EFS will be open the following times over the Christmas break:-
Day | Date | Company Hours |
Thursday | 23/12/2021 | Normal Working Hours |
Friday | 24/12/2021 | Close at 2pm |
Saturday | 25/12/2021 | CLOSED |
Sunday | 26/12/2021 | CLOSED |
Monday | 27/12/2021 | CLOSED |
Tuesday | 28/12/2021 | CLOSED |
Wednesday | 29/12/2021 | Normal Working Hours |
Thursday | 30/12/2021 | Normal Working Hours |
Friday | 31/12/2021 | Close at 2pm |
Saturday | 01/01/2022 | CLOSED |
Sunday | 02/01/2022 | CLOSED |
Monday | 03/01/2021 | CLOSED |
Tuesday | 04/01/2021 | Normal Working Hours |
Kindly note no out of hours coverage will be provided over this period.
The last day for standard export air freight collections & airline deliveries is Friday 17th December.*
For UK port timings please contact your customer service agent. Driver shortages persist for container deliveries, also many lines will still not allow restitution of empties at port of arrival Felixstowe and Gateway.
For courier timings please see respective integrator website.
European road groupage hauliers last collections for export deliveries the week of Christmas day (subject to recipient timings) are typically:-
Near Europe (Benelux, Germany, France, Denmark) Wednesday 15th ;
Eastern Europe (Finland, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Baltics, Croatia etc) Thursday 9th.
Due to the limitations imposed on us by our transit guarantor, Transit Documents (T1) will not be available after 1200 GMT on the 24th and 31st of December.
All other business days will operate as normal, in accordance with our published opening hours above.
*Covid capacity issues aside, we are in peak season, the cargo warehouses have manpower difficulties against high workload, the largest airfreight groupage trucker on the airport asks for a minimum of 48hours to RHD and screen cargo for onward delivery to airlines – please plan shipments accordingly, expect delays and probable waiting time surcharges at the airline bonds due to the long queues. Book AM collections where possible for a surcharge to ensure your cargo is collected on the specified day without issues as road conditions deteriorate.
Between 29th December and 31st December, when open, EFS will have skeleton staff. Transport options will be extremely limited.
Between 20th December and 4th January all airfreight export collections / import deliveries will be by special vehicle only, POA.
To all EFS customers: Festive Greetings, thank you for your valued support in 2021 and wishing you a successful 2021!
WISHING YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR – from The EFS leadership team
- Streamlining Your Shipping Operations in 2023. BLOG
Streamlining Your Shipping Operations in 2023 Executive Freight Services Ltd April 26, 2023 2023 has seen the global economy continue to evolve, with customer expectations and technological advancements pushing businesses to adapt and innovate. In this fast-paced environment, streamlining shipping operations has become critical to maintaining a competitive edge. In this article, we explore the various strategies and technologies that can help businesses optimise their shipping processes, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Adopting Advanced Technology Solutions Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionising the shipping industry, allowing businesses to reduce manual labour, increase efficiency, and enhance accuracy. From automating data entry to implementing robotic sorting systems, businesses can leverage these technologies to streamline their shipping operations. AI-powered predictive analytics can also help optimise shipping routes and schedules, ensuring timely delivery and reducing fuel consumption. The Power of IoT Devices and Real-Time Tracking The Internet of Things (IoT) has opened up new possibilities for shipping operations. IoT devices such as sensors, GPS trackers, and smart containers can provide real-time data on cargo location, temperature, and other vital parameters. This enables businesses to monitor their shipments closely, ensuring timely delivery and better managing potential issues. Real-time tracking also improves customer satisfaction by allowing them to track their orders with greater accuracy. Harnessing Blockchain Technology for Transparent Supply Chains Blockchain technology has the potential to transform shipping operations by providing a secure, decentralised, and transparent record of transactions. This can help streamline supply chains by enabling real-time data sharing, reducing paperwork, and minimising the risk of fraud. Blockchain can also facilitate better collaboration between different stakeholders in the shipping process, such as suppliers, carriers, and customers, ultimately improving efficiency and reducing costs. Optimising Packaging and Warehousing Strategies Eco-friendly packaging materials not only reduce environmental impact but can also lower shipping costs by minimising weight and volume. Lightweight materials such as recycled cardboard, biodegradable plastics, and plant-based packaging solutions can help businesses optimise their shipping processes while aligning with their sustainability goals. Utilising Smart Warehouse Solutions for Better Inventory Management Smart warehousing technology, such as automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), can greatly improve inventory management and reduce the time it takes to prepare shipments. Integrating warehouse management systems (WMS) with IoT devices enables real-time monitoring of inventory levels and more efficient use of warehouse space, ultimately streamlining the shipping process. Implementing Just-in-Time (JIT) Shipping Strategies Just-in-Time (JIT) shipping strategies aim to minimise inventory levels by delivering goods only when they are needed. This approach can help businesses reduce warehousing costs, improve cash flow, and reduce the risk of stock obsolescence. To implement JIT shipping, businesses must closely collaborate with their suppliers and carriers to ensure timely and efficient deliveries. Admittedly JIT is susceptible to issues during pandemics and associated Worldwide shipping capacity constraints. Enhancing Your Shipping Network Establishing strong relationships with shipping providers can help businesses access better rates, faster delivery times, and more flexible options. By partnering with multiple providers, businesses can also minimise the risk of disruptions and ensure a more reliable shipping service. EFS itself works with multiple overseas partners playing each to their own individual strengths. Exploring Multimodal Transport Options Multimodal transport involves using multiple modes of transportation (e.g., road, rail, sea, and air) to optimise the shipping process. This approach can help businesses reduce costs, increase efficiency, and minimise the environmental impact of their shipping operations. By leveraging different transport modes, businesses can also better navigate potential disruptions and delays in the supply chain. Expanding Global Reach with International Shipping Networks As businesses expand their operations globally, having access to reliable international shipping networks is crucial. This allows businesses to reach new markets, meet customer demands, and capitalise on growth opportunities. To expand their global reach, businesses should explore partnerships with international carriers and logistics providers, invest in local distribution centres, and familiarise themselves with regional regulations and customs requirements. Ensuring Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management Complying with international trade regulations is essential for businesses involved in global shipping. Understanding and adhering to import and export rules, tariffs, and customs requirements can help minimise potential delays, fines, and legal issues. Businesses should invest in robust compliance management systems and seek the guidance of experts in international trade to navigate these complex regulations. Implementing Robust Cybersecurity Measures As shipping operations become more digitised, the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches increases. Implementing strong cybersecurity measures, such as encrypting sensitive data, conducting regular security audits, and training employees on best practices, can help protect businesses from potential threats and ensure the integrity of their shipping processes. Employing Insurance and Risk Mitigation Strategies Shipping operations can be subject to various risks, such as natural disasters, political unrest, and cargo theft. To mitigate these risks, businesses should invest in comprehensive insurance coverage, conduct regular risk assessments, and develop contingency plans to minimise the impact of disruptions on their shipping operations. Prioritising Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility As the shipping industry continues to face growing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, businesses should prioritise reducing their carbon footprint. This can be achieved by adopting eco-friendly packaging materials, optimising shipping routes, investing in energy-efficient vehicles, and exploring renewable energy solutions for transportation and warehousing. Adopting Circular Economy Principles in Logistics Embracing circular economy principles in logistics can help businesses reduce waste, extend the lifecycle of products, and minimise their environmental footprint. This can involve practices such as refurbishing and recycling products, adopting reusable packaging, and promoting the sharing of resources and assets across the supply chain. The Role of Green Shipping in Corporate Social Responsibility Green shipping initiatives can play a crucial role in a business’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy. By prioritising sustainability, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to social and environmental responsibility, ultimately improving their reputation and fostering trust among customers, partners, and investors. Improving Customer Experience and Communication In today’s competitive market, meeting customer expectations is essential for success. Offering flexible shipping options, such as express delivery, in-store pickup, overseas warehousing and international shipping, can help businesses cater to diverse Read More
- Are you an XI EORI number holder?
Are you an XI EORI number holder? HMRC has released an announcement related to changes to come that will affect businesses holding XI EORI number’s. UK Businesses moving goods into or out of Northern Ireland need an Economic Operator’s Registration Identification (EORI) number starting with XI (the “XI EORI”). In order to qualify for an XI EORI, businesses need a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland. If a business does not have a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland, they can still move goods into Northern Ireland or the EU as long as they are using an ‘indirect representative’ who meets the criteria. Businesses using TSS (trader support service) can continue to do so. A permanent business establishment definition : “a fixed place of business, where both the necessary human and technical resources are permanently present and through which a person’s customs-related operations are wholly or partly carried out”. Businesses that do not have a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland may still be able to have an XI EORI to undertake limited customs activities within both Northern Ireland and the EU. Background of the XI EORI number Prior to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol on January 1st 2021, as a factor of Brexit, aiming to minimise disruption, HMRC auto-allocated XI EORI numbers to UK businesses that they identified as operating in Northern Ireland. However, at that time HMRC were not able to ascertain whether those businesses with a GB address also had a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland. Initially, any business registering for an XI EORI number with HMRC in early 2021, were not required to provide any information giving detail of whether they were a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland, nor to provide a reason their business might need an XI EORI. Later amended in September 2021, all applications now require evidence of establishment or an allowable reason to hold an XI EORI number. What are HMRC now doing? HMRC are reviewing all businesses with an XI EORI number, and a GB address, to identify whether they have a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland. If businesses do not have an establishment in Northern Ireland, HMRC will need to know if the business will still need their XI EORI number for specific activities. The scope of the validation and removal exercise relates to those XI EORIs that were issued between 1 January and 13 September 2021 and should bring those business in line with any who receive and XI EORI after September 2021. What are HMRC asking businesses to do? If a business has a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland, HMRC will ask them to provide evidence of the business establishment, which they will be able to upload via an online form on Gov.uk. If a business does not have a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland and does not have a need for their XI EORI they do not need to contact HMRC. HMRC will remove their XI EORI after 6 weeks from the date of the letter they are sent. Where a business does not have a permanent business establishment (PBE) in Northern Ireland, you will be asked to provide a reason why you need to keep their XI EORI. If HMRC do not hear from businesses within the timeframe they are given, HMRC will assume that they do not have a PBE in Northern Ireland and that they no longer require their XI EORI number. Timeline HMRC announced that they will be writing to businesses from Thursday 13 to Wednesday 26th April. Engagement with businesses is expected to continue into May, as HMRC processes the responses they receive. For more information about EORI numbers, their applicability and when you require once, please visit www.gov.uk/eori.
- Innovations And Sustainability In the UK Freight Industry
March 9, 2023 While there’s no denying the environmental impact of freight transport, there are many innovations and initiatives that are helping to reduce its carbon footprint. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of these advances and discuss how they’re helping to make the industry more sustainable. The UK freight industry is a vital part of the country’s economy, providing essential services for businesses and consumers alike. It is also one of the most competitive and dynamic sectors, with new technologies and innovations helping to drive efficiency and sustainability. This blog will explore some of the key issues facing the industry today, from environmental challenges to government initiatives and innovative solutions. It will also look at some of the benefits of investing in greener technologies, data innovations, and smart logistics systems. By understanding these issues, companies can gain a competitive edge by adopting the latest technology and sustainable practices. Overview of the UK Freight Sector The UK Logistics sector is a vital part of the country’s non-financial business economy, contributing 10% to its overall GDP. Freight transport is a private sector activity that has wider economic, social and environmental impacts. Despite the pressures brought on by globalisation and technological advances, the UK freight and logistics industry is poised to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% by 2027. The Government has launched a new fund to help small to medium-sized businesses develop greener and more efficient solutions for freight transport, as well as investing in smarter logistics systems. As such, it is important for businesses to be aware of the current and developing strategic plans for the UK transport sector in order to benefit from these initiatives and create sustainable solutions for freight transport in the UK. Environmental Challenges Facing the Industry The freight industry in the UK faces numerous environmental challenges, including emissions from road freight, which account for 77% of overall emissions from transport in the UK. The sector is also responsible for a third of total emissions from transport. To address these issues, the government has implemented various initiatives to support SMEs in developing sustainable solutions. This includes investing in green financing solutions, efficient and sustainable innovation, design, procurement and maintenance techniques. Additionally, innovative technologies are being scaled up and rolled out across the industry to improve journey times and reduce emissions. Data innovations can also be used to tackle environmental issues such as pollution and congestion by providing insights into how operations can be optimized for sustainability. Investing in smart logistics systems can further enhance efficiency and help reduce environmental impacts. Government Initiatives to Support SMEs The UK Government is making a significant investment in support of SMEs to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the freight industry. The freight innovation fund (FIF) provides £7 million in financial assistance for small and medium-sized enterprises to develop innovative approaches for reducing emissions and improving efficiency. This funding allows businesses to access the resources needed to explore new technologies, data solutions, and smart logistics systems for tackling environmental issues. It also provides a platform for businesses to collaborate and share their ideas, helping to create a more sustainable freight industry in the UK. Sustainable Solutions for Freight The £7 million fund launched to ‘green up’ the freight delivery process demonstrates the government’s commitment to making the UK freight industry more sustainable. The fund will be used to invest in innovative tech such as rail and smart logistics systems, with an aim to decarbonise freight and improve efficiency. Logistics UK supports projects like the Freight Portal, developed by the Energy Savings Trust, which has the potential to reduce emissions from freight transport. The investment in greener technologies will also create new jobs and help SMEs in the industry to become more competitive and efficient. Furthermore, data innovations such as telematics can be used to gain insights into transport patterns and identify areas for improvement that can reduce energy use and emissions. Investing in sustainable solutions for freight will not only benefit the environment but also create a more efficient, cost-effective supply chain. The Benefits of Investing in Greener Technologies Investing in greener technologies is essential for the UK freight industry to remain competitive and reduce its environmental impact. Government initiatives have been launched to support small to medium-sized businesses to develop more efficient solutions for freight. Freightliner has demonstrated their commitment by investing in increasing the sustainability of rail, including by co-firing fuels. Such investments are necessary for the UK’s drive for decarbonisation, and can lead to additional benefits, such as high knowledge spillovers from green innovation and enhanced technology diffusion. Investing in greener technologies also has the potential to identify green innovation priorities across the UK economy, with a particular focus on hard-to-reach sectors, such as road freight, buildings, and heavy industry. By investing in smart logistics systems, innovative technologies, and data innovations, businesses within the freight industry will be able to reduce their environmental impact while simultaneously increasing efficiency. Other solutions include new approaches for sharing data between different modes of freight transport, as well as investing in greener technologies such as renewable energy sources. Such initiatives are helping to improve the sustainability of the UK freight sector, while also increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Data Innovations for Tackling Environmental Issues Data innovations are becoming increasingly important in the freight industry. The government has launched a new fund to help small to medium-sized businesses to develop greener and more efficient solutions for freight. Digital Catapult is working with the manufacturing and creative industries to reduce their negative environmental impacts and reach net zero, while innovative partnerships are tackling environmental challenges in the water sector. Data innovations can help support these initiatives by providing more accurate information about environmental issues, such as climate change, depletion of natural resources, pollution of air, water and soils. They can also help businesses identify opportunities for improvement in their operations, such as developing smarter logistics systems or investing in technologies that promote sustainability. By harnessing the power of data, freight companies can ensure Read More