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 February 2024 BIFA link Another roaring success for BIFA Awards ceremony
INSIDE: New Frontier Policy Manager • Revolutionary air cargo e-collection note • Scope 3 emissions • New training course • Know your STC • Regional meetings
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Issue: 402
Steve Parker’s Column
Awards celebrate record year T his issue’s column was written just after our Awards lunch, which was a hugely successful event attended by over 550 individuals who enjoyed an afternoon of networking and celebration, with excellent food in a convivial atmosphere. More people attended than ever before. There were more entrants for awards than ever before (up by 30% on 2023); and we raised more money for our nominated charity, Transaid, than ever before. We have received many notes of thanks from you our Members, as well expressing my respect for her bungee jumping off a bridge. Personally, I love these events as a chance to meet, to network, to renew friendships and even make new ones. If you attended, I hope you enjoyed the day. If you did not attend, make sure you put next year’s awards luncheon in your diary. The competition will open in June 2024 and the ceremony will take place on Thursday 16 January 2025. The Red Sea Whilst the awards were good news, I cannot avoid mentioning the bad news that is happening in the Red Sea as I write. I know it is impacting many of you greatly, and although BIFA can have very little effect on actual events, one of our pillars of activity is representation and we are doing that at every opportunity. Whether that is through press articles in the UK or supporting our global organisation FIATA with its lobbying and networking, we are calling for openness and transparency, pushing for visibility on the costs incurred and seeking reliable information on the inevitable delays. The Ocean, Road and Rail Policy Group meets on 20 February and is looking for Members to help formulate BIFA’s policy on this and other matters. If you want to share your opinions, now is the time to join the group – contact Robert Windsor (r.windsor@bifa.org) for more information. Training as some suggestions on what to do to make it even better. All are welcome, and all will be reviewed when we undertake a debrief of the event. I have passed on our thanks to Suzi Perry for being our host, as well as This is another key area for BIFA, and one that received renewed focus in 2023 with the idea from government to set up a voluntary standard of competence for forwarders. This gained some traction with support from some trade bodies and cargo owners. BIFA is pushing back against the idea as we believe the AEO standard should be sufficient. That said, all Members should be constantly looking to improve the skills of their staff and this is an area in which BIFA wants to help. As I mentioned at the awards we are working on new courses, plus new and multiple ways of delivery. But we also have some really ambitious ideas about how all members can obtain easy access to any of BIFA’s training resources and how they can achieve that in the most cost effective manner. It is early days in our strategic planning, and we will be consulting widely with members in the near future. Please look out for communications on the topic. Lastly I have had several emails about our next business leader’s forum. Please add 16 May to your diaries. One of our goals in 2024 is to improve our database in order to ensure that relevant messages reach the correct individuals within your organisation. Please get in touch with Brooke Neilson (bifacomms@bifa.org) to ensure that you are on the mailing list, and check that you are following BIFA on LinkedIn for all of the latest news.
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 Frontier Policy Manager Pawel Jarza p.jarza@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Customs Igor Popovics i.popovics@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Adviser – Sustainable Logistics Mike Jones m.jones@bifa.org Policy & Compliance Advisor – Air David Stroud d.stroud@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, David Stroud, Spencer Stevenson, Carl Hobbis, Sharon Hammond, Igor Popovics, Robert Keen, Denise Hill, Mike Jones Note to media: If you wish to use items in this magazine that are older than one month, please contact the editor 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.
Director General
February 2024 | 3
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Industry News
Ian Matheson, from Impress Communications, reviews some recent news that might impact on Members’ business
Shanghai remains world’s busiest container port
Maersk as the world’s largest container shipping line with a fleet of 645 units and a combined capacity of almost 4.3 million teu. While Maersk’s fleet shrank by 112,500 teu or 2.7% in 2023, MSC added a little more than 1 million teu of capacity over the same period. The average sailing speed of containerships reduced from 14.3 knots in 2022 to 13.9 knots in 2023 and could fall further in 2024, says BIMCO, adding that this lowers the efficiency of the fleet and that 3-4% of extra capacity may have to be deployed to ensure that the 2024 volume increase can be accommodated. Using its existing fleet of ships, which have capacities of around 850 to 1,000 teu, WEC Lines is launching a direct service connecting Agadir in Morocco with the port of Liverpool to provide a fast and environmentally friendly alternative for importers of fresh produce. The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) will hold an informal public hearing on 7 February focusing on the impact of attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This will provide a platform for supply chain stakeholders to share their experiences and strategies and allow the Commission to gather information on new and related issues subject to FMC statutes, such as implementing contingency fees and surcharges. IN BUSINESS Organisers of Multimodal 2024 report a surge in bookings for this year's exhibition, which is taking place from 11-13 June 2024 at the NEC in Birmingham. BIFA’s Freight Forwarder Village will take centre stage once again. Registration for free visitor places for the show is now open at the following url: https://multimodal- 2024.reg.buzz
ON THE QUAYSIDE The port of Shanghai
emissions, weight and time spent in the country. The survey also found drivers are unsure where the money is going. Road freight in Europe must almost entirely decarbonise by 2050, a challenge made even more daunting given that demand for truck services is expected to triple over the same timeframe. The International Road Transport Union has now concluded that a combination of efficiency measures and alternative fuels is the best way to achieve this carbon neutrality goal, being the least disruptive and most cost-effective
compared with a heavier focus on electrification or hydrogen power. IN THE AIR Global air cargo tonnages contracted 5% in 2023 year- on-year (YoY), according to figures published by WorldACD Market Data. However, the 9% fall seen in the first half of 2023, YoY, was counter-balanced by improving YoY performance for each consecutive month from July, with the period closing flat compared with 2022. IATA has released data for November 2023 global air cargo markets indicating demand was up 8.3% on 2022 — the strongest year-on-year growth in almost two years. It doubled October’s 3.8% increase and was a fourth month of positive market development. Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTK), was up 13.7% compared with November 2022 due to the increase in belly capacity as international passenger markets continue their post- Covid recovery. ON THE OCEAN P&O Ferries is launching a new ro-ro freight route between starting March 2024, which the company says will bolster its network, creating five hubs - Hull, Teesport, Tilbury, Zeebrugge and Europoort. It will also increase the number of connections between England’s northeast and southeast with Continental Europe. London (Tilbury 2) and Rotterdam (Europoort), According to Alphaliner, MSC has taken the crown from
maintained its position as the world’s busiest container port in 2023 with a 3.6% increase in volumes to 49 million teu, 1.7million teu higher than the throughput in 2022. OVERLAND Most drivers want funds raised through the HGV levy to be reinvested into better truck stop facilities and higher security measures, with more stops available across the UK, according to a survey carried out by digital marketplace SNAP. The levy was reintroduced on 1 August 2023, with a new emphasis on
4 | February 2024
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Industry News
DfT proposes amendments to driver CPC training
OBITUARY Len Burbage BIFA was sad to hear of the recent passing of Len Burbage who was a prominent member of the Institute of Freight Forwarders. Len worked at Van Ommeren, Geodis and Davies Turner. He was well known for his professionalism and organising Institute lunches in Parliament. Don’t keep it to yourself Not your copy of BIFAlink ? Register for your own copy by contacting Sarah Milton in membership s.milton@bifa.org or visit www.bifa.org/bifalink for a digital version. BIFAlink is the magazine of the British International Freight Association.
The Department for Transport (DfT) published its response in December to the consultation on proposed changes to the Driver Certi fi cate of Professional Competence (DCPC). The consultation ran earlier in the year to gather views on measures to make it simpler to become and remain a professional driver in the UK. The recommendations from the government include: • Introducing a National DCPC (N-DCPC) that will cover driving a lorry, bus or coach solely in the UK; • Allowing training courses to be done in blocks of 3.5 hours rather than the current 7 hours to allow greater flexibility; • Increasing the amount of e-learning that can be done to 12 hours.
These changes will only apply to the N-DCPC for driving a lorry, bus or coach solely within the UK. The intention is to introduce these changes in summer 2024.
Those wanting to drive a lorry, bus or coach outside the UK will need to complete the training within the existing rules, which will not change from 35 hours of training every five years. drinks), fundraising raffle and auction, and dancing to live music from the band Hit Parade. Sponsors BIFA would like to thank DP World London Gateway and Uniserve for their sponsorship. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, please contact Sharon Hammond (s.hammond@bifa.org) Appeal Are you able to offer an auction lot to support the selected charities? Contact Sharon Hammond (s.hammond@bifa.org) with details of your offer. Tickets Tickets are now on sale at £95.00 + vat per person. Go to https://bifa.org/events/ to book.
NEW London East Charity Spring Ball
A brand-new event is being added to the BIFA calendar, book now to reserve your seats The London East Regional Committee is delighted to announce the inaugural, black-tie, London East Charity Spring Ball which will take place on Friday 22 March at Stockbrook Manor Country Club, near Billericay, Essex. Many BIFA Members are familiar with the annual Liverpool Region Charity Dinner which is well attended by personnel from near and far, selling out every year. BIFA London East Regional Chair, Scott Baker of Uniserve, and Lexi Leybourn of DP World hope that this new event will prove just as popular for networking in a social environment and the opportunity to raise much needed funds for local charities, the Karis May Darling
Foundation and Thurrock Foodbank. Don your best suit or some sparkles and high heels to enjoy a night to remember.
The evening will commence with a drinks reception followed by a three-course meal with drinks included (house wine, house beers, soft
6 | February 2024
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BIFA News
Pawel Jarza appointed Frontier Policy Manager
Multimodal 2024 to again feature BIFA Forwarder Village
Many readers will recognise Pawel Jarza from his previous employment with BIFA. Before re-joining the British International Freight Association (BIFA) in January 2024 he has worked in a number of mainly Customs compliance-focused managerial roles in the traditional forwarding sector, but also in the highly automated e-commerce industry. Pawel is a Customs and operations manager with almost 20 years of experience in the logistics industry. He is also an MA degree holder (International Trade Regulations) understanding the legal and financial aspects of logistics. Pawel graduated from the University of Wroclaw, Department of Law, Administration and Economics.
The hugely popular Multimodal exhibition will take place at the NEC, Birmingham on 11-13 June this year – and once again will feature a BIFA Forwarder Village. Billed as the UK, Ireland and Northern Europe’s only one-stop trade show for cargo owners, Multimodal is the established meeting place for the industry with around 10,000 participants each year. BIFA personnel will be on- hand throughout the exhibition to answer questions and give guidance on all matters affecting Members’ activity. Scan the QR code to register as a VIP visitor to Multimodal 2024.
He wrote his master’s thesis on international trade and commercial arbitration, focusing on the main aspects of international jurisdiction. He also holds a master’s degree in classics, which is his private hobby. Robert Windsor, Member Policy & Compliance Director, welcomes Pawel to the team
as Frontier Policy Manager responsible for liaison with UK government departments such as HMRC and Border Force, and other relevant external bodies. Pawel can be contacted by email at p.jarza@bifa.org and he will be working closely with Igor Popovics, Policy Advisor Customs.
BIFA Director General joins judging panel
BIFA is delighted to announce that the organisers of the Multimodal 2024 Awards have invited Director General Steve Parker to join the judging panel again this year. The Multimodal Awards are open now and nominations close on 29 March.
The Limits of Liability for Carriers
In association with
By air – Warsaw Convention (17 SDR): £17.84 per kg
By sea – Hague Visby rules (2 SDR): £2.10 per kg £699.79. per package
BIFA STC: (2 SDR): £2.10 per kg
By road – CMR (8.33 SDR): £8.74 per kg
Insurance for the Marine & Logistics industries
(The SDR rate on 19 January 2024,
By air – Montreal Convention (22 SDR): £23.09 per kg
according to the IMF website, was 1.04968)
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macbeths.co.uk
February 2024 | 7
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Policy & Compliance
CCS-UK trials a revolutionary electronic air cargo collection note
The latest enhancement to the Advance Information System (AIS) will cut waiting times and reduce the risk of fraudulent collections
A new, electronic air cargo collection note is set to revolutionise cargo collections from airlines’ ground handlers in the UK, improving security and ef fi ciency. Designed by CCS-UK as the latest enhancement to its Advance Information System (AIS), the ‘e-collection note’ replaces the traditional paper version that has been in use for decades. The old paper-based system requires agents to produce a hard- copy collection note, which their own driver or transport contractor then presents to the handling agent in order to obtain release of the cargo. Not only is the old system time- consuming, but there have been a number of instances of thieves using bogus collection notes to fraudulently obtain goods that are often worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. QR code The new, electronic version is downloaded as a QR code by the forwarder direct to the driver’s pre- registered smartphone. When the driver arrives at the handling agent to collect the cargo, the QR code on the driver’s smartphone is scanned with a QR code reader, and the reception confirms that the driver ID and registration number of the collecting vehicle conform to the shipment’s collection advice data as held in the AIS system. If there is any discrepancy, the handler will not release the goods; however, in the event of a legitimate cause for the discrepancy (such as
last-minute change of driver or vehicle), the forwarder is permitted to correct and re-submit the collection advice to the system and driver, avoiding the need for the driver to return to base. Logistics service provider GEODIS and cargo handler dnata are currently trialling the new system at London Heathrow. Chris Packwood, GEODIS UK managing director, said: “All our collections and deliveries to the airline transit sheds are already managed through the AIS system, so this latest development is a natural progression for us. It will significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent collections that has always existed with paper collection notes. “Once we have fully tested and validated the process and systems, it would make a great deal of sense for widespread adoption of the e-collection note to take place by the entire air cargo community. This would strengthen security, improve efficiency and drive much-needed modernisation of processes at UK airports.” Tania Boyes, corporate assurance director for dnata UK, added: “We
are very proud that dnata has been involved in the development of the AIS system from the start. The e-collection note is another big step forward in helping the industry to improve efficiency and reduce the potential for erroneous or fraudulent collections.” Pre-advice The e-collection note is a further enhancement of the CCS-UK AIS module, which enables freight agents and their transport contractors to pre-advise transit sheds of their air import collections and export drop-offs. Submitting this information via AIS enables handlers to better allocate their resources and schedule workflows. By pre-allocating truck door slots, they can reduce truck queues and waiting times during peak periods. Freight agents can also use the AIS ‘Air waybill watch’ feature to track specific air waybills and receive updates on the shipment status, enabling them to better plan vehicle movements. AIS is free to all registered CCS-UK users.
“ This [adoption of th e- collection note] would strengthen
security, improve ef fi ciency and drive
much- needed
modern - isation of processes at UK airports. – Chris
Packwood, GEODIS UK
8 | February 2024
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Sustainable Logistics
Scope 3 emissions: A crucial guide for freight forwarders
combustion processes and company vehicles. • Scope 2 emissions: Indirect emissions generated by the production of the electricity, heat or steam purchased and consumed by the company. • Scope 3 emissions: All other indirect emissions that occur in a including emissions from suppliers, transportation, distribution and the use of products. Focusing on scope 3 emissions Scope 3 emissions encompass the company’s value chain, both upstream and downstream, entirety of a company’s supply chain emissions, which for many businesses constitutes about 80% of their total carbon footprint. They are a major contributor to climate change but are also the most
What are scope 3 emissions and why do freight forwarders need to worry about measuring them for their clients?
B IFA is aware that sustainability regulations and consumer pressure are compelling businesses to measure their scope 3 emissions. But what are scope 3 emissions, and why do freight forwarders need to worry about measuring them for their clients? Before we dive into the world of scope 3 emissions, it is essential to understand the broader context of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. What are greenhouse gas emissions? GHG emissions are gases that trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Over
the last 150 years, human activity, including the transport of freight, has greatly increased the output of GHG emissions, accelerating global warming to levels that, if not reduced, will have profound and long-lasting negative impacts on Earth’s weather patterns and ecosystems. What are the emissions scopes? The Greenhouse Gas Protocol, categorises emissions into three scopes: • Scope 1 emissions: Direct emissions produced by a company’s owned or controlled sources, such as on-site
“ Scope 3 emissions encompass the entirety of a company’s supply chain emissions
10 | February 2024
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Sustainable Logistics
difficult emissions for businesses to measure and manage. Under the GHG Protocol, scope 3 is divided into 15 different categories separated into up- and downstream emissions covering a wide range of activities. There are two scope 3 emissions categories that specifically involve supply chain activities relevant to freight forwarders – categories 4 and 9. Scope 3 categories that affect freight forwarders transportation and distribution of goods that a company purchases or acquires from suppliers, such as a delivery from a factory to a warehouse. Category 9 deals with emissions from the transportation and distribution of products from the reporting business’s warehouse to the end-customer or user such as last-mile delivery. Why freight forwarders need to measure shippers’ supply chain emissions Category 4 encompasses emissions arising from the
The complex nature of global shipments means the most viable and accurate way to measure scope 3 category 4 and 9 emissions is to use shipment data to model the emissions output attributed to a shipper’s cargo. As coordinators of freight in the supply chain, freight forwarders have visibility of shipment data and shipment leg breakdowns that are critical to informing reduction strategies. Their access to this granularity of data means they are uniquely positioned to convert shipment data into emissions data for their clients, enabling them to meet emissions reporting obligations or inform emissions reduction strategies. As a result, more and more shippers are turning to their freight forwarders to fulfil their scope 3 disclosure requirements for categories 4 and 9. The bene fi ts of measuring scope 3 emissions for shippers and forwarders If done correctly, measuring shippers’ scope 3 supply chain
emissions can present freight forwarders with an opportunity to improve and add value to their service for clients by: • Meeting sustainability regulations; • Making more informed supply chain decisions; • Reducing environmental impact; • Helping build an eco-conscious brand. By promoting these added values for clients, forwarders can successfully leverage emissions measurement to gain a competitive advantage, helping them win new business and drive client loyalty. The BIFA website has a link to an emissions measurement platform that enables the accurate conversion of client data into scope 3, categories 4 and 9 emissions calculations: https://bifa.org/information- guidance/technical-information/c arbon-calculator/ BIFA acknowledges the assistance of Pledge in the preparation of this article.
“ As coordinators of freight in the supply chain, freight forwarders have visibility of shipment data and shipment leg breakdowns that are
critical to informing reduction strategies
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February 2024 | 11
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Awards
Excitement revved up as 52 competitors assembled on the starting grid of the 35th BIFA Freight Service Awards A roaring triumph
C lose to 560 forwarders, airlines, shipping lines, and others, along with their customers and guests, gathered at The Brewery in central London for the BIFA Freight Service Awards ceremony on Thursday 18 January. Opening his first ceremony as BIFA Director General, Steve Parker welcomed guests to the 35th anniversary event and spoke of his pride in the industry and the wide- ranging subject matter of the 135 entries submitted to the judging panels back in October. Guests then heard from Sir Peter Bottomley MP, BIFA President, who expressed his admiration for the personnel who manage the day- to-day challenges of international shipping, including the current insurers, software providers issues affecting vessels in both the Red Sea and the Panama Canal. The toastmaster then announced
• Cardinal Global Logistics • Cargo Overseas • cargo-partner • deugro (UK) • DHL Global Forwarding • GEODIS Freight Forwarding UK • Hemisphere Freight Services • Hogg Global Logistics • Kerry Logistics • Killick Martin & Company • Kranlee Logistics • Ligentia UK • Maersk Logistics & Services • Metro Shipping • Noatum Logistics • OIA Global • Peters & May • Seafast Logistics • Ucargo • Uniserve Group • Unsworth UK • Woodland Group • World Cargo Logistics • Espace Europe • F S Mackenzie
“ BIFA Director General Steve Parker spoke of his pride in the industry and the wide-
the presentation of certificates by Suzi Perry, special guest TV presenter and motorsports enthusiast, to the finalists in the 11 categories being celebrated. Lining up on the starting grid for the nine business awards were: • Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics • Baxter Freight • Brunel European • Brunel Shipping & Liner Services
ranging subject matter of
the 135 entries submitted to the judging panels
12 | February 2024
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Awards
THE AWARD WINNERS All photos: Event host Suzi Perry All pictures © www.philippagedge.com
The 29 companies were complemented by 12 inspiring individuals who also took to the stage to collect finalist certificates in the Apprentice of the Year and the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year categories. They were: • Cameron Smith, Ligentia UK • Jacob Swift, Avocet Clearance • Kieran Elkin, Dachser • Leanne Read, Neon Freight • Richard Smith, Ziegler UK • Samuel Barrett, Charles Kendall Freight • Amelia Mulhern, Kuehne + Nagel • Christopher Carter, Peterson UK • Emily Howard, Westbound Logistics • Georgia Gibson, cargo-partner • Michael Shiels, DHL Global Forwarding • Nikki Hall, Edge Worldwide Logistics Next it was time to refuel with a wonderful three-course meal followed by tales of adventure and adrenaline from ‘queen of the pit lane’ Suzi Perry who regaled the audience with stories of her time on the gadget show and the international Formula 1 motor racing and Moto GP circuits. The fi nishing straight With the excitement building and hearts a-pumping, the ceremony entered the finishing straight as Suzi Perry invited the category sponsors to the stage to announce the winners of the BIFA Freight Service Awards 2023. First up was Danial Wright of Macbeth Insurance & Financial Services, sponsor of the Project Forwarding Award , which was won by Hemisphere Freight Services for a project that lasted over three years and involved delivery of 600 loads to complex individual locations in remote countryside as part of the UK’s move towards a home-grown, low-carbon energy supply. Presenting the Specialist Services Award was Steve Breen from sponsor Thyme IT. For the second year running this award went to Seafast Logistics for its commitment to supporting the supply chain of humanitarian aid organisations in post-conflict regions and its impressive achievements in reducing transit times and delivering substantial cost savings. OIA Global impressed the judges to win the Staff Development Award , presented by Cliff Atkinson of Albacore Systems, having demonstrated its commitment to
Project Forwarding Award – Centre: Daniel Morgan, Hemisphere Freight Services; right: Danial Wright, Macbeth Insurance & Financial Services
Specialist Services Award –Left: Steve Breen, Thyme IT; centre: David Halliday, Seafast Logistics
Staff Development Award – left: Cliff Atkinson, Albacore Systems; centre: Ben Price, OIA Global
Supply Chain Management Award – Centre: Stacey Byrne, Kerry Logistics; right: Shane Paddington, Boxtop Technologies
Apprentice of the Year Award –Left: Sophie Said, Menzies LLP; centre: Cameron Smith, Ligentia UK
Young Freight Forwarder of the Year Award – Left: Sam Camphion, Virgin Atlantic Cargo; centre: Chris Carter, Peterson UK
Sustainable Logistics and the Environment Award – Left: Andy Cornwall, American Airlines Cargo; centre left: Andy Papps, Woodland Group; centre right: Sam Warren, Woodland Group
Extra Mile Award – left: Howard Marsh, Descartes Systems; centre: Lyndsay Hogg, Hogg Global Logistics
Air Cargo Services Award – Left: Daniel Byrne, IAG Cargo; centre: Craig Beck, deugro (UK)
European Logistics Award –Left: Michael Yarwood, TT Club; centre: Steve Davies, Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics
Ocean Services Award –Left: Adam Dawson, Port Express; centre left: Jim Smith, Woodland Group; centre right: Ian Russell, Woodland Group February 2024 | 13
Continued on Page 14
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Awards
also influencing a fundamental change in the customer’s logistics model to win the European Logistics Award . The final award of the day was the Port Express-sponsored Ocean Services Award. Having successfully delivered a project of over 270 containers from Mexico to the UK in a short timeframe, while maintaining the client’s commitment to carbon efficiency, Woodland Group scooped its second trophy of the day, presented to it by Adam Dawson. Two other companies went home with trophies as the judges decided to present Highly Commended awards to Ucargo LLP in the Project Forwarding category and Maersk Logistics & Services in the Sustainable Logistics and the Environment category. Congratulations The congratulations of BIFA and the sponsor judging panels go out to the winners and all finalists. Award winners benefit from a number of opportunities throughout the year and this will include the publication of a profile of their submission in a future issue of BIFAlink . Transaid Industry charity Transaid, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, was the beneficiary of the raffle carried out during the event, with a BIFA record-breaking £4,700 raised to fund its vital road safety and access to healthcare activities in sub-Saharan Africa. Thank you forwarding, BIFA recognises that finding the time to sit down and compose an entry is not easy and would like to thank all those who did manage to do so – after all, if you are not in it, you cannot win it! In the fast-paced and ever competitive world of freight BIFA also acknowledges the support of the loyal band of category sponsors (listed above) who give up their time to meet and judge the awards and the following sponsors who contributed to the ceremony: ASM UK Ltd; CNS; Elite Global Logistics Network; Forward Solutions; Maersk; MCP plc; Simpex UKWA; and Woodland Group.
From Page 13
Highly Commended trophy was awarded to Georgia Gibson who joined cargo-partner after completing a degree in Business with Supply Chain Management. Returning to the business categories, Andy Cornwall of American Airlines Cargo announced the winner of the inaugural Sustainable Logistics and the Environment Award as Woodland Group who thrilled the judges with long-term commitments made in this area. They were particularly impressed with the continuous process of monitoring and reducing emissions of every single shipment. Family business Hogg Global Logistics of Hartlepool took the next prize, the Extra Mile Award , sponsored by Descartes. The trophy was presented by Howard Marsh who commented that Hogg Global Logistics had taken on a prospect many walked away from and provided a very personal solution, which was a great relief to the customer. As the end of the ceremony approached, attention turned to the traditional modal categories as Daniel Byrne of sponsor IAG Cargo announced deugro UK as winner of the Air Cargo Services Award for a project that required close collaboration with the customer to overcome the technical and geographical complexities of the shipment. Michael Yarwood of TT Club commented that Atlantic Paci fi c Global Logistics demonstrated expertise and depth of knowledge to successfully deliver a hugely complex supply chain challenge for a leading retail customer, while
continuous improvement and investment in its employees. The fourth category of the afternoon was the Supply Chain Management Award and Shane Paddington from sponsor Boxtop Technologies joined Suzi Perry on stage to announce the winner as Kerry Logistics who achieved a 50% improvement on lead-time and cost reductions of 35% by the implementation of a consolidation hub for its customer in Ningbo. Next, attention turned to the 12 inspiring individuals vying for the Apprentice of the Year and the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year Awards. Suzi invited Sophie Said of new sponsor Menzies LLP onto the stage who declared Cameron Smith of Ligentia the winner of Apprentice of the Year Award for 2023, commenting that Cameron showed exceptional knowledge and commercial awareness of the industry and an ability to build strong relationships with clients and colleagues. This category also saw Jacob Swift of Avocet Clearance recognised with a Highly Commended award. The second individual award was the Young Freight Forwarder of the Year , sponsored by Virgin Atlantic Cargo. Sam Camphion stepped up to announce the winner as proud Scotsman Chris Carter of Peterson UK in Aberdeen. Joining a small, newly established organisation at the age of 17 gave Chris the opportunity to receive one-to-one training and be involved in all aspects of the business, an opportunity he embraced and thrived on as he progressed through the ranks. With competition for this award so high, a
The Transaid raffle draw: Left to right – Caroline Barber, Suzi Perry and Paul Craycraft
“ Industry charity Transaid, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, was the bene fi ciary of the raf fl e carried out during the event, with a BIFA record- breaking
£4,700 raised
14 | February 2024
www.bifa.org
Freight Service Awards 2023
The following organisations and individuals have been recognised by the British International Freight Association as the ‘best in industry’ in the BIFA Freight Service Awards 2023 competition The Winners
Modal Categories
Specialist Categories
General Categories
Project Forwarding Award Sponsored by: Macbeth Insurance Brokers
Air Cargo Services Award Sponsored by: IAG Cargo
Extra Mile Award Sponsored by: Descartes
Sustainable Logistics & the Environment Award Sponsored by: American Airlines Cargo
Specialist Services Award Sponsored by: Thyme IT
European Logistics Award Sponsored by: TT Club
Ocean Services Award Sponsored by: Port Express
Staff Development Award Sponsored by: Albacore Systems
Individual Categories
Young Freight Forwarder of the Year Award Sponsored by: Virgin Atlantic Cargo
Christopher Carter Peterson UK
Supply Chain Management Award Sponsored by: Boxtop Technologies
Apprentice of the Year Award Sponsored by: Menzies LLP
Cameron Smith Ligentia UK Ltd
British International Freight Association T: +44 (0)20 8844 2266 E: bifaevents@bifa.org W: awards.bifa.org awards.bifa.org
Policy & Compliance
When goods are in transit, only the Transit MRN should be entered into the GMR – the haulier will have to proceed to the relevant Inland Border Facility (IBF) or authorised premises in order to close the transit movement. After this process is completed, the Customs declaration to clear the goods can be submitted via CDS to HMRC and clearance obtained. Clearance ‘on wheels’ linking a Transit MRN and an ‘arrived’ CDS MRN is clearly a breach of UK regulations. It is important that all BIFA Members review their procedures against the documented Common Transit procedures to ensure that they are compliant. On behalf of its Members, BIFA spoke to HMRC on certain points, and received the following additional information: • Traders can include references for multiple declaration types within one vehicle (eg groupage loads) as long as there are not transit and import declaration references for the same consignment of goods; • One vehicle can have multiple transit declarations within a single GMR; • One vehicle can hold only one GMR; • Transit movements can only be discharged at the relevant IBF or authorised premises. Consequences All Members should be aware of and follow these procedures for transit movements. In communication to BIFA, HMRC has clearly stated that if something were to go wrong, such as a driver not reporting to an IBF to discharge the transit movement, “A transit irregularity might be issued despite an earlier Free Circulation declaration being made and it would be for the trader to confirm that the goods on the two declarations were the same. This could result in two amounts of duty being at stake, not to mention civil penalties for either transit failures, improper free circulation declarations or both”. There is fuller information to be found at https://bifa.org/2024/01/04/transit -guidance-january-2024/
Members have raised concerns regarding the procedures followed by some Customs agents when dealing with shipments moved under Common Transit Make sure you comply with the Common Transit rules
A t a recent Member Meeting, compliant Members highlighted that they were aware that in many cases, presumably either to gain time and thus a competitive advantage or because of a lack of knowledge, both the Transit Movement Reference Number (MRN) and also the Customs Declaration MRN for the same consignment were declared on the Goods Movement Reference. This guidance specifically relates to movements including a pre- lodged Customs declaration. As a result, the imported goods were simultaneously in two Customs regimes at the same time. HMRC issued guidance in May 2022 related to this subject. It said: “We have become aware that some goods vehicle service users are entering either import declaration instead of, or as well as, the transit Movement Reference Number. Neither of these are in line with UK regulations: • By not entering the transit Movement Reference Number
the Office of Transit cannot be carried out in line with the Common Transit Convention and UK regulations and may cause delays upon reaching the Office of Destination. • By entering the “import declaration” for those goods under the transit movement, this puts the goods into two Customs regimes at the point of entry to the UK. This is against UK regulations. The full text of the guidance can be viewed at: www.gov.uk/government/publicati ons/community-common-transit- and-tir-newsletters/newsletter-9- may-2022# According to the above instructions, HMRC is aware of the problem and is instructing traders not to enter both the Transit MRN and Customs Declaration MRN covering the same consignment on the same GMR reference. Anybody doing so is being non-compliant. BIFA has to remind Members that they cannot legally enter both declaration references simultaneously on the GMR.
“ BIFA has to remind Members that they cannot legally enter both declaration references simult - aneously on the GMR
16 | February 2024
www.bifa.org
Training
well-deserved reputation for being very informative and delivering great value for money – and that will be the case for the new course. By the end of the course, participants can expect to be able to identify all parties involved in the process of importing and exporting goods, whilst understanding the process of a shipment, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the freight forwarding and logistics company and the various carriers involved. Furthermore, the course will ensure that they will be able to determine the main elements required when arranging a shipment between a buyer and seller, and understand the common documents that may be needed and are used within the industry. The course will define why shipping instructions are required and explain the roles and responsibilities of various parties. Course details The course will explain the differences between the commercial invoice and the packing list and determine information that needs to be provided, whilst providing an overview of Incoterms 2020 and their role in the terms of sale. Carl Hobbis, member services director at BIFA, who has management responsibility for the trade association’s training and development services, said: “The course is an ideal starting point to then move on to BIFA’s Freight Forwarding Essentials and Customs Essentials courses, which give more insight into specific aspects of the logistics industry and Customs processes.” The Introduction to Freight course is available to book now at the introductory rate of £190 + vat per delegate and is included in the Full 1-day Bundle pricing offer, meaning that a delegate can attend Introduction to Freight, Freight Forwarding Essentials and Customs Essentials all for the discounted bundle price of £550 + VAT, a saving of £220. Visit https://bifa.org/ training- development/ courses/ to view the full course information and available dates.
The Introduction to Freight course is included in the Full 1-day bundle pricing offer
Introduction to Freight
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Freight Forwarding Essentials
“ BIFA’s freight and Customs training courses aim to be the most
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Customs Essentials
Save £220
engaging within the industry
BIFA adds new course to training portfolio The Introduction to Freight training course has been designed for anyone who is a complete newcomer to the world of freight and logistics
D uring 2023, BIFA saw 1,001 delegates complete a BIFA training course, with all but one delegate responding
Freight newcomers Introduction to Freight has been designed for anyone who is a complete newcomer to the world of freight and logistics. It is a practical course for beginners that will give participants a good foundation in the
that they would recommend BIFA training to their colleagues. Recognising that BIFA Members have been recruiting school and college leavers, as well as
processes involved when importing and exporting goods.
BIFA’s freight and Customs training courses aim to be the most engaging
career changers, with no prior knowledge of the industry, BIFA trainers identified a gap in the existing offering and the new year has seen an addition to the one-day freight essentials training portfolio with the new Introduction to Freight course.
in the industry, whether that be an online class, face-to- face, or eLearning. Delivered by a team of industry experts, the various courses have gained a
18 | February 2024
www.bifa.org
Automate Your Customs Processing
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11-13 June 2024 NEC Birmingham UK
MULTIMODAL: SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS & SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT EVENT FOR CARGO OWNERS Multimodal 2023 was the biggest and most successful event in its 16-year history. With over 320 exhibitors and 12,267 visitors, an increase of 25% on last year, it was a must-attend event for anyone involved in the supply chain industry.
Here are just a few of the reasons why you should exhibit at Multimodal 2024: • Reach a large and influential audience of over 12,000 visitors • Connect with new customers, partners, and prospects • Showcase your products and services to a captive audience • Stay ahead of the curve by learning about the latest trends in logistics • Network with other industry leaders
Multimodal continues to be an important event for Kuehne+Nagel UK, providing us with a unique opportunity to connect with our valued customers, strategic partners and industry organisations over a span of three days. Multimodal enables us to showcase and delve into key strategic topics, fostering engagement with the market through multiple interactions.
Another great #multimodal2023 event this week.
First of all, let me congratulate you on the delivery of a fantastic event. We were very happy and impressed with the levels of attendance and engagement, well done!
Contact us now for exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities www.multimodal.org.uk +44 (0)20 7384 7760 | multimodalteam@clarionevents.com
Policy & Compliance
Know your BIFA Standard Trading Conditions 2021 – Clause 22
simple example would be where, to save a ship and its crew, a percentage of the cargo being carried is destroyed by fire-fighting measures following an onboard fire. All owners of cargo aboard will then share the costs incurred to save the venture. So, a General Average has been declared and you have been asked for an indemnity or a deposit. What should you do? As mentioned at the start of this article, any standard marine policy will include General Average losses so, if the goods have been insured, the importer should obtain a General Average guarantee from the insurers. If no insurance has been organised then a cash deposit will be needed. Whatever the position, your first action upon receiving notification that a General Average has been declared for a vessel is to give immediate notice to the importer. The appointed average adjusters will need to be in possession of completed guarantees and bond forms or cash deposit before release of cargo, so it is vital that the importer takes immediate action.
Clause 22 refers to General Average and is fairly straightforward, hence just two paragraphs on its wording and use are needed here, followed by some background information
M arine insurance policies usually include cover for General Average so it is good practice to bring the associated risks of a maritime loss to the attention of customers whilst offering suitable insurance cover if none has already been arranged. Clause 22 Where liability arises in respect of claims of a general average nature in connection with the Goods, the Customer shall promptly provide security to the Company, or to any other party designated by the Company, in a form acceptable to the Company. Comment on Clause 22 This clause should be read in conjunction with the indemnity Clause 20(D). This clause makes it clear that it is the Customer, and
not the BIFA Member, that must provide prompt and proper security for goods subject to general average. What is General Average? Whenever there is a maritime disaster, BIFA receives many calls or e-mails concerning General Average. General Average began as an ‘unwritten law’ in ancient times. Whilst thought to go back to the Phoenician age, the underlying principle remains the basis of General Average resolution today. The legal framework covering General Average is the York- Antwerp rules, last revised in 2016. It is a process whereby the parties whose interests have been sacrificed or who have incurred extra expense, are recompensed by the contribution of those whose interests have been saved. A
“ Your first action upon receiving notification that a General Average has been declared for a vessel is to give immediate notice to the importer
February 2024 | 21
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