When goods are imported by sea freight, the next step of the journey is often delivery to inland storage depots and distribution facilities, for unloading, sorting, storing, picking, packing and eventual delivery. However, many businesses are now adopting port-centric logistics services, where each stage is done on-site at the port of arrival.
Port-centric logistics uses on-port facilities across the UK to handle all elements of inbound and outbound processes. Ranging from storage to distribution of goods and even full-scale manufacturing and production centres. With the country in the grip of a pandemic along with unprecedented change due to the Brexit agreement, a port-centric approach has gained prevalence over the last 18 months. Now more than ever, businesses need a supply chain that is resilient, flexible and cost-effective and avoids delays due to congestion.
Whether processing, product finishing or simple storage solutions, a port can fulfil a wide range of logistics activities. The proximity to the market or next stage of processing limits the risk of disruption from congestion, maximizing your responsiveness to market demands. Using ports close to the origin or destination of the cargo delivers significant benefits. Not only does it mean fewer road or rail miles are consumed on the land-leg of the journey, but it also removes carbon from the supply chain.
The Port of Liverpool (PoL) has adopted a Port Centric approach to the supply chain, offering a range of benefits to clients and consumers. The PoL is home to an integrated rail terminal, connecting Liverpool’s deep-water facility directly to the rest of the country. This provides vital flexibility for import and export supply chains whilst limiting costs, crowding, and carbon emissions. By adopting a port-centric approach to logistics planning, companies can situate their businesses close to the heart of the UK, with access to the leading exports and import centres.