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Warehousing and Automation: The Benefits

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Automation is a powerful tool and comes in many shapes and forms. In warehousing, automation is generally used to improve existing methods by increasing efficiency, speed, reliability, accuracy and (eventually) cost savings.

 

Robotics in manufacturing has been well established for many years and applications within warehouse operations will become more mainstream. We’ve compiled a list of pros for modern warehouse solutions.

 

PROS

  • Modern warehouse automation technologies are more flexible and scalable compared to older automation solutions like conveyors, which are bulky and fixed in place.

 

  • Warehouse operators can rent additional robots to accommodate increased demand during peak season, returning them when demand returns to normal.

 

  • Collaborative mobile robots also don’t require infrastructure changes, unlike conveyor systems, so they’re easier to implement.

 

  • Space optimisation is another benefit of warehouse automation, allowing warehouses to maximize the use of vertical space by storing items in higher locations that are typically difficult for warehouse operatives or forklifts to reach. Drones, cranes and some AS/RS solutions make it easier to access these higher storage locations, so warehouses can monetize more cubic feet.

 

  • Many automated and robotic systems are well developed, and it is often a case of establishing suitability of the technology within the logistics operation.

 

  • The potential flexibility of some of the robotic technologies may reduce the risks traditionally viewed with large automated systems.

 

  • Robotics will no longer be the domain of just the larger businesses who have driven much of the development to date. Some of these robotic solutions can be adapted and utilised in a small traditional warehouse to support existing staff.

 

 

WAREHOUSING TECHNOLOGY TRENDS 2021

Many warehouse operations have some form of mechanised material handling solutions to improve productivity; forklift trucks, conveyors, sorters, product to picker systems to automatic storage and retrieval systems (ASRS). The easier jobs in the warehouse have always been the quick wins for automation.

 

Pallet stacking robots and robot de-layering are well established undertaking repetitive tasks that can be mechanised reasonably easily.

 

Collaborative robots are becoming increasingly common directly supporting human activity such as independent load carrying robots that can move a completed pallet to a loading bay determining their own route through a warehouse.

 

Piece picking robots are another area of development, with the ability to move around a warehouse and pick items from shelves at multiple levels using an extendable arm with grip and sucker technology. They will become more sophisticated as they are developed for differing operations in conjunction with AI.

 

Other systems are based upon the product to picker concept. These robots sequence the product presentation, usually the shelving unit and appropriate pick shelf to the pick station, reducing picker travel time, improving pick productivity and space utilisation.

 

Here at Barnes, we maintain 50,000 sqft of modern racked warehousing which uses wire guided VNA trucks to maximise efficiency of space. We also have a bespoke Warehouse management system that allows us to track product location whilst on site. We also offer pick and pack operations, as well as full pallet movements to fit your needs.

 

Investing in the right warehouse automation solutions could be a smart financial decision. With technology ever evolving more trends will come and go so keep your eye on the world of warehouse automation.

 

Get in touch to find out how our warehouse solutions can support your business.

 

 

What A Net Zero Future Looks Like For Logistics

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In 2019, the UK became the first major economy to pass the net zero emissions law, this means that we will end our contribution to global warming by 2050. The original target was to create at least an 80% reduction in gas emissions from 1990 levels, this has since upgraded to the aim of being entirely net zero within the next 29 years. The country has already reduced emissions by 42% and has put clean growth at the heart of our modern industrial strategy. According to the Government website, this could see the number of “green-collar jobs” grow to 2 million and the value of exports from the low carbon economy grow to £170 billion a year by 2030.

Net zero means achieving carbon neutrality, which refers to having no carbon dioxide emissions – this is done by balancing carbon dioxide emissions with removal, or simply eliminating carbon dioxide emissions altogether. But what does a net zero future look like for the logistics industry?

Raising The Bar For Warehousing

When it comes to logistics, we shouldn’t overlook the importance of warehousing space. Crucial to the supply chain, the target of net zero by 2050 will certainly affect how warehouses operate too. Utilising efficient energy sources will be the first step, for example by taking advantage of solar panels for power. Older warehouses can be adapted to meet net zero targets, but the best way to achieve our goals is from the very beginning, by ensuring that any future builds are adept to use resources such as solar and rainwater to replace non-renewable energy options.

With the appetite towards achieving the net zero target increasing, we wouldn’t be surprised to see more smart developers coming out with innovative ways to help the logistics industry achieve its emissions goals. We certainly look forward to being involved in this, here at The Barnes Group.

Looking At Alternative Fuel

According to the Energy Saving Trust, more than 60% of road journeys are by car and almost 80% of all goods that we consume travel across the country in vans and trucks. Of vehicles on the road, around 0.08% are electric, but to achieve net zero by 2050, a phase-out of traditional petrol and diesel vehicles needs to happen soon. If we assume around an average 14-year lifespan, then the production of traditional fuel vehicles will need to cease on or around 2032, meaning by 2050, we will mostly see electric vehicles on the roads. Large operators such as DHL are already trialling electric vehicles to meet their internal targets.

The alternative to electric is renewable fuel. The Low Emissions Freight Trial report from the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership tested a range of gas-powered HGVs from different manufacturers, including vehicles using spark ignition and compression ignition technologies. It also looked at the performance of vehicles running on compressed natural gas and liquified natural gas, and their biomethane equivalents. After 12 months of testing, the study found that spark ignition gas trucks achieved well-to-wheel greenhouse gas savings of between 69–81% when fuelled with RTFO-certified biomethane. This saving was found across all cycles including long haul, regional, urban and city centre runs. Not only this, but it was discovered that gas trucks were noticeably quieter to operate than traditional counterparts, which is a bonus when overnight trunking.

Whichever route the UK decides to go down, the logistics industry is well prepared to adapt to change and work towards a greener future for everybody. To let us know your thoughts on our net zero future and what that might mean for logistics, get in touch via Twitter. Or, to read more insights from the warehousing and logistics industry, check out our blog.

A Look at What 2021 Holds for Logistics

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It’s no surprise that 2020 has been challenging but with 2021 only just beginning we have hope for a brighter year. In light of this, we are taking a look at what the new year holds for logistics – hopefully, less of the same four walls.

Despite the challenges last year brought, logistics as a whole carried the nation forward, delivering goods throughout the pandemic. And with the impact that lockdown had on the UK’s online shopping habits, business was as demanding as ever. According to the Office for National Statistics, internet shopping in May 2020 accounted for 32.8% of total retail sales, up from 18.1% the previous year.

This momentum is expected to carry on throughout this year, especially as the economy battles through a transition from recession back to the booming economy that we all enjoyed before COVID-19

Warehouse Automation

In a socially distanced world, we can expect to see an increased reliance and investment in both warehouse automation and artificial intelligence (AI). Warehouse automation, such as pick and place technologies, improve efficiency, speed and productivity by reducing human interventions. AI is set to play a key role in logistics in future years, with uses in haulage when it comes to route planning and prediction, as well as in warehouse management through the prediction of rotation of supplies.

Logistics companies are also aiming for a more elastic approach to cope with demand spikes or falls caused by major events such as holidays and lockdowns. Elastic logistics typically means using a transportation management system (TMS). When combined with AI advancements, a TMS acts as an early warning system to help to forecast risks, costs and demand to ensure the “on-demand” delivery that consumers now expect.

Sector Growth

According to JTL Truck Driver Training’s Trucking Industry Outlook for 2021, increased driver hiring, wages, and demand are all expected for 2021. As the Coronavirus vaccine is distributed across the UK, more specialised cold chain equipment and drivers will be needed. Between shipping the vaccine and accompanying goods as well as essential items, trucking companies will need more drivers to deal with the increased demand. This increased demand means drivers will be better paid and have higher job security.

Green, Green, Green

The drive towards net-zero will play a significant role in the future of logistics. The sustainability drive is particularly integral to future transport developments, including vehicle pollution problems. In central London, for example, 2019 saw the introduction of the world’s first Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Clean Air Zones (CAZs) are set to launch in Bath on 15 March 2021 and Birmingham on 1 June 2021.

With further CAZs forecast, the logistics sector will have to juggle efficiency with sustainability measures. In the short term, this might mean fitting abatement technology to purify emissions or upgrading transport methods to fully electric.

The Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) will help to drive value within the supply chain by connecting nearly everything together, from people to parcels. The data provided by IoT devices allows logistics companies, among other benefits, to track shipments in live time and predict crucial maintenance. The same technology allows consumers to check when their much-needed parcel has left the warehouse and been delivered to their door, helping to reduce theft. And if internet shopping is to maintain its increase in numbers then this data will be invaluable to both logistics operators and the consumer.

With 2020 behind us, and a look forward providing much to talk about, join the conversation via our Twitter and LinkedIn pages. What do you think 2021 holds for the future of logistics?

How Has The ‘On-Demand’ Economy Impacted Logistics?

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Since the Coronavirus outbreak, many things have changed in the world of business. However, even before that, we’ve definitely seen an increase in the past few years of an ‘on-demand’ economy – one shaped by the likes of retailers such as Amazon and services such as “30-minute click & collect”. The ‘on-demand economy’ is the business of delivering almost instantly. Amazon’s ‘same-day delivery’ to a hub locker and the now-abandoned Amazon Pantry in the US helped to give consumers something they now find hard to live without: online shopping that is delivered the same day. The convenience of your goods arriving almost instantly, without the hassle of going to a physical store.

Once an idea is alive, it’s hard to kill it. So, since the ‘on-demand economy’ begun to take shape, many retailers have had to move with it. Brands such as Superdrug have launched a ’30-minute click & collect’ service, whilst Tesco offer same day delivery, so long as your cart is checked out before 1pm. This idea isn’t just exclusive to retail either, the ‘on-demand economy’ has long been present in companies such as Uber, who enable users to request a ride instantaneously, and digital transformation means that when you order concert tickets, for example, they’ll be delivered to your smartphone right away.

The ‘On-Demand Economy’ And Its Impact On Logistics

One thing is for certain when it comes to talking about the ‘on-demand economy’, when consumers want something – they want it quickly. This presents a stocking issue, as it’s important to make sure there’s enough goods in stock to adhere to demand, but also not so much that warehousing space is wasted. There’s no real way to tell when a product might be popular and when it might not, other than speculating, retailers need a plan in place that means when a customer places an order – they’ll get it in good time. This in turn has an impact on logistics, those who transport a product from A to B. Retailers need to make sure that they are working with a trusted logistics provider who can meet timely demands. At The Barnes Group, we operate a ‘Just in Time (JIT)’ method of logistics, to keep up with consumer demand. This means that we avoid deadstock by only transporting goods where and when they’re needed. This might not always mean same or next day delivery, but it does mean swift and reliable transportation that doesn’t result in a lack of or a surplus of stock.

The impact of the ‘on-demand economy’ on logistics, creates the need for a fast turnaround for consumers. This isn’t exclusive to transportation either. Producers need to work to ensure they’ve made enough product to keep up with demand. Then at the other end of the funnel, retailers themselves need to be managing an operation allowing for a service that provides click and collect, or even same day delivery. Not every business can manage this logistically and even where they can – there’s a reliance on every step of the supply chain moving swiftly and efficiently. Though not impossible to service the ‘on-demand economy’, companies need to be able to work quickly without compromising on quality. Naturally, a lot of planning is required to ensure that production doesn’t fall behind and neither does the movement of goods during the next stage.

The important thing with the ‘on-demand economy’, is managing consumer expectations. Companies like Amazon are built around speed and they’ve been offering same and next day delivery for some time. This model will not work for every company and it’s important to keep that in mind.

Does The ‘On-Demand Economy’ Have A Future?

This method of operating isn’t feasible for every company and it would be fair to assume that not every consumer would expect such a speedy service from every business they interact with. For businesses that can adhere to the ‘on-demand economy’ such as Amazon, Superdrug, Uber, online course providers and supermarkets, then no doubt they’ll continue to thrive under this operation. Especially since the pandemic has increased reliability on eCommerce.

However, it would also be fair to say that if a business can’t keep up with the ‘on-demand’ economy, then they won’t necessarily be in trouble. Or at least not for now. For the most part, customers are happy to wait. Only time can tell if this changes in the future.

For more information on Just in Time (JIT) logistics and the other services that The Barnes Group provide, including warehousing solutions, please get in touch with our team on our website.

 

What Do Automotive Logistics Companies Like The Barnes Group Provide?

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There are many areas of logistical and warehousing support, they can include the transportation of groceries, household goods, weapons and ammunition, and even vehicles. Amongst others, automotive logistics is one service that The Barnes Group provides – so what does it entail?

What Does Automotive Logistics Include?

Automotive Logistics can be defined as the supervision of delivery of an automotive product, including procurement, production to the delivery of the final product.

The blanket term ‘automotive’ covers the design, development, manufacturing, marketing, and selling of motor vehicles.

Automotive logistics doesn’t always mean transporting a car from A to B, it’s essential in the safe passage of tools and materials needed to build them from the beginning too.

The Importance Of Choosing The Right Automotive Logistics Provider

Choosing the correct automotive logistics provider can help to keep the supply chain moving efficiently. It’s paramount to work with a transport company that’s reliable and efficient. The production of motor vehicles is an intricate, and expensive job, so trust is very important. It’s also crucial to ensure that parts are transported not only safely, but in good time to ensure that there are no disruptions to the production line.

You’ll also need to choose an automotive logistics provider that is clued up on current UK-EU regulations. If crossing borders, it’s important to be aware of certain legislations that are in place to ensure the speedy and secure passage of your goods.

It’s also worth considering a company that makes proficient use of available technology. At the Barnes Group, we utilise a Transport Management System that helps with all aspects of efficiency from job orders to invoicing, as well as live vehicle tracking versus plan, sign on glass, and immediate POD availability.

What Automotive Logistics Services Do Barnes Offer?

The UK automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy. The sector is worth more than £82 billion in turnover and adds £18.6 billion value to the UK economy. In 2019 alone, as reported by SSMT, there were over 1.3 million cars, 78,270 commercial vehicles and 2.5 million engines built in the UK.

This is without a doubt a hugely important industry to the UK, as well as overseas, and therefore it is important to work with the right automotive logistics providers to ensure smooth transactions in the manufacturing and delivery processes.

Supplying ‘Just-In-Time Logistics (JIT)’ solutions to leading UK automotive manufacturers, we are well placed to meet your critical transport requirements. The Barnes Group has been operating in the high-profile sector of automotive logistics for over 15 years, meaning that our already extensive knowledge is backed up by invaluable industry experience to manage all your movement, whether time-critical or not.

Just-in-Time (JIT) logistics is the concept of receiving and transporting materials, products and parts as they are needed, rather than weeks before. We prefer this method of logistics support, as it means that our clients have less supplies on hand to store and are only using products as needed.  It also reduces waste and costs too. You can find out more about our Just-In-Time (JIT) services, for automotive and other sectors, on our blog.

Alongside providing automotive logistics services, the Barnes Group also offers:

  • Commercial vehicle maintenance
  • 50,000 sq ft of warehousing space
  • General logistical support and specialist support in areas such as automotive, weapons, ammunition, ADR transport and night trunking

We do all of this by having a large range of logistical equipment available, including:

  • Ekeri trailers
  • Bulk liquid tankers
  • Car transporters
  • Low loaders
  • Flat beds
  • Skeletals
  • Curtain sliders

Customer service is integral to our business, and we pride ourselves in a well-managed fleet of over 80 vehicles for our nationwide client base. You can find out more about the automotive logistics solutions that we offer in the UK, and contact us, on our website or by emailing admin@barneslogistics.co.uk.

Clear Air Zones UK – Good News Or Bad News?

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Clean Air Zones (CAZ) are areas in the UK that have been introduced by local authorities to improve air-quality by introducing fees for drivers. In a daring bid to reduce emissions, Clean Air Zones were first proposed in 2015, and have finally come into force this year. They fit into the UK’s target to be at almost a “net zero” emissions rate by 2050.

Originally, the UK was set a target to reduce their emissions by 80%. In 2019, they decided to do one better and announced that their revised goal was to achieve a “net zero” status, meaning they wish to eradicate emissions completely from homes, industries and transport in 30 years.

But are Clean Air Zones good news or bad news? Let’s think about the logistics industry and how CAZ may affect it.

How Will Clean Air Zones Affect The Logistics Industry?

There’s no argument that cleaner air is a universally desired outcome, we are all working towards creating an eco-friendlier environment with nearer to no emissions. However, are Clean Air Zones the best way to approach this?

It was recently announced that CAZ restrictions will be applied to non-compliant private vehicles. That’s as well as buses, taxis and most importantly HGVs – who’ve already been told that the charge will affect them. This latest development was big news for those following the evolution of this scheme, but for HGV drivers and logistics workers, ever since Clean Air Zones were first considered in 2015; we’ve always known they were to have some effect on our industry.

Clean Air Zones – How They’re Bad News

The government has made a bold statement that they not only plan to reduce emissions by a percentage by 2050, but rather strive for “net zero” status by this date. It is, of course, going to take some significant changes to accomplish this, and Clean Air Zones are just one contributing solution.

However, they are set to crucially impact the logistics industry and how it operates.

Clean Air Zones - What cities will they be in?

Image credit: Arrow Self Drive

Charges Could Have Financial Implications On The Logistics Industry

The charges are set to be steep for large vehicles such as HGV’s, with most fees ranging from £50-£100 per day depending on the city. The transport and logistics industry is crucial for the safe passage of goods from one place to another, and without HGV drivers, the world we’re used to would look rather different. These crippling charges are set to seriously impact the logistics industry and its revenues, which in turn could create a ripple effect wherein the distributions of goods are delayed, and services are impacted.

The Problem Could Be Worsened With Longer Driving Routes

Cities that are operating CAZ such as Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham and London may find the problem becomes exasperated, rather than eradicated. It has to be assumed that some, who would like to avoid the fine, may choose alternative routes and accumulate more mileage. Therefore, outputting even more emissions. By actively discouraging drivers from entering these major areas, we’re left to wonder whether the knock-on effects could actually be worse than the situation as it is now, with increased fuel consumption and increased out-of-city traffic?

Vehicles On The Road Could See An Increase

We questioned back in November that if some areas replaced trucks with vans (as several local authorities are proposing in an effort to reduce emissions), will this end up increasing the number of vehicles on the road, along with their congestion and emissions? HGVs play an essential role in the national economy – irreplaceable in some respects. The largest truck can carry the load of 20 vans. Could disrupting the system we have in place now with introductions such as Clean Air Zones have adverse effects?

Clean Air Zones – How They’re Good News

By the same token though, we at the Barnes Group are committed to assisting the Government with their “net zero” emissions target and understand that re-evaluating the way the logistics industry operates has a vital part to play in this. Here are some reasons that we endorse the introduction of Clean Air Zones.

Certain Vehicles Are Exempt From CAZ Fees

Plus, not all vehicles will be subject to CAZ charges; compliant vehicles can enter zones free of charge, for HGV’s this includes Euro 6 engines, which are defined by all vehicles with 14 plate or newer. Buses and coaches that meet Euro VI emission standards, as well as cars, vans and taxis that meet Euro 6 (for diesel engines) or Euro 4 (for petrol engines) are also exempt, that’s as well as any ultra-low emission vehicles with a significate zero-emission range.

Clean Air Zones Work As Good Deterrents

There’s no doubt that Clean Air Zones will work well as a strong deterrent, resulting in some drivers avoiding major areas that are suffering from build-up. With this in mind, the idea of discouraging motorists in this way seems to be effective. We’re certainly an advocate of persuading individuals not to drive through populated areas when there’s no reason for them to do so.

However, this does leave us to wonder whether there are other means by which drivers could be motivated. Would the ‘carrot’ approach work better than the ‘stick’?

Ultimately, for the logistics industry, introducing extortionate fines only looks to cripple the sector financially. Is it fair to punish companies for simply operating as standard? It would be near impossible to halt HGVs driving through major cities completely, as every single one of us relies on logistics in our day-to-day lives. Without drivers such as ours at the Barnes Group, we’d all live a very different lifestyle.

Is there a better way to tackle the emissions crisis together, rather than working against one another?

Let us know your thoughts, or just keep up with what we’re doing on Twitter.

 

You can check whether your route will be effected by Clean Air Zones (CAZ) by clicking here.

International Women’s Day with The Barnes Group

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As part of our nod to International Women’s Day, we’ve taken the opportunity to talk to our very own Karen Cusick about her role at The Barnes Group, her career journey and her advice to other women considering joining the sector.

  • What is your job title at The Barnes Group and where are you based?

I’m an HR Manager at The Barnes Group and I’m based in Rochdale. 

  • How did you come to work in the logistics industry?

Purely by chance – the company was located near to my home.

  • How has your background helped influence your career at The Barnes Group?

My previous role was managerial. When I joined the company there were no female employees. My influence on the company definitely opened opportunities for more female employee roles.

  • What would you advise to other women who might be looking to venture into the world of logistics?

Go for it, it’s not a man’s world! 

  • What woman inspires you the most?

No one specifically but women who have the ability to run a household, look after children and also work full time are certainly inspiring. 

  • What have you learned on your career journey?

To keep fighting for what you believe in.

Women are already in the world of logistics; they just need to stand up a little taller!

Here’s to Karen and the role she plays here at The Barnes Group – if you’re interested in a career at The Barnes Group, click here.

 

What Can You Expect From Working In Logistics?

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Have you ever considered a career in logistics? It’s no big secret that the logistics sector has a skills gap, largely a generational one. Research from Unite shows that just 1% of HGV drivers in the UK are aged under 25. Not only this, but there’s a proven gender disparity in the logistics industry too. Just 2% of the global logistics industry is female, indicating that a clear gap is present. However, working in logistics has a whole host of benefits.

 

So why is there such a recruitment shortage in an industry that’s so accommodating and rewarding? Perhaps the polarity in employees is merely down to a lack of education. Which is why, in this blog post, we’re exploring what it’s like to work in logistics. We’ll traverse the sector and explain why this is a great career option for all ages and genders.

 

One of the first things you can expect from working in logistics is a career that’s indisputably rewarding. It’s a simple fact of the matter that without logistics, everyday life would look entirely different. As a HGV driver, you’re responsible for the safe passage of countless goods that are used for a variety of purposes. From gifts to groceries, every time you turn on your engine, you’ll be transporting a load that’ll be important to a great deal of people. To put the importance of logistics into perspective, it was recently found that over 130 billion cards and parcels are delivered around Christmas time. Imagine all the unhappy faces if logistics didn’t ensure the safe passage of these items.

 

Furthermore, you can expect employment where you are not disregarded due to your level of education. A great deal of logistics-sector employers will take on people with very little experience, those with a relevant and specialised degree, as well as those with decades worth of experience under their belt. Unlike most industries, you don’t need a very specific education and career path to be rewarded with a great role in the logistics industry. So if you’re wondering how to start a career in logistics, you can feel safe in the comfort that it is possible without taking the higher education path, which isn’t for everybody.

 

You can also expect to work in a job where no two jobs are the same. Boredom isn’t a word you’ll find in most logistics employees’ vocabularies, as working in this sector is exciting and unpredictable. No matter what department you opt to work in, there’s every chance that with a career in logistics, you’ll get to explore parts of the UK – and even Europe – that you’ve never seen before. You’ll be interacting with different people, and having new experiences almost every day – so if you’re an amicable person who loves to be on the ball, then this is definitely a profession for you.

 

There’s a plethora of things you can expect from working in logistics, but one we thought was really worth mentioning is that you can certainly expect to make some great friendships. From HGV Drivers, to Warehouse Operatives, when you work for a great logistics company, your colleagues will become your family. A perfect career choice for any gender and any age group, working in logistics is versatile enough to cater to everybody.

 

Is logistics a good career? For reasons above, we’d say irrefutably yes. To work in an environment that values your wellbeing, is rewarding, and is accommodating and flexible, sounds like the ideal situation for most. As an HGV driver, you’ll have a lot of responsibility and your work might be challenging sometimes, but the benefits far outweigh this and make logistics a wholly attractive career choice.

 

Would you consider a career in logistics and help to close the skills gap? Let us know on Twitter.

Tackling Climate Change: Who Foots The Bill?

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As a forward-thinking business in the industry, climate change and environmental issues are topics we have discussed at great length – from HGV Levies to emissions statistics. However, it has been noted by more than ourselves that the transport and logistics industry seems to take a disproportionate level of blame and, therefore, expectation for change.

 

Of course, all must work to reduce our carbon footprint, but the world cannot simply expect the logistics industry to foot the bill of climate change – both in terms of finance and convenience – of lowering the sector’s impact on the planet, whilst relying on it with increasing demands.

 

Never has this disparity become more starkly clear than in the results of a recent report from Barclays. The study looked at customers’ willingness to be greener with their retail deliveries.

 

Although respondents indicated that they expect businesses to offer more sustainable options for deliveries to help tackle climate change, they do not wish to share the increased cost associated with this. Customers are more likely to be swayed by businesses which offer green options for their deliveries, however, 62% said that they would not be willing to pay for these, and a large majority of older shoppers would expect the business to fully absorb the cost.

 

The study focuses on a respondent’s relationship with retailers, but the issue is inherently tied with retail business’ logistics providers. Although there are increasing demands from customers to have deliveries which are increasingly quicker and greener, the expectation is that this is not something worth paying for – a clear discrepancy between expectations and responsibilities.

 

The first step has been made with this study – it is important to discover more about consumers’ true feelings on eco-friendly deliveries and payment if plans are to be made to tackle a change in attitude.

 

Reducing the impact we have on our planet is an effort shared by all – where it is everyone’s responsibility, everyone should share the burden of cost. This could be in the form of higher delivery charges to cover the cost of eco-friendly fuels and lorries, or working with consumers to reduce the expectations of same- or next-day deliveries.

 

In time, it is hoped that the choice to be greener will be less costly as technologies advance; but, until then, let us remember that working to save our planet and tackle climate change is a responsibility and cost we all must carry together.

Smart Tachographs and Logistics Investment

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The DVSA have recently announced that they will not be investing in the technologies to read data from new smart tachographs. Following recent EU legislation which lead to the mandatory move from digital to smart tachographs in new commercial vehicles this summer, the agency stated that the cost of these new technologies are too high to justify the benefits.

 

So, how do these new smart technologies differ? Data from smart tachographs will be able to be read remotely and in real time, rather than vehicles having to be pulled over and stopped for this data to be read by enforcement agencies.

 

The idea behind these new tachographs would seem to benefit all parties – enforcement agencies will save a significant amount of time with all the necessary data at their fingertips, professional drivers’ schedules will not be disrupted and, most importantly, increases compliance, ensuring the safety of HGV drivers and other road users.

 

It can be understood why the DVSA has made this decision – with only new vehicles fitted with smart tachographs, they must still invest in manpower to maintain the physical checks necessary for current vehicles’ digital tachographs. This decision will have been further influenced by the fact that the same regulations which mean new vehicles must be fitted with smart tachographs only require that agencies employ full use of monitoring technologies in 2034 – 15 years away.

 

But where does this leave the logistics industry? And what does this say about the investments made to improve our sector?

 

It shows an inconsistency within policies. The latest technologies are being pushed on industry professionals – but, despite this, drivers are still being held to old rules by other parties, meaning that we cannot fully reap the benefits.

 

Surely, as an industry, embracing new technologies should be encouraged and made as easy and attractive as possible. Legislations which enforce new technologies which cannot be monitored by the appropriate enforcement parties can leave the industry feeling flat – as if the new advances in safety and efficiency are not taken as seriously as they should.

 

Should all bodies not be working together and moving at the same pace? The RHA certainly seems to think so – they have recently expressed their disappointment, with Tom Cotton, head of licensing and infrastructure at the RHA, stating: “Our members have invested in this technology to become compliant with these new regulations, so why is DVSA not prepared to show the same commitment?”

 

Surely, rather than holding off until more lorries are fitted in the future, a middle ground should be met which proportionately matches the use of new smart technologies and can be increased as more vehicles are equipped with them?

 

What are your thoughts on this latest decision? Let us know in the comments below or by tweeting us.

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Email: admin@barneslogistics.co.uk

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Barnes Logistics fleet operates from more than seven sites across the country and supports a nationwide client base.

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We supply ‘just in time’ logistics support and warehousing to business across the UK.

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