19.9.2024 | Haulage

Chris, congratulations on the recent opening of your nine-acre facility in Rushden. Could you tell us more about what drove this expansion and why Rushden was chosen as the location?

We’re excited about this new chapter for SEA Transport. Rushden was a strategic choice for logistics as it’s located in the UK’s Golden Triangle, providing excellent access to major ports. This location allows us to trunk containers and offer inland storage solutions efficiently. The facility provides a range of services, including empty and loaded container storage and container conversions, to meet growing customer demand.

What services will the Rushden site offer that set it apart from your existing facilities?

Rushden is designed for versatility. Along with storage and empty and loaded container storage, we also offer heavy lifting, an on-site vehicle workshop, and a 24-hour flexible operation with staffed security, allowing us to handle containers anytime, making it a comprehensive logistics hub.

How does this new facility complement your operations at Felixstowe?

Felixstowe is our core operation, especially with our 120,000 sq. ft. port-based warehouse, including a 75,000 sq. ft. bonded section for handling ETSF cargoes. Rushden provides inland storage, reducing port congestion and enhancing container movement. We offer tailored solutions with dual locations, including short-term storage, warehousing, and just-in-time deliveries. Rushden strengthens our network and improves the nationwide flow of goods.

You’ve mentioned SEA Transport’s high service standards. Please share your approach to maintaining quality, particularly with such a large operation.

Our guiding principle is to “get it right, first time, every time.” We invest heavily in our fleet, from small vans to 44-ton trucks, and our haz-certified drivers have access to all UK container terminals. We monitor every transport move to ensure high service levels and address any issues quickly to keep the supply chain moving.

How does the Rushden site integrate with your Felixstowe warehouse and ETSF capabilities?

The additional capacity helps us manage operations more efficiently. Our Felixstowe warehouse offers flexibility for de-vanning, reworking, and storage, especially in unexpected situations like overweight shipments or customs issues. The ETSF facility allows temporary storage during customs clearance, reducing delays. Across both depots, we provide seamless logistics from container handling to final delivery.

What sets SEA Transport apart from other logistics providers?

Our flexibility, experience, and infrastructure. We’ve grown year on year by focusing on customer-centric service. From e-commerce pick-and-pack to hazardous goods, we handle nearly any logistics challenge. Our ability to store, manage, and deliver goods with precision, combined with our dedicated team, offers solutions others might not.

What’s next for SEA Transport? Are any future expansions or developments on the horizon?

We’re always looking for growth opportunities, whether expanding services or entering new regions. The Rushden site is just the beginning. We’ll continue enhancing inland storage and transport while maintaining our core values of reliability and customer service. We aim to grow organically and through acquisitions across the UK, expanding our offerings and port coverage.