Guidance & Support

The UK transport and logistics industry continues to grapple with significant challenges as driver shortages strain operations nationwide. Despite efforts by the government and stakeholders to address the issue, systemic problems such as low pay, poor working conditions, and an ageing workforce persist. These issues, compounded by the aftermath of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, threaten the efficiency and profitability of fleet operations across the country.

While the term "shortage" is often debated, many industry experts argue that recruitment and retention difficulties stem from unsatisfactory conditions rather than a lack of qualified drivers. Factors such as reliance on overseas labour, delays in HGV driver testing during the pandemic, and the profession’s reputation for gruelling hours and inadequate roadside facilities have deterred new entrants. Government plans to invest £100 million in improving driver facilities, including secure parking and better amenities, are in progress but have yet to make a tangible impact.

The shortage has had widespread effects on fleet managers, with increased costs, reduced reliability, and greater pressure on existing drivers. Rising insurance premiums, exacerbated by a lack of experienced drivers, add to the burden. Businesses relying on timely logistics also face disruptions, with late deliveries leading to dissatisfied customers and long-term reputational risks.

To build resilience in the sector, collaborative efforts are essential. Improving driver welfare, adopting advanced technologies, and fostering partnerships with insurers, training providers, and local councils are crucial steps. By addressing these challenges head-on, the UK transport sector can work towards a sustainable and efficient future.

Singapore-based ST Logistics has partnered with Lenovo to introduce advanced automation technologies into its warehouses, leveraging a new warehouse execution system and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The system streamlines the flow of goods within warehouses, automatically identifying the quickest and safest routes for item transportation to enhance order fulfilment efficiency.

Lenovo’s high-performance computing solutions, including its ThinkSystem servers, underpin the AI-powered algorithms, enabling the optimisation of storage and prioritisation of items ready for immediate dispatch. This ensures faster access to high-priority goods, improving overall warehouse productivity. Lance Ong, deputy general manager for homeland security operations at ST Logistics, praised Lenovo’s role in delivering a comprehensive solution, stating: “Their support and ecosystem drove tangible outcomes, and we know we can always count on them.”

The collaboration also focuses on workforce development, equipping employees with the skills to manage and operate the automated systems. This highlights the continued importance of human expertise alongside technological advancements, ensuring seamless integration of automation within the workforce.

This initiative aligns with the Singapore Economy 2030 vision, which emphasises innovation in trade, enterprise, and manufacturing. By creating a more efficient and sustainable supply chain, the partnership aims to strengthen Singapore’s regional competitiveness. Lenovo Singapore’s general manager, Nigel Lee, described the collaboration as a transformative step towards intelligent and sustainable supply chains, reflecting the company’s commitment to driving innovation in the logistics sector.

Efforts are underway to discourage lorry and HGV drivers from using roads in Caversham and Reading as shortcuts to access the M4, amid rising concerns over road safety. Recent incidents, including lorries getting stuck under bridges and collisions with structures, have highlighted the risks posed by heavy vehicles in the area.

Calls have been made to encourage drivers coming from Oxfordshire to use alternative routes, such as the A34 leading to Junction 13 at Chieveley, instead of cutting through Reading. Notable accidents last year included lorries becoming wedged under the Caversham Road railway bridge and another colliding with a university building on Redlands Road.

Reading MP Matt Rodda raised the issue in a parliamentary debate on road safety, urging for better cooperation between Oxfordshire County Council and Reading Borough Council to address the problem. He criticised the lack of joint action, describing the current situation as “unacceptable,” and called for a preventative approach to road safety to reduce unnecessary injuries and fatalities.

Reading Borough Council is exploring measures to tackle through-traffic, including potential charges for vehicles, such as HGVs, that pass through the town without a destination there. Councillor John Ennis, responsible for climate strategy and transport, highlighted how through-traffic contributes to congestion and poor air quality, issues he said must be addressed urgently.

Marks & Spencer has announced the addition of 85 zero or low-emission vehicles to its logistics fleet as part of its Plan A commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040. This investment aligns with the retailer’s goals to transition to low-carbon logistics and adopt cleaner fuels and advanced technologies. Among the new vehicles are five fully electric HGVs that will operate between the Welham Green distribution centre and 30 stores across London and the South East, replacing equivalent diesel trucks.

The battery-electric HGVs are part of the UK Government's eFREIGHT 2030 initiative, designed to decarbonise road freight by promoting the use of zero-emission heavy goods vehicles and supporting infrastructure. As a founding member of the programme, M&S will gain valuable data on the performance of electric HGVs to guide future fleet decisions, while continuing to introduce cleaner fuels and lower-emission alternatives.

In addition to electric vehicles, M&S has introduced compressed natural gas (CNG) lorries to its Clothing & Home and Food logistics operations. This includes the UK’s first 6×2 CNG trucks and 50 4×2 CNG vehicles powered by biomethane, a renewable fuel that reduces CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to diesel engines. Once operational, these 85 vehicles will account for nearly 10% of M&S’s transport fleet.

M&S remains committed to reducing its carbon footprint through innovation and collaboration. Julian Bailey, Head of Group Transport, emphasised that adapting logistics operations is key to meeting sustainability goals while ensuring efficient delivery of products. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood praised M&S’s efforts, highlighting the government’s substantial investment in zero-emission technologies to support the transition to a greener future.

DB Schenker has unveiled remote-controlled forklifts at its contract logistics site in Kassel, Germany, marking a significant milestone in the company’s automation journey. Developed in collaboration with German start-up enabl Technologies, the forklifts are operated remotely by drivers via a cutting-edge platform, allowing for control of multiple vehicles across various locations. This innovation aims to enhance flexibility and boost operational efficiency.

As part of its broader digitalisation strategy, DB Schenker is leveraging automation to improve productivity and tackle challenges such as labour shortages and fluctuating demand. The partnership with enabl Technologies is a crucial step in modernising its logistics operations. A recently signed letter of intent between the two companies outlines plans to roll out the remote-controlled forklifts at international locations, cementing their commitment to advancing warehouse technology.

The introduction of this technology reflects DB Schenker’s dedication to staying ahead in the evolving logistics landscape. By integrating remote-controlled forklifts, the company continues to position itself as a leader in digital innovation within the sector. These forklifts eliminate the need for on-site drivers, demonstrating the effectiveness and safety of enabl’s solutions.

DB Schenker’s Vice President of Global Engineering and Innovation, Lucas Mömken, emphasised that the collaboration with enabl enhances process automation and ensures competitiveness. Enabl Technologies CEO Julian Wadephul highlighted the system’s proven reliability and its role in setting new standards for warehouse automation globally.

The UK has become the first country to enshrine a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Mandate into law, aiming for 10% of all jet fuel to be sustainable by 2030. Announced on 1st January, the mandate requires at least 2% of jet fuel for UK departures to be sustainable by 2025, with SAF derived from sources like cooking oil and household waste. The move is part of the government’s green aviation strategy to reduce emissions.

Plans include producing 1.2 million tonnes of SAF annually by 2030, enough to fuel 3,000 flights around the globe. Aviation Minister Mike Kane described the mandate as a significant step towards making aviation greener and more sustainable. He highlighted the industry’s growing popularity and its potential to create thousands of jobs within the UK’s SAF sector.

The Jet Zero Task Force, which first met in December, will guide the mandate’s implementation and explore pathways to cleaner aviation. A revenue scheme has also been introduced to attract investment in SAF plants across the UK, ensuring the industry’s growth and innovation.

Industry leaders welcomed the mandate but emphasised the need for expanded feedstock options and cost-reduction measures. Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, stressed that clear revenue mechanisms are essential to scale up SAF production while keeping costs manageable for airlines and consumers.

Fleet operators are struggling with the shift to electric vans due to high upfront costs and insufficient charging infrastructure, according to a Department for Energy Security and Net Zero report conducted by TRL. Despite policies phasing out internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030, the move to electrify commercial vans is progressing slower than expected.

The report, EV Adoption and Smart Charging for Electric Vans and Commercial Fleets, highlights operational issues. Fleet operators rely on overnight depot or home charging due to limited public infrastructure, long wait times, and inconsistent availability. Electric vans are mainly used for shorter routes, with operators cautious about range limitations, particularly for heavily loaded vehicles, as real-world performance often falls short of advertised ranges.

Smaller fleets face significant financial barriers, with the cost of installing depot chargers and upgrading power supplies proving prohibitive. Driver reluctance adds to the challenge, with concerns over range anxiety, logistical difficulties with home charging, and a lack of financial incentives slowing adoption. Inconsistent public charging further complicates mid-shift charging for many fleets.

The report calls for expanded grants for depot infrastructure upgrades, incentives for shared charging facilities, and dedicated public charge points for commercial vehicles. It also suggests providing better real-world range data, simplifying smart charging adoption, and fostering collaboration within the industry to share solutions and best practices.

Deadlines are a critical part of the logistics industry. As an agency driver, meeting these deadlines ensures smooth supply chain operations, client satisfaction, and a strong professional reputation. However, tight schedules and unexpected delays can make deadlines stressful. This guide offers practical strategies to help you handle the pressure effectively.

Why Are Deadlines Stressful in Logistics?

Tight Schedules: Deliveries often need to be made within strict timeframes, leaving little room for error.

Unforeseen Delays: Traffic, vehicle breakdowns, and border checks can disrupt even the best plans.

High Expectations: Clients rely on drivers to ensure timely deliveries, which can feel like a heavy responsibility.

Stress from deadlines can impact your driving performance, safety, and overall wellbeing, making it crucial to manage these challenges proactively.

Key Strategies for Managing Stressful Deadlines

Plan Ahead

• Review your route and schedule before starting the journey. Use GPS and traffic management tools to anticipate potential delays.
• Check weather conditions and vehicle readiness to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Communicate Effectively

• Keep your agency and client informed of your progress. If delays occur, notify them as soon as possible with an updated ETA.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if the instructions are unclear.

Break Down the Task

• Focus on completing one part of the journey at a time. Breaking the route into manageable sections can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Stay Calm Under Pressure

• Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques during breaks to stay composed.
• Remind yourself that delays happen and focus on what you can control.

Stick to Driving Regulations

• Never compromise safety to meet a deadline. Adhere to speed limits and rest break requirements to avoid accidents or penalties.

Leverage Technology

• Use route optimisation software to find the fastest, most efficient paths.
• Rely on telematics systems for real-time updates on traffic, road closures, or alternative routes.

Learn from Experience

• Reflect on past stressful journeys to identify what worked well and what could be improved.
• Use this insight to better handle similar situations in the future.

The Role of Agencies in Supporting Drivers

A supportive agency can make a big difference in managing stressful deadlines. Look for agencies, like Quicktemp, that:

• Provide clear and realistic expectations.
• Offer 24/7 support for drivers on the road.
• Regularly communicate with clients to mitigate pressure on drivers.

Benefits of Managing Deadlines Effectively

• Professional Growth: Meeting deadlines consistently enhances your reputation with clients and your agency.
• Job Security: Reliable drivers are more likely to be requested for repeat assignments.
• Work Satisfaction: Stress reduction and successful deliveries make for a more rewarding experience.
• Improved Safety: Staying calm and focused ensures safer driving for you and others on the road.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Unrealistic Deadlines

• Solution: Communicate concerns with your agency early and work together to adjust the plan.

Traffic or Delays

• Solution: Stay informed using real-time traffic apps and keep clients updated about your progress.

Pressure to Rush

• Solution: Remind yourself that safety is the priority. Let your agency handle any concerns about delays.

Personal Stress

• Solution: Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy work-life balance to reduce overall stress.

For More Information

Explore Quicktemp’s assignments for agency drivers and take advantage of their support systems to build your career in logistics. Stay organised, stay safe, and excel under pressure: https://www.quicktemp.co.uk/candidates

Disclaimer

This guide is intended for information only and is not an authoritative document. Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

Brexit has brought significant changes to the logistics and transport sectors, affecting everything from border protocols to driver requirements. As an agency driver, understanding and adapting to these changes is essential for ensuring compliance, maintaining efficiency, and thriving in the post-Brexit environment.

How Has Brexit Impacted the Driving Industry

• Border and Customs Changes
  New customs procedures for transporting goods between the UK and the EU have added complexity to cross-border logistics. Documentation such as customs declarations and health certificates is now mandatory.
• Driver Shortages
  Brexit has exacerbated the driver shortage due to changes in labour mobility, making UK-based drivers even more essential to maintaining supply chains.
• Driving Licences and Permits
  UK drivers may need additional permits, such as International Driving Permits (IDPs), to operate in certain EU countries. This depends on bilateral agreements with individual countries.
• Increased Demand for Drivers
  Brexit-related disruptions have led to an increased demand for skilled and adaptable drivers to navigate the new challenges in the logistics sector.

Key Strategies for Adapting to Brexit as an Agency Driver

Understand New Documentation Requirements

Familiarise yourself with the customs and transport documents now required for EU-bound goods, such as:

• Customs Declarations
• Goods Movement Reference (GMR)
• Export Health Certificates (if transporting animal or plant products)
• Ensure you know where and how to access the above documents when working with clients.

Stay Updated on Industry Changes

Keep informed about post-Brexit regulations through government websites, industry news, and updates from your agency.

Attend any Brexit-related training or workshops offered by your agency or clients.

Prepare for Border Delays

Factor in potential delays at ports due to customs checks. Be patient and plan rest breaks accordingly to comply with driving hours regulations.

Use digital tools like traffic management apps to avoid congested routes near borders.

Ensure You Have the Right Licences and Permits

If driving in the EU, check whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Ensure your Driver CPC qualifications are up to date and recognised in any country you’ll be driving in.

Be Flexible and Adaptable

Brexit has created a more dynamic and uncertain logistics landscape. Clients may require flexibility with schedules, routes, and cargo types.

Show a willingness to learn and adapt to new systems, such as electronic customs platforms.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Increased Complexity of Jobs

• Solution: Stay informed about new procedures and seek clarification from your agency or clients when needed.

Uncertainty at Borders

• Solution: Plan for delays and maintain open communication with the client to manage expectations.

New Skills and Requirements

• Solution: Take advantage of agency-provided training or seek additional qualifications to stay competitive.

For More Information

Explore Quicktemp’s latest driving assignments to gain hands-on experience in the post-Brexit logistics sector. Stay informed, stay adaptable, and secure your future as an agency driver: https://www.quicktemp.co.uk/candidates

Disclaimer

This guide is intended for information only and is not an authoritative document. Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

As an agency driver in the logistics sector, you represent not only yourself but also the agency that employs you. Building strong relationships with an agency's clients is essential for ensuring ongoing opportunities, professional growth, and a positive reputation. This guide outlines how to maintain and manage these relationships effectively.

Why Are Client Relationships Important for Agency Drivers

Agency drivers often work with a variety of clients, from small businesses to large logistics companies. Strong relationships can lead to:

• Consistent Work Opportunities: Clients are more likely to request drivers they trust and have positive experiences with.
• Positive Reputation: Your performance reflects on both you and the agency, which can open doors for further opportunities.
• Professional Growth: Clients may provide feedback that helps you improve and excel in your role.

Key Strategies for Managing Relationships as an Agency Driver

• Professional Communication - Be courteous and professional in all interactions, whether in person, via phone, or through email and confirm assignment details (delivery locations, schedules, specific requirements) to avoid misunderstandings.

• Punctuality and Reliability - Arrive on time for all assignments, showing that you value the client’s time and communicate immediately with both the agency and client if delays or issues arise.

• Understand Client Expectations - Familiarise yourself with the client’s specific processes, preferences, and expectations and pay attention during briefings and ask questions if anything is unclear.

• Be Flexible and Adaptable - As an agency driver, you may encounter a range of work environments and demands and flexibility demonstrates your willingness to meet client needs and adapt to changes.

• Represent the Agency Well - Your behaviour reflects on your agency. Maintain a professional appearance, follow safety protocols, and adhere to company policies and treat every assignment as an opportunity to showcase your skills and work ethic.

• Seek Feedback and Act on It - Ask clients for feedback on your performance to identify areas for improvement and use constructive feedback to refine your skills and demonstrate a commitment to excellence.

• Maintain a Positive Attitude - Stay calm and professional, even in challenging situations. A positive attitude can leave a lasting impression on clients.

Benefits of Managing Relationships Well

• Repeat Assignments: Clients are more likely to request drivers who meet or exceed expectations.
• Stronger Agency Reputation: Your professionalism enhances the agency's standing with its clients.
• Career Development: Positive client relationships can lead to longer-term contracts, recommendations, or career advancements.
• Workplace Satisfaction: Building rapport with clients makes for a more enjoyable and rewarding working experience.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Last-Minute Changes - Be adaptable and maintain open communication with the agency and clients.
• Unfamiliar Work Environments - Arrive prepared and ask questions to quickly understand procedures and expectations.
• Difficult Clients or Situations - Stay professional, focus on resolving the issue, and seek support from the agency if necessary.

For More Information

Explore opportunities through Quicktemp to gain valuable assignments and experience in the logistics sector. Strengthen your skills as an agency driver and build lasting relationships with clients: https://www.quicktemp.co.uk/candidates

Disclaimer

This guide is intended for information only and is not an authoritative document. Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.