGV licence, begging them to get back in the cab, is frankly astonishing.

“The driver shortage has now led to a fuel crisis. The Government’s suspension of the competition law, to allow fuel companies to target specific petrol stations, is another sticking plaster that won’t stop the bleeding. Tanker drivers are the elite airline pilots of road haulage; these skilled drivers are trained and tested continually. You cannot let a newly-qualified lorry driver take over the wheel of a petrol tanker, especially after the Government recently dumbed down the HGV driver’s test.

“After most ‘non-skilled’ EU citizens returned to their home countries in the wake of the Brexit vote, we warned the Government of a shortfall of up to 100,000 drivers. Those warnings fell on deaf ears. The UK’s entire logistics network is consequently on the verge of a major crisis. The Government may think it has stuck its finger in the dyke in the nick of time and stopped the flood of shortages. In fact, the UK’s supply-chain is now riddled with holes, and unless the Government makes the package to EU drivers vastly more attractive, Christmas shortages are now a certainty.

“We agree the driver crisis is not entirely a problem created by Brexit. There is a shortage across Europe, but Brexit has doubled the impact of the problem for the UK. Furthermore, the driver shortage is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the impact of Brexit on the UK’s freight infrastructure.”

ParcelHero’s in-depth analysis of the ongoing UK-EU trade problems and, in particular, the powder keg Northern Ireland Protocol agreement, can be seen by clicking here.

Drivers shortage fix “will please no one”

Posted on by David Priestman

Delivery expert ParcelHero is warning that the Government’s decision to allow just 5,000 foreign drivers into the UK is a compromise that has infuriated Brexiteers while doing nothing to plug the shortfall of 100,000 drivers.

The Government’s faint-hearted decision to grant just 5,000 temporary UK visas to foreign lorry drivers will do more harm than good, warns ParcelHero.

The delivery company’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., says: “The decision to take the plunge and beg for EU-based drivers to return to Britain, but then cap their number at 5,000, will please absolutely no one. 5,000 drivers are less than the paltry number of poultry workers (5,500) the Government has also invited back because it couldn’t see a Christmas turkey shortage coming. Brexiteer ministers are foaming at the mouth at the news any EU drivers will be returning, while retailers and logistics bosses are howling that the move is far too little, far too late.

“Other panic measures revealed over the weekend, such as using Ministry of Defence examiners to increase HGV testing capacity, will also do little to fix the immediate problem. And the plan to send a million letters to former drivers who hold an HGV licence, begging them to get back in the cab, is frankly astonishing.

“The driver shortage has now led to a fuel crisis. The Government’s suspension of the competition law, to allow fuel companies to target specific petrol stations, is another sticking plaster that won’t stop the bleeding. Tanker drivers are the elite airline pilots of road haulage; these skilled drivers are trained and tested continually. You cannot let a newly-qualified lorry driver take over the wheel of a petrol tanker, especially after the Government recently dumbed down the HGV driver’s test.

“After most ‘non-skilled’ EU citizens returned to their home countries in the wake of the Brexit vote, we warned the Government of a shortfall of up to 100,000 drivers. Those warnings fell on deaf ears. The UK’s entire logistics network is consequently on the verge of a major crisis. The Government may think it has stuck its finger in the dyke in the nick of time and stopped the flood of shortages. In fact, the UK’s supply-chain is now riddled with holes, and unless the Government makes the package to EU drivers vastly more attractive, Christmas shortages are now a certainty.

“We agree the driver crisis is not entirely a problem created by Brexit. There is a shortage across Europe, but Brexit has doubled the impact of the problem for the UK. Furthermore, the driver shortage is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the impact of Brexit on the UK’s freight infrastructure.”

ParcelHero’s in-depth analysis of the ongoing UK-EU trade problems and, in particular, the powder keg Northern Ireland Protocol agreement, can be seen by clicking here.

Regional Express moves to new Southampton DC

Posted on by David Priestman

Xpediator, a leading provider of freight management services across the UK and Central, Eastern and Western Europe, has announced that its subsidiary, Regional Express, is moving from its current premises to join sister company, Delamode International Logistics, at its new 200,000 sq ft distribution centre located at Southampton container port.

Regional Express is a one-stop service for Amazon sellers in the UK, US and Europe with services including VAT registrations and tax filing, customs clearance, returns, fulfilment and warehousing. The move to the new warehouse is part of the overall integration of the Group’s UK logistics operations. Regional Express will operate alongside Delamode International Logistics in the new state of the art warehouse which will help the business meet rising demand from Amazon sellers for its services through the additional space and facilities now available.

Completed earlier this year, the new warehouse is designed to BREEAM Excellent Sustainability Standards and is primarily powered by renewable energy via a £2.5m roof-mounted solar panel installation, believed to be one of the largest in the UK. The move into the new warehouse will increase Regional Express’ pallet space capacity, whilst providing increased efficiencies in stock intake, order processing and speed to market, direct to the point of demand.

In addition, Regional Express will be able to offer bonded and buffer storage for Amazon sellers, enabling them to send larger quantities in one shipment to the UK reducing the overall unit cost. Smaller shipments, in line with the unit limits set by Amazon, can then be sent to Amazon warehouses in the UK and the remaining stock held at the new warehouse for stock replenishment as required.

Robert Ross, CEO of Xpediator, said: “As an approved supplier to the Amazon Solution Provider Network (SPN), Regional Express is well positioned to fulfil all logistical requirements for Amazon sellers. Regional Express performed strongly in 2020, and the move into the new Southampton warehouse will enhance its capabilities for Amazon sellers as well as become a point of differentiation for attracting new clients.”

Neil Curran, Managing Director of Regional Express, commented: “Moving to the new Southampton warehouse has multiple advantages for our business not only in terms of additional capacity and layout but also in terms of being located within the port itself, as this will lead to much faster stock intake and order processing times which will culminate into faster delivery times for our customers.”

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Xpediator integrates and rebrands UK logistics division

 

Regional Express moves to new Southampton DC

Posted on by David Priestman

Xpediator, a leading provider of freight management services across the UK and Central, Eastern and Western Europe, has announced that its subsidiary, Regional Express, is moving from its current premises to join sister company, Delamode International Logistics, at its new 200,000 sq ft distribution centre located at Southampton container port.

Regional Express is a one-stop service for Amazon sellers in the UK, US and Europe with services including VAT registrations and tax filing, customs clearance, returns, fulfilment and warehousing. The move to the new warehouse is part of the overall integration of the Group’s UK logistics operations. Regional Express will operate alongside Delamode International Logistics in the new state of the art warehouse which will help the business meet rising demand from Amazon sellers for its services through the additional space and facilities now available.

Completed earlier this year, the new warehouse is designed to BREEAM Excellent Sustainability Standards and is primarily powered by renewable energy via a £2.5m roof-mounted solar panel installation, believed to be one of the largest in the UK. The move into the new warehouse will increase Regional Express’ pallet space capacity, whilst providing increased efficiencies in stock intake, order processing and speed to market, direct to the point of demand.

In addition, Regional Express will be able to offer bonded and buffer storage for Amazon sellers, enabling them to send larger quantities in one shipment to the UK reducing the overall unit cost. Smaller shipments, in line with the unit limits set by Amazon, can then be sent to Amazon warehouses in the UK and the remaining stock held at the new warehouse for stock replenishment as required.

Robert Ross, CEO of Xpediator, said: “As an approved supplier to the Amazon Solution Provider Network (SPN), Regional Express is well positioned to fulfil all logistical requirements for Amazon sellers. Regional Express performed strongly in 2020, and the move into the new Southampton warehouse will enhance its capabilities for Amazon sellers as well as become a point of differentiation for attracting new clients.”

Neil Curran, Managing Director of Regional Express, commented: “Moving to the new Southampton warehouse has multiple advantages for our business not only in terms of additional capacity and layout but also in terms of being located within the port itself, as this will lead to much faster stock intake and order processing times which will culminate into faster delivery times for our customers.”

similar news

Xpediator integrates and rebrands UK logistics division

 

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