Top 5 logistics problems in Europe

Olivia Hegarty

Moving goods often comes with challenges but having a trusted partner you can work together to overcome them.

Every day we are problem-solving and overcoming obstacles to make sure our customers always get the service they deserve. Some challenges are out of our control, especially when Mother Nature throws a storm or a flood our way, but we always try to do our best. 

 
Here are some of the common issues we come across and how you can help to mitigate them

Customs have become more complex in a post-Brexit world, leading to potential delays due to paperwork errors and checks at borders.

To reduce these risks, follow these tips: 

  • Ensure all documents are fully filled in and signed by all relevant parties.  
  • Check the information with the goods in the truck.  
  • Try to provide the paperwork ahead of the pickup slot. 

 

Our knowledgeable customs team is available 24/7 to streamline the customs process and provide expert advice for any customs moving in or around Europe. 

Regional Driving Bans

Across European countries, there are different driving regulations and public holidays, which can impact your product’s journey to its destination. This includes curfews on vehicles of a certain weight, regions shut due to driving bans and even limits on the size or weight of vehicles on the road. 

As a customer, you can help minimise disruptions by ensuring you communicate to your logistics partner if you need timed deliveries or any specific requirements when moving your goods.

Our Accelerate Team are knowledgeable of the regions within Europe and this can help mitigate the delays. The best thing you can do is contact us with plenty of notice, where we can plan routes and factor in shipping times, especially for timed deliveries.

Damages

As frustrating as it can be, there is a risk of goods being damaged when transported from moving the goods on and off vehicles to emergency braking or road conditions like potholes.  

Here are some tips from our Accelerate team for how to reduce the risk of damage, or ensure your goods are protected with insurance: 

  • Take precautions by having insurance in place. 
  • Provide loading and unloading instructions. 
  • Take pictures and check the goods at collection and delivery sites before signing the CMR document.  
  • If you are unhappy, do not sign the CMR – and talk to your logistics partner!

Alongside you following these tips, our operations team work hard on their end to choose trusted and insured suppliers, which can help to safeguard your goods. 

Loading goods and ferry delays

Ferry delays for short sea imports and exports to the EU can occur when the weather is bad or more commonly when the shipping company oversells tickets, meaning not all trucks can fit on the vessel. 

As a customer, one way to help with this is to ensure your goods are ready when the driver arrives, so the goods can be loaded to schedule.

Your logistics partner should keep you informed of any delays and provide updated information like amended shipping dates and delivery times.

Our team work tirelessly behind the scenes to limit further delays and set expectations for you and your end customer. 

The more information, the better

The final point is that communication is key.

Missing crucial information can lead to additional delays and costs. When talking to your logistics partner, consider any information that may need to be passed on. 

Consider the following: 

  • How does the haulier access the site? 
  • Are there access codes or restrictions?
  • What are the opening times? 
  • Is there anything that could cause delays when picking up goods? 

We are your reliable planner and need all the information that could affect shipping. And if you aren’t sure, just ask – that’s what we are here for!

In the world of logistics, uncertainties are part of everyday life. We’re dedicated to being authentic with our customers and committed to minimising chaos and proactively solving issues that may occur. We prioritise your goods and brand, working tirelessly to find solutions when problems arise. We leverage our extensive European network of trusted suppliers to offer flexible and reliable backup solutions. 

Contact us to see how we can help make moving goods into and within Europe easier for you.

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Claire is our Talent Acquisition Specialist so if you’re on the Easter Job Hunt, she’s a great person to connect with on LinkedIn.

Claire is always sharing news on our latest vacancies, top job hunting tips and showcasing what a career at Baxter Freight looks like.

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Hi – we’re Baxter Freight 🖐️ It’s great to meet you!

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Check out our Account Manager vacancy and apply today!

Established reputation

Our levels of experience and reputation have enabled us to innovate quickly within the industry.

Baxter Freight has been operating and excelling in the UK and Europe for over a decade now. Our leadership has been leading the way in the logistics industry for a lot longer.

We have led the way as the UK went through Brexit and established ourselves as experts in working in Europe. 

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