Below you will find the winter timetable 2024/2025 of Ziegler (Schweiz) AG.
The reduced loading frequencies, both for exports from Switzerland and from the different shipping countries, result in changes to delivery times.
Furthermore, driving bans, especially on weekends, can affect the transit times of shipments – both in the groupage area and in charter processing.
We would therefore like to ask you to coordinate scheduled deliveries in advance with your known contacts in the operational department.
If you have any questions, we will be happy to help you.
Tel. +41 (0) 61 815 53 53
E-Mail: info@ziegler.ch
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With Christmas just around the corner, we’d like to share our heartfelt wishes with you. May this time bring joy, laughter, and cherished memories with those who matter most. We hope you take the opportunity to relax and celebrate all that you’ve accomplished this year.
As we prepare to welcome 2025, we’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We wish you success in every endeavour, whether it’s reaching new heights or savouring the little moments that make life special. Stay tuned as we look forward to sharing some exciting developments from Ziegler in the year to come.
Effective November 18th, Ziegler Group Customs in Belgium is transitioning to a fully automated AES system. This marks a leap toward streamlined, efficient processes.
What does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.
Countries for transit
To ensure compliance, it’s now mandatory to provide a complete list of all countries along the transport route, both inside and outside the EU. Customs authorities need this data to assess potential risks, duties, and compliance requirements at every stage of transit.
Transport-specific details
By boat – make sure to provide the name of the vessel.
By train – prepare to share the train and wagon numbers.
Representation matters
A contract for direct representation will now be required for both imports and exports. This document allows Customs brokers to act on your behalf, ensuring accurate declarations and smooth clearance.
Be ready for additional information requests
Customs may need more details as processes evolve. Stay connected with us for immediate updates, so you can respond promptly and avoid delays.
Why the shift to automation?
The Automated Export System (AES) aims to modernise and centralise customs processes, offering:
- Increased efficiency – less manual paperwork and redundant procedures.
- Improved accuracy – minimising errors in export and import declarations.
While this shift offers long-term benefits, the early stages may bring a learning curve. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the nuances.
Gather all required details early. Double-check transit routes, transportation identifiers, and representation contracts.
Work closely with your logistics providers and Customs brokers. They’re your allies in navigating compliance intricacies.
Together, let’s embrace the AES era with confidence and clarity.
Ziegler UK is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the highly coveted title of Freight Forwarding Company of the Year by Business & Industry Today magazine. This esteemed recognition follows our recent feature as the magazine’s Company of the Month in September and affirms Ziegler’s growing reputation and success within the logistics and freight forwarding industry.
Business & Industry Today conducts a rigorous annual selection process, evaluating candidates across multiple criteria including company history, future ambitions, innovation, service offerings, product developments, industry relevance, and overall impact. The publication, with a readership exceeding 25,000, is a key resource in the business sector, and this accolade further solidifies Ziegler’s profile in a highly competitive market.
This award caps off what has been a landmark year for Ziegler. In 2024, we have seen expansion through acquisition, branch growth, undertaken a large-scale recruitment drive, and moved into our state-of-the-art new head office at London Gateway. These accomplishments reflect our ongoing commitment to growth, operational excellence, and the continuous enhancement of our services to better serve our clients.
Our team’s hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit have driven our success. Every member of Ziegler has contributed to this win, and it stands as a testament to the resilience, passion, and expertise of our employees. This award celebrates all that we have achieved together and sets an inspiring benchmark as we continue to deliver world-class logistics solutions.
As we look to the future, this recognition by Business & Industry Today is a powerful motivator, reinforcing our commitment to expanding our services, embracing new technologies, and setting industry standards in freight forwarding. We are proud to represent the pinnacle of excellence in this field, and we look forward to pushing boundaries as we continue to lead the way forward.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the December issue of Business & Industry Today, where they’ll be featuring an in-depth article on this milestone achievement and what’s ahead for Ziegler.
Start planning your supply chain strategy for 2025 by checking out our range of transportation and logistics services and request a quote https://www.zieglergroup.com/gb/quotation/
International brands with complex supply chains are likely always on the lookout for ways to streamline operations and reduce costs. One often-overlooked solution that can provide a distinct competitive advantage is the strategic utilisation of ETSF (External Temporary Storage Facilities). By leveraging an ETSF for temporary storage, you can defer or even eliminate the import duties and taxes on the goods you transport and store – a significant financial benefit that can give you an edge over your competitors.
ETSF offer a distinct advantage by allowing the temporary storage of goods without paying customs duties and taxes until the moment the goods are released into free circulation (customs cleared) or re-exported outside the EU customs territory. This deferment of duties and taxes presents an immediate financial benefit. By delaying these payments until the goods are removed from the ETSF, you effectively optimise your cash flow.
The postponement of customs duty payments enables you to allocate your financial resources more efficiently. Instead of upfront payments, these funds can be redirected toward activities that support critical operational needs as well as sales and marketing plans that can generate business growth.
Deferred import duty and duty savings The cost-savings potential of an ETSF lies in the following two benefits that authorised license holders have access to: duty deferment and duty savings.
- Duty deferment: import duties and taxes on goods stored in an ETSF need to be paid when the goods are removed from the facility, not when they enter the country. This enables you to bring goods into free circulation when economic circumstances are deemed best: for example, when the local market price has increased due to a change in demand or supply. You can also leverage this deferment of duties to lower their cost of purchasing, for example by ordering in larger quantities or when exchange rates are more favourable.
- Duty savings: import duties and taxes can even be eliminated. No import duties and taxes on goods are applicable when goods stored in the ETSF are re-exported outside the EU customs territory.
It’s important to note that ETSF are designed for temporary storage only. They are not suitable for long-term storage of goods. Businesses should plan their customs and logistics strategies accordingly, utilizing ETSF for the temporary deferment of duties and taxes while relying on other facilities for longer-term storage needs.
Investing increased cash flow in growth
Deferred duty payments and savings translate to improved cash flow, which can be leveraged in strategic financial planning aimed at growth. It enables you to allocate more funds to revenue generating activities and investment opportunities. Investing in process automation and digitalisation of ETSF processes can further maximise the cost-savings potential of an ETSF. Customs warehouse software is a common and customs-recommended solution that helps businesses comply with customs formalities and manage inventory in an ETSF. These automation benefits will in turn result in both operational and cost efficiencies.
Partnering with an ETSF Provider
With state-of-the-art facilities, Ziegler’s ETSF offerings provide businesses the opportunity to leverage the significant duty deferment and savings benefits of an ETSF, while also benefiting from excellent connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and proximity to major consumer markets. Take the first step towards unlocking the strategic advantages of an ETSF.
Contact Ziegler today to learn more about how our ETSF can help you defer import duties, save on customs costs, and accelerate your growth in the global marketplace, positioning your business for long-term success in the global trade arena. Email us at sales.enquiries@zieglergroup.com
Sustainable Energy Front Runners NIBE Announced as Latest New Client
Ziegler are thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with NIBE, a market leader in sustainable energy solutions. Starting in the coming weeks, we will proudly manage NIBE’s UK supply chain, ensuring swift and efficient delivery of their innovative products to customers. It illustrates Ziegler’s progression and growth within the industry with a focus on contributing towards driving the NIBE brand forward. We’re also delighted to be partnering with a sustainability focused business, reflected in our own efforts in supporting environmental change.
Click the link for further info: https://tinyurl.com/yasds6rp
Ziegler Features as Company of the Month in Business & Industry Today
We were recently privileged to be invited by Business & Industry Today Magazine to feature in their latest issue as Company of the Month. Click the button below to read about our 116 years of family heritage, our primary warehouse storage solutions, our sustainability efforts and more.
Click the link to view: https://issuu.com/baitmedialibrary/docs/bait396/34?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmRBe4H88PY
UK Accounts Team Excel through AAT and ACCA Qualification Drive
We’re proud to highlight the recent achievements of Ziegler UK’s youngest accounts team members, who have been busy tackling their AAT and ACCA examinations. This commitment to advancing their skills underscores our dedication to fostering professional growth and enhancing expertise within our finance team, ensuring continued excellence in service delivery.
Interested in career opportunities within logistics? Click the link below to discover more about Ziegler: https://www.zieglergroup.com/gb/about-us/
Ziegler Group Reveals its own Soundtrack through Flemish Symphonic Orchestra Partnership
In a unique collaboration, Ziegler is proud to present the Ziegler Hymn, composed by renowned Dirk Brossé and recorded by the Flemish Symphonic Orchestra at De Bijloke Music Centre in Belgium.
In what could be a world first for a logistics provider to have it’s very own unique soundtrack, it accurately reflects our dedication to cultural enrichment, teamwork, and excellence.
Click the link to view: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1miV1NTrsm_UCV7JELN0pK99UVU_ikf0l/view
Leeds Branch Undertake Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge
3 members of Ziegler UK’s Leeds branch successfully completed the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge in memory of colleague Ian Wilkinson, raising an impressive £920 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Their achievement highlights teamwork and support for a great cause.
Brand Visibility Grows for UK Road Fleet with Latest Delivery
We are excited to announce further expansion of our road fleet with more branded 25 tonne trailers, featuring our striking logo. More of these along with branded cabs and 18 tonne trucks are set to follow, increasing visibility for the Ziegler brand across the UK and beyond.
Don’t Forget to follow us on social media
Stay connected to ensure you’re always up to date with all latest Ziegler UK news, promotions and offers.
Click on the social media icons at the bottom of this page to follow us on each channel.
As experts in supply chain and logistics, we’ve seen firsthand how seasonal demand fluctuations can wreak havoc on unprepared businesses. Whether you’re a manufacturer, supplier, or retailer operating in domestic or international markets, understanding and effectively managing these fluctuations is crucial for maintaining profitability and operational efficiency. It is crucial to understand the impact of seasonality on demand and have a strategy in place to stay ahead of the curve.
The ebb and flow of consumer demand, driven by factors as diverse as weather patterns, cultural festivities, and agricultural cycles, can make or break a company’s bottom line. Imagine, if you will, a global apparel retailer facing the Herculean task of managing inventory across multiple markets, each with its unique seasonal patterns. In North America, they’re pushing winter coats as the leaves turn golden, while in Australia, it’s time for swimwear and sunhats. Meanwhile, in India, the festival season is ramping up, calling for an entirely different product mix. This scenario is not just a thought experiment—it’s the daily reality for many businesses operating on the international stage.
The impact of these fluctuations ripples through every aspect of operations. Inventory management becomes a high-stakes balancing act; production planning feels like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded; and logistics? Well, let’s just say it can quickly turn into a game of Tetris with real-world consequences. Overstocking during low seasons ties up capital faster than you can say “clearance sale,” while understocking during peak times is akin to leaving money on the table—lots of it.
So, how do successful companies navigate this turbulence? The secret lies in a combination of foresight, flexibility, and strategic planning. At the heart of this approach is robust demand forecasting. Gone are the days when a simple look at last year’s numbers would suffice. Today’s market leaders are leveraging the power of AI and machine learning to crunch data from a myriad of sources—point-of-sale systems, social media trends, economic indicators, and even weather forecasts. These sophisticated models can predict demand patterns with uncanny accuracy, allowing businesses to stay one step ahead of the curve.
But accurate forecasting is just the beginning. The real magic happens when businesses build flexibility into their entire supply chain. This might mean developing relationships with multiple suppliers across various nations, implementing agile manufacturing processes that can pivot on a sixpence, or adopting a multi-shoring strategy to reduce lead times. The goal is to create a supply chain that can expand and contract as nimbly as an accordion, responding to demand fluctuations in real-time.
Inventory optimisation plays a crucial role in this dance of supply and demand. It’s not just about having enough stock; it’s about having the right stock in the right place at the right time. Advanced safety stock calculations, just-in-time practices, and vendor-managed inventory arrangements are all tools in the modern supply chain manager’s arsenal. Some forward-thinking companies are even exploring on-demand warehousing services and partnering with 3PL providers who can scale operations up or down as needed.
But perhaps the most powerful strategy in managing seasonal demand is one that seems counter-intuitive at first: smoothing out the peaks and valleys. This is where pricing strategy comes into play. By offering off-season discounts, implementing dynamic pricing models, or creating enticing bundle deals, businesses can incentivise consumers to spread their purchases more evenly throughout the year. It’s a win-win: customers get better deals, and companies enjoy more predictable demand patterns.
Diversification is another key strategy. By developing product lines that complement each other across seasons or exploring markets in different hemispheres, businesses can reduce their reliance on any single seasonal trend. This approach not only stabilises revenue but also opens up new opportunities for growth.
Of course, no discussion of supply chain management would be complete without mentioning the importance of collaboration. In today’s interconnected world, success depends on strong partnerships across the entire value chain. Regular communication with suppliers, logistics providers, and key customers isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for survival. Implementing collaborative planning, forecasting, and replenishment (CPFR) practices can lead to dramatic improvements in efficiency and responsiveness.
Let’s return to our global apparel retailer. By implementing a combination of these strategies—advanced AI-driven forecasting, flexible production agreements, dynamic pricing, development of transitional clothing lines, and strategic use of pop-up warehouses—they were able to achieve remarkable results. A 15% reduction in excess inventory, 10% improvement in fill rates during peak seasons, and a 20% increase in off-season sales. These aren’t just numbers; they represent a fundamental shift in how the company operates, turning the challenge of seasonality into a source of competitive advantage.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that managing seasonal demand fluctuations will remain a critical challenge for businesses operating in the global marketplace. But with the right strategies in place—combining data-driven insights, operational flexibility, and strategic partnerships—it’s a challenge that can be met head-on. The key is to stay agile, continuously refine your approach, and never stop learning from the ebb and flow of global consumer demand.
In the end, mastering seasonal demand isn’t just about surviving the peaks and troughs—it’s about learning to ride the wave, using the natural rhythms of the market to propel your business forward. Those who can do this effectively will find themselves not just weathering the storm, but harnessing its power to reach new heights of success in the global marketplace.
In today’s complex business environment, there is no shortage of challenges in managing supply chains efficiently. Whether you’re a retailer, a manufacturer or an e-commerce business, the supply chain landscape is constantly evolving and with the next emerging trend never far away, it can easily compromise your timings and costs.
Whilst the self-sufficiency of managing everything in-house might initially appear like a sensible strategic option, it can infact hinder, particularly if your brand is growing and trying to conquer new markets. Some common pain points and how they can be solved through third-party storage are:
- Seasonal Demand Fluctuations
You’re struggling to manage inventory during peak seasons without overstocking during slower periods.
Solution: Utilise flexible storage options that allow you to scale your inventory up or down as needed, ensuring you’re always prepared for seasonal demand without the burden of year-round overhead. - High Fixed Costs
The expenses associated with maintaining your own warehouse facility are eating into your profits.
Solution: Convert fixed costs into variable costs by using third-party storage, paying only for the space and services you need, when you need them. - Lack of Technological Infrastructure
You find the implementation and maintenance of cutting-edge inventory management systems costly and complex.
Solution: Benefit from advanced inventory management systems without the investment. Look for providers offering real-time tracking and reporting to keep you informed and in control. - Geographic Limitations
Your current storage solution isn’t optimally located for efficient distribution.
Solution: Choose a storage facility strategically located near major transportation routes to ensure faster, more cost-effective distribution across your target markets. - Compliance and Regulatory Challenges
Keeping up with changing regulations and compliance requirements is time-consuming and risky.
Solution: Partner with logistics experts who stay up-to-date with relevant regulations, ensuring your storage and distribution processes are always compliant and giving you peace of mind. - Scalability Issues
Your business is growing, but your current storage solution can’t keep up.
Solution: Opt for third-party logistics providers with abundant space and flexible options that can accommodate your growth seamlessly, allowing you to scale up or down without the constraints of a fixed warehouse size. - Supply Chain Visibility
Lack of real-time insights into inventory levels and movement is causing inefficiencies and stockouts.
Solution: Implement advanced inventory management systems that provide 24/7 visibility into your stock levels and movements, enabling data-driven decision-making and proactive inventory management. - Multimodal Shipping Complexity
You find the coordination between different shipping modes is complicated and time-consuming.
Solution: Leverage the partnership and expertise of a third-party supply chain expert in multimodal freight for seamless shipping, all managed from a single point of contact.
Third-Party Storage Space is a Comprehensive Solution to Many Logistics Challenges
Storage providers like Ziegler are evolving beyond simple warehousing to become integral extensions of client’s business operations. Through value-added services such as EDI integration, individual order fulfilment and D2C shipping, a seamless integration with your processes is possible, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. In turn, a third-party storage provider becomes so much more than just a warehouse – they become a strategic partner in your supply chain, allowing you to focus on core business activities while knowing that your logistics needs are in capable hands.
When choosing a third-party logistics provider, consider not just their storage capabilities, but also the range of value-added services they offer and how well they can integrate with your existing business processes. The right provider will act as a seamless extension of your own operations, contributing to your overall business success.
Download our FREE e-book “Future-Proofing Your Warehouse Requirements”
Discover emerging trends in warehousing, understand how to prepare for your future storage needs and find out more on why you should consider partnering with a third-party supplier for your storage needs.
We’ve put together this guide to help you evaluate your current supply chain and establish if there are ways to elevate your growth trajectory.
To get access to it, click the link: lp.zieglergroup.com/uk/futureproof-warehouse-requirements
Ziegler’s approach to European freight forwarding is built on a foundation of strategic partnerships and collaboration. Our network spans 16 countries on the continent, encompassing both Ziegler-owned locations and trusted third-party freight forwarders. This extensive coverage ensures that your goods can reach virtually any corner of Europe efficiently and reliably. Beyond the shores of the UK, our scope is abundant:
Austria
External: Guntramsdorf, Wallern
Belgium
External: Gent
Ziegler: Aalst, Antwerp, Brusselles, Charleroi, Menen-Rekkem, Gent, Liege, Welkenraedt, Zaventem, Zeebrugge
Czech Republic
External: Prague
Denmark
External: Hvidovre
France
External: Roncq, Strasbourg, Paris, Lyon
Ziegler: Angers, Annecy, Aurillac, Avignon, Bapaume, Bayeux, Bayonne, Besanon, Bordeaux, Bressuire, Cherreprs Du Mans, Cholet, Clermont Ferrand, Colmar, Dijon, Epinal, Grenoble, Lachevroliere, Laval, Le Havre, Lens, Les Herbiers, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Metz, Montmarault, Mulhouse, Nantes, Narbonne, Nimes, Orlans, Paris, Pau, Poitiers, Rennes, Rouen, Saint Etienne, Sedan, St Brieuc Tremuson, St Louis, Strasbourg, Toulouse, Tours, Troyes, Valence, Vannes
Germany
External: Echweiler, Dusseldorf, Villingen, Nurnberg, Hamburg, Hannover, Osnabruck, Stuttgart
Ziegler: Aachen, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Koblenz, Nurnberg, Stuttgart
Greece
External: Athens
Ziegler: Athens, Thessaloniki
Hungary
External: Vecses
Ireland
Ziegler: Dublin, Knocktopher
Italy
External: Pordenone, Vicenza, Milan, Ancona, Milan, Bologna, Turin, Prato, San Salvo
Luxembourg
External: Dudelange
Netherlands
External: Rotterdam
Ziegler: Rozenburg, Rotterdam, Venlo
Poland
External: Lodz
Ziegler: Grabica, Poznan
Portugal
External: Porto, Lisbon
Spain
External: Barcelona, Irun, Madrid, Valencia, Sevilla, Alicante, Vigo, Zaragoza
Switzerland
External: Pratteln
Ziegler: Basel, Dietikon, Dornach, Geneva, Pratteln, St Gallen, Zurich
Turkey
External: Istanbul
At the heart of Ziegler’s success is our commitment to collaboration. We’ve cultivated strong relationships with leading freight forwarders across Europe, allowing us to offer a service that combines local expertise with global reach. A big acknowledgment goes to these partnerships who form the backbone of our European network, enabling us to provide seamless, efficient, and reliable service across the continent:
Transdanubia, Bardino GmbH, Lagermax, Cargo 2000, Dimotrans Group, Schmidt-Gevelsberg, BachleG mbH, Spedicam GmbH, Hauschildt GmbH, Navis AG, Heinrich Koch, ERKA Internationale, Winner GmbH, Ghabze Europe Ltd, Assisped, Bertin SRL, Zust Ambrosetti S.p.A, Italmondo S.p.A, Italsempione S.p.A, Cinquina, Sobolux S.A, DMC – Logistics, Transnatur, Objektif
Why Our Collaborative Network Benefits You
While some may assume that freight transportation suppliers with complete internal operations would be the better choice, Ziegler’s collaborative network offers unique advantages:
- Unparalleled Local Expertise: Our partners are experts in their local markets, providing invaluable insights into regional regulations, customs procedures, and business practices. This local knowledge helps navigate potential challenges and ensures smooth operations.
- Flexibility and Scalability: Our network allows us to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and client needs. We can scale operations up or down in different regions without the constraints of fixed assets.
- Cost-Efficiency: By leveraging our partners’ existing infrastructure, we can offer competitive pricing without compromising on service quality. This approach allows us to optimize costs and pass the savings on to our clients.
- Wider Geographic Coverage: Our collaborative network enables us to reach areas that might be challenging for a single company to serve effectively. This extensive coverage opens up new markets and opportunities for our clients.
- Innovation and Best Practices: Collaboration fosters innovation. By working with various partners, we’re exposed to diverse approaches and technologies, allowing us to continuously improve our services.
- Resilience: A diverse network of partners provides redundancy and alternatives, making our supply chain more resilient to disruptions in specific regions or with particular carriers.
Harnessing the Power of Collaboration for Your Success
Ziegler’s European Partner Network exemplifies the benefits of third-party partnerships discussed in our previous article “Unlocking Global Reach: Why Third-Party Partnerships Are the Key to Supply Chain Success”. By combining our expertise with that of trusted local partners, we’ve created a freight forwarding solution that offers the best of both worlds: the reliability and consistency of a large, established company, with the flexibility, local knowledge, and personalised service of smaller, specialised operators.
This collaborative approach allows us to provide comprehensive coverage across Europe while maintaining the agility to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you’re looking to expand into new European markets or optimise your existing supply chain, Ziegler’s extensive network is your gateway to efficient, reliable, and flexible freight forwarding across the continent.
