On 15 August, the RHA (Road Haulage Association) in the UK met with representatives of FPUA (Felixstowe Port Users’ Association), BIFA (British International freight Association) and representatives from the Port of Felixstowe to discuss the introduction of the Port of Felixstowe’s new Container Booking System (CBS).

Haulage companies had expressed concerns regarding the operational challenges they've faced when delivering and picking up goods from the port since the introduction of the trial period for the new booking system. They also said there’s been a lack of clarity from the port about the new changes, with some operators feeling they’re going to pay a price for circumstances beyond their control such as congestion and delays.  If current plans for the new system proceed unchanged, there could be considerable additional costs for many hauliers.

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, commented: “Our members and our industry contribute billions to the UK economy each year and we play a critical role locally and nationally in creating jobs and keeping the supply-chain moving.  The Port of Felixstowe is also critical to the economy. We therefore want to collaborate with the port and with others across our sector to make things work and keep things running smoothly.”

“We welcome the fact that there’s now a commitment to review the system and we’ll continue to engage with the port on behalf of our members and the industry. We urge the port to ensure that all feedback and learnings during the trial period will be considered before the system is fully rolled-out.”

Photo:  Felixstowe port.