Harbour International freight marks 10 years of growth within Pall-Ex network

Harbour International Freight is celebrating 10 years as part of the Pall-Ex network, a period that has seen the business increase volumes, expand operational capacity and strengthen its position within the UK palletised freight distribution sector.

Originally founded as a family owned business in Dublin, Harbour International Freight established its first UK depot in Trafford Park, Manchester in 1988, a location the business still operates from today.

Since joining Pall-Ex, Harbour has grown its network operation from delivering and collecting 90 pallets per day into a high performing depot, now processing more than 450 pallets day. Over the same period, volumes through the network have increased by more than 12% per annum, reflecting steady demand growth and greater utilisation of network capacity.

Steve Swinburn, managing director of Harbour International Freight, said: ‘Reaching 10 years within the Pall-Ex network has been an important milestone for us.

‘Our partnership with Pall-Ex has supported our ability to grow in a structured way while improving service levels and visibility for customers. The collaboration across the network has played a key role in helping us respond to changing customer expectations and scale our operations.’

Barry Byers, chief operating officer for Pall-Ex Group, said: ‘Harbour International Freight has developed strongly within the network over the past decade.

‘Its growth reflects a consistent focus on service delivery and a willingness to make full use of the tools and infrastructure available across the network. It is a good example of how collaboration can support long term development for members.’

Alongside volume growth, Harbour has expanded its use of network technology and insight tools, including Pall-Ex’s Nexus platform and MyNexus tracking system, which provide end to end visibility across consignments.

The business has also benefited from marketing and analytics support, helping to inform customer engagement and identify growth opportunities.

These developments come amid continued industry wide pressure for greater freight visibility, real time information and improved supply chain transparency across the logistics sector.

Harbour continues to operate across the UK and Ireland offering palletised freight, Irish Sea groupage and 3PL warehousing services. The business employs 42 people and operates 18 owned vehicles, supported by more than 300 vehicles across its wider network and partners.