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Tag: British International Freight Association

Heathrow Expansion Would Boost Air Cargo

Posted on by David Priestman

For many years, the British International Freight Association (BIFA) has supported expansion at Heathrow Airport. Yesterday’s announcement of the new runway plans will not only increase passenger capacity at Europe’s busiest airport, but improve air freight links and opportunities as well.

Steve Parker, BIFA Director General said: “Over the past decades, successive UK governments have shown a singular lack of vision in the face of a massive surge in air transport and consequent pressure on existing airport infrastructure in the south east.”

In response to the proposals that have now been submitted to the government, Parker added; “It is for government, not BIFA, to comment on the viability of the proposals put forward. BIFA members, who facilitate a significant proportion of the UK’s visible international trade through gateways like Heathrow, just want to see the government abide by its objective to enable the delivery of an operational third runway by 2035.

“That will require swift decisions on the proposals that have been submitted, in order for applications for planning consent to come forward in time to enable decisions to be made this Parliament. BIFA’s hope is that if that is achieved, we may finally see the start on a long overdue expansion of UK aviation hub capacity.

“It is now time for everyone, including politicians of all parties, to pull together in the national interest and support the bold plans to expand and improve airport infrastructure at Heathrow in order to maintain the UK’s position as Europe’s most important aviation hub.”

Whilst BIFA has been waiting for news about a third runway, it has focused on the airport’s cargo development. On behalf of members, the trade association is already working closely with the airport to support its ambitious plans to deliver a fundamental change to the way cargo operates at the gateway.

The latest plans and software enhancements were revealed last October. These plans would mean a significant redevelopment of the cargo estate set to commence in the next two to three years, as the airport looks to accommodate rising demand, modernise some ageing first-line cargo handling facilities, and improve cargo flows and efficiency.

Freight Association Seeks Solutions to Uninsured Cargo

Posted on by David Priestman

Steve Parker, director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) joined Marcus Baker, global head of marine, cargo and logistics at Marsh to deliver the opening address at the Cargo Insurance London conference.

Addressing the reasons behind, and problems caused, by under or uninsured cargoes, Parker and Baker focused on the amount of cargo premium available globally, and explored whether there is an opportunity that the insurance market is currently missing. Both agreed that the insurance sector needs to simplify the process for clients in regards to both placement and claims for cargo insurance, so that everyone can win.

Parker said: “During the 50 years I have been in this industry, one of the things that has always surprised me, is the amount of freight that moves globally without insurance.” He added, “BIFA is contacted regularly by the trade association’s members when something untoward has happened to a consignment. Most often it is one of our small to mid-sized corporate members, which might not have the resources to incorporate an insurance offer into the freight cost. Typically, they say that the process is too complicated and long-winded for what is a small return.

“The majority of BIFA’s 1800 corporate members have fewer than 10 staff. BIFA stands ready to work with the insurance sector to address this issue and make the process to obtain transit insurance less cumbersome. We need a system that makes it easy for insurance cover to be included in the freight rate offered and the customer has to opt out rather than opt in. BIFA wants to see cargo insurance become the norm, not the exception.”

Uninsured Cargo

Both presenters agreed that everyone benefits if the use of cargo insurance can be increased. Parker concluded: “The trader gets the cover they need. Our member has the comfort of knowing in the event of an issue, that the goods are insured. The insurance industry receives more business.”

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Future of International Freight Forwarding is Transformation

 

 

UK Freight Association Introduces eLearning

Posted on by David Priestman

The British International Freight Association (BIFA) has an exciting new development in its programme of training: all-inclusive access to a range of bitesize eLearning courses. This initiative is designed to provide full trading members with unlimited access to eLearning, giving opportunities for them to upskill their teams, and is all part of the membership fee.

BIFA Bitesize is a suite of eLearning that has been developed as part of BIFA’s ongoing commitment to provide a variety of training options, aimed at enhancing knowledge in areas critical to freight forwarding, customs compliance, and international trade.

The first rendition of BIFA Bitesize content features extracts from the existing BIFA Freight Forwarding and Customs Essentials courses. Some of the key topics include: Preparing to Trade; Incoterms 2020; Inward and Outward Processing; Customs Warehousing; Classification; Returned Goods Relief; Paying HMRC, and Procedure Codes.

Additionally, a brand new CDS Compliance course will be added to the platform very soon. The initial mandatory module, centred around an import home-use declaration, outlines potential consequences of compliance errors. Subsequent modules, which cover a range of regimes, will follow.

These courses have been carefully curated to support both newcomers and experienced professionals in the industry, ensuring that all staff of all members have access to up-to-date and relevant basic training to further support their professional development. It also helps BIFA members to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of international trade and customs compliance, which is evolving constantly.

Carl Hobbis, member services director at BIFA, who has management responsibility for the trade association’s training and development services said: “We believe the inclusion of this eLearning platform as part of the standard membership subscription of full members is a game changing move for a trade association in the sector.

“BIFA Bitesize is accessible via the BIFA member portal at www.bifa.org which provides full details on how to navigate the platform and access the courses. There are no limits on the number of learners per member that can be enrolled, enabling companies of all sizes to provide high-quality, flexible training to their entire teams.”

Steve Parker, director general of BIFA added: “We are always striving to provide exceptional value to our members via a variety of training options. With BIFA Bitesize, we believe we are setting a new benchmark in freight and logistics training. We are excited to see this new service in action and look forward to supporting our members in their continued professional development, which is one of the core services of the trade association.”

For members who prefer more formal qualifications or instructor-led training, BIFA continues to offer its highly regarded BTEC qualifications and a range of trainer-led courses. These options are ideal for those seeking more in-depth, accredited learning experiences.

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BIFA Takes Aim at Felixstowe Following TOS Delays

 

BIFA Freight Service Awards Winners Revealed

Posted on by David Priestman

Host James Cracknell OBE welcomed a record-breaking audience of over 550 attendees to the British International Freight Association’s (BIFA) 2024 Freight Service Awards. The prestigious event, celebrating its 36th anniversary, took place at The Brewery in London. During the event Cracknell announced nine winning companies and two outstanding individuals across 11 award categories.

BIFA Director General Steve Parker extended heartfelt congratulations to the winners and finalists, highlighting the achievements of the 34 freight forwarding companies that made it to the nine service category shortlists — six of which earned recognition in multiple categories. Additionally, he commended the 12 finalists in the two individual award categories.

In the Air Cargo Services category, which was sponsored by IAG Cargo, Uniserve Holdings Limited triumphed over fellow finalists Brunel Air Cargo, Kerry Logistics (UK) Ltd, and Metro Shipping Ltd.

Winner of the Ocean Services Award, sponsored by Port Express, was Denholm Good Logistics Limited, which overcame strong challenges from fellow finalists Atlantic Freight Ltd, Kerry Logistics (UK) Ltd, and NNR Global Logistics UK Ltd.

Deugro (UK) Ltd took first place in the Project Forwarding category, sponsored by Macbeth Insurance Brokers, ahead of fellow finalists, Maersk Logistics and Services UK Ltd, Perform Logistics Ltd, and Westbound Logistics Services Ltd.

In the Specialist Services category, sponsored by Descartes + Thyme IT, the winner was John Pipe International, whilst the other finalists included Daily Freight Services Ltd, Irish Freight Solutions, Metro Shipping and Samphire Cargo Ltd.

Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics was revealed as the winner of the Supply Chain Management category, sponsored by Descartes + BoxTop Technologies, seeing off strong competition from fellow finalists Noatum Logistics UK Ltd, Seafast Logistics Ltd, and Uniserve Holdings Limited.

Scooping first place in the Sustainable Logistics & the Environment Award category, sponsored by American Airlines Cargo was DHL Global Forwarding, which overcame excellent entries from fellow finalists, DSV Road Ltd, Ital Logistics Ltd, Peterson Freight Management, Rhenus Logistics Ltd, and Wallis Shipping Services Ltd.

United Worldwide Logistics took first place in the Extra Mile Award, sponsored by Descartes, ahead of the entries from fellow finalists Carousel Logistics Ltd, Killick Martin & Company Ltd, Pro-Logist Ltd, Seafast Logistics Ltd.

Victorious against fellow finalists Deugro (UK) Ltd, PFE Express Ltd, and Unsworth UK, Speedy Freight triumphed in the Staff Development category, which was sponsored by Albacore Systems.

In the European Logistics category, which was sponsored by TT Club, the winner was Cargo Overseas, with the other finalists being Mercury Freight Ltd, NNR Global Logistics Ltd, and Transportify Ltd.

Winner of the Apprentice of the Year category, which was sponsored by Menzies LLP was Joseph Freestone (Woodland Group), who beat off strong competition from Dylan Cheesman (Unsworth UK), Keira Greenough (Cardinal Global Logistics), Leah Griggs (Laser Transport International), Luis Matthews (Ligentia UK Ltd), and Iwan Williams (United Worldwide Logistics Ltd).

Meanwhile, Thomas Bedöcs from DHL Global Forwarding impressed the judges with his commitment to the industry to win the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year category, which is sponsored by Virgin Atlantic Cargo. Fellow finalists were Charmaine Anderson from Blue Water Shipping UK Ltd, Georgia Gibson from Cargo-partner, Magdalena Krasinska from Unsworth UK, as well as both Ben Thompson and Charlie Griffiths from NNR Global Logistics UK Ltd. Charlie was highly commended by the judges.

Parker remarked: “Once again, BIFA was delighted with the number and diversity of entries received. It was fantastic to gather in person to celebrate excellence in the freight forwarding industry. Now in their 36th year, these awards are justifiably regarded as the most prestigious in the sector. I would also like to express our gratitude to all the sponsors for their invaluable contributions. Representatives from the category sponsors dedicated their time to judging and selecting the winners, ensuring the competition’s continued success.”

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Future of International Freight Forwarding is Transformation

Posted on by David Priestman

As global trade rebounds and technology continues to reshape industries, the international freight forwarding and logistics sector is poised for a dynamic year in 2025, says the director general of the British International Freight Association (BIFA). “With new trade agreements, advancements in automation, and a heightened focus on sustainability, BIFA members of all shapes and sizes are forecasting growth opportunities alongside significant challenges,” says Steve Parker.

Global trade on the rise

Notwithstanding potential future trade wars, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global trade volumes to increase by 3.2% in 2025, driven by easing geopolitical tensions, expanding e-commerce, and growing consumer demand in emerging markets. These developments provide fertile ground for freight forwarders and logistics providers to enhance their services and seize new opportunities in cross-border shipping.

Technological innovation driving efficiency

The logistics industry is increasingly leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimise supply chain operations. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and Internet of Things-enabled devices are transforming shipment tracking, customs clearance, and warehouse management. Automation is expected to significantly reduce costs while improving transparency and customer satisfaction.

“2025 is the year where digitalisation and data-driven decision-making will become a necessity rather than an advantage,” Parker adds. ”The integration of real-time analytics and autonomous systems is revolutionising how BIFA members are managing global supply chains.”

Sustainability takes centre stage

With global regulators and consumers demanding environmentally conscious practices, sustainability will be a top priority in 2025. Many companies are committing to carbon-neutral shipping solutions, investing in green technologies such as electric vehicles and alternative fuels. Ports and shipping hubs worldwide are also adopting cleaner energy practices to reduce emissions and align with international environmental goals. Parker says: ”Shippers are now looking beyond cost and speed — they want greener logistics solutions. This shift is creating both challenges and opportunities for logistics providers.”

E-Commerce boom fuels demand

The global e-commerce market, expected to surpass USD7.4 trillion by 2025, is further driving the need for efficient logistics and last-mile delivery solutions. Freight forwarders are rapidly adapting to the demands of faster shipping and expanded network coverage, particularly in underserved regions.

Challenges Ahead

While prospects are promising, the industry must also address critical challenges. Ever-changing demand and supply dynamics across all modes of transport. Geopolitical uncertainties. Fluctuating fuel costs, and regulatory complexities continue to pose risks. Additionally, labour shortages in key markets highlight the need for investments in workforce development and automation.

As we enter the second week of 2025, the international freight forwarding and logistics sector stands at a pivotal moment. By embracing innovation, prioritising sustainability, and navigating global trade dynamics, the industry is well-positioned for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. “The trade association that represents UK freight forwarding and logistics companies that manage international supply chains will be ready to support our members in those multiple endeavours,” Parker concludes.

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BIFA Takes Centre Stage at Multimodal 2024

Posted on by Keith McKinley

For the fourth year running, the British International Freight Association (BIFA) will be centre stage in more ways than one at the forthcoming Multimodal Exhibition and Conference at Birmingham NEC.

With 42 bespoke Logistics Services Provider Pods (Logpods), as well as BIFA’s own exhibition stand (2060), BIFA’s Forwarder Village will provide a networking marketplace for BIFA members and associate members to showcase the products and services they offer.

On Wednesday, BIFA launches its annual and highly acclaimed Freight Service Awards competition, for the 36th year running, and staff will be on hand to provide further information about the entry process and the benefits of entering. BIFA’s Forwarder Village will also allow visitors to learn more about the workings of the trade association, and the benefits of being a member, whilst discussing their day-to-day freight forwarding requirements with the businesses that have booked a Logpod.

The trade association’s stand focuses on BIFA’s training, membership, policy and compliance, and member engagement work, with staff on hand each day that are specifically involved in those activities. Those staff will be answering visitors’ questions and delivering guidance on the issues facing the freight and logistics sector.

The trade association’s training team will also be on hand to demonstrate its ever-increasing portfolio of training services, and there will be an exclusive Multimodal2024 discount for anybody who books a training course at the stand. Visitors will also be able to find out more about the benefits of membership, as well as what BIFA is doing to engage with its members via such initiatives as its Young Forwarder Network, regional meetings, and annual hallmark events.

BIFA’s Young Forwarder Network (YFN) has become an integral and much-loved part of BIFA’s attempts to improve the promotion of the sector, making it more attractive to younger people and providing forums from which to learn. BIFA will host official Young Forwarder Network meet-ups on Tuesday and Wednesday at 14:00, and Thursday at 11:00.

Steve Parker, BIFA director general says: “BIFA arrives at Multimodal 2024 in good shape with significant momentum, a clear strategy, and a record number of members. Our presence at the heart of the BIFA Forwarder Village gives us a further opportunity to support and engage with our members and others on all sides of supply chains.

“It also enables us to showcase what the trade association is doing to address the current challenges facing our members, and the supply chain and logistics community they serve. Since I became Director General on 1st January 2023, from a policy and compliance perspective, there has been a continued focus on Customs-related issues and an ongoing review of all frontier policies as well as the introduction of new policies applicable to all of the UK’s international trade.

“So, it will not be surprising if conversations about Customs affairs occupy a good deal of BIFA’s time during the three days at Multimodal 2024, which gives us the opportunity to provide some useful insight and advice on the current state of a play. BIFA will also be using the event to showcase some of the work that it is doing in other areas, such as training and recruitment, as well as sustainability, so I welcome all attendees that are looking for advice designed to help deal with the big issues, to visit our stand in the BIFA Forwarder Village. Whilst the international freight industry is devising methods of coping with the changing logistics demands of the global village often at a distance, the BIFA Forwarder Village will give participants the opportunity for close range networking with existing and potential customers in a more personal environment.”

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BIFA Takes Aim at Felixstowe Following TOS Delays

 

Winners of BIFA Freight Service Awards

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Suzi Perry hosted a crowd of over 550 at the British International Freight Association’s 2023 Freight Service Awards, which took place at the Brewery in London. The ‘Queen of the Pit Lane’ revealed nine winning companies and two winning individuals in the 11 categories of the awards, which celebrated its 35th anniversary this year.

In the Air Cargo Services category, which was sponsored by IAG Cargo, deugro (UK) Ltd triumphed over fellow finalists cargo-partner Ltd, Hogg Global Logistics Ltd, and Killick Martin & Company Ltd.

Winner of the Ocean Services Award, sponsored by Port Express, was Woodland Global, which overcame strong challenges from fellow finalists F.S. Mackenzie Ltd, Hemisphere Freight Services Ltd, and World Cargo Logistics Ltd.

Hemisphere Freight Services took first place in the Project Forwarding category, sponsored by Macbeth Insurance Brokers, ahead of fellow finalists Brunel Shipping & Liner Services Ltd, Peters & May Limited, and Ucargo LLP, which was highly commended by the judges.

In the Specialist Services category, sponsored by Thyme IT, the winner was Seafast Logistics Ltd, whilst the other finalists included Cardinal Global Logistics, Metro Shipping Ltd, and Ucargo LLP.

Kerry Logistics (UK) Ltd was revealed as the winner of the Supply Chain Management category, sponsored by BoxTop Technologies, seeing off strong competition from fellow finalists Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics Ltd, Ligentia UK Ltd, Noatum Logistics UK Ltd, and Uniserve Holdings Limited.

Scooping first place in the brand new Sustainable Logistics & the Environment Award category, sponsored by American Airlines Cargo was Woodland Group Ltd, which overcame excellent entries from fellow finalists, Maersk Logistics and Services UK Ltd (which was highly commended by the judges), Metro Shipping Ltd, DHL Global Forwarding, and Geodis FF United Kingdom Ltd.

Hogg Global Logistics Ltd took the category name quite literally to win the Extra Mile Award, sponsored by Descartes, ahead of the entries from fellow finalists Cardinal Global Logistics, Cargo Overseas Limited, and Kranlee Logistics Ltd.

Victorious against fellow finalists DHL Global Forwarding, Kranlee Logistics Ltd, Uniserve Holdings Limited, and Unsworth UK, OIA Global Ltd triumphed in the Staff Development category, which was sponsored by Albacore Systems.

In the European Logistics category, which was sponsored by TT Club, the winner was Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics Ltd, with the other finalists being Baxter Freight Ltd, Brunel European Ltd, Espace Europe Ltd, and Uniserve Holdings Limited.

Winner of the Apprentice of the Year category, which was sponsored for the first time by Menzies LLP was Cameron Smith (Ligentia), who beat off strong competition from Jacob Swift (Avocet Clearance) who was highly commended by the judges; Samuel Barrett (Charles Kendall Freight); Leanne Read (Neon Freight); Kieran Elkin (Dachser); and Richard Smith (Ziegler UK).

Meanwhile, Christopher Carter from Peterson (United Kingdom) Ltd impressed the judges with his commitment to the industry to win the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year category, which is sponsored by Virgin Atlantic Cargo. Fellow finalists were Amelia Mulhern (Kuehne+Nagel); Emily Howard (Westbound Logistics); Georgia Gibson (cargo-partner), who was highly commended by the judges; Michael Shiels (DHL Global Forwarding) and Nicola Hall (Edge Worldwide Logistics).

Whilst congratulating all the companies and individuals that won each category, BIFA Director General, Steve Parker acknowledged all 29 freight forwarding companies that made the finalists shortlist in the nine service categories, as well as the 12 people who were finalists for the two individual categories.

Parker said: “Once again, BIFA was delighted with the number and range of entries received and it was great to meet in person to celebrate excellence across the freight forwarding industry, with awards that are now in their 35th year, and justifiably regarded as the most prestigious in the sector. I would also like to recognise the support and contribution of all the sponsors to the running of the competition this year. Representatives from the category sponsors gave their time to carry out judging and the selection of winners for each award.”

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