Spring Clean Your Business with a Managed Storage Solution

Spring Clean Your Business with a Managed Storage Solution

Spring is a time for renewal, and that includes your business stock. As you assess your inventory, you may find that you have accumulated too much clutter and need to make some changes. If you find yourself in this situation, consider investing in a managed storage solution.

Managed storage solutions are ideal for businesses that need to store large quantities of stock, equipment, or other items. They offer a number of benefits, including:

  1. Increased Space: By using a managed storage solution, you can free up valuable floor space in your business, which can be used for other purposes.
  2. Improved Organisation: Managed storage solutions are designed to be organised and efficient, making it easy to find the items you need when you need them.
  3. Increased Security: Your inventory is an important investment, and a secure managed storage solution can provide additional security to protect your assets.
  4. Cost-effective: By outsourcing your storage needs, you can save money on rent, utilities, and maintenance costs.
  5. Accessibility: Managed storage solutions are usually accessible 24/7, making it easy for you to access your items whenever you need them.

When choosing a managed storage solution, it’s important to consider your specific needs and find a solution that fits your budget. Some managed storage solutions offer climate-controlled units, which can be ideal for businesses that need to store temperature-sensitive items.

In addition to choosing the right managed storage solution, it’s also important to have a plan in place for managing your inventory. Consider using a storage company that uses a system for tracking your stock levels, making sure that your items are properly labelled and stored, and regularly reviewing your inventory to identify any items that may need to be sold or disposed of.

Here at Swannells Transport, we have the capability to store palletised goods, which when ready for distribution can be picked, packed and loaded from our warehouse. Our secure facilities are perfectly placed with quick links to the A1 and A14.

We are qualified to store hazardous goods and chemicals in our separate warehouse in Warboys. Our drivers are ADR-qualified professionals. We also have our own in-house qualified DGSA personnel and therefore we can deliver and store all of your hazardous goods and chemicals.

We also provide general haulage to several high-profile clients. Our dedicated services to Blue Chip companies throughout the UK is a reflection of our ability to perform as a leading logistics partner.

Spring is a great time to assess your business stock and consider investing in a managed storage solution. Increase your space, improve your organisation, and protect your assets, while also saving money and making your items more accessible. 

Give Swannells Transport a call on 01487 822 065 so you can focus on growing your business, knowing that your inventory is in good hands.

Preparing for Spring Driving Challenges: A Guide for Lorry Drivers in the UK

Preparing for Spring Driving Challenges: A Guide for Lorry Drivers in the UK

Spring is a magical time of the year in the UK. The sun shines brighter, the days are longer, and the country is blanketed in a sea of green as new life begins to sprout. For lorry drivers, however, spring also means preparing for a new set of driving challenges. The changing weather patterns and road conditions can pose a significant risk to their safety, as well as the safety of other road users. In this blog, we’ll look at the key things that lorry drivers should be aware of when preparing for driving in spring in the UK.

First and foremost, lorry drivers should be aware of the changing weather patterns during spring. The UK is known for its unpredictable weather, and this is especially true during spring. One day, the roads may be dry and sunny, while the next day they may be slick and slippery due to rain. As a result, lorry drivers must be extra cautious and prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. They should carry out regular checks on their vehicles to ensure they are equipped with the right tyres, brakes, and windshield wipers, to handle any weather that comes their way.

Another important aspect to consider is the increased volume of road traffic during spring. The warmer weather attracts more road users, including cyclists, pedestrians, and other motorists. Lorry drivers must be aware of this and take extra care to ensure they drive at a safe speed and leave enough space between their vehicle and other road users. 

Be prepared for changing road conditions. The winter weather can take a toll on the roads, leaving them with potholes, cracks and other hazards. Drivers should take their time and adjust their speed accordingly to avoid damage to their vehicles and ensure a safe journey. This means being prepared for the increased number of roadworks that take place during spring, as road maintenance crews take advantage of the improved weather conditions.

Lastly, drivers should be mindful of wildlife, particularly as spring marks the start of the breeding season. Animals are more active at this time of year and may be more likely to cross roads, so drivers should be prepared to slow down and be extra cautious.

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, but for lorry drivers, it’s also a time to be extra cautious on the roads. By being aware of the changing weather patterns and increased road traffic, lorry drivers can take the necessary precautions to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. Whether it’s carrying out regular vehicle checks, driving at a safe speed, or leaving enough space between vehicles, lorry drivers play a crucial role in maintaining road safety during spring and beyond.

How to Handle & Transport Hazardous Materials

How to Handle & Transport Hazardous Materials

Transporting hazardous materials is a complex process that requires strict adherence to regulations to ensure the safety of individuals and the environment. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top practices that must be observed when handling and transporting hazardous materials in the UK.

The first step in handling hazardous materials is to identify them. Hazardous materials are classified and associated risks outlined by the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). To comply with ADR regulations, transporters must properly label and package these materials.

The second step involves ensuring that all individuals involved in the transportation of hazardous materials are well-trained and certified. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires all individuals involved in hazardous materials transportation to undergo proper training that covers the safe handling and transportation of hazardous materials, as well as emergency response procedures.

Accurate documentation of the hazardous materials being transported is essential. It must include information on the quantity, origin, and destination of the materials. The documentation is critical for tracking and monitoring the materials throughout the transportation process.

Vehicles used for transporting hazardous materials must be equipped and maintained to ensure the safety of the materials and the people involved. The vehicles must have appropriate safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, spill kits, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to ensure that the vehicles are safe and in good working condition.

Transporters of hazardous materials must have an emergency response plan in place in case of accidents or spills. The plan should include procedures for containing and cleaning up spills, evacuating the area, and notifying the appropriate authorities.

Are you looking for safe and reliable hazardous freight services? Look no further than Swannells Transport in Warboys, Cambridgeshire!

Our qualified team has the expertise to handle and store hazardous materials, ensuring that they are transported safely and efficiently. We are proud to hold DGSA and ADR certifications, which means we work to the highest standards of safety. Trust us to handle your hazardous freight needs – contact us today on 01487 822065.

How to Choose The Right Logistics Provider

How to Choose The Right Logistics Provider

Choosing the right third-party logistics (3PL) provider is essential for businesses that want to optimise their supply chain operations and improve their bottom line. 

A 3PL is a company that provides a variety of logistics services, such as warehousing, transportation, and inventory management, to other businesses on a contract basis. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a 3PL provider:

  1. Services offered: One of the first things to consider is the range of services offered by the logistic provider. This will vary from provider to provider, so it’s important to find one that offers the services that align with your specific needs. For example, if you’re a business that requires a lot of warehousing, you’ll want to look for a 3PL that has a lot of warehouse space and the capability to handle your inventory.
  2. Location: The location is also important. A provider that is geographically close to your business may be able to respond more quickly to your needs and reduce transportation costs. It’s also good to look at the location of the warehouse with your sales and the market you want to penetrate.
  3. Technology: Another key consideration is the technology used by the 3PL. This includes warehouse management systems, transportation management systems, and inventory management systems. These technologies can help to automate and streamline logistics processes, so look for a provider that is up-to-date with the latest technologies.
  4. Scalability: The logistics provider should be able to grow and adapt to your business’s needs as they change over time. This includes the ability to handle increases in volume, changes in product mix, and new services or technologies.
  5. Cost: Of course, cost is always an important consideration. Be sure to compare prices and services from multiple providers to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
  6. Reputation: Look at the reputation of the 3PL provider in the market, check out their reviews and case studies. A provider with a strong reputation will be more likely to provide reliable and high-quality services.
  7. Communication and Support: Communication and support is an important aspect, Look for a provider that is responsive and easy to work with. Choose a provider that is easy to communicate with, has a dedicated account manager, and offers quick response times.

In conclusion, choosing the right logistics provider is a key decision that can have a significant impact on your business. By considering the services offered, location, technology, scalability, cost, reputation, and communication and support, you’ll be well on your way to finding a provider that is a good fit for your business.

Swannells Transport in Cambridgeshire provides warehousing and distribution services to its clients. With a reputation for excellence and the ability to provide specialised logistics solutions, Swannells Transport is a leading company in Cambridgeshire.

If you would like more information on what Swannells Transport can offer your business, please give our team a call today on 01487 822065 or email traffic@swannells.co.uk

The Importance of Managed Warehousing for your Business

The Importance of Managed Warehousing for your Business

Managed warehousing is an essential aspect of any business that deals with the storage and distribution of goods. It is a cost-effective and efficient solution that can help businesses of all sizes to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line. In this blog post, we will explore the many benefits of managed warehousing and why it is important for your business.

One of the main benefits of managed warehousing is cost savings. By outsourcing your warehouse operations to a third-party provider, you can reduce your overhead costs associated with maintaining and running your own facility. This includes costs related to staffing, equipment, and maintenance. Furthermore, managed warehousing providers often have economies of scale, which allows them to offer services at a lower cost than if you were to handle everything in-house.

Another benefit of managed warehousing is the ability to focus on your core business. Running a warehouse can be time-consuming and requires a significant amount of resources. By outsourcing your warehouse operations, you can free up time and resources to focus on other aspects of your business, such as marketing, sales, and product development. Additionally, managed warehousing providers are experts in their field, and they can provide you with valuable insights and advice to help you improve your operations.

Managed warehousing also offers scalability and flexibility. As your business grows, it can be difficult to manage an in-house warehouse to keep up with the demands of your customers. Managed warehousing providers can easily adapt to your changing needs and can provide you with additional space and resources when you need it. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that experience seasonal fluctuations in demand.

Managed warehousing also provides better inventory control. Providers use advanced technology, such as inventory management software, to track and manage your inventory, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. This can help you avoid stockouts and overstocking, which can negatively impact your business. Furthermore, managed warehousing providers can also provide other value-added services such as kitting, packaging, and assembly, which can help to streamline your operations and save you time and money.

In conclusion, managed warehousing is an essential aspect of any business that deals with the storage and distribution of goods. It offers a cost-effective and efficient solution that can help businesses of all sizes to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line. Managed warehousing providers can help with cost savings, focus on core business, scalability, flexibility and inventory control. It’s a wise decision to consider a managed warehousing solution for your business.

Are you looking for warehousing in Cambridgeshire? At Swannells Transport, our storage and handling facilities consist of 60,000 square feet of warehousing. We have separate areas for food ingredients and hazardous chemicals. We also have racking facilities for palletised goods. Orders for distribution can be picked, packed and loaded from our warehouse facilities.

For more information, get in touch with our team today on 01487 822 065 or email traffic@swannells.co.uk

Swannells Transport – the go-to haulage company for all your needs!

Swannells Transport – the go-to haulage company for all your needs!

Experience and expertise make Swannells Transport the go-to delivery company for all your needs

As a company that has been in business since 1981, Swannells Transport has a long history of providing reliable and high-quality delivery services to clients throughout the UK. With a large and reliable fleet of vehicles, we are able to handle dedicated contracts as well as return load work for a wide range of clients.

We feel that one of the key strengths here at Swannells Transport is our dedicated commitment to providing an excellent level of customer service to our clients. We are a small enough company to care about the needs of each and every one of our clients, but we are also big enough to handle large-scale delivery projects with great ease. This great combination of personal attention and professional expertise is what sets us apart and has allowed us to maintain a reputation for excellence throughout our 40-year successful history.

As we look towards the future for this year and beyond, we are always interested in hearing from new clients who are in need of reliable, professional and efficient delivery services. Whether you are a small business looking for a trusted partner to handle your shipping needs, a new start-up business venture or even a larger organisation with complex logistics requirements, we have the capabilities to meet your individual needs.

So if you need a delivery partner who is both small enough to care and big enough to deliver, look no further than Swannells Transport. We have the experience, expertise, and dedication to ensure that your goods are delivered on time and in perfect condition, every time.

To discuss your haulage requirements please call our friendly team today at Swannells Transport on 01487 822065 – www.swannells.co.uk

Winter Driving

Winter Driving

With winter just around the corner, we are seeing the nights come quicker and the temperatures drop further. With this comes the increased risk of treacherous road surfaces and a need to take care with your driving. We are here to give some recommendations on how to drive safely during the winter, to help put your mind at ease.

When driving on icy roads, stopping distances can increase to around 10 times the normal distance in some cases. For this reason, driving at slower speeds and allowing for gentler manoeuvres are essential to keeping yourself and others safe on the roads in these difficult conditions. No matter if you’re late for work or just need to get somewhere quickly, nothing is more important than people’s safety and that is why it is so important to follow these tips.

Another way to manage the difficult weather would be to allow more time for your planned journeys. This can help deal with the stress of possible road delays associated with the conditions and will result in you being able to drive with more regard for the road surfaces. Choosing to plan your routes to follow major roads is also a beneficial way of staying clear of roads that tend to get less maintenance due to less congestion; these can often become the most dangerous roads to drive on.

It is also important to always have a window scraper and de-icer available in your car for when the weather might unexpectedly turn. Having these important tools at your disposal will ensure that you are always prepared and never drive when your vision of the road is impaired. 

We hope these tips will help to keep you safe on the roads this winter and put you at ease so you can enjoy the festivities that the winter months always bring.

The Government confirms Britain will ban all new diesel and petrol HGVs by 2040 – What does this mean for our industry?

The Government confirms Britain will ban all new diesel and petrol HGVs by 2040 – What does this mean for our industry?

On July 14th, 2021, the Government have announced that Britain will be banning the sale of new petrol and diesel HGV and vans by the year 2040, as a part of Boris Johnsons’ “10-point climate plan” to decrease greenhouse gas emissions within the transport sector to net zero by the middle of the century. All new polluting diesel and petrol cars will also plan to come to an end by 2035.

The UK’s transport sector is currently one of the most polluting industries within the nation. However, this announcement means there will be a significant phase-out of all polluting road vehicles within the next two decades. “Transport is not just how you get around. It is something that fundamentally shapes our towns, cities and countryside, our living standards and our health.” Transport Secretary Grant Shapps states as he says the new Transport Decarbonisation Plan was “just the start”.

haulage company in Cambridgeshire
Swannells Transport – Haulage company in Cambridgeshire

Approximately 1.6 billion tons of freight are transported within the UK every year. This is a figure that is expected to rise due to the significant increase in online shopping since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

The government is planning to fully convert its own 40,000 strong vehicle fleet to zero emissions by 2027, whilst they have also reiterated its commitment to a net-zero rail network by 2050. 

Transport secretary, Grant Shapps, said his department had published a consultation on phasing out the sale of all new non-zero emission heavy good vehicles by 2040, “demonstrating our commitment to tackle the second largest source of domestic transport carbon emissions and furthering our ambition to decarbonise UK roads.”

Also as a part of the Transport Decarbonisation Plan (TDP) agenda, the Government have launched a “genuine” consultation seeking views on when to end the sale of petrol and diesel HGVs, with a proposal that the sales of new non-zero emissions HGVs less than 26 tonnes will end in 2035, and greater than 26 tonnes will end in 2040. This proposal means no new LNG, CNG or other fossil-fuelled vehicles will be allowed to be purchased from those dates.

So what does this mean for our industry? The latest response from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) demonstrates their support and appreciation for the overall policy aim to decarbonise the UK roads. They are planning to release a comprehensive view of the plans sometime in August, to ensure the future of the Transport sector is affordable, sustainable, and embraces all businesses. 

Here at Swannells Transport, as a leading haulage company in Cambridgeshire, we support having a green nation in the future, and we are interested to see the next steps in approaches and visions to initiate the TDP in the future.

Useful Travelling Tips for 2021

Useful Travelling Tips for 2021

For the last year, travelling via plane, train and even car have been limited to prevent the spread of coronavirus. But after a year of staying safe indoors, and a hopeful “one-way ticket” back to normality set by the Government, restrictions are slowly beginning to ease, including our travel restrictions.

Something we have all probably missed is holidays and getaways. It is important that moving forward, we are planning holidays that will not be affected by policy changes or further travel restrictions. 

As a haulage company in Cambridgeshire celebrating 40 years on the road this April, we would like to offer our readers some useful travelling tips for 2021.

Cancellation fees

One thing we have learned during the pandemic is that the future is unpredictable. With travel restrictions and quarantines still changing and varying in different countries, it’s important to make sure when booking a holiday that your plans can be cancelled or amended without any fees. 

Although this is to protect the airline or accommodation you are staying in, peace of mind should be more of a priority, so if anything unexpected happens, you will not lose money.

With this in mind, this would also be a good opportunity to research the area you are visiting – ensuring it is in a convenient location with useful forms of transportation, no restrictions in place etc. 

Ensure you have the right travel essentials

Whether you are travelling an hour from home or visiting a different country, you always need to remember the right travel essentials.

It may be a good idea to make a checklist in preparation for your packing. Don’t forget the useful technology; cameras and mobiles. 

Haulage company in cambridgeshire
Preparing your holiday – Haulage Company in Cambridgeshire

Saving, converting and protecting money

Money is a vital concern for your holiday, especially if you are travelling internationally. You want to make sure you have enough money and cash to survive the duration of your holiday, for food, emergencies etc. so saving up a little bit of cash a few months prior to your holiday will give you peace of mind and extra adventure. 

If you’re travelling internationally, you will need to convert your money to the correct currency. To avoid being scammed or confused, finding a suitable app to help convert your currency is probably most suitable. You also want to make sure that any cash you have on you will be kept safe. 

Appreciating restrictions

While the UK’s vaccine programme is underway, there are some countries that have not got one in place yet or are still under strict lockdown rules. We would suggest researching locations prior to booking your holiday. If you end up visiting an area with some lockdown rules, remember to pack your mask and other social distancing essentials to help prevent the spread. 

Staying safe & healthy

Last, but certainly not least, make sure you keep yourself safe and healthy during your holiday. A holiday is a time to relax and get away from your daily responsibilities. The last thing anyone would want is to get sick. 

Haulage company in cambridgeshire
Travelling tips – Haulage Company in Cambridgeshire

There are plenty of ways you can prevent this, including:

  • Sun protection: wearing plenty of suncream when necessary
  • Hydration: drinking plenty of water
  • Layering up in cold or wet weather
  • Carrying antibacterial gel around you and regularly washing your hands
  • Consider what and where you eat
  • Getting plenty of rest

Swannells Transport – your haulage company in Cambridgeshire

Throughout the pandemic and the economic circumstances that have come with it, Swannells Transport has continued to travel and provide our haulage services in and around the Cambridgeshire area. 

Keep safe out there! To enquire, please contact 01487 822065. 

Building An Environmentally Friendly Logistics Industry

Building An Environmentally Friendly Logistics Industry

Nurturing an environmentally friendly, sustainable supply chain will benefit the environment and the future of the industry significantly. Across the entire national (and international) economy, the environment is a topic that has risen to the top of the agenda in recent years and become a priority for the majority of companies. 

The logistics industry is undoubtedly one of the most significant contributors to environmental issues as a result of the high number of deliveries and distributions that take place every day. However, that is all beginning to change as eco-friendly becomes the new trend. Courtesy of Swannells Transport, here are a few ways your transportation and warehousing network can go green.

Set Goals

One of the most motivating ways to do anything, in fact, is to set goals. Ambitious goals will spark action within the workplace e.g. Nestlé has committed to cutting food loss and waste in half by 2030. Setting a goal such as improving fuel efficiency or recycling more etc. will drive initiative for all of the team involved and get things done. 

Improving Fuel Efficiency

Haulage companies in Huntingdon – Improving Fuel Efficiency

The amount of fuel we use and waste during a journey is a particular factor that has seriously affected the environment in recent years. Analysing driver performance and efficient journey preparation will provide an opportunity to resolve this issue. This includes identifying how drivers function, whether drivers are taking efficient routes and what are the changes that can be made to improve fuel efficiency within your supply chain. 

A top tip would be to prepare for your journeys ahead. This includes having a full tank before departure, planning your route and anticipating traffic/roadworks, as well as bringing along any necessary food, drink or accessories that will prevent any detours or stops. 

Reduce Wasted Driving Time

“Empty miles” is a term often used to describe a driver’s non-revenue or “deadhead” mileage. These refer to the miles used that are not earning money or pays a large cost to the economy… essentially wasted miles. It would be beneficial to implement an effective strategy that will reduce the number of empty miles used in the business e.g. limit number of stops or route planning.

Packaging

As well as switching up driving techniques, there are also several ways you can make a big difference in your warehouse space. One of the most praised changes is switching to eco-friendly packaging. This can include choosing locally sourced packaging rather than nationally shipped or reducing the amount of plastic or non-recyclable materials you use to pack. 

Analyse Warehouse Space

Haulage companies in huntingdon
Haulage companies in Huntingdon – Analysing Your Warehouse Space

The space within your warehouse is genuinely important when it comes to design and management efficiency and there are plenty of ways you can adjust this without having to spend a penny. For example, organising your warehouse into a layout that cuts the distance traveled between actions, reducing both labour and energy costs.

In addition to this, a clean and systematic layout allows many warehousing teams to work quicker and more sensibly, as well as within a smaller facility, or avoid expanding. 

A Less Wasteful Warehouse System

A less wasteful warehouse will help reduce the amount of waste that can be problematic to the environment. Proper disposal and recycling within the supply chain will improve resourcefulness and minimise the amount of wasted resources overall. Be sure to educate all warehouse (and driver) staff of these new rules for sustainability.

Swannells Transport – haulage companies in Huntingdon

Here at Swannells Transport, we are aware and fully comprehend the seriousness of improving our carbon footprint and economical value within the industry. However, many businesses searching for a haulage companies in Huntingdon will often find us. We have built an enviable reputation as a warehousing and distribution company you can trust to provide a high quality, supportive service. Give us a call today on 01487 822065.