BIFAlink is BIFA's monthly magazine covering issues of importance for the logistics and supply chain industry.
The magazine of the British International Freight Association BIFA link April 2025 Why are we re-examining the EU-GB relationship?
INSIDE: Felixstowe port sale • EU commerce rules • Proposed revision of EU CBAM • BIFA Awards winner pro fi les • Maritime dangerous goods rules • Liverpool charity dinner
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Issue: 416
Steve Parker’s Column
Help BIFA to create certainty from uncertainty
BIFAlink is the official magazine of the British International Freight Association Redfern House, Browells Lane, Feltham TW13 7EP Tel: 020 8844 2266 (A company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: 00391973. VAT Registration: 216476363) Director General Steve Parker s.parker@bifa.org Member Policy & Compliance Director Robert Windsor r.windsor@bifa.org Member Support Director Spencer Stevenson s.stevenson@bifa.org Member Services Director Carl Hobbis c.hobbis@bifa.org Member Engagement Director Denise Hill d.hill@bifa.org International Relations Advisor Robert Keen r.keen@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Frontier Policy Manager Pawel Jarza p.jarza@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Customs Igor Popovics i.popovics@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Sustainable Logistics Mike Jones m.jones@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Sustainable Logistics Jamie McKean j.mckean@bifa.org Communications Manager Natalie Pitts n.pitts@bifa.org Editorial Co-ordinator Sharon Hammond s.hammond@bifa.org Membership Supervisor Sarah Milton s.milton@bifa.org Web site: www.bifa.org E-mail: bifa@bifa.org Published by Park Lane Publishing peter@parklanepublishingltd.com Contributors Steve Parker, Robert Windsor, Spencer Stevenson, Carl Hobbis, Sharon Hammond, Igor Popovics, Denise Hill, Mike Jones, Pawel Jarza, Natalie Pitts Note to media: If you wish to use items in this magazine that are older than one month, please contact the editorial co- ordinator to ensure that the item in question still reflects the current circumstances. Please be advised that BIFA DOES NOT OFFER LEGAL ADVICE. BIFA is not a law firm and the authors of this publication are not legally qualified and do not have any legal training. The guidance and assistance set out herein are based on BIFA’s own experience with the issues concerned and should not be in any circumstances regarded or relied upon as legal advice. It is strongly recommended that anyone considering further action based on the information contained in this publication should seek the advice of a qualified professional.
T he early days of President Donald Trump’s second term have brought new challenges and a lot of uncertainty for anyone involved in managing global supply chains — perhaps none greater than trying to plan a global business at a time when his administration shifts its trade policies by the hour. Hopefully, by the time you read this column, some of the uncertainty will have been clarified. From a BIFA perspective, one thing that is certain is that there is a great deal going on within your trade association, as well as the sector our Members serve, and I am asking for your input with some of those topics.
BIFA regional meetings In terms of the number of Members attending, these are a success story. If you are not attending one, then I urge you or some of your staff to do so. They are a great means of obtaining updates on the topical issues facing our sector. Full details of those that are forthcoming can be seen on page 22 of this issue, or on the BIFA website events page. BIFAlink TV If you are not receiving this daily dose of industry information, then please sign up via the member portal on the BIFA website. It is our way of getting pertinent information to you on a daily basis and each episode only takes just a few minutes of your time to watch. New advisory body You may have seen some information on this already. If not, BIFA is setting up an advisory body to work with Heathrow Airport and CCSUK to support our industry through the massive changes planned for the airport’s cargo terminal. This eight-to-ten-year project is going to take some effort and BIFA is at the heart of the change. You can learn more by watching the BIFAlink TV episode that can be seen in the following link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvifUkMH1ZE. If you wish to be a member of this group, then our inaugural meeting is at the BT Tower in London on 29 April. To register your interest, go to the Eventbrite link here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1295638913869?aff=oddtdtcreator. Please note, places are limited BIFA national conference If you have not signed up for this event, which is taking place 14-15 May, please do so. We have a great line up of top industry professionals who will be delivering some really useful advice on many issues that are having an effect on your business. More information can be seen on pages 10-11 of this issue, as well as on our website. Multimodal 2025 A month after the National Conference, BIFA staff will once again be present at the heart of the BIFA Forwarder Village, which is returning to the Multimodal Exhibition and Conference at the NEC. Come and pay us a visit to find out more information about the latest policy and compliance issues; the opportunities for member engagement; the ever-expanding options in our training and development department; as well as any membership enquiries, and much, much more. As you can see, whatever the uncertainties being seen on the macroeconomic level, BIFA is very active in trying to provide information and guidance that can help Members navigate these uncertain times. But it takes two to tango, and we would welcome any input that you are prepared to offer. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Director General
April 2025 | 3
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Industry News
Ian Matheson , from Impress Communications, reviews some recent news that might impact on Members’ business. Don’t miss Ian’s weekly news round up on BIFAlink TV, which can be seen on our You Tube channel. Subscribe by scanning the QR code.
RHA highlights need for 40,000 new drivers a year
ON THE QUAYSIDE CK Hutchison has reached an agreement with Blackrock, Global Infrastructure Partners (part of Blackrock) and TiL (a subsidiary of MSC) to sell 80% of its ports division for USD22.8 billion in a deal that covers 43 ports in 23 countries, including Felixstowe, Thamesport and Harwich. However, recent reports from China have cast doubts about the deal being completed. Thurrock Council has approved a new 10-year local development order (LDO) to support the expansion of DP World’s London Gateway Logistics Park. The LDO streamlines planning, allowing new developments to be approved in 28 days. IN THE AIR Tiaca is expecting air cargo demand to grow by 5% in 2025, but has warned of an “elevating risk” to its growth expectations. Tiaca director general Glyn Hughes said that the growth projection was based on economic stability being at its highest level for several years, but cautioned that there was a “mild level of risk” to its growth projection “but it is starting to elevate”. IATA has revealed its latest data on global air freight markets, reporting strong growth in demand during January. IATA said that total demand for air cargo, measured in cargo tonne- kilometres (CTK), increased by 3.2% in January 2025 compared with the same month in 2024, with international operations showing a slightly higher growth of 3.6%. Figures released by Xeneta show that in February air cargo demand increased by 4% year on year. The dynamic load factor was flat at 59%, and the average spot freight rate was up 10% to USD2.53 per kg.
OVERLAND A new report from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) entitled ‘Lorry drivers – the vital link – attracting, training and retaining key workers in the UK supply chain’ highlights the need for 40,000 new drivers per year over the next five years. Plans for the £750 million Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange (HNRFI) in Leicestershire, which was mentioned in last month's news round-up, have been refused by the government which ruled that the expected
benefits were outweighed by the potential negative impacts. ON THE OCEAN A group of supply chain smart technology providers – including ORBCOMM, Traxens, Nexxiot, Hoopo, Globe Tracker
and Arviem – has formed the Smart Container Alliance to drive the adoption of smart container technology to help enhance cargo traceability, fortify maritime trade, and support global enforcement agencies in combating criminal networks. A2B-online Container has added a fifth weekly sailing on its service between Thamesport and Moerdijk in the Netherlands, whilst Viasea Shipping has relaunched its shortsea container service between the UK port and Northern Europe, including the Baltic, calling every Saturday. Reports in March suggested that DFDS is keen to restart a freight and passenger ferry service between Rosyth in Scotland and Dunkirk in France later this year. The service would increase freight connectivity and expand route options for goods moving between Scotland and mainland Europe. The trade media carried reports that according to data from eeSea, the Gemini Cooperation, a partnership between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk, recorded a 91% schedule reliability rate in its first month of operation, surpassing the Premier and Ocean alliances.
4 | April 2025
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Industry News
HSE guidance on safety at work
Recent Health & Safety Executive (HSE) updates have included guidance on several areas relevant to BIFA Members, which is repeated here for information. Manual handling at work: guidance on the law As an employer, you must protect your workers from the risks of manual handling injuries in the workplace. You can find help with preventing these risks in your workplace at www.hse.gov.uk/msd/manual -handling/. Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) HSE’s website has guidance on the safe use of lifting equipment, and sets out what
(www.hse.gov.uk/workplacetr ansport/) has a range of guidance, advice and other resources to help reduce the risks and keep workers safe. Make sure you know your COSHH essentials A variety of harmful substances are found in our working environments – knowing how to control these safely can help protect you from harm. If you work with hazardous substances, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) website (www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/) can help you understand the actions you should take to protect your health. It has downloadable resources including a brief guide to COSHH, and the COSHH safe handling chemicals poster.
Vehicle and transport safety at work Vehicles at work continue to be one of the main causes of fatal and major injuries. The latest figures for 2023 to 2024 (www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/fat als.htm) show that 25 workers were killed when struck by a moving vehicle. The HSE workplace transport website
businesses should do to comply with LOLER. The webpages at www.hse.gov.uk/work- equipment-machinery/loler.htm include: • An overview of LOLER, • Guidance on safe lifting by machines, • How to thoroughly examine lifting equipment, • The planning and organising of lifting operations.
Challenge yourself – support Transaid
BIFA’s charity partner Transaid has launched its next EU cycle challenge. Join Transaid on an adventure through the scenic southern roads of the Republic of Ireland in the organisation’s first challenge in the country. Beginning in the historic city of Cork, the route heads east, weaving through lush farmland and stunning coastal roads in view of the formidable Wicklow Mountains, before finishing in Dublin’s bustling city centre. This exciting three-day, 331- kilometre journey will take place from 24-28 September 2025, bringing together teams from across the transport and logistics industry to raise crucial funds for Transaid’s road safety and access to healthcare projects across sub-Saharan Africa. Transaid’s cycle challenges are well known across the
transport and logistics industry, and with individuals and teams at all levels
welcome on the ride, why not take on the challenge? Find out more:
https://www.transaid.org/eve nts-challenges/cork-to- dublin/
6 | April 2025
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Industry News
‘Blockbuster’ Felixstowe port sale set to complete
UKACC members dig deep
Over 260 people related to the air cargo industry gathered on 1 March for the annual UKACC (United Kingdom Air Cargo Club) Gala Ball. David Stroud, BIFA’s policy advisor for air cargo, was this year’s chairman and presided over this prestigious event at the Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington. Each year the chairman chooses a charity to support, and with David’s mother living with vascular dementia, selecting the Alzheimer’s Society was an easy choice. UKACC holds events throughout the year, culminating in the Gala Ball. This year’s Ball raised over £7,000 in raffle and auction funds alone. The industry, including many BIFA Members, always generously supports UKACC events, and this year was no different. For further information, visit https://www.ukacc2000.co.uk
There was a signi fi cant amount of news in the trade and national press in early March about Hutchison reaching a preliminary agreement to sell a signi fi cant number of its port terminal businesses – even the usually reserved Lloyd’s List referred to it as a “blockbuster deal”. A consortium, comprising shipping line MSC’s Terminal Investment Limited (Til) arm and US investment fund BlackRock-Global Investment Partners, is to acquire an 80% stake in a clutch of 43 ports worldwide from Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison, including Felixstowe, the UK’s main container hub. The $22.8 billion deal covers CK Hutchison’s entire 80% stake in Hutchison Port Holdings, including ports and terminals in 23 countries worldwide. In the UK, the ports of Felixstowe, Harwich and Thamesport are included in the deal, along with Hutchison’s major terminal operations in Europe, including Rotterdam. Also, it has been announced that PSA is seeking to sell its 20% shareholding in Hutchison Port Holdings. Much of the news has focused on the politics of the sale of CK Hutchison’s assets in the Panama Canal.
is a carrier that operates independently of any shipping alliance and this takeover significantly strengthens its terminal business both globally and in the UK. Local business leaders seem to have given the takeover a cautious welcome, describing it as having a “neutral to positive impact”. However, it does mean that important infrastructure upgrades to the Ely/Haughley rail junctions and strategic roads network become ever more important. Diego Aponte, president of the MSC Group, said: “We have a very high regard toward the Hutchison Ports management team, and if this transaction closes, we look forward to welcoming them into our larger family.” Since the multi-billion-dollar deal was initially announced, two key Chinese agencies have issued statements in quick succession via key political channels, which are highly critical of the deal. While both commentary articles, originally published in a pro- Beijing newspaper in Hong Kong, they include comments of a political nature and these have intensified speculation that the transaction could flounder due to resistance from the Chinese government.
Under the terms of the preliminary deal, the Black Rock-TiL Consortium (BRTC) will acquire a 90% stake in Panama Ports Company (PPC) including the ports of Balboa and Cristobal. PPC had been under pressure from President Trump who has claimed that Hutchison ownership of the ports gives control of the canal to China and had threatened to seize it, although a Hutchison spokesperson denied that the sale was due to political pressure. Hutchison Port Holdings’ 17 port units in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland are not included in the sale, which would probably have been politically unacceptable to Beijing. From BIFA Members’ viewpoint, what does this change in ownership mean for the UK ports being sold? MSC
David Stroud alongside Soya Cutts of the Alzheimer’s Society addressing the audience.
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April 2025 | 7
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Policy & Compliance
Commission unveils new measures to strengthen EU e-commerce rules
Customs reporting, making it easier to detect non-compliant products before they reach EU consumers. In addition, the Commission is considering the introduction of a handling fee for e-commerce imports, ensuring that the costs of Customs enforcement are not unfairly borne by EU taxpayers but are instead covered by importers, which could be the private individual. Controversial exemption The de minimis exemption is currently proving controversial; the US administration has already announced its intention to abolish its admittedly relatively high de minimus threshold. However, there have been delays as systems and processes are upgraded to deal with the increased number of Customs declarations. There is a need to address under- valuation, fraud and illicit trade in e-commerce. However, abolishing the de minimis threshold will significantly increase the number of Customs declarations, and therefore the workload of Customs administrations, freight forwarders and Customs agents. BIFA would like to thank CLECAT for the information on which this article is based.
The rapidly growing number of low-value consignments bought online is raising increasing concerns about consumer safety, environmental impact and fair competition
T he European Commission comprehensive strategy to address the growing challenges posed by e-commerce imports. With 70% of Europeans regularly purchasing goods online, the rapid rise in low- value consignments has raised concerns over consumer safety, environmental impact and fair competition. The Commission highlights the risks associated with the increasing number of goods imported directly to consumers. The surge in e-commerce has led to a rise in unsafe, counterfeit and non- published a Communication in February 2025 outlining a compliant products reaching EU markets, posing significant health and safety risks. Major concerns At the same time, the environmental impact of individual parcel deliveries and the waste generated by low-quality, short-lived products have become major concerns. Additionally, EU-based businesses face unfair competition, as non-EU sellers often benefit from lower regulatory and fiscal obligations,
creating an uneven playing field. To tackle these challenges, the Commission is pushing for stricter enforcement of EU product safety and environmental rules, calling for closer coordination between Customs and market surveillance authorities. Ensuring that goods imported through e-commerce channels comply with EU standards is a priority. A key measure proposed is the abolition of the €150 de minimis exemption, which currently allows imports of low-value consignments to enter the EU without Customs duties. This exemption has been widely used by e-commerce platforms and non-EU sellers, making it easier to undercut EU businesses and evade certain regulatory requirements. Its removal is expected to improve oversight of e-commerce imports, ensuring that all goods are subject to the same level of scrutiny. The Commission’s plan is linked to the ongoing EU Customs reform, which aims to modernise Customs procedures and strengthen control capacities. The reform will introduce the EU Customs Data Hub, designed to centralise and streamline
“ The Commission is pushing for stricter enforcement of EU product safety and environ - mental rules, calling for closer coordination
between Customs
and market surveillance authorities
8 | April 2025
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14 - 15 May 2025 The Slate, Warwick Conferences, Coventry BIFA National Conference
conference.bifa.org
Headline sponsor:
Member Engagement
From left to right: James Golding, HAL; James Shorey, Planetmark; Simon Adams, ASM
From left to right: Artur Sarkisian, RM Boulanger; Steve Gordon, Clarksons Research; Kriss Akabusi MBE, after dinner speaker
BIFA National Conference – introducing our speakers
specialist Conex , specialist cargo insurance solution Freightcover , and supplier of port community information services MCP plc . Gala dinner – after an intense day in the conference hall, delegates will reconvene for a networking drinks reception and gala dinner. BIFA has secured Olympic medallist athlete Kriss Akabusi MBE to join us and deliver an inspiring after-dinner speech. Representatives from Transaid will also be present to discuss the important transport safety work carried out by the charity in sub- Saharan Africa. Book now To secure your seat at the first BIFA National Conference in almost 20 years, visit https://conference.bifa.org/request -tickets/. For just £595 + vat you will have access to the full two-day agenda, the exhibition space, the drinks reception, gala dinner and overnight on-site accommodation. If you live locally and do not need the accommodation, select the local delegate package for £495 + vat or the day delegate package (access to sessions and exhibition only) for £445 + vat.
The agenda and speaker line-up for the BIFA National Conference has taken shape and promises two days of insightful discussion to ignite your thoughts today and accelerate your actions for tomorrow.
U nder the headline Ignite today – Accelerate tomorrow , the 2025 BIFA National Conference will take place at The Slate conference centre, Coventry next month. Tickets are available now and can be bought at https://conference.bifa.org/request -tickets/ A packed agenda The conference will open with a keynote speaker covering key government topics, and with further sessions dedicated to air freight, ocean, sustainability, Customs and legal matters, delegates will be brought up to date with current challenges and plans for the future. Day 1 will also feature a session from event headline sponsor Community Network Services (CNS ). A leading force serving the needs of port community and logistics businesses since 1986, CNS designs cutting-edge computerised systems and continuously introduces industry-first solutions that streamline trade processes for
its clients. It pioneers innovative solutions tailored to clients’ commercial, operational and regulatory needs, ensuring regulatory compliance with unmatched expertise. On day 2 the conference will hear from Blackstage Forensics on the ever-present cybersecurity threat; SEC Newgate will discuss the rapidly changing international trade playing field; and BIFA will examine the question of cargo insurance and the development of the workforce of the future. What else can you expect? Networking – Just as important as the topics discussed during the planned sessions is the opportunity for delegates to network and meet the event sponsors and exhibitors. In addition to headline sponsor CNS , the BIFA National Conference is sponsored by ASM (UK) and RM Boulanger , both of whom will be on hand to answer your questions. Other exhibitors include Customs procedure management software
Sponsors:
Exhibitors:
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April 2025 | 11
Policy & Compliance
In the original trade treaty between the European Union (EU) and Great Britain (GB), it was agreed to ‘review’ its operation every fi ve years. This means that the fi rst review is due in 2026, but much of the process will be undertaken in 2025. Thereafter, the following review is due in 2031 and so forth Why are we re-examining the EU-GB relationship?
What have been the main impacts of GB leaving the EU ? As BIFA advised at the time, Brexit has led to the re- introduction of Customs and other regulatory controls and thus increased costs. As predicted, goods moved by road, and in particular the perishables sector, have been amongst those most adversely affected. There is significant disagreement about the statistics, but official figures indicate that in 2023: • Total trade with the EU was £800 billion, • Between 2021 and 2023 exports declined by 27%, • Imports in the same period fell by 32%. For the freight forwarding sector there have been increased risks due to the growth of DDP traffic, dealing with non-established taxable parties. Set against this are commercial opportunities due to the increased number of Customs declarations required and also the introduction of new regimes such as S&S GB, which requires a safety and security declaration to be submitted for inbound movements to the UK from the EU. In many cases, it is only the freight forwarder/Customs agent who has access to the relevant data to undertake these activities. What are the areas for co-operation? The new Labour government has created a better atmosphere to conduct negotiations between the two parties. In certain ways both sides are still implementing the last aspects of Brexit and the full implications of these policies will take time to evaluate. In the UK, the
introduction of S&S GB on 31 January 2025 was a significant change, with its impact on ro-ro being greater than for other modes, and it will take time for it to be fully implemented. Many believe that the main areas for negotiation may not focus on trade issues, where there is scope for disagreement. There is a belief that areas where progress can be made include: • Better legal co-operation to counter people smuggling gangs, • Energy security, It should be recalled that the world has changed significantly in the last five years. Where might there be some trade-related easements? In all probability, whilst there may be some simplifying of border procedures, the main processes will remain, such as the requirement to submit a Customs declaration. There may be scope for flex around the edges, a • Climate co-operation, • Defence co-operation, • Alignment of migration policies.
“ Many believe that the main areas for negotiation trade issues, where there is still scope for dis - agreement. may not focus on
12 | April 2025
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Policy & Compliance
couple of suggestions are below: 1 For SPS goods, some closer co-operation on veterinary checks and simplifying documents may be possible. Also, consideration should be given to the practicality of linking TRACES and IPAFFS to share data and simplify the declaration process. 2 Mutual recognition of safety and security processes to create a common security area has been suggested and reducing the datasets for such declarations, possibly sharing via a centralised data system, are seen as steps to improve flows. Both ideas have their merits, but also have their detractors and recent history, such as the foot-and- mouth outbreaks in Germany and Hungary coupled with the ever-present problem of clandestine trafficking, may count against progress at present. What is important is that EU traders are beginning to experience the same problems as GB traders have for some time. This will lead to pressure on the EU Commission, opening the way for improved co- operation. In the non-trade areas, it is to be hoped that there may be some progress in the following: • Permitting travel for younger people (under 30),
• Relaxation in the 90/180 rule for certain roles such as HGV drivers, • Relaxing cabotage rules to allow GB truckers to operate more freely in the EU. BIFA would like to hear from Members with any realistic aspirations that they have regarding improving trade flows between the EU and GB. It must be remembered that what we regard as operationally desirable has to be politically achievable. The following comment from Nick Thomas- Symonds, Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office (Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations), made on 4 February 2025, referring to the ‘reset’, provides a clear indication of government thinking. “What does this mean? For this government, our reset with the European Union does not mean hitting rewind. We are not undoing Brexit.”
“ BIFA would like to hear from Members with any realistic aspirations that they have regarding improving trade flows between the EU and GB
Members wishing to submit their realistic aspirations regarding improvements in the flow of trade should email Robert Windsor (r.windsor@bifa.org).
April 2025 | 13
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Policy & Compliance
With the largest importers being responsible for the bulk of emissions, the EU is considering sparing smaller companies the cost of complying with CBAM Proposed revision of the EU CBAM
T he UK fi nancial press has Commissioner for Climate, Net Zero, and Clean Growth, regarding the future of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (EU CBAM). Hoekstra has suggested that the EU CBAM should be restricted to the biggest importers, stating: “Less than 20% of the companies in scope [of CBAM] are responsible for more than 95% of the emissions in the products.” The rationale given for this proposal was to spare smaller businesses the costs of complying with the reporting requirements and reported on comments made by Wopke Hoekstra, European the additional charges incurred, thereby reducing red tape and boosting business productivity in the region. The proposed changes would reduce the number of businesses currently in scope of the CBAM by 80% from 200,000 to 20,000. Green deal policy The EU CBAM was implemented in October 2023 as a key policy of the EU’s Green New Deal, which aims to ensure that the EU is carbon neutral by 2050. The purpose of the EU CBAM is to prevent carbon leakage when industries transfer polluting production to countries with less stringent climate polices, or when EU products get replaced by more carbon-intensive imports. It is currently limited to high emitting products: iron/steel, cement, fertilisers, aluminium, hydrogen and electricity. A transitional phase ran from 1 October 2023 to 31 December 2024. During this period, EU importers of goods within the scope of CBAM were required to report their greenhouse gas emissions under the EU methodology, using default
“ By limiting the scope of CBAM to the largest importers, most imports would still be covered, but it reduces the adminis - trative and fi nancial burden on many businesses in the region
values or by an alternative equivalent method. Since 1 January 2025, companies can only report using the EU methodology. During the transitional phase, European countries have reported that many companies have not been, or only partially been, able to report their emissions data. This has led to concerns in the business community that the challenges of CBAM are hurting their competitiveness. Pragmatic approach In light of this, the comments made by Hoekstra indicate that the EU is likely to take a pragmatic approach. By limiting the scope of CBAM to the largest importers, most imports would still be covered, but it reduces the administrative and financial burden on many
businesses in the region. It must be stressed that the comments made by Hoekstra do not mean that the legislation regarding the CBAM has been changed, although it implies that the EU Commission is likely to propose an amendment to existing legislation in due course. Any amendment to the CBAM would need to go through the Ordinary Legislative Procedure – in other words be approved by the EU council and parliament. The UK is currently planning to implement its own CBAM in 2027. We hope that the UK CBAM will take a similarly pragmatic approach, focusing on the large sustainability gains whilst ensuring that UK businesses remain competitive. BIFA will continue to monitor any updates to CBAM and advise Members as this story develops.
14 | April 2025
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van, operated by UWL and Cadoxton Primary School, to deliver fresh produce and essentials to families in need. Every Saturday the van served 70-80 families, offering them the freedom to choose their items with a ‘pay-as-you-feel’ system that upheld their dignity. This approach helped many who felt too embarrassed to access traditional food banks.” Now, UWL is looking to expand its community engagement activities in the Barry area dramatically, converting a disused leisure centre to create the Good 2 Base community hub. Council cooperation Cleverdon outlined: “We’re working with the local council to provide an all-in-one service, bringing lots of projects together.” These include Good 2 Eat, which will provide hot meals and company; Good 2 Shop, a similar service to Jeanie’s Food Van; Good 2 Talk, mental health help with a trained psychologist (an initiative that is already running informally); Good 2 Study, which will give schoolchildren access to PCs and books; Good 2 Glow, a barber and hairdressing service; Good 2 Share, where secondhand goods will be available for use; Good 2 Gather, a space where young people can watch films or play games; and Good 2 Sound, which will allow users to express themselves without having to pay music studio fees. UWL’s ambitions extend to the possibility of setting up similar hubs across the UK in the years to come. UK haulage crisis The UK haulage sector is very competitive, Cleverdon said, noting that 526 independent UK hauliers went out of business last year. On top of that, a driver shortage is looming. “Older drivers are retiring, but the younger generation doesn’t view driving as a profession, which is very concerning,” Cleverdon said. “To address this, we actively promote driving as a viable career by introducing young people to the industry, providing training opportunities and supporting career
xxx
Jeanie’s Food Van was so popular that UWL set up a new venture at Cadoxton Primary School. Cadog’s Corner serves hot meals to around 50-60 families per day
UWL guarantees the availability of a vehicle anywhere in the UK and EU within one hour
development.” Proactive approach takes UWL above and beyond
Besides exceeding customer expectations, BIFA Extra Mile Award winner United Worldwide Logistics places great emphasis on community engagement – and it has big plans to take this even further...
“ We’re working with the local council to provide an all-in-one service, bringing lots of projects together – Brian Cleverdon, UWL
A mong the industries that United Worldwide Logistics (UWL) serves is aerospace, which makes up about 15% of the company’s total activity. It offers 24/7 AOG services, guaranteeing the availability of a vehicle anywhere in the UK and EU within one hour. One of its biggest aerospace customers is Vertical Aerospace, a Bristol-based developer of electric aircraft. According to Brian Cleverdon, sales director at UWL: “Vertical now has about 600 orders and is starting to produce aircraft. We cover all modes of transport for them worldwide, from boxes around the UK to importing parts to build the aircraft. Electric aircraft will be a massive step up in terms of sustainability and our partnership will only grow.” UWL’s proactive approach prevents costly delays and is just one way in which it acts as an extension to Vertical’s logistics department. For instance, when Vertical ordered the wrong-sized vehicle for a collection, UWL quickly identified
the issue and dispatched the correct vehicle – before the customer had a chance to amend the error. Charity support UWL also goes above and beyond outside its core business. For example, it launched Jeanie’s Food Van a couple of years ago. Cleverdon said: “For many years, we have supported local charities and saw a great opportunity to make a difference by using a UWL
Extra Mile Award
Descartes gives international freight forwarders and shippers a
single Customs Platform to import and export freight across international borders. Descartes’ Customs, freight and transport management software is used by most of the major forwarders and shippers in the UK to optimise speed of entry with single data entry for multiple countries, boosting productivity, improving data quality and ensuring compliance with the Union Customs Code. Descartes’ Transport Management solutions will increase efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer service when using outsourced multimodal transportation operations.
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Policy & Compliance
technologies advance. Thus, there are new entries relating to sodium ion batteries as well as electrically powered vehicles. The most vexed question for any involved in the movement, handling and storage of any form of lithium-ion cell or battery is the cargo’s history. And history starts with a thorough and authentic testing process, closely followed by strict and auditable quality control. Special provisions From a generalist perspective, it is always worrying to see the introduction or continuance of any Special Provisions that have the effect of exempting any particular cargo. Experience would suggest that such provisions have a likely effect of focusing classification on the ability to take advantage of the exemption, most frequently resulting in poorer information being communicated through the supply chain. Commonly known as mis- or non-declaration, the consequence may be illegality but certainly puts people and assets at greater risk. Charcoal Charcoal shipments have caused multiple and frequently serious fires on containerships and the changes in this amendment have been crafted to seek to combat improper preparation, packing and non-declaration that the previous provisions allowed. TT has worked with CINS (Cargo Incident Notification System) in developing more detailed guidance on the end-to-end process of safe carriage of charcoal in containers which can be viewed at: https://www.ttclub.com/news- and-resources/publications/article /guidelines-for-the-safe-carriage- of-charcoal-in-containers/ The message is fairly simple: targeted at charcoal intended to be used as a fuel, the cargo has to be prepared and packed in specific ways and fully declared as dangerous goods. The full TT Club article can be viewed at: https://www.ttclub.com/news- and-resources/news/article/tt-talk -changes-to-maritime- dangerous-goods-regulations /
TT Club is urging industry and national regulators to accelerate the application of important amendments to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code Changes to maritime dangerous goods rules
The following information is reproduced from an article originally published by The TT Club F ollowing the usual biennial cycle, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code has been updated and amended. This latest version, Amendment 42-24, entered transitional effect from 1 January 2025, meaning that stakeholders may start using the revised provisions. Amendment 41-22 will be mandatorily in force until 1 January 2026. While the new amendment may be used on an optional basis, TT Club is urging that industry and national regulators accelerate its application due to certain significant changes that have been implemented. There have been a number of
significant revisions made for this amendment. As ever in such cases, it is critical that all those having responsibility for the transport of dangerous goods by sea have access to, and utilise the full text of, changes has been produced by NCBHazcheck and is available at: https://hazcheck.com/hazcheck/i mdg-code-42-24-changes- detailed-pdf/. Emerging risks the relevant regulatory text. A detailed summary of the It will be seen that there are some key additions that signal ongoing work at the UN agencies. Of particular note are the various changes being ‘seeded’ relating to cells and batteries as the globe continues to drive away from reliance on fossil fuels and
“ Of particular note are the various changes being ‘seeded’ relating to cells and batteries as the globe continues to drive away from reliance on fossil fuels
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BIFA Awards
of working, so you have to read the situation, understand and adapt to build relations.“ This skill has helped Joe successfully mentor 13 other apprentices so far. Not only does he strive to be an approachable source of knowledge for young recruits, he also runs regular social events to help integrate apprentices into the company. “If they enjoy it here and like the people they’re working with, then we’ve got workers for a longer period, less staff turnover – and people who know what they’re doing,” he pointed out. “I enjoy seeing school leavers becoming competent employees, passing their exams and contributing to the company. “That growth is the most satisfying thing about mentoring: knowing you’ve contributed to a person’s career development.” Superpower All this is very impressive in itself – and all the more so given that Joe was diagnosed with severe dyslexia and ADHD at the age of eight, and found it dif fi cult to transition to work However, tools like voice-to-text, text readers and GenAI technology have been useful, alongside support from his managers. Now, he said: “I use my ADHD as a superpower to hyperfocus on speci fi c tasks and developed my own style of work. The result is, I write technical documents and standard operating procedures for my department and navigate my way through very complex regulated processes to explore areas of expertise new to my company.” Outside of work, Joe is a keen cricketer and has played for the Essex disability cricket team in the Disability Premier League. “Cricket de fi nitely feeds into my work; for instance I’ve played in eight or nine fi nals with Essex, and that teaches you how to handle high-pressure situations. I’ve also seen people with disabilities having normal jobs, which was very motivating for me because I’d been told I’d always struggle. “I enjoy logistics and it challenges me; I can’t see myself changing industries,” Joe concluded. in a heavily text-based and communication-dependent environment.
Joe (left) with Essex County Cricket Club captain Tom Westley
Joe brings a superpower to overcome challenges
BIFA Apprentice of the Year Joseph Freestone has passed two apprenticeships since entering the world of logistics. Among his talents is an ability to turn obstacles into opportunities... “ I enjoy
J oe Freestone has a natural thirst for knowledge – highly advantageous when embarking on a career in freight, where the learning curve is steep and no day is the same. During his fi rst apprenticeship, he said: “I learnt a lot, moving around different departments, getting different perspectives and learning about the requirements for different types of cargo. “Then I thought I’d like to get into management in the future so I did a second apprenticeship, in management. I learnt to deal with different people and organisations.” Complex scenarios Customs entry clerk Joe has also taken on responsibility for more complex scenarios such as ATA carnets – something Woodland Group had not done before. “The effect of acquiring this experience is my now documenting this knowledge and training colleagues to disseminate best practices across the company,” he
said. “It’s important that our staff are all fully trained so that they can take on new things to win extra business. It was hard work, but it’s satisfying to help others understand it.” Another of Joe’s strengths is interpersonal skills. “Emotional intelligence is one of the biggest things I learnt from my second apprenticeship. It helps you get the most out of yourself and others. Everyone has their own way
logistics and it challenges me; I can’t see myself changing industries – Joe Freestone
Apprentice of the Year
Menzies LLP provides financial and accounting expertise, combined with strategic commercial thinking. We understand your business via our in-depth sector knowledge and use a consultancy-led approach to challenge your objectives and guide your business growth. Each of our clients experiences our Brighter Thinking approach, the difference we make to our clients. With our in depth transport and logistics sector experience we promise to add real value across key areas of our clients’ businesses – to go further than just balancing the books.
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BIFAlink TV
BIFAlink TV – February’s Top Five videos BIFA’s Communications Team is back with its roundup of the Top Five episodes watched by Members during February on our YouTube channel, BIFAlink TV
21 February 2025
E very weekday morning you can expect the latest edition of BIFAlink TV to be delivered straight to your mailbox, so if you are not currently receiving your daily dose, please log into your Member Portal on BIFA.org to update your contact preferences to include BIFAlink TV. To watch February’s Top Five, simply scan the QR code next to the corresponding episode. If you prefer watching BIFAlink TV on your smartphone, you can search for BIFAlink_TV on YouTube and hit subscribe. YouTube app users can then receive notifications when the latest edition is live. Don’t forget! You can also catch up on BIFAlink TV via LinkedIn. Simply search for ‘British International Freight Association’ then give us a follow to receive your daily dose of industry information. BIFAlink TV has now been running for almost a year. We would love to receive your feedback on the content, frequency and availability of episodes. Email your comments to bifacomms@bifa.org.
17 February 2025
12 February 2025
19 February 2025
26 February 2025
Postponed VAT Accounting – the most-watched episode of BIFAlink TV (so far!).
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Member Engagement
Two regional member meetings took place in early March and are reported here. March also saw meetings take place in Liverpool, Manchester, London Gatwick and Northern Ireland – reports from these meetings will follow in the next issue of BIFAlink . March Member meetings in Anglia and Southwest
Charlie Frost, Albacore Systems, gave a presentation on ‘Why freight forwarders should care about cyber security’, covering the most vulnerable risk areas and best practice approaches to protect your business. Steve Freeman, board member of the Rail Freight Group and chairman of RailX, updated the meeting on the latest initiatives and available capacity on UK rail freight. He explained how the digital platform and train booking app, RailX, enables booking capacity on UK container services, providing access to intermodal rail across the UK. Adnan Zaheer from iCustoms provided a follow-up to his presentation at the last meeting with different examples of where and how AI is being used by forwarders, the practicalities of implementation and how long implementation might take. The BIFA team gave updates on all policy areas, the Heathrow Cargo redevelopment programme, Member Engagement and Training & Development, including the launch of BIFA bitesize e-learning modules accessed via the BIFA portal.
Anglia, Felixstowe The Anglia regional meeting enjoyed a good turnout of close to 70 Members at a new location, the Trimley Sports & Social Club. Personnel at the club were very welcoming and Members endorsed the venue, so we will probably be returning for our next meeting on 24 June. Guest speaker on this occasion was Darren Wright, founder of Veterans into Logistics, a charity that helps ex-military personnel find positions in the logistics industry. Darren gave a very moving talk on his life after posting to Afghanistan, his subsequent medical discharge and the reason for setting up the charity following the suicide of his close friend and comrade Jamie Doyle. Updates followed from Border Force on ENS (S&S GB), BIFA director general Steve Parker, MCP plc and the Felixstowe Port Users Association (FPUA). Members were reminded about upcoming events, including the BIFA National Conference, the
Charity Golf Day and the FPUA/BIFA Christmas Ball. The meeting closed with the opportunity for networking over an excellent buffet lunch. Southwest, Avonmouth Kindly hosted by Davies Turner, the Avonmouth meeting featured four external speakers. Border Force gave an update on the launch of the new Safety and Security regulations that mandate pre-arrival information for all consignments entering Great Britain, emphasising that entering accurate data is crucial to avoid shipments being delayed. It said the most common errors involve: • Identity of means of transport crossing the border, • Container or trailer number, • Mode of transport at the border, • Place of loading, • Place of unloading, • Goods description, • Countries of routing, • Expected date and time of arrival at Customs office of first entry, • Notify party.
BIFA Members are reminded that they are entitled to attend any of the regional meetings held throughout the UK. Check the event listing on the BIFA website for upcoming events
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Notice is hereby given that the 36th Annual General Meeting of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) will be held at 1 pm on Thursday 15 May 2025 at Warwick Conferences, Coventry, in order to: 1. Receive the Report of the Board of Directors. 2. Receive the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 and the report of the auditors thereon.
3. Appoint auditors and authorise the Board to fix their remuneration. 4. In accordance with the Association’s articles, to note and approve the election of officers of the Association. 5. Transact any other business which may properly be transacted at an Annual General Meeting. Steve Parker Director General 31 March 2025
A BIFA Member may nominate an attendee, although there will be a limit on numbers once a quorum is achieved. Please email s.parker@bifa.org NOTE: Any Member entitled to vote at the above meeting may appoint a proxy to vote on a poll in his or her stead. A proxy need not be a Member of the Association.
A form of proxy is available to download from the BIFA website www.bifa.org
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