With the rise of omnichannel shopping, last mile delivery has become more complex and important. It’s not just about delivering products from a warehouse to a home or business anymore. Supply chains have to move in new directions and be agile enough to adapt quickly to different delivery methods.
Last mile deliveries are:
Crucial: Although this is the final stage of product delivery, and after the goods have already undergone a long and multi-stage process, last mile delivery is the point that is most crucial for customer satisfaction. It is at this stage that the customer is most affected by the transport process.
Complicated: It is also the most complicated stage, as the final leg of shipment typically involves multiple stops with low drop sizes.
Expensive: It’s also the most expensive stage. As a share of the total cost of shipping, last mile delivery costs are substantial comprising 53% overall.
Problematic: Last-mile deliveries are also the biggest source of urban pollution, noise and congestion. For example, in Brussels alone around 16,000 trucks and 26,000 vans enter the city centre every day.
Supply chain professionals are under pressure due to high customer expectations, cost management, environmental concerns, port congestion, inflation, and restrictions in urban areas. Additionally, challenges arising from the recent pandemic, geopolitical tensions, social conflicts, and labour shortages exacerbate these constraints.
We know the challenges of last mile deliveries very well! That’s why we’ve prepared this guide providing insights into new market trends and solutions to help brands navigate these challenges and efficiently ship products worldwide.
It’s not a secret that transportation is one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the world. Almost everything we consume or use had to be delivered to us. 80% of all the stuff we buy and sell around the world gets shipped by sea, that’s why sea transport, in particular, has a big role to play in reducing emissions.
But the good news is that we can make a difference. And it’s not just up to the carriers – it’s up to all of us as consumers too. We need to start thinking about the environmental impact of the products we buy and demand that companies do the same.
Companies that take the environment seriously will be more competitive in the long run and we’re proud to be part of this process and help our clients navigate through it.
Based on our 60 years of experience and expertise in sea freight management we’ve put together an e-book to help you navigate through this ever-changing and sometimes challenging environmental revolution.
Get ready to join us on this thrilling journey!
The rise of autonomous electric vehicles (AEVs) has sparked considerable excitement and speculation about their potential to revolutionise the transportation industry. These vehicles, which combine electric power with self-driving technology, have already made significant strides in countries across the European Union (EU). However, their introduction in the United Kingdom (UK) for last mile delivery remains a topic of debate. Here, we will delve into the reasons behind the delay in their rollout, explore when we might see AEVs on UK roads, and discuss the potential impact they could have on last mile freight transportation.
One of the primary reasons AEVs have not yet been rolled out in the UK, despite their presence in the EU, is the regulatory landscape. The EU has been proactive in developing regulations to facilitate the testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles. In contrast, the UK has taken a more cautious approach, placing greater emphasis on safety and public acceptance. The UK government has established strict guidelines and regulatory frameworks that AEV manufacturers must navigate before their vehicles can be tested or deployed on public roads. These regulations are in place to ensure that autonomous vehicles meet rigorous safety standards, address liability concerns, and protect the public from potential risks associated with self-driving technology.
Furthermore, there are practical considerations that have hindered the widespread adoption of AEVs in the UK. The complexity of urban environments and the diverse nature of road infrastructure pose challenges for autonomous vehicle navigation. Narrow streets, complex junctions, and crowded city centres require sophisticated sensors and algorithms to ensure safe and efficient operation. The development and refinement of such technology require extensive testing and validation in real-world scenarios, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
Despite these obstacles, the UK is making progress in preparing for the introduction of AEVs. The government has launched several initiatives to promote research and development in autonomous vehicle technology. Testbeds and real-world trials are being conducted in cities like London, Coventry, and Milton Keynes, allowing manufacturers and researchers to gather valuable data and insights. These initiatives aim to foster innovation, improve infrastructure, and develop the necessary regulatory framework to ensure the safe integration of AEVs into the transportation system.
While it is challenging to predict an exact timeline for the introduction of AEVs in the UK for last mile delivery, experts anticipate that we could see significant progress in the next five to ten years. The advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor technology are accelerating the development of self-driving capabilities. As manufacturers continue to refine their autonomous systems and gain experience from trials and real-world deployments, the likelihood of AEVs becoming a common sight on UK roads increases. In response, Ziegler UK are poised for the expanded introduction of AEVs within the Ziegler Group through our ‘Now Even Greener’ initiative. Partnering with US-based manufacturer Udelv, the autonomous delivery pilot project is already underway through our head-quarters in Brussels.
The impact of AEVs on last mile freight transportation could be transformative. The last mile, which refers to the final leg of the delivery process from a distribution centre to the customer’s doorstep, is often the most expensive and logistically challenging part of the supply chain. AEVs have the potential to address many of the issues associated with traditional delivery methods. They can operate around the clock, reducing delivery times and improving efficiency. Additionally, AEVs offer significant environmental benefits, as they are electric-powered, emitting zero tailpipe emissions, and contributing to the reduction of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The introduction of AEVs for last mile delivery can also lead to cost savings for businesses. The elimination of human drivers reduces labour costs, and the increased efficiency of autonomous routing and dispatching systems can optimise delivery routes, saving time and fuel expenses. Furthermore, the implementation of AEVs could help alleviate some of the challenges faced by the logistics industry, such as driver shortages and the increasing demand for fast and reliable deliveries.
As Ziegler inevitably expands its fleet of AEVs and we refine our capabilities, we are driving forward a new paradigm in last mile deliveries. The convergence of autonomous technology and electric propulsion holds the potential to transform the logistics industry, improving operational efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Our commitment to embracing these advancements places us at the forefront of this transformative journey, with the aim of reshaping the future of last mile deliveries.
Drones have emerged as a game-changing in technology with immense potential to revolutionise various industries. In the logistics sector, warehouses are increasingly harnessing the power of drones to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. But how are they being utilised and are they proving to be superior over human labour? Ziegler have taken flight and are currently trialling a batch of drones at their head quarters in Belgium to test their impact and see if a wider rollout through the Ziegler Group would be beneficial.
One of the primary advantages of drones in warehouse logistics is their ability to automate repetitive tasks with unmatched precision. Equipped with advanced computer vision and navigation systems, drones can effortlessly navigate warehouse environments, performing inventory checks, stock replenishment, and item tracking. Unlike human workers, drones do not experience fatigue, reducing the likelihood of errors caused by tiredness or oversight. The precision and accuracy of drone operations eliminate the need for additional quality checks and minimise error, ultimately enhancing overall efficiency.
Time efficiency is a critical aspect of logistics, and drones have the potential to revolutionise warehouse operations by significantly reducing the time required to complete tasks. Traditional inventory management methods often involve manual scanning and counting, which can be tedious and time-consuming. However, drones equipped with barcode readers or RFID scanners can swiftly scan and update inventory data, expediting the process. By automating tasks that would otherwise require human labour, warehouses can reduce operational costs associated with hiring, training, and managing personnel, all while accelerating the pace of operations.
Optimising space utilisation is another area where drones excel in logistics warehouses. With their compact size and exceptional manoeuvrability, drones can navigate tight spaces and high shelves, which may present challenges for humans. This capability enables warehouses to maximise storage capacity and organize inventory efficiently. By employing drones for tasks in vertical storage areas, warehouses can minimize the time and effort required for manual labour while simultaneously increasing the overall efficiency of the storage process.
Safety is a paramount concern in warehouse operations, and drones can help mitigate risks by assuming potentially hazardous tasks. Lifting and carrying heavy items can pose a significant risk to human workers. However, drones can transport heavy or bulky items from one location to another, reducing the risk of injuries associated with manual lifting. Additionally, drones can conduct safety inspections in high-risk areas, identifying potential hazards without endangering human lives. By minimising accidents and injuries, warehouses can foster a safer working environment while simultaneously reducing costly incidents.
Real-time monitoring and data analysis capabilities of drones further contribute to enhancing warehouse efficiency. Equipped with cameras and sensors, drones can capture and relay valuable data, such as temperature, humidity, or inventory status, in real-time. This information empowers warehouse managers to make informed decisions promptly, optimising inventory management and improving overall operational efficiency. Moreover, drones can generate comprehensive analytics reports, highlighting patterns, identifying bottlenecks, and suggesting improvements. These insights derived from drone data can lead to enhanced productivity and substantial cost savings.
As a leading player in the logistics industry, Ziegler have recognised the potential of drones in warehouses and we have begun to spearhead efforts in implementing them to test their efficiency. By deploying drones in our warehouses, we aim to optimise our operations and provide a benchmark for the industry. Through careful planning and implementation, we intend to evaluate the benefits of drone technology in enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving safety within our warehouses.
Ziegler’s proactive approach showcases our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in logistics. By integrating drones into our operations, we anticipate greater speed and accuracy in inventory management, reduced labour costs, and enhanced safety measures. As we pave the way for this integration, our experiences and learnings will contribute to shaping best practices and industry standards.
Drones are transforming logistics warehouses by offering unparalleled precision, automation, and efficiency. Their ability to navigate warehouse environments, optimize space utilization, enhance safety, and provide real-time monitoring and data analysis makes them invaluable assets in the industry. While human labour will continue to be integral to warehouse operations, the integration of drones can augment efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance overall productivity. Ziegler’s pioneering efforts in implementing drones within their warehouses reflect the industry’s growing recognition of the potential benefits that drones offer. As technology advances further, the adoption of drones in logistics warehouses will only continue to rise, reshaping the future of supply chain management.
Onboard summer 2023
Welcome onboard
True logisticians know no fear of contact, they tackle every challenge.
They particularly love special orders that go beyond industrial shipping standards – for example, heavy goods transportation organised by our colleagues at the Ziegler Karst site in Koblenz. They masterfully interlock the most diverse participants, who all contribute to success in the end. This is how modern logistics
works!
Best wishes,
Thorsten Witt
CEO – Ziegler Switzerland & Germany
Previous editions:
2022
2021
2020
Onboard, edition autumn/winter 2020
2019
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2017
Managing customs activities effectively is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring the efficiency of your supply chain. However, navigating the complexities of customs procedures can be challenging.
This article will explore the critical aspects of customs management and how Ziegler Group offers unique and flexible solutions to fulfil your company’s specific requirements.
The Significance of Customs Matters
Smooth customs operations are vital for the seamless movement of goods across borders. Customs matters can be broadly categorized into five key areas: regulations, origin, regime, tariff number (HS Code), and customs value.
Each plays a crucial role in determining the economic nationality of items, facilitating accurate identification, and assessing the true economic value of imported products.
1. Know the customs regulations
Customs regulations have an impact on the flow of your imports, exports and goods within the processing operations. They can save you costs, simplify your logistics process and provide numerous other benefits. Good knowledge of the regulations gives a positive impact on your business.
2. Origin Determination
Determining the customs origin of your items is essential to leverage tariff advantages provided by the European Union (EU) in its trade agreements with other nations.
Ziegler Group helps you navigate through the complexities of determining whether your items have preferential or non-preferential customs origin, ensuring you benefit from tariff advantages while complying with regulations.
3. Importance of Knowing Your Customs Regime
Knowing your customs regime is vital for foreign trade. It ensures efficient import-export processes, enables customs control, and provides universal classification.
By understanding and adhering to the appropriate customs regime, you streamline operations, comply with regulations, and facilitate accurate identification and valuation of goods. Mastering customs activities and partnering with experienced management services like Ziegler Group help optimize your supply chain and maintain competitiveness in the global market.
4. Understanding Tariff Numbers (HS Code)
The Harmonized System (HS) code serves as an identification card for your merchandise. It provides a numerical coding system that categorizes different types of goods eligible for import.
Ziegler Group’s expertise in customs management enables accurate classification of goods, ensuring compliance with customs duty rates, trade regulations, safety standards, and domestic taxation requirements.
5. Evaluating Customs Value
Accurately determining the customs value of imported products is crucial for financial planning and compliance. Ziegler Group assists you in calculating the true economic value by considering various factors such as packaging and container costs, transport and insurance costs, royalties and licensing fees, and sales commissions.
This comprehensive approach ensures proper valuation and minimizes the risk of additional expenditures and penalties.
The Consequences of Inadequate Customs Operations
Mismanaged customs activities can lead to logistical, financial, and legal complications. Improper documentation or issues with the physical nature of your items during customs clearance can disrupt your supply chain and result in additional costs. Non-compliance with customs regulations and disclosure errors can lead to fines ranging from 125 to thousands of euros, and in severe cases, even imprisonment.
Ziegler Group’s Customized Solutions
Ziegler Group understands the challenges and opportunities multinational businesses face in customs operations. With our expertise in customs clearance procedures and optimization solutions, we help streamline your customs operations, making your flow of goods faster and more efficient. Our flexible approach caters to your unique requirements, ensuring compliance, reducing costs, and enhancing your competitiveness in the global market.
Mastering customs activities is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring the effectiveness of your supply chain. With Ziegler Group’s comprehensive understanding of customs procedures and commitment to customized solutions, you can optimize your customs operations and build a resilient supply chain that can withstand future fluctuations.
From Cacao Fields to Chocolatiers:
For many years, Ziegler Group has been at the forefront of importing cocoa from Brazil, Indonesia, Ivory Coast, and other renowned regions. However, our journey doesn’t end there. For over 10 years we have been also working with final product manufacturers, enabling us to export chocolates from the renowned chocolate-producing countries of Belgium and Switzerland. This collaboration allows us to ensure a seamless supply chain, guaranteeing the finest chocolates find their way to chocolate lovers worldwide.
A Symphony of Transportation:
The transportation of chocolates is a delicate dance requiring expert choreography. We often rely on multimodal transportation solutions to transport these precious goods. With hot climates posing a challenge during certain periods of the year, we leave no room for compromise. Ziegler Group takes charge from A to Z, leveraging our extensive network of branches across Europe to meticulously monitor and follow up on the goods’ journey, ensuring their safe arrival.
Temperature-Controlled Haven:
At the heart of our chocolate logistics lies our temperature-controlled warehouse. Picture a sanctuary where each chocolate’s delicate essence is preserved. Our warehouse maintains a consistent temperature throughout the year, carefully monitored to ensure optimal conditions. To further safeguard these delicate treats, we strategically position them in locations with minimal temperature variations—far away from loading docks and at the ground level. Every step is taken to create a haven that cherishes the integrity of every chocolate bar and truffle.
Innovative Packaging Solutions:
Temperature control doesn’t stop at the warehouse’s edge. We go the extra mile to ensure that chocolates remain in a cocoon of ideal conditions during transportation. Ziegler Group collaborates with our subsidiary, Worldpack, an expert in specialized packaging. Together, we engineer packaging solutions that maintain stable temperatures, safeguarding the chocolates’ quality. Whether it’s repacking pallets with thermo-blankets before departure on a plane or creating self-made boxes that keep pralines at the perfect temperature for many days, our dedication to preserving the integrity of these delicacies knows no bounds.
The Race Against Time:
Chocolates, like many delightful things in life, have an expiration date. At Ziegler Group, we understand the importance of ensuring that the chocolates we transport are fit for consumption before they leave our warehouse. Our meticulous system keeps track of expiration dates, guaranteeing that only the freshest and most exquisite chocolates make their way into the hands of eager chocolate enthusiasts. This meticulous attention to detail forms the foundation of our commitment to delivering excellence.
Navigating the Regulatory Maze:
As purveyors of goods meant for human consumption, chocolates require special authorizations, certificates, and customs procedures. At Ziegler Group, we take pride in our comprehensive understanding of the complex regulatory landscape. Armed with the necessary certifications, including HACCP and phytosanitary certificates, we also navigate the intricacies of customs procedures, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey for these delightful treats. Your satisfaction and safety are at the forefront of our operations.
As we celebrate World Chocolate Day, let’s recognize the unwavering commitment of logistics providers in delivering the world’s finest chocolates to your local stores. From sourcing premium cacao to ensuring seamless transportation, warehousing, and regulatory compliance, every step is taken with utmost care.
So, as you indulge in that exquisite piece of chocolate, cherish the journey it took across the world to you!
Welcome to the world of the Fourth Industrial Revolution – an era where businesses are integrating artificial intelligence and advanced automation in everything they do. This digitization is transforming the sea transport industry too. The industry is changing at a rapid pace and the fifth industrial revolution might be on the horizon, especially with the urgency of the climate crisis and the need to make shipping more environmentally friendly.
Predicting the future can be exciting, but it’s also risky because there are so many unknowns. Just think about how nobody would have predicted the recent upheavals in our world five years ago, and how these events have completely transformed the shipping market. With the pandemic, sea transport had to adjust to a significant drop in demand, leading to reduced capacity and higher transport costs. There were also shortages of containers and slowdowns in supply chains, which contributed to the surge in inflation in 2022.
While it’s impossible to predict exactly what will happen between now and 2030, we can already see some exciting trends emerging. But with every risk comes new opportunities, so we need to take a global perspective when looking ahead. This includes hyper-specialization of economies, geopolitical uncertainties, ecological transitions, and technological innovations. It’s going to be an exciting few years ahead, and we’re proud to be part of these changes and help our clients navigate through them.
That’s why we’ve put together this e-book, based on our years of experience and expertise in sea freight management. We hope it will help you navigate through this changing and sometimes challenging environment, so you can stay on course and better understand what the future holds. Click and get ready to join us on this thrilling journey!
Incoterms, short for International Commercial Terms, are the standardised set of trade terms we use in international transactions to define the responsibilities and obligations of buyers and sellers regarding the delivery of goods.
They clarify the distribution of costs, risks, and responsibilities between the buyer and the seller. By specifying who is responsible for various aspects of the shipping process, such as transportation, insurance, customs clearance, and delivery, they help to prevent misunderstandings and disputes.
We’ve set out our most commonly used Incoterms to provide clarity and understanding, further strengthening our efforts to maintain smooth international transaction with our customers.
CFR: Cost & Freight
The seller is responsible for transporting the cargo to the buyer’s port. Once the goods have arrived at the port, the responsibility transfers to the buyer. The buyer then must unload the cargo and import the goods into the destination country, followed by importing and delivering to the final destination.
CIF: Cost, Insurance & Freight
The seller is responsible for the costs to ship and insure the cargo to the buyers requested port. Once the goods arrive at port, the responsibility of the goods transfers to the buyer. The buyer then must cover the costs to unload, import, and deliver their shipment. CIF requires the seller to purchase freight insurance.
CIP: Carriage & Insurance Paid
The seller must cover the costs to ship and insure the cargo to the defined place of delivery. The shipment transfers to the buyer after the cargo is unloaded and delivered to the terminal. After the goods are unloaded and delivered to the defined terminal, the shipment transfers to the buyer. The buyer must import and fulfill the remainder of the shipping process to move the goods to the final destination. CIP requires the seller to purchase freight insurance.
CPT: Carriage Paid To
The seller must ship and unload the cargo from the vessel at the defined place of delivery. Once the goods are unloaded, the cargo transfers to the buyer, who is then responsible for importing and transporting the freight to the final destination.
DAP: Delivered at Place
The seller must deliver the cargo to the final, defined destination. Once delivered the cargo transfers to the buyer. The buyer must unload the shipment from the truck. The buyer is also responsible for import duty, taxes, and customs clearance.
DAP Cleared: Delivered at Place (cleared)
Essentially exactly the same as DAP but clearance is prepaid by the shipper whilst duties and taxes are still paid by the importer.
DDP: Delivered Duty Paid
The seller is responsible for delivering the cargo to the final destination, and paying the import duty, taxes, and customs clearance. Once the cargo arrives at the destination, the responsibility transfers to the buyer, who must cover the costs to unload the shipment. DDP is the only Incoterm that requires the seller to pay all duty charges.
DPU: Delivered at Place Unloaded
The seller must deliver and unload the cargo to the final destination. Once the shipment is successfully unloaded at the buyer’s warehouse, the responsibility transfers to the buyer. The buyer is responsible for import duty, taxes, and customs clearance.
EXW: Ex-Works or Ex-Warehouse
The seller is responsible for packing the products and making the goods available. The cargo is transferred to the buyer while the freight is still at the seller’s site. The buyer is then responsible for exporting, shipping, and importing the cargo to their destination.
FAS: Free Alongside Ship
The seller must manage the full export process of the cargo until the goods are alongside the ship or other mode of transport. Once alongside the ship, the risk is transferred to the buyer. The buyer is responsible for loading the cargo onto their desired vessel and shipping the goods to their final destination.
FCA: Free Carrier
The seller is responsible for transporting the cargo to a defined destination within the seller’s country, usually a shipping terminal. Once the load has arrived at the designated destination, the shipment transfers to the buyer, the buyer then must pay the freight charges and fulfill the importing and delivery process. Depending on the named place, the cargo is either exported by the seller or the buyer.
FOB: Free On Board
The seller must manage the full export process of the cargo, and load the products on the ship. Once the cargo has been safely loaded, the products transfer to the buyer. The buyer must pay for the freight costs that transport the goods to their destination and is responsible for all import costs.
Ziegler UK goes from strength 2 strength
We’re delighted to announce the launch of 2 new Ziegler branches within the UK. Firstly, the acquisition of Comac Freight Services in Southampton to strengthen our Ocean Freight division and in addition, the opening of a brand new Road Freight branch in Glasgow.
Making a Statement at Multimodal 2023
This year marked our first foray into exhibiting at a major trade show, having previously shared a stand with DP World at Multimodal 2022.
We were delighted with the turn out this year and having come away with many positive conversations. Another great way to put Ziegler well and truly on the map!
Social media expansion
We’ve recently launched Ziegler UK accounts on Facebook and Instagram to bolster our online presence on Linkedin. Click on the links below to connect and keep up to date with all the latest news from Ziegler UK.
LINKEDIN
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
Sports sponsorship announcement
To support our efforts to get Ziegler firmly on the UK map for transport and logistics, we’re sponsoring Essex Cricket’s Dan Lawrence for the new County Championships season. Keep an eye out for new hospitality giveaways.
Updates to our Road Groupage Services Schedules
We’ve updated our range of Road Groupage Services Schedules to maintain our excellent communication and transportation. Click HERE to download.