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.

The global supply chain industry has undergone a lot of shifts due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

One of the most significant changes was the rise in container prices caused by the imbalance between import and export flows. 

As consumption in Europe and the United States picked up sharply at the end of the lockdowns in the spring of 2021, the industrial recovery in China didn’t begin until September, leading to a further worsening of the imbalance. 

The majority of European and North American companies tried to replenish their stocks while the Chinese side tried to fulfil a surge in new orders that sea transport capacities could not cope with. The result of all these events was the doubling of sea times from 30 to 60 days and an increase in freight rates by 10-fold in only 12 months.

The Rail Alternative

The Eurasian rail corridor has emerged as a new alternative to sea transport in the last few years. More and more companies are using rail transport to benefit from a faster delivery time of around 20 days (Station to Station) due to the congestion experienced by maritime shipping. Ziegler Group offers Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL) services from rail terminals located in the industrial heartland of China at a competitive price. China is working on a strategy to build more trains and stations to better connect the most important stations to further develop this mode of transportation.

Rail is more reliable than sea and up to 70% cheaper than air for dense or bulky cargo shipments. Although rail freight rates started to increase in recent months, the rail alternative from Asia remains more reliable in terms of transit time between the two continents. 

Moreover, rail transport is a more green mode of transport, emitting nine times less CO2 emissions than road transport. A 40-foot container transported by rail with 20 tons of cargo represents only 4% of the CO2 emissions needed to transport the same cargo by air.

Import from Asia by Road

The emergence of road services between Asia and Europe can solve the challenges related to delivery schedules or the goods that need to be transported fast.

Road freight reduces shipping costs by 50% compared to air transport, and it is 30 to 50% faster than rail transport. In the event of a seasonal peak, such as Chinese New Year or Golden Week, sea and air freight are always severely disrupted, and road freight is a more flexible alternative in this context. 

Although safety is one of the major challenges for road freight on the Silk Road, Ziegler Group provides security solutions for road freight, such as transport convoys with security, a dedicated team of experts available 24 hours a day, and daily tracking via GPS.

The Future of Road Transport from Asia

The development of the Meridian Highway project between Shanghai and Hamburg is a key element of the New Silk Road project that will determine the future of road transport from China. 

The project aims to create a new logistics corridor by connecting the main seaports, airports, and railways along the route, and it is expected to reduce transport times and costs, thereby increasing the competitiveness of the land transport route between Asia and Europe.

Work with an innovative Supply Chain Partner 

As the logistics industry continues to evolve, it is essential for companies to explore and adopt new modes of transport to stay ahead of the competition and succeed in the global marketplace.

If you are looking for a reliable partner to navigate the complexities of the current supply chain landscape, Ziegler Group is ready to assist you in finding the best solution for your business. 

Contact Ziegler Group today and let them help you find the most efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions for your business needs.

Within the supply chain and logistics industry, Multimodal is one of the UKs most anticipated events in the calendar. Following our first attendance last year as an exhibitor, where we were invited by our London Gateway owners DP World as a guest on their stand, we decided to exhibit independently for the first time in 2023.

The 3 day exhibition proved to be a resounding success for us, leaving us buzzing with excitement and inspiration. Our stand was a testament to our commitment to cutting edge innovations in supply chain and logistics management. By showcasing some of our latest technologies, we captivated the attention of visitors and industry professionals alike. Multimodal provided an ideal platform for us to expand our network and explore collaboration possibilities. By connecting with a diverse range of industry professionals, we were able to establish potential new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships and explore mutually beneficial ventures.

With the absence of a number of key competitors, it provided us with a great opportunity to strengthen awareness of the Ziegler brand. By leveraging various marketing channels, we succeeded in attracting a significant footfall to our stand and served as a springboard for us to enhance our market presence and establish ourselves as the go-to company for solutions in supply chain excellence. Furthermore, the use of the Smartscan app enabled us to effortlessly log the contact details that came from any encouraging conversations.

There was the opportunity to announce our up-coming move into a circa 500,000 square foot, state-of-the-art warehouse for our head quarters at the London Gateway in Essex. We were also able introduce our groundbreaking customs solution, Ziegler:SMART which provides hassle free importation in the EU by removing requirement for VAT and clearance on import. In addition, we were able to showcase our sustainability commitments including the use of electric autonomous vehicles and our Cargobikes. In fact, it was the perfect platform to demonstrate exactly why Ziegler continues to go from strength to strength and leads the way with innovation.

Overall, our attendance felt like an unmitigated triumph. Our commitment to excellence and dedication to pushing boundaries were evident through the constant stream of visitors to our stand. As we continue to innovate and evolve, we are poised for continued growth and to make a lasting impact on the supply chain and logistics landscape and set new benchmarks for success.

A big thank you to all who attended from Ziegler:

Lee Marshall, managing director

Andy Maclean, road freight director

David Wright, commercial director

Stewart Brook, regional commercial manager

Mark Sidwell, regional commercial manager

Mike Brin, regional commercial manager

Adam Jefferies, regional commercial manager

Matt Smith, branch manager

Greg Rawles, marketing manager

Charlotte Hughes, front of house

Scott Marshall,  IT systems manager

Andy Buck, facilities manager

Are you in need of reliable and efficient warehousing services in the Southern Netherlands? Look no further than Ziegler Netherlands, your trusted partner in storage and logistics. With our state-of-the-art facilities and expertise, we offer comprehensive solutions to meet all your warehousing needs.

Optimised Space for Your Goods

At Ziegler Netherlands, we understand the importance of maximizing storage capacity while ensuring the safety and integrity of your goods. Our bonded warehouse boasts an impressive space of 3500-4000 m2, of which 1500-1800m2 is directly available, providing ample room for your inventory. Whether you require short-term or long-term storage, our flexible options can be tailored to your specific requirements. Besides this, we also have another racked warehouse available, up to 6100 m2 and nearly 10000 pallet spaces.

Low-Rise and Bulk Storage Capabilities

Our low-rise warehousing facility offers the advantage of easy accessibility and efficient handling of goods. We specialise in bulk storage, allowing you to store large quantities of items in an organised and cost-effective manner. With our optimised storage solutions, you can streamline your operations and improve overall efficiency.

Heavy Equipment Handling

Ziegler Netherlands is equipped with heavy-duty machinery capable of handling loads of up to 7 tons. Whether you have machinery, industrial equipment, or other heavy items, our experienced team can safely handle and store them within our facility. You can trust us to handle your valuable assets with the utmost care and precision.

Picking, Packing and VAS Expertise

Efficient order fulfilment is crucial to your business success, and Ziegler Netherlands excels in pallet-picking operations. Our skilled personnel are well-versed in the art of pallet management, ensuring accurate and timely picking of your goods. With our inventory management systems, you can rest assured that your orders will be processed smoothly and efficiently. Due to our multi-user environment, we can serve all your logistical needs, i.e. piece picking, value-added services (kitting, labelling etc.) and reporting.

Why Choose Ziegler Netherlands?

Reliability: With decades of experience in the logistics industry, Ziegler Netherlands has built a reputation for reliability and excellence. You can trust us to handle your warehousing needs with the utmost professionalism.

Customised Solutions: We understand that each business has unique requirements. That’s why we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific warehousing needs. Our team works closely with you to design a plan that aligns with your objectives.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our modern warehousing facility in Venlo is equipped with advanced security systems, climate control, and cutting-edge technology. Your goods will be stored in a secure and controlled environment, ensuring their safety and integrity.

Skilled Professionals: Our team of dedicated and highly trained professionals is committed to providing top-notch warehousing services. From inventory management to order fulfilment, we have the expertise to handle all aspects of your logistics needs.

Cost-Effective Solutions: We understand the importance of cost efficiency in today’s competitive market. Our warehousing services are designed to optimise space, streamline processes, and deliver value for your investment.

Multi Modal solution: For your peace of mind, we offer all kinds of transport options and customs activities as well. Our dedicated Road, Air, Sea and Customs departments are available to answer all your questions and provide the solutions needed for incoming and outgoing transport. 

Choose Ziegler Netherlands as your trusted warehousing partner in the Southern Netherlands. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and let us tailor a solution that meets your unique needs. Experience the reliability, efficiency, and professionalism that sets us apart from the rest.

We are excited to announce Ziegler Ghent’s participation in the groundbreaking “Gateway2Britain” project, which aims to streamline and facilitate trade between Flanders, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. This initiative, recently announced by the Flanders government, aims to ensure frictionless trade in a post-Brexit era and strengthen economic ties between the two regions.

The “Gateway2Britain” project comes as a response to the challenges faced by businesses in the aftermath of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union. With new trade regulations, customs procedures, and border controls, companies have been seeking innovative solutions to maintain smooth and efficient trade relationships with their UK counterparts.

Recognizing the importance of the UK market and the need for seamless logistics operations, Ziegler Ghent has enthusiastically joined this project. Leveraging our extensive experience and expertise in logistics and freight forwarding, Ziegler Ghent aims to play a key role in facilitating the movement of goods between Flanders and the UK.

By actively participating in the “Gateway2Britain” project, Ziegler Ghent will collaborate with other Ziegler branches and stakeholders, including governmental bodies, port authorities, and industry partners, to develop efficient supply chain solutions. This collaborative effort will focus on streamlining customs procedures, optimising transportation routes, and implementing innovative technologies to expedite trade processes.

Ziegler’s involvement in this project reinforces our commitment to providing our clients with reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions. 

Through our participation in the “Gateway2Britain” project, we aim to support businesses in Flanders and the UK by offering tailored logistics services that address the specific challenges of cross-border trade. 

In today’s world, environmental sustainability has become a top priority for industries across the globe. From the emergence of the industrial revolution in the 18th century to the domination of fossil fuels, our planet now finds itself in a delicate state. The freight transport and logistics industry, in particular has recognised the urgent need to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the impact of climate change. Companies like Ziegler have taken significant strides in this direction by implementing innovative measures to monitor and record CO2 emissions on every shipment. 

Back in 1908, when Ziegler was founded, the world of transportation was starkly different. As a business operating through 3 family generations, we have been part of a pioneering evolution of transportation and have had to respond ourselves through developing technologies to maintain a foothold within the industry, maintaining efficient means of transportation. From horse and carriage, to diesel trucks and looking ahead to our gradual transition to electric and autonomous vehicles. Focus is no longer just about speed and cost but also how we can collectively contribute towards helping the planet.

Here, we explore the measures we are taking to make a positive difference and set new standards in the industry.

Environmental Awareness and Responsibility

With Ziegler a leading player in the freight transport and logistics industry, we understand our responsibility towards the environment and are committed to sustainable practices. By recording CO2 emissions on every shipment, we demonstrate a high level of environmental awareness and accountability. This approach not only showcases our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint but also encourages other stakeholders in the industry to adopt similar measures.

Accurate Measurement of Carbon Footprint

Recording CO2 emissions enables us to accurately measure our carbon footprint. We utilise our advanced technology and tracking TMS systems, Seabird and Cargoswift to monitor the emissions associated with each transportation process. By capturing data related to fuel consumption, distance travelled and mode of transport, we can calculate the carbon emissions produced during the shipment’s journey. This meticulous approach provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s environmental impact and serves as a baseline for future emission reduction strategies.

Identifying Emission Hotspots and Optimization Opportunities

This initiative allows us to gather valuable insights into emission hotspots and areas where optimisation is possible. Analysing the data allows the company to identify specific routes, transport modes, or operational practices that contribute significantly to its carbon footprint. Armed with this information, we can implement targeted initiatives to optimise our logistics operations, reduce emissions, and enhance overall efficiency. This approach not only benefits the environment but also leads to potential cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.

Setting Green Targets and Monitoring Progress

By setting clear green targets and monitoring progress towards achieving them, opportunities open up to establish ambitious goals for emission reduction and the implementation of strategies to meet these targets over time. By continuously monitoring and analysing emission data, we can assess the effectiveness of our initiatives and make informed adjustments when necessary. This proactive approach ensures that we remain on track in our commitment to environmental sustainability and hold ourselves accountable for our actions.

Transparency and Collaboration with Stakeholders

Our practice of recording CO2 emissions on every shipment promotes transparency and collaboration with company stakeholders. Customers, suppliers, and partners can gain insight into the environmental impact associated with their logistics operations. This transparency not only fosters trust and loyalty but also enables collaborative efforts to further reduce emissions. We can work closely with our clients to explore greener transportation options, implement joint carbon reduction initiatives, and drive positive change throughout the supply chain.

Compliance with Regulations and Certifications

The freight transport and logistics industry is subject to an increasing number of regulations and certifications related to environmental sustainability. The recording of this data ensures compliance with these evolving standards. We can accurately report our emissions data, making it easier to comply with regulatory requirements and achieve industry certifications such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System). Our commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility positions Ziegler as a future front-runner in the industry and enhances our credibility among environmentally conscious customers and partners.

Some of our pilot projects already in practice or under consideration

• Cargobikes
• Autonomous EVs
• Eco driving courses for all freight drivers
• Recycling waste
• Implementing urban beekeeping
• Heat pumps
• Solar panel installation at all Ziegler branches (as a long term plan)
• Charging points for all company EVs
• LEDs and energy saving sensors installation in warehouses/offices
• Modal shifting (i.e. air to sea or rail to inland waterway)
• Calculating CO2 emissions from Ziegler sites

What are the long term sustainability targets for Ziegler?

Ziegler are targeting the evaluation of a sustainability strategy in Q3/Q4, 2023. This framework will include a blue print, roadmap and plan of action to guide future integration. We are also looking to refine CO2 measurements as the complexities of our measurement systems continue to evolve. Sustainability for Ziegler is much more than a box ticking exercise; it is a business differentiation. We have introduced dedicated sustainability managers to streamline all of our efforts and oversee projects on both national and corporate levels. Overall, we aim to have our sustainability goals integrated into Ziegler’s Business Strategy by the end of 2023, providing structure and vision to our activities in the coming years.