Overview

A leading supermarket chain required a reliable warehousing and distribution partner to efficiently handle imported goods arriving from Scandinavia. The project involved receiving high volumes of containers at the primary Port of Immingham and backup containers from Port of Teesport, unloading and storing stock, and ensuring timely distribution to multiple UK distribution centres. With a proven track record in logistics and warehousing, GWS was chosen for its expertise, efficiency, and strategic central UK port location.

The Challenge

The client needed a storage and distribution solution that could:

  • Receive and unload containers efficiently, with goods arriving from Scandinavia.
  • Maintain accurate daily stock control.
  • Ensure zero damage to products or loss during handling.
  • Distribute goods promptly to multiple UK distribution centres.
  • Handle high daily volumes, including inbound containers and outbound load collections.

Previous experiences with other providers had resulted in stock losses, damage, and being unable to meet demand. The client sought a warehousing partner that could truly deliver on its promises.

A forklift truck is carrying pallets of wood through a warehouse

Our Solution

GWS provided a comprehensive warehousing and distribution solution, making the most of our experience and strategic location near the Port of Immingham. Being situated just one mile from the port enabled us to efficiently receive shipments from Scandinavia and streamline the distribution process. Our approach included:

  • Expert Handling: Our skilled forklift operators, with over 40 years of experience, ensured safe unloading and storage of over 50,000 pallets across a 7 month period.
  • Efficiency in Action: We achieved an average unloading time of 38 minutes per container, well within the required 2 hour industry requirements.
  • Optimised Logistics: By utilising our North East Lincolnshire site, we reduced delivery distances and costs, improving overall supply chain efficiency.
  • Flexible & Responsive Service: We adapted quickly to last-minute schedule changes and demand fluctuations, maintaining seamless operations.

Overcoming Challenges

The project presented challenges, particularly with pallets settling inside containers, making them difficult to unload. However, our experienced team tackled this efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption. Additionally, our commitment to flexibility meant we provided additional labour and overtime when required to keep the project running smoothly.

A fork lift truck driver stacks pallets of wood in a warehouse

The Results

GWS delivered a highly successful project, exceeding expectations across all areas:

  • 50,300 pallets handled with a 0% damage rate (practically unheard of!).
  • 300 containers unloaded with no delays or rejections.
  • 600 outbound loads delivered on time to UK distribution centres.
  • On our busiest day, we tipped 11 containers and loaded 29 trailers.
  • Our average loading-out time was 58 minutes, from security checks at the gatehouse, through to curtains opened, loading and the driver securing the load and leaving the site.
  • The ultimate success: being asked to handle the project again next year.

Top Class Service from the A-Team.

This project demonstrated our ability to handle large-scale warehousing and distribution projects with efficiency, flexibility and care. By consistently exceeding expectations, we have strengthened our reputation as a trusted logistics partner in the retail sector.

If your business requires a warehousing and distribution solution that delivers on promises, contact GWS today to discuss how we can support your supply chain needs.