Road Transport and Haulage - Logistics Business News https://logisticsbusiness.com/category/transport-distribution/road-transport-haulage/ News, Podcast, Magazine and More Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:28:38 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://logisticsbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/cropped-LB-32x32.png Road Transport and Haulage - Logistics Business News https://logisticsbusiness.com/category/transport-distribution/road-transport-haulage/ 32 32 Compliance Software for UK CV Fleets in Europe https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/lorries-vans-trailers/compliance-software-for-uk-cv-fleets-in-europe/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:28:35 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66207 AiDEN, in collaboration with Volvo Group, has announced a new solution designed to simplify regulatory compliance for truck drivers and fleet operators across Europe. For UK-based fleets — many of which operate extensively across EU markets — this development has important implications for managing cross-border complexity, improving efficiency, and supporting ongoing digitalization efforts post-Brexit. With […]

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AiDEN, in collaboration with Volvo Group, has announced a new solution designed to simplify regulatory compliance for truck drivers and fleet operators across Europe. For UK-based fleets — many of which operate extensively across EU markets — this development has important implications for managing cross-border complexity, improving efficiency, and supporting ongoing digitalization efforts post-Brexit.

With UK logistics companies continuing to play a critical role in European supply chains, solutions like this can help streamline operations, reduce friction at borders, and improve overall driver experience —particularly for fleets navigating evolving regulatory requirements across multiple countries.

In December 2024, a new regulatory requirement was introduced in Poland related to SENT (System for Electronic Transport Supervision) for tracking high-risk goods transported within the country. In regard to this, a project to validate one of AiDENS services/products within the platform was initiated. This was done in a project with Volvo Trucks through CampX, Volvo Group’s global innovation arena for technology and business transformation.

It was a successful project leading to high value for the fleet owner and truck drivers enabling seamless compliance with Poland’s SENT without the need for external GPS devices or aftermarket installations. Due to the successful outcomes from the initial project, another phase is now initiated with Volvo Trucks to evaluate further commercial markets during 2026.

We asked Niclas Gyllenram, CEO of AiDEN Auto, to explain further:

How does AiDEN’s integration with Volvo Trucks address regulatory compliance challenges that are comparable to those faced by UK fleet operators, particularly in areas like customs, cabotage, and emissions reporting?

What we’ve demonstrated with SENT in Poland is that compliance can be embedded directly into the vehicle, rather than managed as a separate operational burden. While the UK has its own regulatory landscape — whether that’s post-Brexit customs processes, emissions zones, or cabotage rules — the underlying challenge is the same: fragmented systems and manual workflows. Our approach is to unify those requirements into a single, in-vehicle interface that automates data capture and reporting. That reduces errors, improves traceability, and ultimately gives operators more confidence that they are compliant without adding complexity to their day-to-day operations.

    The UK logistics sector is dealing with increasing operational complexity post-Brexit—how could a built-in, OEM-native compliance solution like AiDEN’s help reduce administrative burden and cross-border friction for UK hauliers?

    Post-Brexit, UK operators are navigating a much more complex cross-border environment, with additional documentation, checks, and reporting obligations. Traditionally, this has meant more paperwork, more devices, and more time spent managing compliance rather than moving goods. By embedding compliance into the truck itself, we remove much of that friction. Data is captured automatically, reporting can be handled in real time, and drivers don’t need to interact with multiple systems. That translates into fewer delays at borders, fewer compliance risks, and a more streamlined operation overall.

    Given that the initial use case focuses on Poland’s SENT regulation, what lessons from this deployment are most relevant for the UK market, where digital compliance requirements are also evolving?

    One of the key lessons is that operators don’t want more tools — they want fewer, better-integrated ones. In Poland, the biggest value came from eliminating the need for external GPS devices and separate applications, while still meeting strict regulatory requirements. That principle applies equally in the UK. As digital compliance frameworks evolve, success will depend on how seamlessly these requirements can be integrated into existing workflows. If compliance becomes invisible — something that just happens in the background — then adoption becomes much easier and the value becomes immediate.

    UK fleets often rely on a mix of legacy systems and aftermarket solutions—how significant is the shift toward fully integrated, in-vehicle compliance tools in terms of cost savings, uptime, and driver experience?

    It’s a fundamental shift. Aftermarket solutions typically introduce additional hardware, installation time, maintenance, and points of failure. They also create a fragmented experience for drivers, who may need to manage multiple devices or interfaces. By moving to an OEM-native solution, you eliminate those layers. There’s no additional hardware cost, no installation downtime, and far fewer integration challenges. From a driver’s perspective, everything is accessible through a familiar interface. From an operator’s perspective, that means lower total cost of ownership and improved fleet uptime.

    From a broader transportation perspective, how do you see embedded compliance and connectivity platforms reshaping fleet management, safety, and operational efficiency across the UK logistics ecosystem?

    We see this as part of a broader transition toward software-defined vehicles. Compliance is just one entry point, but once you have a secure, connected platform in the vehicle, you can layer in additional services— everything from safety features to operational analytics. For UK fleets, that means moving from reactive management to real-time, data-driven decision-making. It improves safety by ensuring regulatory adherence, enhances efficiency through better visibility, and creates opportunities to optimize routes, reduce emissions, and improve overall performance.

    Following the successful proof-of-value project with Volvo Trucks and the planned evaluation of additional commercial markets in 2026, what are AiDEN’s priorities for expansion into the UK and other European markets, and what criteria determine where you scale next?

    The success of the initial project has validated both the technology and the business case, which is why we are now moving into the next phase to evaluate additional markets. Our expansion strategy is guided by a few key factors: the level of regulatory complexity, the digital maturity of the market, and the presence of strong OEM and fleet partnerships. The UK is naturally a market of interest because of its scale and the operational challenges fleets are facing today. Ultimately, our goal is to bring the same value we’ve demonstrated in Poland — simplifying compliance and reducing operational friction — to fleets across Europe, adapting to each market’s specific regulatory environment while maintaining a consistent, integrated user experience.

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      The Hidden Cost of Disjointed Orchestration https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/the-hidden-cost-of-disjointed-orchestration/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:27:59 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66203 When do small frictions reveal structural problems? Is there a fragmentation tax and a hidden cost of disjointed orchestration in the supply chain? Dima Karlinsky (pictured, below), Chief Business Officer at Unilog SC, explains. There’s a moment in every critical Service Level Agreement (SLA) parts network where something small reveals something structural. A part misses […]

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      When do small frictions reveal structural problems? Is there a fragmentation tax and a hidden cost of disjointed orchestration in the supply chain? Dima Karlinsky (pictured, below), Chief Business Officer at Unilog SC, explains.

      There’s a moment in every critical Service Level Agreement (SLA) parts network where something small reveals something structural. A part misses a four-hour SLA not because it wasn’t in the country, but because no one was quite sure who owned the handoff. A shipment sits at customs while teams debate who the Importer of Record should have been. Two regions quietly increase safety stock on the same SKU ‘just to be safe’. An escalation call includes five organisations and no single line of accountability.

      Nothing catastrophic. Just friction. Individually, these moments look operational. Together, they are architectural.

      How Fragmentation Creeps In

      Global service parts networks rarely begin fragmented. They evolve that way. A regional specialist is added to close a performance gap. A repair partner shortens turnaround time. A trade advisor manages compliance complexity. A 4PL layer is introduced to connect it all.

      Each decision is rational. Often necessary. But over time, orchestration becomes layered rather than unified. In high-availability environments such as cybersecurity infrastructure, optical networks, data centres and medical systems, that layering begins to create hidden costs.

      Where the Costs Appear

      Fragmentation first shows up in inventory. When regions operate with partial visibility of each other’s positioning, they hedge. The US carries stock to protect its SLA exposure. Europe does the same. APAC does the same again. Individually, the decisions make sense. At the network level, they inflate safety stock, tying up working capital in duplicated buffers that exist purely to compensate for uncertainty.

      It also distorts performance reporting. One provider starts the SLA clock at dispatch, another at delivery attempt. Reverse logistics is measured separately from forward fulfilment. Dashboards appear aligned until volatility hits, and suddenly, no one can reconcile where the delay actually occurred.

      Trade governance becomes another pressure point. In global service networks, customs clearance is not a back-office activity; it is part of the uptime system. When Importer of Record responsibilities shift between providers or vary by region, ambiguity creeps in. A customs hold under a four-hour SLA is no longer just a compliance issue. It becomes a service outage.

      Reverse flows create their own consequences. Repairable assets moving across borders without unified visibility become what operators quietly call ‘dark inventory’. The asset exists somewhere in the network but cannot be deployed when it is needed. The forward network compensates the only way it can, by carrying more stock.

      When problems escalate, fragmentation becomes most visible. In multi-provider models, root cause rarely sits neatly in one organisation. Escalations move sideways before they move forward. Accountability becomes sequential rather than simultaneous. Under stable conditions, the system absorbs that latency. Under disruption, including tariffs, geopolitical shifts and capacity shocks, the latency becomes exposure.

      The Fragmentation Tax

      Multi-provider strategies are often adopted to reduce concentration risk. That logic makes sense.
      But in high-SLA service environments, fragmentation introduces a different risk: coordination failure.
      When orchestration is disjointed, the network begins paying what might be called a fragmentation tax, in duplicated inventory, premium freight, delayed recovery times and the growing overhead required simply to keep the system aligned.


      The tax rarely appears on a single P&L line. It accumulates quietly across buffers, expediting, working capital and management attention.

      A Different Question

      As global service networks expand and trade regimes tighten, leaders are starting to ask different questions. Not ‘Are our providers performing?’ but ‘Is our orchestration structurally unified?’, because in high-availability service networks, architecture is no longer just an operational choice. It is a resilience strategy. Every network pays for its design. The only question is whether the cost is visible.

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      Emergency Multimodal Solutions Deployed for UAE https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/ports-maritime/emergency-multimodal-solutions-deployed-for-uae/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:35:23 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66187 Given the situation in the Middle East and restrictions affecting maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, CMA CGM says its top priority remains the safety of its crews and employees. In this context of significant navigational constraints, the company is mobilizing to support its customers’ supply chains and ensure continuity of trade to and […]

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      Given the situation in the Middle East and restrictions affecting maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, CMA CGM says its top priority remains the safety of its crews and employees. In this context of significant navigational constraints, the company is mobilizing to support its customers’ supply chains and ensure continuity of trade to and from the Middle East.

      Leveraging the agility of its global network and its integrated logistics capabilities, the Group is deploying alternative multimodal solutions combining sea, rail, and road transport to maintain the smooth flow of logistics despite the situation in Hormuz.

      Secure logistics corridors via the United Arab Emirates: Located south of the Strait of Hormuz, Khor Fakkan, Fujairah, and Sohar serve as strategic entry points for Gulf-bound flows.

      From these ports, CMA CGM offers logistics corridors to serve:
      • The main hubs in the UAE (Khalifa, Jebel Ali, Sharjah)
      • Other countries bordering the Arabian Gulf via a combination of regional road and maritime transport

      This multimodal organization ensures continuity and efficiency of supply chains in the region.

      Alternative road corridor via Saudi Arabia

      The port of Jeddah on the Red Sea also provides an alternative to passing through the Strait of Hormuz. From Jeddah, CMA CGM has established road corridors, with or without maritime connections, for onward delivery to Saudi Arabia (Dammam), the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq. This setup also allows flows to connect to the Mediterranean and Asia without exposure to the strait.

      Complementary road solution via Oman

      CMA CGM also leverages Omani ports to provide a third major alternative road route. These ports enable road connections to the UAE and northern Gulf countries combining road and feeder services, offering a reliable alternative for regional and cross-border flows.

      Through this setup, CMA CGM aims to use its ability to manage geopolitical risks and provide robust, flexible, and secure logistics solutions in support of international trade.

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      Supply Chain Solutions to the UK Defence Sector https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/supply-chain-solutions-to-the-uk-defence-sector/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 10:21:39 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66153 Amentum, a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions, GXO Logistics, Inc., the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, Accenture, a leading global solutions and services company, and A.P.Moller – Maersk, the world’s largest integrated supply chain provider, have today announced a new alliance, Torus Defence Supply Chain, to help strengthen the future […]

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      Amentum, a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative technology solutions, GXO Logistics, Inc., the world’s largest pure-play contract logistics provider, Accenture, a leading global solutions and services company, and A.P.Moller – Maersk, the world’s largest integrated supply chain provider, have today announced a new alliance, Torus Defence Supply Chain, to help strengthen the future of the UK defence sector.

      Torus will provide resilient, agile and integrated defence supply chain solutions, helping the UK defence sector adapt to the evolving threat landscape and build the agile capacity required to enhance sovereign capability.

      Designed to help address the UK Government policy shift to readiness, visibility and data exploitation, Torus draws on alliance members’ proven capabilities and mission-critical expertise in military domain, procurement and supply chain. The alliance is underpinned by a shared commitment of collaboration, compliance and continuous improvement to solve complex challenges in the UK defence market.

      Amentum will provide overall integration and programme management based on more than 60 years of support to UK defence operations, procurement, logistics support, programme/project delivery and transformation. Its global expertise, built over decades of defence, aerospace and national security experience in the USA and UK, ensures interoperability with allied sustainment systems and proven global buying power. Last September, Amentum announced plans to add another 3,000 people to its current UK workforce of more than 6,000 over the next four years.

      • GXO will develop and operate innovative logistics solutions, leveraging its more than two decades of experience partnering with leading aerospace and defence organisations. With A&D operations spanning more than 30 global sites, GXO recently bolstered its UK defence capabilities through the acquisition of Wincanton, a longstanding trusted partner to the UK defence and industrial sector. GXO currently employs more than 60,000 team members across 450 sites in the UK and is a Gold Award level member of the UK’s Defence Employer recognition scheme for its work with the Armed Forces.

      Accenture will lead digital reinvention with a core role to deliver digital enablement and integrated decision support capability. Accenture’s deep experience of defence logistics information systems and digital transformation will enable real-time, single-version-of-the-truth visibility and smarter, data and AI-powered decision making that balance readiness, cost and resilience.

      Maersk will provide global integrated movement solutions utilising its extensive network across multiple modes to enable global reach ensuring compliance with stringent security standards for defence and government cargo whilst ensuring the scale of its owned assets provide agility and resilience to allow defence to plan and react to a changing need.

      Loren Jones, Amentum Senior Vice President, said: “Our combined global reach and military domain experience, specifically Amentum’s proven success in deployed logistics and integrating complex systems for the U.S. Government, perfectly aligns with the UK Defence sector’s requirement for future operational resilience and it’s imperative to move beyond systems optimised for just-in-time to ones of assured readiness and global reach.” 

      Gavin Williams, Managing Director, GXO UK & Ireland, said: “The defence sector is tasked with responding to dynamic global challenges which has created substantial demands on its supply chains. GXO’s proven capability in the global defence sector optimises efficiency and builds resilience in complex supply chains, providing leading defence organisations with the assurance they will have the adaptive capacity required to deliver with confidence.”

      Mark Smith, EMEA Defence Lead at Accenture, said: “This alliance brings together unmatched expertise in logistics systems and data-driven digital transformation – enabling scalable, interoperable solutions that enhance mission readiness. Accenture’s deep defence logistics knowledge and cutting-edge digital capabilities, refined through working with over 20 NATO countries, can help ensure operational continuity and resilience in complex global environments.”

      Beyond focusing on supporting UK sovereign mission readiness, the alliance is committed to investing in UK infrastructure, contributing to economic growth and fostering digital skills in local communities.

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      Yard Management for Smaller Logistics Facilities https://logisticsbusiness.com/it-in-logistics/tms-telematics/yard-management-for-smaller-logistics-facilities/ Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:17:37 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66098 INFORM software has announced the launch of ‘YMSlite’, an entry-level yard, dock, and gate management solution for small to mid-sized warehouses, distribution centres, carrier and container yards, 3PLs, and manufacturing sites with yard operations. The easy-to-use software gives operators a straightforward way to organize and monitor yard operations in real time. In many smaller facilities, […]

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      INFORM software has announced the launch of ‘YMSlite’, an entry-level yard, dock, and gate management solution for small to mid-sized warehouses, distribution centres, carrier and container yards, 3PLs, and manufacturing sites with yard operations. The easy-to-use software gives operators a straightforward way to organize and monitor yard operations in real time.

      In many smaller facilities, yard operations remain one of the least digitized areas in the supply chain. Trucks wait at the gate, dock doors are occupied longer than necessary, and teams rely on phone calls, radios, and manual lists to keep track of trailers and containers. This leads to unnecessary dwell times, higher detention and demurrage costs, and a constant risk of miscommunication between warehouse staff, transport partners, and gate personnel.

      “In Europe, a lot of everyday yard operations still run on clipboards, spreadsheets, and local knowledge,” says Gary Van Tassel, Director of Sales for Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics at INFORM. “At the same time, customers feel growing pressure from rising transportation costs, driver shortages, and increasing service expectations. YMSlite gives small and mid-sized facilities a practical way to gain control over their yards. With real-time visibility, better dock planning, and fewer surprises at the gate. Without the overhead of a big system implementation.”

      Yard, dock, and gate in one platform

      As a standalone system, YMSlite combines yard, dock, and gate operations in a single web-based application. Operations teams can configure their yard layout – including parking spots, docks, and bulk areas – and track trailers, containers, and chassis in real time. A live yard overview shows where each unit is located and for how long it has been there, allowing teams to reduce search times and act early when dwell times become critical.

      Within the application, users can assign equipment to doors, block and unblock locations, and move trailers between parking slots and docks. Gate staff benefit from a clear overview of expected arrivals and departures and can mark check-in and check-out directly in the system, linking each truck to the relevant unit and yard location. A compact KPI view provides insights into yard occupancy, dock utilization, gate activity, and dwell times to support data-driven decisions.

      Built for smaller facilities – fast start, low risk

      YMSlite is tailored for small and mid-sized warehouses, distribution centres, carrier and container yards, 3PLs, and manufacturing sites that need professional yard management without the complexity of enterprise systems. The user interface is intentionally simple and immediately understandable for operational teams on the ground – so users can get started without extensive training. Setup is equally straightforward: new sites can be configured within 30 minutes, enabling teams to work with the software quickly and productively. Fully cloud-based, YMSlite can be implemented directly without dedicated IT projects or in-depth IT know-how.

      YMSlite is offered with a transparent subscription model, with a flat monthly rate and no hidden fees or long-term commitments. A free trial of 15 days allows interested companies to test the solution with their own data and processes before making a decision.

      “Over the past decades, INFORM has built a strong portfolio for complex logistics operations all over the world,” says Karsten Schumacher, Product Manager YMSlite, Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics at INFORM.

      “With YMSlite, we are deliberately extending this portfolio to smaller logistics facilities. Many of these sites face the same visibility and efficiency challenges as large operations but have lacked a solution that fits their scale and resources. YMSlite closes exactly this gap and allows us to support customers from small businesses through to global enterprises with the right level of functionality in each case.”

      Developed with and for smaller logistics facilities

      During customer pilots of YMSlite, companies were able to replace paper-based yard lists and manual gate logs with a shared digital view of all trailers, docks, and appointments. Participants reported faster access to information, fewer misunderstandings between staff, and more predictable yard flows, particularly during peak periods.

      “YMSlite has been a clear step up from working in Excel. The interface is clean, the system is easy to understand, and we were up and running in about five minutes. Cloud access means we can reach the same up-to-date information from anywhere and don’t have to worry about different file versions. If you’re looking for a straightforward, more structured alternative to spreadsheets, I’d recommend giving YMSlite a try,” says a Warehouse Manager for a leading regional 3PL and YMSlite Beta User.

      Ongoing feedback from beta users continues to shape the product’s evolution. Upcoming enhancements in analytics and reporting will expand the system’s capabilities without compromising its intuitive, user-friendly design.

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      Charging Challenges Stalling Fleet Electrification https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/lorries-vans-trailers/charging-challenges-stalling-fleet-electrification/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:53:19 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66073 A commercial vehicle rental specialist has launched a new whitepaper looking at why charging infrastructure is holding back electric vehicle adoption across the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector. The ‘Charging Ahead’ whitepaper, based on data from Dawsongroup’s EV Readiness Survey of fleet operators across the UK, uncovers a disconnect between perceived readiness and actual implementation.While […]

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      A commercial vehicle rental specialist has launched a new whitepaper looking at why charging infrastructure is holding back electric vehicle adoption across the light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector.

      The ‘Charging Ahead’ whitepaper, based on data from Dawsongroup’s EV Readiness Survey of fleet operators across the UK, uncovers a disconnect between perceived readiness and actual implementation.
      While 53% of respondents believe their premises are suitable for EV charging infrastructure, only 27% have actually installed chargers on site. Meanwhile, 47% remain either unsure of their suitability or consider their premises unsuitable altogether.

      In the report driving range is identified as the most important factor in EV selection for fleet managers (42%). For micro fleets running between one and ten vehicles, a single van falling short on range can throw an entire day’s operations into disarray.

      “For smaller fleets, every vehicle is a workhorse. If one can’t deliver the expected range, it disrupts the entire operation,” said Sarah Gray (pictured, below), Head of ZEV Strategy and Development at Dawsongroup vans. Charging speed is also highlighted as a day-to-day challenge. Unlike private EVs, commercial vans run to tight schedules where slow charging translates directly into lost productivity. The whitepaper maintains that faster charging infrastructure is key to keeping vehicles on the road, with drivers able to top up during breaks rather than waiting for a full charge.

      The findings show that 59% of drivers take their vehicles home overnight, which can create challenges around charging consistency and cost control.

      “When vehicles are dispersed overnight, businesses lose control over charging consistency and cost management. It becomes harder to monitor energy usage and ensure vehicles are ready for the next day,” says Gray.

      Despite 41% of fleets parking vehicles at their business premises overnight, on-site charging adoption remains surprisingly low. The whitepaper suggests that many businesses underestimate what installation involves.

      “Many businesses underestimate the complexity of installation,” says Simon Ridley, Managing Director at Dawsongroup vans. “From assessing electrical capacity to managing costs and planning for future scalability. It’s not just about buying chargers; it’s about integrating them into the business model.”

      The whitepaper recommends a practical, phased approach, starting with temporary or mobile charging solutions, carrying out site assessments to understand power availability, and building an infrastructure that can grow with the fleet.

      The experts at Dawsongroup vans encourage businesses to combine real world vehicle trials and telematics to test EV performance against actual route demands, rather than just relying on manufacturer figures.

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      Windsor Framework Freight Discussions https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/windsor-framework-freight-discussions/ https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/windsor-framework-freight-discussions/#comments Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:31:00 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66043 The British International Freight Association (BIFA) recently met with representatives from the European Commission in Brussels to discuss the operation of the Windsor Framework and its impact on the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The meeting formed part of ongoing engagement between industry and policymakers to assess how the post-Brexit trading […]

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      The British International Freight Association (BIFA) recently met with representatives from the European Commission in Brussels to discuss the operation of the Windsor Framework and its impact on the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

      The meeting formed part of ongoing engagement between industry and policymakers to assess how the post-Brexit trading arrangements are functioning in practice and to identify areas where processes could be improved for freight forwarders and their customers.

      Representing BIFA was Pawel Jarza from the association’s Policy and Compliance team, who highlighted the operational realities faced by members when moving goods across the Irish Sea. While the Windsor Framework has simplified certain procedures, such as removing the requirement for export declarations on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, freight forwarders continue to navigate a complex trading environment.

      Key challenges discussed included the need to operate between two tariff regimes and determine whether goods are considered ‘at risk’ of entering the EU market. Additional requirements, including safety and security declarations and the implementation of systems such as Import Control System 2 (ICS2), also contribute to the complexity of border processes.

      The discussion also addressed issues surrounding the movement of small parcels and lower-value consignments, where the detailed provisions of the framework can create practical difficulties for operators.

      BIFA used the meeting to relay feedback from its members and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue between industry and regulators to ensure the framework works as effectively as possible.
      Commenting after the meeting, Jarza encouraged members that trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland to continue sharing their experiences.

      “Freight forwarders operate at this border every day and have first-hand knowledge of what works and what does not,” he said. “If members encounter systemic issues, it is important that they let us know so we can raise these with government departments and the European Commission, and where possible propose practical solutions.”

      BIFA will continue to gather feedback through its regional engagement in Northern Ireland and ongoing discussions with members to support improvements to the operation of the Windsor Framework.

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      Globalisation Holds Firm, US and China Decouple https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/globalisation-holds-firm-us-and-china-decouple/ Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:11:36 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=66016 Globalisation remains at a historically high level – despite escalating geopolitical tensions, rising U.S. tariffs, and unprecedented uncertainty about future trade policies. This is one of the key findings of the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026, released today by DHL and New York University’s Stern School of Business. Based on more than 9 million data […]

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      Globalisation remains at a historically high level – despite escalating geopolitical tensions, rising U.S. tariffs, and unprecedented uncertainty about future trade policies. This is one of the key findings of the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026, released today by DHL and New York University’s Stern School of Business. Based on more than 9 million data points tracking international flows of trade, capital, information, and people, the report offers the most comprehensive view of globalisation available.

      The report tracks globalisation on a scale from 0% (no cross-border flows) to 100% (borders and distance have no impact). The world’s level of globalisation was 25% in 2025, in line with the record high set in 2022.

      Globalisation is holding its ground – and that alone speaks volumes about its value… From poverty to climate change, the world’s biggest challenges can only be solved through global thinking. The DHL Global Connectedness Report shows that countries and companies are not retreating behind national borders. That is good news. We strengthen global ties by connecting markets, businesses, and people so they can adapt, diversify, and unlock new opportunities – even in uncertain times.

      said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express.

      At the same time, today’s globalisation level of 25% underlines how far the world is from being fully globalised. In many areas, international flows could expand further in the absence of policy constraints.

      AI boom and race to beat tariff hikes fueled trade in 2025

      Global trade grew faster in 2025 than in any year since 2017, excluding the volatile Covid-19 period. U.S. importers accelerated shipments early in the year ahead of tariff increases. U.S. imports later dropped below prior-year levels, but rising Chinese exports to non-U.S. markets helped sustain global trade volumes. Trade in AI-related goods surged as countries and companies raced to build AI infrastructure. AI-related products drove 42% of goods trade growth in the first three quarters of 2025, according to WTO figures.

      Trade outlook: growth continues, even with higher tariffs

      Looking ahead, recent U.S. tariff increases are expected to modestly slow trade growth in 2026 – but not stop it. Global goods trade is projected to expand by an average of 2.6% per year through 2029, in line with the past decade. One reason trade can keep growing despite U.S. tariff hikes is that most trade does not involve the U.S. In 2025, 13% of imports went to the U.S., and 9% of exports came from the U.S. In addition, many countries are pursuing new trade agreements to secure access to alternative markets.

      Information flows face barriers, people flows reach new highs

      Beyond trade, the report finds diverging trends across other international flows:

      • Capital: There is no broad shift of investment from foreign to domestic markets. Multinational firms still earn near-record shares of sales abroad. While announced greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) fell in 2025, overall FDI flows rose, and cross-border M&A activity remained resilient.
      • Information: Over the past two decades, information flows delivered the largest globalisation gains. Since 2021, growth has slowed and become more volatile. Geopolitical tensions and restrictions on data flows may now be materially limiting the globalisation of information.
      • People: After collapsing during the Covid-19 pandemic, people flows have fully recovered. The latest data show international travel, student mobility, and migration all at record highs.

      Singapore leads country ranking, Europe tops regions

      In the report’s country ranking, Singapore again ranks as the world’s most globalised nation, followed by Luxembourg and the Netherlands.

      Europe is the most globalised region, followed by North America and the Middle East & North Africa. The United Kingdom has the most broadly distributed flows worldwide. The United Arab Emirates recorded the largest increase in globalisation since 2001.

      U.S.–China tensions affect only small share of global flows

      The report also finds that ties between the world’s two largest economies – the U.S. and China – continue to weaken. However, these ties are surprisingly small in a global perspective. For example, trade between the U.S. and China accounted for 3.6% of world trade at its peak in 2015, before falling to 2.7% in 2024 and to only 2.0% during the first three quarters of 2025. The U.S.–China share of international business investment is even smaller – less than 1% in 2025.

      No global split into rival blocs

      Even as the U.S. and China decouple, most countries continue to engage with their longstanding partners. Over the past decade, only 4–6% of global goods trade, greenfield FDI, and cross-border M&A have shifted away from geopolitical rivals. Of these flows, most have not moved to close allies but to countries with flexible geopolitical positions, such as India and Vietnam. Overall, the world economy remains far from a broad split into rival blocs.

      The politics and policy surrounding globalisation are much more volatile than the actual flows between countries… “Global trade patterns changed more in 2025 than they do in a typical year, but less than they did during other recent disruptions such as the early stages of the war in Ukraine. Sound decision-making requires a calibrated view of how much global business ties are really changing. The risks to globalisation are real, but so is the resilience of global flows.

      said Prof. Steven A. Altman, Director of the DHL Initiative on Globalisation at NYU Stern’s Centre for the Future of Management.

      Traded goods and greenfield FDI reach record distances

      Geopolitical tensions and supply chain concerns have led many observers to expect a shift from globalisation to regionalization. In 2025, however, traded goods travelled the longest average distance on record (5,010 kilometres). The average distance for greenfield FDI projects also rose to a new high (6,250 kilometres). Most other international flows are stretching over longer distances as well, and longer distances indicate less regionalization. Predictions of a broad move from global to regional business have not materialized – at least not yet.

      Published regularly since 2011, the DHL Global Connectedness Report provides reliable insights on globalisation by analysing 14 types of international trade, capital, information, and people flows. The 2026 edition is based on more than 9 million data points. It ranks the connectedness of 180 countries, accounting for 99.6 percent of global gross domestic product and 99.0 percent of the world’s population. A set of 180 one-page country profiles summarizes each country’s pattern of globalisation.

      Read the full report here.

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      Modern-Day Moving Truck https://logisticsbusiness.com/magazine-features/modern-day-moving-truck/ Fri, 06 Mar 2026 14:19:47 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=65916 Logistics Business takes a closer look at a ‘workhorse’ truck behind corporate headquarter relocations. While it may have escaped your attention, more and more companies in have decided to pack it up and ship out to a new and different destination. The commercial real estate industry was upended by the pandemic, with offices clearing out […]

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      Logistics Business takes a closer look at a ‘workhorse’ truck behind corporate headquarter relocations.

      While it may have escaped your attention, more and more companies in have decided to pack it up and ship out to a new and different destination. The commercial real estate industry was upended by the pandemic, with offices clearing out to accommodate the safety and convenience of a new generation of home-based ‘remote’ workers. This mass migration, in turn, triggered a wave of chaotic leasing activity that continues buzzing to this day.

      There is well-sourced data from Atlas Van Lines’ recent annual corporate relocation survey, which dates back more than five decades. Among the interesting findings in 2025:

      • 63% of respondents shared that they intend to bolster their relocation budgets
      • The primary driver of corporate relocations is economic conditions (50%)
      • Half of all respondents chose to remain in place rather than consider a move
      • Nearly a third of all respondents reported a relocation decision in their immediate future

      While some corporate relocations are worthy of splashy headlines, there is an unsung hero working behind the scenes to make it happen – the modern-day moving truck. Noting it’s time for a closer look,
      Logistics Business reached out to a company for an up-close and personal look at the workhorse of office moves. Move Solutions, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is one of the country’s leading corporate relocators, having completed major cross-country transitions for Fortune 500 companies such as Toyota USA, Wells Fargo, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that their home base of operations also happens to be the top-rated destination city for HQ relocations.

      A Guided Tour…

      Kurt Fox, director of operations for Move Solutions, provided us with a thorough overview of their transportation standard-bearer for corporate relocations – the Penske 22’ Commercial Box Truck. There are 41 of these trucks in the company’s combined transportation fleet, which also includes twenty-five 14-person passenger vans, ten 18’ cube vans, two 16’ cube vans, and one max-length 53’ tractor trailer for hauling the really big stuff.

      Move Solutions’ vibrant, candy apple red truck cabs seat a crew of five comfortably, and the design is actually patterned after modern-day pump truck-style fire engines for maximum space and efficiency. As for precise specifications, these trucks have body dimension measurements that are 91” high, 102” wide, and interior cargo walls that feature 3/8” plywood lining. They also come standard with a 4000 lb. rail lift, air ride suspension, a double e-track cargo system, interior cargo lighting, and an exhaust regeneration system.

      The payload capacity is rated for up to 17,000 lbs., and the trucks feature a 70-gallon diesel fuel tank, with an overall gross vehicle weight of 16.5 tons. As for the engine that powers these beasts, the Penske 22’ Commercial Box Trucks typically operate on a platform that boasts a 6.0-liter V-8 that produce a robust 350hp, rated at 373 lb.-ft of torque, and are capable of getting about 10-12 miles per gallon. Transmissions are six-speed automatic. Despite this awesome display of horsepower and hauling capacity, these trucks are still certified as clean idle vehicles.

      Hauling the Mail

      When it comes to sheer cargo volume, the Penske 22’ Commercial Box Trucks are capable of hauling up to 10 standard size moving pallets. These are commonly loaded with typical office furnishings such as decommissioned workstations and cubicles, executive desks and task seating, filing systems (with lateral files), IT racks and server cabinets, and other assets.

      Corporate relocations are almost always conducted out-of-sight, during off-peak hours where most employees remain blissfully unaware of just how much planning and logistics are involved behind the scenes of your typical office move. Somewhere, some place – perhaps even going on at this moment – a company employing thousands of workers is on the move – stealthily shifting headquarters from Point A to Point B. When it comes to office relocations, Move Solutions CEO Michael Monette likes to describe the process this way:

      “We take you out of business. Then put you back in business. And we’ve never failed at that task.”

      That task is comprehensive, complex, and every little detail of an office relocation matters, down to the last bookcase, coat rack, and fake plant. But hopefully, you now have a much better idea of the standard-bearing workhorse trucks that make the magic happen in the midst of controlled chaos.

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      New Livery for Logistics Firm https://logisticsbusiness.com/transport-distribution/road-transport-haulage/new-livery-for-logistics-firm/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:33:36 +0000 https://logisticsbusiness.com/?p=65843 The Dartford, Kent, main distribution hub and transit gateway for British logistics operator Europa Worldwide Group saw the unveiling yesterday of the company’s new corporate livery and logo, timed to mark the 60th anniversary of the business. CEO Andrew Baxter, pictured below, talked guests through the reasons for the change and the recent progress the […]

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      The Dartford, Kent, main distribution hub and transit gateway for British logistics operator Europa Worldwide Group saw the unveiling yesterday of the company’s new corporate livery and logo, timed to mark the 60th anniversary of the business.

      CEO Andrew Baxter, pictured below, talked guests through the reasons for the change and the recent progress the company has made. ‘Powered by better’ is the motto and ethos for the company going forward, as Baxter laid out a strategy to establish Europa as the leading logistics operator for moving goods between the UK and EU. “We win by our customer’s success and through marginal gains,” Baxter said, referencing progress made despite inevitable ‘growing pains’ since he acquired the company a decade ago.

      Europa Worldwide Group hosted industry leaders, journalists and broadcasters at its Kent headquarters for the official launch of its new strategy, alongside the unveiling of liveried vehicles. Celebrating its diamond anniversary, the proudly independent logistics provider launches a new brand identity and company manifesto: ‘Powered by Better.’ The refresh signals a new era of expansion for the Kent-based firm, which has quadrupled in size over the last 13 years and has expanded its Air & Sea freight and 3PL Warehousing divisions, despite increasing global economic volatility.

      A Model for Frictionless Trade

      Since the implementation of post-Brexit trade rules in 2020, Europa’s road freight division (it’s largest) claims to have moved double the volume of goods of its nearest competitor, transporting £11.2bn worth of products between the UK and the EU. This achievement is anchored by ‘Europa Flow’, the company’s ‘frictionless’ delivery solution, powered by a proprietary software system, that eliminates customs delays for SMEs and global corporations alike. Europa’s customers credit Europa Flow with ensuring their businesses continued operating smoothly during a period of acute disruption.

      “The last six years have been a litmus test for the UK logistics sector,” said Baxter, CEO and Owner of Europa Worldwide Group. “While others saw obstacles, we built bridges. Moving £11bn worth of goods in such a complex climate proves that with the right innovation, British exporters remain resilient and competitive.”

      The ‘Powered by Better’ Manifesto

      The new brand identity, featuring striking new vehicle livery, emblazoned in Europa’s recognisable red and white colourway, is more than a visual update. It represents a commitment to delivering three core pillars, which the company unveils today: ‘Smarter Solutions’, to ‘Wow every Customer’, and ‘Always Win on Value’.

      “‘Powered by Better’ perfectly communicates our DNA,” Baxter continued. “In logistics, you cannot settle for second best. We work relentlessly to find the marginal gains that give our customers a market-leading edge. As we celebrate 60 years since our founding in 1966, we aren’t just looking back at our heritage —we are asserting our role as the company-of-choice for the next generation of global traders.”

      Global Expansion & Innovation

      From its roots as the first express service provider to Europe, Europa now employs 1,300 people across 30 global sites and operates in 160 countries. The group’s diversified portfolio comprises:

      ● Europa Road: Offering a unique Money Back Guarantee on European freight.
      ● Europa Warehouse: Managing over one million sq. ft. of automated and manual fulfilment 3PL space in Corby, Dartford, and Birmingham.
      ● Europa Air & Sea: Rapidly expanding with strategic hubs in Hong Kong, China, the UAE, India and the UK.

      With its own dedicated customs specialists, bonded warehousing and global end-to-end air and sea supply chain expertise, Europa Worldwide Group is well positioned as the UK’s trade strategy focus shifts towards emerging markets.

      “We have 60 years of experience as our foundation and a family of employees committed to delivering for customers no matter the challenge that confronts them,” concluded Baxter. “Whether it’s moving goods across the Channel Tunnel or the South China Sea, we are ready for the next 60 years. We are Powered by Better.”

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