Ambitious haulage firms should take advantage of the growth in pallet freight to take their business to the next level, according to the Fortec Distribution Network.
With an increase in freight volumes, particularly in the South East, there are opportunities for operators to expand and become more efficient at the same time, said Adrian Bradley, MD of Fortec.
“Not only are freight levels growing, but also more and more companies are transporting goods on pallets because it is cost-effective and now offers excellent levels of customer service such as tracking and electronic proof of delivery,” he explained.
“Building a national, or even international, presence will bring the greatest rewards, although may seem daunting. Operators however should not be put off. Joining a distribution network simplifies that route to market without stretching their resources or taking on too many financial commitments.
“The very essence of a pallet network is to add value to members’ businesses and it can do this in many ways – through innovative IT systems, greater geographic reach, managing volumes and providing quicker services.
“Fortec members, for example, can offer their customers delivery throughout the UK because they draw on the strength of the network. It is a fantastic way for members to enhance their customer offering.
“Also, given the high cost of running a vehicle fleet, with all the associated overheads, it makes sense to compete for the best business nationally rather than restrict your company to essentially regional operations.”
Further Fortec’s site near Watford Gap, in Northamptonshire makes it the most southerly hub of all the pallet networks operating in the UK. This makes it an ideal choice for haulage companies operating in the South, which in turn means savings on fuel, driver time, daily mileage and delivery times in comparison to other networks.
With more than 80 members, the Watford Gap site handles pallet movements from a range of industries around the UK and mainland Europe, predominantly in the B2B market. Its Simply European service offers straightforward and cost-effective distribution to 24 European countries.
As a pioneer of IT in the pallet sector, Fortec was one of the first to import service levels akin to those of the parcel delivery sector. Fortec members can offer their customers online track and trace, electronic Proof of Delivery, and next-day delivery.
FORTEC DISTRIBUTION
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