Multiple businesses rely on imports from across the world, and particularly from China and the Far East – Liverpool freight forwarder Trinity Logistics offers its top tips to avoid delays and logjams. Tony McDonough reports
Importing goods into the UK is big business and, in September alone, the value of imports was £236.8bn – 1.5% up year-on-year.
A significant volume of freight traffic comes from China and the Far East. Retailers such as Liverpool-based TJ Hughes and B&M rely on this part of the world to keep their shelves stocked, particularly in the run up to Christmas.
But logistics is a complex business, with multiple moving parts, and it is all too easy for a business not used to the challenges of moving goods across the world to find themselves frustrated by delays, spikes in costs and logjams.
Amanda Unsworth, founder of fast-growing Liverpool-based freight forwarder, Trinity Logistics, told LBN: “Sometimes we are just at the mercy of global events. Houthi terrorist attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea in 2023 and 2024 caused considerable challenges for global trade.
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“There are also more everyday pitfalls that can cause problems. Recently the sector has seen severe disruptions after Golden Week in October and similar slowing of freight is predicted around Chinese New Year in February. However, with careful planning the impacts can be minimised.”
Trinity Logistics has considerable experience in moving goods from A to B. Founder Amanda offers her top tips for making sure your goods reach their destination on time:
Book early – really early
‘Book early to avoid disappointment’ is a well-worn cliché but, in logistics, it is critical. Capacity tightens long before peak-season holidays hit. You need to be planning weeks, even months, ahead. This will not only help you secure better rates but it will also minimise the risk of last minute hitches.
Build a buffer into your timelines
While global geopolitical events can catch us all by surprise there are things that happen every year that help make planning easier. Early October is Golden Week in China, a major annual holiday that can play havoc with global supply chains.
Chinese New Year can have a similar impact with factory closures and port slowdowns. Add extra days or weeks into production and transit windows and stay close to supplier production schedules.
Manufacturers often accelerate or delay output before shutdowns. Maintain regular communication to avoid surprises.
Strengthen your forecasting and order planning
Patterns are called patterns for a reason – they repeat. Always be aware of demand patterns throughout the year and how they have affected your operations previously. Pre‑holiday bulk orders can reduce exposure to congestion.
Trust the experts – partner with a proactive freight forwarder
Companies such as Trinity Logistics have vast experience of moving goods across the world for multiple clients. They know the market inside out and monitor what is happening every day. A good partner provides early warnings, alternatives, and real‑time updates to keep goods moving.
Keep documentation flawless and submission‑ready
Few things can cause more disruption than poorly prepared paperwork. Details matter and customs delays hurt more in peak season. Ensure invoices, packing lists and certificates are accurate and complete.
Monitor geopolitical and weather risks
Strikes, storms, and geopolitical events can worsen holiday congestion. Early monitoring allows faster rerouting.
Amanda added: “Trading internationally can turbo-charge your business – but it can end up costing you if you are unprepared. With the right knowledge and preparation you can ensure your goods get from A to B smoothly. If you’re not sure, come and ask us.”