JJX Logistics

A Comprehensive Guide to Cold Chain Logistics

Roman Hadley — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:29:53 +0000

Expert Guides

A Comprehensive Guide to Cold Chain Logistics

What is Cold-Chain Logistics?

Cold-chain or temperature-controlled logistics is a supply chain process that guarantees the safe and efficient transportation of perishable items, such as food and pharmaceuticals, by maintaining them at a specific temperature range throughout their journey. It's not just about keeping goods cool, but making certain they're at the right temperature from pickup to delivery.

In practice, it involves a series of refrigerated storage and distribution activities. These can include everything from refrigerated warehouses and distribution centres to refrigerated trucks and shipping containers. The aim is to sustain a constant temperature to avoid product degradation, spoilage or potential health risks.

Modern cold-chain logistics often makes use of sophisticated real-time monitoring and traceability. With this technology, it's possible to track the temperature of goods at any given moment and ensure they're within the acceptable range. This transparency not only increases confidence in the product's safety and quality, but also helps to identify and resolve potential issues quickly.

Why Temperature Control is Critical for Perishable Goods

Maintaining the right temperature is absolutely vital for perishable goods, as it directly influences their quality, safety and shelf-life. Perishable goods, like food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, horticulture and cosmetics, are sensitive to environmental conditions and could degrade rapidly if not transported properly.

Food & Drink: Temperature control is critical because it prevents the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
Pharmaceuticals & Vaccines: If the temperature deviates from the recommended range, the potency and effectiveness of the drugs can be compromised.
Horticultural: Products like flowers and plants, require specific temperature ranges to stay fresh and maintain their aesthetic appeal.
Cosmetics: Improper temperature can negatively impact their texture, scent, and overall functionality.

Moreover, the shelf-life of these goods is also directly related to the temperature. A colder temperature slows down the rate of spoilage in many products, thereby extending their shelf life. However, it's not just about keeping the goods cold; it's about maintaining a consistent temperature. For example, temperature fluctuations can cause condensation in some cases, which leads to premature spoilage.

Key Components of Temperature-Controlled Logistics

Each stage of a cold supply chain plays an indispensable role in ensuring that goods are transported in ideal conditions.

Temperature Controlled Vehicles

Temperature-controlled vehicles such as vans, box vans and even fully articulated trucks play a vital role in cold-chain logistics. These vehicles, equipped with specialised refrigeration systems, maintain a constant temperature, regardless of outside conditions.

Many vehicles' feature technology that allows for real-time monitoring and control of the internal environment. Additionally, these vehicles are designed to meet strict regulatory compliance, ensuring safety standards are met. Without temperature-controlled vehicles, maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive products during transportation would be nearly impossible.

Temperature Controlled Packaging

While temperature-regulated vehicles guarantee safe transit, it's temperature-regulated packaging that can protect products against varying environmental conditions. This packaging is critical in maintaining product integrity, especially for temperature-sensitive goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and certain cosmetics.

The choice of packaging often depends on the product's specific requirements and the duration of transit. Examples of packaging used in cold-chain logistics include insulated shippers and containers, gel packs, phase change materials and dry ice. Many types of packaging are designed to absorb heat or release it as needed, helping to maintain the temperature within the specified range.

Cold-Chain Storage Facilities

Cold-chain storage facilities play a pivotal role in maintaining the temperature of a shipment when it is not being transported. These facilities, equipped with advanced temperature monitoring and control systems, guarantee that goods maintain the required temperature range when stored, either awaiting further transport or at the final destination.

Storage facilities may include refrigerated warehouses, cold rooms or refrigerated containers, each designed to cater to specific cold-chain requirements. To enhance efficiency, these facilities often employ automated systems for inventory management and tracking.

Temperature Monitoring and Tracking

Monitoring and tracking temperatures is a vital aspect of cold-chain logistics, guaranteeing products such as food, pharmaceuticals, horticulture, and cosmetics maintain their necessary conditions during transportation. This process involves the use of advanced technology and equipment to accurately measure the temperature inside transportation units.

Software like Samsara’s fleet management system allows hauliers and consignors to monitor the location and temperature of their shipment in real time, relaying critical information on the supply chain.

Technologies like this can also produce detailed reports of temperature conditions along the journey, allowing those who receive the goods to precisely review their shipment. This plays an important role in regulatory compliance, allowing companies to prove that their products have been stored and transported within the required temperature range.

Cold-Chain Logistics Industry Use Cases

Cold-Chain for Food and Drinks

When it comes to the food and beverage industry, there's an important role played by cold-chain logistics in guaranteeing freshness and safety. This logistical system works by maintaining a constant, cool temperature from production to consumption. It's vital for perishable products such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat and seafood.

Even beverages, particularly craft beers, rely on cold-chain logistics. Temperature fluctuations can affect their taste and shelf-life. Companies in the food and beverage sector invest heavily in cold-chain logistics because it's not just about maintaining quality; it's also about consumer safety. A reliable cold-chain ensures that products are safe to consume, maintaining public health while preserving the brand's reputation.

Cold-Chain Logistics for Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals' reliance on cold-chain logistics is crucial, as these life-saving products often need to be kept at precise temperatures to maintain their efficacy. This industry uses specialised packaging and refrigerated transportation to guarantee that temperature-sensitive medications, such as vaccines and biologics, are kept within a specific range.

With the global pharmaceutical market growing, the demand for reliable cold-chain logistics has surged. This necessitates constant monitoring, efficient transportation, and meticulous handling. Failure to do so can lead to product degradation, rendering them ineffective or even harmful.

Cold-Chain Logistics Regulations and Compliance

Strict regulations and compliance measures govern cold-chain logistics, given the vital nature of the products they handle, like food, pharmaceutical goods, cosmetics, and horticulture items. These regulations guarantee the quality and safety of goods as they move from producer to consumer.

Various international bodies establish these rules; the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) serves as a prime example. It publishes standards, training, shares incident intelligence and provides route planning, and equips members with networking tools. Each of these elements is designed to lessen risk and prevent loss. Specific to the pharmaceutical industry, the World Health Organization (WHO) issues guidelines for the transport and storage of drugs and vaccines.

Compliance with these regulations is essential. Failure can result in fines, damage to a company's reputation or harm consumer health. Hence, companies often use technology like temperature monitoring devices and digital logs to stay compliant. Innovation in the industry is making compliance easier and more efficient, streamlining the cold-chain logistics process.

The Global Importance of Cold-Chain Logistics

Cold chain logistics play an essential role in today's global economy, ensuring the freshness and safety of various goods. Its significance spans across industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, horticulture, and cosmetics. The technology, regulations, and challenges involved in maintaining these temperature-controlled supply chains are complex. Yet, they're indispensable for product integrity and consumer health. Understanding cold-chain logistics is key for businesses wanting to effectively navigate this intricate, yet indispensable sector.

We're ready when you need us

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Team to Complete Charity LLHM Run

Edward Martin — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 11:56:28 +0000

The Blog

Team to Complete Charity LLHM Run

28 March 2024 by Edward Martin

Four of the JJX team including our founder and managing director John Joseph Donovan will be among the 18,000 participants in this year's London Landmark Half Marathon on Sunday 7th April and are running to raise funds for a charity very close to us in the Black Country Mental Health.

In the 2023 edition edition of the LLHM, our runners Ben and Ed managed to raise £1,260 for the charity but this time we want to go one step further and hit £5,000 to represent the 5,000+ plus people that the volunteers at BCMH support all year round in the Black Country region.

Every penny makes all the difference to the services the charity are able to offer so please help us in any way you can using the link to our JustGiving page here... https://www.justgiving.com/page/jjx-half-marathon-for-bcmh

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Triumph at 2024 Fleet News Awards

Edward Martin — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:18:43 +0000

The Blog

JJX Triumph at 2024 Fleet News Awards

14 March 2024 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics won the Excellence in Fleet Safety & Compliance award at the 2024 Fleet News Awards, recognising their unwavering commitment to the safety, regulatory compliance and the security of their supply chain solutions. Over 1,300 logistics and fleet professionals attended the evening held at the stunning Grosvenor House Hotel which featured host comedian Rob Beckett, live music and a plethora of award categories celebrating all of the great achievements over the last 12 months.

Specialising in the handling and transport of all nine classes of UN-regulated dangerous goods, safety and compliance have always been at the forefront of Kingswinford-based JJX’s operations and continues to be a main focus of improvement for the company, something that particularly resonated with the judges.

“JJX has an excellent tailored approach to its training which includes coaching its drivers to success. Despite being a small fleet, it has a complex mix of vans and trucks and displays excellent use of data and reporting to ensure compliance and continual improvement. In a modern world where wellbeing is key, JJX is putting the driver at the heart of everything it does. It is setting the safety benchmark.” - Mark Cartwright, Head of Commercial Vehicle Incident Prevention at the National Highways.

It turned out to be a very fruitful evening for JJX who was were given the Highly Commended plaque by the judges for Fleet of the Year (Up to 250 vehicles).

We're ready when you need us

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Training to be a HGV Driver

Roman Hadley — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:23:45 +0000

Expert Guides

Training to be a HGV Driver

If you’re interested in pursuing Heavy Goods Vehicle driving, JJX Logistics can provides an in-depth look at training for the role.

As a haulage partner across Europe and the UK, we’re able to provide a comprehensive overview of the path to becoming a qualified HGV driver in the UK and the responsibilities of the job.

Whether you're just starting out and need to apply for a provisional licence or you're preparing for the HGV driving test, we've got you covered.

Understanding the HGV Driver Role

Being a HGV driver means you'll be spending a lot of time on the road, driving vehicles that weigh over 3,500 kg. Driving responsibilities include long and short distances – whether in local, national or international areas, as well as unloading and offloading goods, and communicating with dispatchers for travel updates.

Additional responsibilities include inspecting and maintaining heavy vehicles, ADR transport, taking payments for deliveries and completing necessary paperwork. Your role may also involve writing progress reports.

Requirements for Becoming a HGV Driver

To become a HGV driver, you must meet certain requirements, as outlined by government and industry legislation.

Firstly, you need to have a full car licence and be over 18 years old – although, in some circumstances, the minimum age may be 21 years.

You must also pass medical fitness and eyesight requirements to ensure you're fit to drive safely.

Additionally, having no previous disqualifications or driving offences is crucial to becoming a HGV driver.

These requirements are in place to ensure that you're capable of handling the responsibilities that come with operating a heavy goods vehicle.

Overview of Different HGV Licence Categories

When obtaining your HGV licence, you must also choose the licence category. This will affect the responsibilities of the job, as well as your future job opportunities.

Depending on the vehicle you intend to drive, you can choose from different categories such as C, C1, C1+E, and C+E.

The C category allows you to operate vehicles weighing over 3,500 kg with a trailer weight of up to 750 kg.
If you opt for the C1 category, you can drive vehicles weighing between 3,500 and 7,500 kg with or without a trailer weighing up to 750 kg.
The C1+E category permits you to drive vehicles weighing between 3,550 and 7,500 kg with a trailer weight above 750 kg.
The C+E category is the largest and allows you to drive a vehicle weighing over 3,500 kg with a trailer weight above 750 kg.

Applying for a Provisional HGV Licence

Applying for a provisional HGV licence is the first step towards becoming a qualified HGV driver.

You will need to order D2 and D4 forms from the DVLA to apply for your provisional HGV licence, choosing the right category based on the vehicle you want to drive and the trailer weight you can tow.

While the D2 form can be completed independently, your D4 must be completed by a doctor, who will verify that you are fit to drive a heavy goods vehicle.

Once the forms have been completed and sent off to the DVLA, you should receive your driving licence within 3 weeks of the DVLA receiving and passing your application, although it may take longer if additional checks are required.

The HGV Driving Test

You must pass your HGV driving test if you are to become a qualified HGV driver.

The test is made up of two parts – a theory examination and a practical examination.

The theory test is taken first and is a written exam; it typically covers topics such as road signs, rules of the road, and safe driving practices.

The practical part of the test will require you to handle a large vehicle on the road safely in order to demonstrate your capabilities to the examiner.

Obtaining a Driver CPC

As a part of your qualification, you must also obtain your full Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This is essential for HGV drivers where driving vehicles over 3,500 kg is the main part of their job.

In order to achieve this, you must complete a series of tests that demonstrate your knowledge and skills as a HGV driver. If you have already obtained the Driver CPC, or have acquired rights, you still need to complete periodic training to maintain the certification.

Finding HGV Driver Training Institutes

A comprehensive training course is essential to gain the experience required to successfully take your theory and practical driving test, as well as your Driver CPC.

In order to find an appropriate HGV driver training institute, it is important to connect with institutes that are accredited and recognised in the industry to ensure you receive quality training.

Consider factors such as cost, duration, and location of the training facility to make an informed decision.

By researching and comparing different training centres, you can find the one that best fits your needs and sets you up for success as a professional HGV driver.

A qualified HGV Driver is a reputable and sought out skill set within the UK and Europe.

If you meet the requirements for the role, it is a straightforward process to develop your current skills so that you’re able to drive heavy goods vehicles.

Finding the right training institute to help you with your HGV driver training is an essential first step towards entering the transportation industry.

We're ready when you need us

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Annual Charity Easter Egg Collection 2024

Edward Martin — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:48:03 +0000

The Blog

Annual Charity Easter Egg Collection 2024

04 March 2024 by Edward Martin

It’s fast ‘appoaching’ that ‘eggcellent’ time of the year again as we ‘shellebrate’ Easter and indulge in plenty of chocolate.

We need your help though as we run our annual Easter Egg Collection before delivering them out to the Black Country Food Bank and Black Country Mental Health.

We are accepting donations at our offices in Kingswinford or if you need to arrange a collection you can contact us on 01384 221642 or email info@jjxlogistics.co.uk.

We will be dropping them to the chosen charities later this month.

Let’s spread the happiness this Easter.

We're ready when you need us

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Transporting Electric Car Batteries

Roman Hadley — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 10:56:48 +0000

Expert Guides

Transporting Electric Car Batteries

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, transporting electric car batteries is becoming a crucial consideration for businesses. The logistics of safely and efficiently transporting new, used, end-of-life and even damaged EV batteries through the supply chain can be a complex and tightly regulated process.

Mishandling these high-voltage, energy-dense power sources during transportation poses significant risks. To ensure the safety of EV battery transportation, it's crucial to understand the complexities of this process.

Understanding Electric Car and Lithium-Ion Batteries

The global surge in demand for electric vehicles, portable electronics and renewable energy storage solutions has led to significant growth in the lithium-ion battery industry. This growth is driven by the increasing need for efficient and long-lasting energy storage solutions. Lithium-ion batteries have become the preferred choice for these applications due to their high energy density, long cycle life and relatively light weight. As a result, the industry has experienced a substantial increase in manufacturing activities, with the UK alone generating £245 million in annual market revenue.

Lithium-ion based EV batteries are pivotal components in the transition towards sustainable transportation. These batteries offer the high energy density required for electric vehicles to achieve adequate driving range while producing no tail-pipe emissions in the final vehicle. Moreover, the decreasing cost of electric-vehicle lithium-ion battery packs has made electric vehicles more affordable, further propelling the demand for these batteries.

Why are EV Batteries Challenging to Transport?

EV battery transportation presents significant logistical and safety challenges due to their size, weight and potential hazards, necessitating specialised handling and adherence to strict regulations.

EV batteries are big, heavy and difficult to handle and ship, often requiring special training and equipment. Moreover, they pose a significant fire risk, leading to their classification as hazardous materials. As such, shipments must comply with hazmat regulations for packaging, labelling, documentation, training and specified shipping methods.

It is important to note that shipping rules and requirements vary by country and transportation mode, adding complexity to the process. Additionally, battery transportation often involves multiple supply chain partners who must be aligned on the processes, equipment and transport instructions.

These factors contribute to the challenges associated with the transportation of EV batteries, underscoring the need for meticulous planning, stringent safety measures and clear communication among all involved parties.

Regulations and Classifications that Apply to EV Battery Transportation

When it comes to transporting electric car batteries, safety considerations are paramount. The regulation and classification of lithium-ion batteries as Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods by the United Nations underscore the inherent risks involved. These risks include thermal runaway and potential fires/explosions triggered by overheating, puncturing or electrical faults.

The transport of class 9 hazards is subject to international and national regulations such as the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, which provides specific requirements for the packaging, labelling and transport of lithium-ion batteries.

Below are the applicable UN Classification Categories for different articles comprising lithium ion batteries:

UN 3090: lithium metal batteries, including lithium alloy batteries.
UN 3091: lithium metal batteries contained in equipment or lithium metal batteries packed with equipment, including lithium alloy batteries.
UN 3480: lithium ion batteries, including lithium ion polymer batteries.
UN 3481: lithium ion batteries contained in equipment, or lithium ion batteries packed with equipment, including lithium ion polymer batteries.
UN 3536: lithium batteries installed in cargo transport units, lithium ion batteries or lithium metal batteries.

Packaging and Handling Electric Car Batteries

To ensure the safe and compliant transportation of electric car batteries, specialised and custom packaging that can handle their size and weight and comply with various testing standards, is essential.

Electric car batteries are not only heavy and large but also pose unique safety challenges due to their chemical composition. Therefore, workers need ADR training and special equipment just to handle them.

In addition to the size and weight, shipments of electric car batteries must comply with all hazmat regulations for packaging, labelling, documentation, training and specified shipping methods. This includes stringent adherence to regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods.

Packaging for electric car batteries must be designed to prevent damage during transportation and to mitigate potential hazards such as fire, short-circuiting or leakage of hazardous materials. Furthermore, the packaging should facilitate easy and safe handling during loading and unloading processes.

Given the potential risks associated with electric car batteries, ensuring that the packaging and handling procedures are compliant with all relevant standards is crucial for the safety of workers, the public and the environment.

Environmental Risks

The safe handling and transportation of electric car batteries are critical not only for worker and public safety but also to mitigate potential environmental risks associated with their chemical composition and potential hazards.

Electric car batteries often contain hazardous materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel, which can pose environmental risks if not handled properly. In the event of a transportation accident or mishandling, these chemicals can leak and contaminate soil and water sources, leading to long-term environmental damage.

The risks are further compounded by the potential for thermal runaway, a chain reaction of battery cell failures that can result in fire and the release of toxic fumes.

Therefore, it is imperative for transportation and logistics professionals to strictly adhere to regulations and best practices for the safe handling and transportation of electric car batteries. Additionally, robust contingency plans and emergency response protocols should be in place to promptly address any incidents and minimise the environmental impact.

Transporting Electric Car Batteries: Choosing the Right Logistics Partner

The transportation of electric car batteries presents unique challenges due to their high energy density and potential environmental risks. Careful consideration and adherence to safety protocols are essential to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of electric car batteries.

At JJX, we take pride in leading the transportation of all nine classes of ADR dangerous goods by road, including the transport of EV batteries.

Our commitment to safety, qualified drivers, temperature-controlled capabilities, compliance with regulations and top-tier supply chain security make us the preferred choice for handling hazardous materials.

We're ready when you need us

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National Apprenticeship Week 2024

Edward Martin — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:42:12 +0000

The Blog

National Apprenticeship Week

08 February 2024 by Edward Martin

In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, we had a quick fire five with two of our team who are both products of the apprenticeship model. With strong links to both Wolverhampton City College and Dudley College who are right on our doorstep, the apprenticeship scheme has always proved a valuable asset to JJX Logistics with many of our current employees joining the industry via it.

First up we have Sam who has just joined JJX Logistics and is at the very start of her professional career. She is enrolled on an apprenticeship in Customer Services...

What initially attracted you to pursue an apprenticeship?
I was keen to start my working career and have always preferred learning things first hand rather than looking at more theoretical scenarios . I found classroom learning just wasn't the best fit for me and with an apprenticeship I can see the practical application and results of what I learn which is a great visual aid.
What aspects of the industry are you most eager to learn about?
I'm just looking forward to learning about the whole industry in general. Logistics is a lot bigger, more complex and a bigger part of our day to day lives than many people understand and I'm starting to find this out and see it in action every day.
What do you hope to gain from this apprenticeship in terms of professional development?
An apprenticeship seems the perfect solution for learning best practice from an established training course while also putting in into practice and getting a real feel for the world of work. With the apprenticeship I think I can get some real valuable experience that I can take with me in my career but while still having an important qualification to back me up and demonstrate my capability.
How do you hope the apprenticeship will help you personal development?
I am already learning to deal with responsibility and pressure in a work environment. Having a team around you and a be a part of a whole process where your job is very important to it and feel a sense of personal accomplishment when things go well. Also gaining more comfort in speaking to stranger and be confident in my own abilities.
What challenges and opportunities do you anticipate encountering and how do you plan to approach them?
The thought of having to transition from being in school to being in a full time job is obviously a big scary one but one thing that really sparked my interest with the apprenticeship was that I could slowly gain an understanding of a lot of things at a slower, more manageable pace. Everything such as punctuality, the importance of clear communication, working as a team and being reliable etc.

Next up we have Matt, a former apprentice with JJX Logistics from a few years ago and is now enrolled on the Management Development Programme through the Black Country Chamber as we takes his first steps into management as one of our most talented transport planners...

How did your perception of working in the industry differ after you had started your apprenticeship?
I started out working in the warehouse office and found it to be a lot more complex than I realised it would be. Also, the apprenticeship was a lot more hands on than I thought it was going to be. I imagined I would be in college all the time being taught stuff but I was with the company every day and was able to be a lot more involved in the business and operational side of things which I loved.
What changes have you noticed with the way you work between when you were an apprentice and now?
The big thing I have noticed is the level of responsibility I am given. It does come with added pressure but I feel I am really trusted and valued to do my job and do it well. I have proven my capability while an apprentice and now can start to look at the bigger picture with certain operations as I have a better understanding of them.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about apprenticeships?
Simple... that apprenticeships are only for people who don't do well academically.
Do you think taking an apprenticeship has helped your career?
Definitely, if I hadn't started the apprenticeship then I know I wouldn't be where I am in my career now. In just a few years I have gone from my first ever taste of a working environment to now being a transport planning manager as well as studying higher level industry specific courses to help me further develop my career.
What advice would you give to someone considering embarking on an apprenticeship journey?
The sooner you start the better. I think there is no better way for transitioning into a working environment which will feel alien and not feel like you've been thrown in to things at the deep end.

Have you got what it takes to build a career in the logistics industry?

We are currently looking to recruit apprentices and if you are interested in applying, please contact our team at info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Common Strategies and Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

Roman Hadley — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:49:08 +0000

Expert Guides

Common Strategies and Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

With HGVs making up nearly 20% of UK road emissions, sustainable logistics practices are crucial to advancing eco-friendly practices and modern supply chain management. By integrating sustainable strategies, organisations can minimise waste and enhance operational efficiency.

This approach involves efficient packaging, optimised transportation, the use of eco-friendly vehicles and more to achieve cost savings while simultaneously improving their reputation and brand image.

Ultimately, the adoption of sustainable logistics not only contributes to environmental preservation but also yields tangible business advantages, making it a serious consideration for modern logistics companies.

Common Practices of Sustainable Logistics

Sustainable logistics involves several common practices aimed at reducing environmental impact and increasing efficiency. Below are some of the main methods employed across the logistics sector.

Optimised Route Planning

Logistics companies can employ efficient route planning to minimise fuel consumption and emissions while maximising delivery efficiency.

By utilising sophisticated software and analytical tools, companies can identify the most efficient routes, considering factors such as traffic patterns, delivery schedules and vehicle capacities. This allows for the consolidation of shipments and the reduction of empty miles travelled, ultimately leading to significant fuel savings and lower emissions.

Consolidation of Shipments to Reduce Emissions

The consolidation of shipments is a critical strategy within sustainable logistics practices. By combining multiple smaller shipments into a single, larger shipment, companies can significantly decrease the number of vehicles on the road. Reducing the overall energy consumption per unit of freight not only decreases any environmental impact but also results in cost savings for businesses through more efficient transportation.

Use of Electric, Hybrid or Fuel Efficient Vehicles

Adopting electric, hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicles is a common practice in sustainable logistics for reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental responsibility. Electric vehicles (EVs) produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to improved air quality and reduced emissions. Similarly, hybrid vehicles combine a traditional combustion engine with an electric motor, offering increased fuel efficiency and decreased reliance on fossil fuels.

Internal combustion engines (ICE) are still viable for sustainable logistics and do not require investment in additional infrastructure. Fuel-efficient ICE vehicles, including those powered by cleaner diesel or advanced gasoline engines, minimise the environmental impact of transportation activities without the need for charging.

Efficient Packaging and Materials

Efficient packaging and recyclable materials play a crucial role in promoting environmentally responsible and cost-effective practices within logistics operations. By using packaging that is appropriately sized, lightweight and made from sustainable materials, companies can significantly reduce waste.

Additionally, optimising packaging design can lead to more efficient use of transportation space, reducing the number of shipments required and thereby lowering total fuel consumption.

Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

The benefits of sustainable logistics not only contribute to environmental preservation but also help position companies as responsible and forward-thinking entities in the marketplace. Below are some of the main benefits for investing in more sustainable logistics.

Decreased Pollution and Emissions

A significant benefit of sustainable logistics is the decrease in pollution and emissions. By using optimising transportation routes and investing in fuel-efficient vehicles, logistics companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

This not only helps to mitigate the negative impact of transportation on the environment but also contributes to cleaner air and improved public health. Additionally, the growing demands of sustainable logistics can lead to the development and implementation of eco-friendly technologies and practices, further promoting a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.

Conservation of Natural Resources

By implementing sustainable practices such as reducing packaging, optimising transportation routes and utilising renewable energy sources, businesses can minimise their impact on the environment and conserve natural resources.

Embracing sustainable packaging and materials, as well as promoting recycling and reuse, further contributes to the conservation of natural resources such as wood. Ultimately, these initiatives not only benefit the environment but also lead to cost savings and long-term resilience for businesses operating within the logistics industry.

Cost savings & Increased Efficiency

When it comes to sustainable logistics, cost savings and increased efficiency are key benefits to businesses:

Lower Fuel Consumption

With diesel costs taking up around 30% of total costs to operate a vehicle, lower fuel consumption is a key driver for achieving cost savings and increased efficiency in logistics operations.

By optimising routes and investing in fuel-efficient technologies, companies can significantly reduce their overall fuel consumption. This not only lowers operational costs and allows for more competitive pricing, but also minimises environmental impact associated with burning fuel.

Reduce Waste & Packaging Costs

A significant aspect of achieving cost savings and increased efficiency in sustainable logistics is the reduction of waste and packaging costs.

By implementing sustainable practices such as reducing over-packaging where possible and improving waste management processes, companies can minimise unnecessary expenses associated with excessive packaging and disposal.

This not only leads to direct cost savings but also contributes to environmental conservation and enhances the overall efficiency of the logistics operations.

Energy
Saving

Warehouses, on average, take up to 6.2 kilowatt-hours of energy to power each year. With rising energy prices seen across the globe, this can have serious impacts on a logistics company’s bottom line. By implementing energy-saving measures such as using energy-efficient electronics and using renewable energy sources where possible, logistics companies can significantly reduce operational costs.

Improved Reputation and Brand Image

An enhanced reputation and brand image are two key benefits derived from investing in sustainable logistics. By prioritising these initiatives, companies can showcase their commitment to environmental and social responsibility which often resonates positively with consumers and stakeholders. This can lead to increased trust and loyalty from customers, as well as a competitive edge in the market.

A strong reputation for sustainability can also attract top talent, a recent survey indicating that around 67% of employees would prefer to work for an eco-conscious company. The logistics sector currently suffers from one of the highest employee turnover rates in the UK, so the potential for employee retention is of particular importance.

JJX Logistics’ Commitment to Sustainability

At JJX Logistics, corporate sustainability is a top priority. We believe in meeting the needs of our customers and employees without harming the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

We are fully committed to the European Commission's ambitious CO2 emission targets for HGVs. We firmly believe that these targets will help move the road transport sector towards zero-emissions and help lower demand for fossil fuels.

To use energy from renewable sources for our premises and to exponentially invest in electric vehicles on target to meet the European Green Deal. We will also play our part in educating and advancing the future of our industry supporting CILT’s Generation Logistics.

JJX Logistics' Green Mission Statement

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Complete Christmas Collection for BCMH and Black Country Food Bank

Edward Martin — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 17:37:21 +0000

The Blog

JJX Complete Annual Christmas Collection for BCMH and Black Country Food Bank

18 December 2023 by Edward Martin

A few extra smiles were delivered this morning with a van full of donations from customers and partners of JJX up and down the country dropped off at Black Country Mental Health and Black Country Food Bank, two fantastic and vitally important charities in our community that suppport those most in need at this festive time of year.

This concludes another brilliant year of fundraising at JJX with highlights coming from the London Landmark Half Marathon raising over £1,200, our Wolves Legends Charity Match at Molineux, our Easter egg Collection, November appeal, World Mental Health Day and Breast Cancer Awareness day.

We're ready when you need us

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What is a Bonded Warehouse?

Roman Hadley — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:18:03 +0000

Expert Guides

What is a Bonded Warehouse?

A bonded warehouse is a facility where you can store imported goods without paying duties or taxes until they are ready to be released for distribution. It provides a secure and controlled environment for storing goods that have not yet cleared customs. By using bonded storage, you can defer the payment of customs duties and taxes until the goods are taken out for sale or consumption.

This can be advantageous for businesses as it helps to manage cash flow and reduce costs. Bonded warehouses are usually operated by private companies or third-party logistics providers who have obtained a licence from the government. These warehouses are subject to strict security and inventory control measures to ensure the integrity of the goods stored within.

Why Use a Bonded Warehouse?

If you frequently import goods and want to defer the payment of customs duties and taxes, you should consider using a bonded warehouse. A bonded warehouse provides several benefits for importers.

It allows you to store your goods without immediately paying customs duties and taxes. This can be especially advantageous if you have a high volume of imports or if cash flow is a concern.
Using a bonded warehouse can help streamline your supply chain operations. With goods stored in a bonded warehouse, you have the flexibility to release them for distribution as needed, ensuring a smooth flow of inventory.
A bonded warehouse may offer added security for your goods, as they are closely monitored and protected by customs authorities.

Utilising a bonded warehouse can provide financial benefits, operational efficiency and peace of mind for importers.

Wet and Dry Bonded Warehouses

Definition of a Wet Bonded Warehouse and Wet Goods

A ‘wet’ bonded warehouse is a facility that is licensed to store imported goods subject to excise duty. These warehouses are specifically designed to handle goods that are liable for excise duty, which is a tax imposed on certain types of goods, such as alcohol, tobacco and fuel. A wet bonded warehouse allows businesses to store their imported wet goods securely while they await further transportation or sale, without having to pay the excise duty immediately.

Definition of a Dry Bonded Warehouse and Dry Goods

A ‘dry’ bonded warehouse is a facility that stores general goods subject to customs duty and VAT, excluding excise duty. Unlike a wet bonded warehouse, a dry bonded warehouse is not permitted to store goods that require excise duty and is intended for more general goods.

What Goods are Eligible for Storage in a Bonded Warehouse?

For eligibility in bonded warehousing, goods must originate from a foreign customs territory, be kept under customs control and be subject to customs duties and/or import VAT.

You can store a wide variety of goods in a bonded warehouse. Goods that are subject to high import duties or taxes are commonly stored to defer payment until they are ready to be released into the local market.

Common goods found in bonded warehouses include:

Alcohol and Spirits: Importers often store alcoholic beverages in wet bonded warehouses to defer the payment of excise duties until the products are sold.
Tobacco Products: Like alcohol, cigarettes and other tobacco products are frequently stored in wet bonded warehouses to delay the payment of applicable duties.
Electronics: High-value electronic goods, such as smartphones, laptops and other gadgets, may be stored in dry bonded warehouses to manage taxes and other costs.
Perfumes and Cosmetics: Fragrances, cosmetics and other beauty products may be stored in bonded warehouses to delay duty payments until the products are distributed.
Automotive: Imported cars and components such as batteries may be stored in bonded warehouses to defer customs duties until they are sold, exported or required in production.
Textiles and Apparel: Clothing, fabrics and textiles may be kept in bonded warehouses to manage customs costs or optimise supply chains.
Raw Materials for Manufacturing: Businesses may store raw materials in bonded warehouses to delay duty payments until the materials are used in the manufacturing process or exported.
Coffee and Tea: Imported coffee and tea may be stored in bonded warehouses to defer the payment of import duties until the products are distributed.
Industrial Machinery: Heavy machinery and equipment imported for industrial purposes may be stored in bonded warehouses to help streamline supply chain costs.
Luxury Goods: High-end goods such as watches, jewellery and designer items may be stored in bonded warehouses to manage customs duties and taxes.

Using a Bonded Warehouse

Businesses have the option to store their imports in a bonded warehouse instead of immediately declaring and paying duties. To do this, they need to register with a HMRC-approved bonded warehouse and place their goods into storage.

Bonded warehouse operators will always be prepared to assist their partners in storing their goods and will provide instructions for using their warehouse. Below are some common requirements for using a bonded warehouse.

How to Store Goods in a Bonded Warehouse

To store your goods in a bonded warehouse, complete the necessary documentation, such as a customs entry form, to declare your goods and their value. If the goods require excise duty to be paid, then a wet bonded warehouse will be required. Once you have declared your imported goods, you must send them to your chosen bonded warehouse within 5 days.

Once your goods arrive at the warehouse, they will be inspected and verified before being stored in a designated area. Remember to keep accurate records of your goods while they are in the bonded warehouse for easy tracking and retrieval.

Goods Stored in a Bonded Warehouse

Once your goods have been placed in the bonded warehouse, you can store them there as long as you continue to pay the storage and administration fees. This can be for years, during which time the warehouse staff will ensure that your goods are kept securely.

While your bonded goods are in storage, the warehouse must keep real-time stock of them, using an appropriate management system to maintain records and track duties owed. During this time, businesses can also monitor fluctuations in market demand and exchange rates, allowing businesses to remove their goods and sell them when the greatest revenue is guaranteed.

How to Take Goods out of a Bonded Warehouse

To retrieve your goods from a bonded warehouse, you should coordinate with warehouse staff for their release. Before distributing goods in the UK, you must complete a customs declaration and settle any charges that are due. Once you have fulfilled all the legal requirements, you can proceed with the process of taking your goods out of the warehouse.

After you and your warehouse have prepared the necessary paperwork, you will be able to collect your goods from the warehouse, either by arranging your own transportation or using the services provided by the warehouse. Many bonded warehouses also operate their own logistics service, making UK distribution even more seamless.

Requirements for Operating a Bonded Warehouse

Before commencing operations, warehouse operators must apply for Customs Warehouse Approval from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This approval ensures that the warehouse meets all the necessary requirements and regulations. Additionally, a warehouse operator would need to acquire an Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme (AWRS) registration if there is a plan to store or distribute alcohol from a wet bonded warehouse. This registration is essential for compliance with the UK's alcohol licensing laws. Furthermore, there might be a need to obtain additional permits or licences depending on the type of goods planned for storage in the warehouse.

Responsibilities of Bonded Warehouse Operators

Once approved and licensed, a bonded warehouse operator must comply with HMRC regulations, maintain proper storage and follow laws to avoid penalties. This includes implementing security measures to prevent theft, damage or unauthorised access to the bonded goods.

The operator is also tasked with maintaining accurate records of all incoming and outgoing goods, including essential documentation like customs declarations and invoices. Furthermore, the operator bears the responsibility of conducting regular inventory checks to verify stock levels' accuracy and prevent any discrepancies.

Wet Bonded Storage at JJX

JJX logistics is proud to offer distributors wet bonded storage solutions at our site in the West Midlands. Our team of friendly professionals is well-versed in the intricacies of customs regulations, ensuring the meticulous preparation and processing of all necessary paperwork.

Recognising that even minor documentation errors can result in delays and penalties, we leave no room for mistakes. Our commitment to compliance and precision guarantees the secure storage of your goods and their timely release for distribution, minimising unnecessary delays.

Possessing extensive experience in their respective fields, each member is fully qualified in customs compliances and practices, having undergone top-notch training from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. Our expertise allows us to navigate the complexities of customs regulations with confidence, providing you with the assurance that your goods are in capable and secure hands.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Granted Excise Bonded Status

Edward Martin — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:01:11 +0000

The Blog

JJX Granted Excise Bonded Approval from HMRC

01 December 2023 by Edward Martin

Following months of hard work, we are delighted to have been granted Excise Bonded approval from HMRC for our Kingswinford based warehouse facility, further strengthening our European supply chain operations less than 12 months after gaining Customs Bonded status. This exciting news will see us continue to grow our operations into the alcoholic beverage industry with new wet bonded storage solutions now available.

Gaining Excise approval has been a very big project for us since the start of the summer and it feels great to finally get this latest development over the line. I am very excited for the next chapter at JJX as we build on our strong relationship with the Bonded Warehousekeepers Association and continue working with so many of their members up and down the UK.

Melissa Harrington, Customs Manager

Operations are already in full swing with our Warehouse Management System fully integrated for customs compliance and our first pallets of Gin from overseas arrived earlier this week going straight into bonded storage. If you are interested in our wet bonded storage solutions, please contact our team today for a quote and find out how our logistics solutions can benefit your supply chain fulfilment.

+44 (0) 1384 221 642

info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

Learn More

We're ready when you need us

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Christmas Operations at JJX

Edward Martin — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:10:00 +0000

The Blog

Christmas Operations at JJX

22 November 2023 by Edward Martin

Christmas Schedule

Unlike many companies, we at JJX remain open throughout the Christmas period but there will be a few changes to several of our operations. Our pallet networks will be suspended after the final delivery on Thursday 22nd December and return to normal on Tuesday 2nd January. For Irish jobs, last sailing for deliveries to Eire Counties will be Monday 18th December and to the Dublin area is Tuesday 19th December. Deliveries on Friday 22nd December may be affected by customer closing times. All other dedicated European deliveries will be unaffected during this period.

Finally we would like to thank each and every one of our customers for trusting us to deliver your packages safe and sound in what has been very strong 2023 for us. Winning the Black Country Business of the Year award was certainly a major highlight as well as gaining industry leading certifications for both our transport and bonded warehouse and we hope you are as excited as we are for what 2024 will bring.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Donations

We are once again running our annual Christmas appeal collecting chocolates and gifts to donate to local charities in the region including for the Black Country Foodbank, Women's Refuge and Black Country Mental Health. If you are able to donate then please don't hesitate to contact our team on info@jjxlogistics.co.uk or call 01384 221 642 and we can arrange a collection date and time that suits you.

We're ready when you need us

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HGV, Van & Truck Driver’s Mental Welfare

Roman Hadley — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 11:08:09 +0000

Expert Guides

HGV, Van & Truck Driver’s Mental Welfare

Commercial drivers face numerous challenges on the road, often leading to mental strain.

Recognising the importance of their well-being, initiatives have been implemented to improve their welfare.

Prioritising the mental health of truck drivers not only benefits them personally but also enhances road safety and overall productivity.

This article explores the challenges faced by truck drivers, the initiatives taken to support their welfare, and the steps that can be taken to positively impact their mental health.

Challenges Faced by Truck Drivers

Truck drivers face many conditions unusual to other professions. These challenges can have a significant impact on their mental health, leading to feelings of loneliness and increasing the risk of mental health issues. Below are some of the most common challenges faced by HGV and van drivers.

Long Working Hours and Fatigue

The demanding nature of their job often leads truck drivers to work long hours. As a result, they are more likely to experience fatigue, which can have detrimental effects on their mental well-being.

Constantly navigating traffic, adhering to strict delivery schedules, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions can all contribute to high levels of stress and anxiety. ADR drivers transporting hazardous goods also have to be constantly mindful of the dangerous cargo they are responsible for.

This combination of physical exhaustion and mental strain can have a significant impact on the long-term mental welfare of truck drivers.

Living Conditions on the Road

Long-distance HGV drivers face difficult living conditions on the road, with limited access to basic amenities. Living on the road means that these drivers often struggle to find clean and accessible restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. They may have to rely on truck stops or rest areas, which may not always provide the necessary facilities or may be overcrowded.

Additionally, finding healthy and affordable food options can be difficult for truck drivers. They often have limited access to grocery stores or restaurants that offer nutritious meals. This can make it challenging to maintain a balanced diet and lead to poor health.

Lack of Access to Healthcare Facilities

The lack of access to healthcare facilities poses significant challenges for drivers. Being constantly on the road, commercial drivers often find it difficult to access necessary medical care. Truck stops and rest areas, where drivers typically take breaks, rarely have any healthcare facilities available.

This lack of access to healthcare can have serious consequences for drivers' physical and mental well-being. Minor health issues that could be easily treated if caught early may worsen due to delayed medical attention. Additionally, the demanding nature of their job, long hours of driving, and irregular sleep patterns can contribute to the development of chronic health conditions.

Mental Health Issues and Loneliness

Truck drivers often experience challenges with their mental health and almost 25% regularly experience loneliness. The nature of their job, which involves long hours on the road and extended periods of time away from home and loved ones, can take a toll on mental health. The isolation and solitude that come with the profession can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Additionally, the stress and pressure of meeting tight deadlines, navigating through traffic and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions can further exacerbate mental health issues. The lack of social interaction and awareness of support networks while on the road can make it difficult for some HGV driver’s emotional well-being.

Initiatives for Improving Truck Drivers' Welfare

To improve truck drivers' welfare, there are several initiatives that are either in place already or in discussion. Read below to discover some of the ways the industry is addressing the concerns faced by HGV drivers.

Regulations to Limit Working Hours

One approach is to establish strict guidelines that limit the number of hours a truck driver can work in a given period. These regulations ensure the well being of HGV drivers and other road users.

The EU rules set a maximum limit of 9 hours of driving in a day for HGV drivers, including 45 minute breaks every 4 hours and 30 minutes. The daily driving limit can be extended to 10 hours twice a week. This ensures that drivers do not exceed their physical and mental limits, reducing the risk of fatigue-related accidents on the road.

Furthermore, EU rules state that drivers should not drive for more than 56 hours in a week or 90 hours in any two consecutive weeks. These limits help prevent drivers from overworking and experiencing exhaustion, allowing them to maintain their well-being and perform their duties safely.

Recognising the importance of regular breaks and sufficient rest, the EU rules mandate that HGV drivers must have at least 11 hours of rest every day. However, drivers have the option to reduce this rest period to 9 hours three times between any two weekly rest periods. This flexibility allows drivers to manage their schedules effectively while still ensuring they get adequate rest.

Development of Rest Areas with Better Living Facilities

Rest areas for truck drivers need to be developed with improved living facilities to enhance their welfare. Currently, many rest areas lack adequate amenities and fail to provide a comfortable environment for truck drivers to rest and rejuvenate.

One initiative to improve truck drivers' welfare is to provide clean and well-maintained restrooms with proper sanitation facilities. Additionally, rest areas should have spacious parking lots with ample lighting and security measures in place to ensure the safety of the drivers and their vehicles.

Government schemes such as the HGV parking and driver welfare grant scheme, have been set up to improve driver well-being. This scheme is available for a number of facilities such as truck stops, motorway services and more, and includes funding to develop:

Driver welfare facilities such as toilets, showers and rest areas.
Security for drivers including lighting, CCTV and secure fencing.
Improved HGV parking capacity.

Accessible Healthcare Services for Truck Drivers

The development of rest areas with better living facilities for truck drivers can also include initiatives to provide accessible healthcare services. Truck drivers often face challenges in accessing proper healthcare due to long hours on the road. Therefore, it's crucial to implement measures that ensure their physical well-being.

The advent of Telehealth (or telemedicine), where medical appointments can be carried out via telephone, has the capacity to help the situation. TECS, as it is known by the NHS, could allow drivers to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, eliminating the need for in-person visits. With more development, these services could help truck drivers get medical advice even on long-haul journeys.

Another method of bringing healthcare to commercial drivers is the development of mobile clinics at rest areas or truck stops, where drivers can receive basic medical check-ups, prescriptions and even consultations with healthcare professionals.

The idea of healthcare units at truck stops and rest areas is already being discussed across the globe. This concept is currently being implemented in the USA where funding is in place for the creation of clinics with prescription services in remote areas to benefit truck drivers, travellers and local residents.

Support Programs for Mental Health and Social Well-Being

Numerous support programs are available to enhance the mental and social well-being of truck drivers. By better understanding the unique challenges faced by these professionals, various systems are in place to provide assistance and promote their welfare.

One such program is the Working Minds campaign set-up by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE). In partnership with the Road Haulage Association, the HSE’s campaign is aimed at promoting good mental health among HGV drivers and their employers. The campaign addresses the unique challenges faced by drivers, such as long hours away from home, demanding delivery times, and limited access to facilities, which can lead to high levels of stress.

To support drivers, the campaign offers a free and confidential text service called “BeAMate” which is provided by Mates in Mind and offers health support for drivers. The campaign aims to raise awareness and provide support to HGV drivers who may be less likely to express their struggles, and foster a more positive culture around mental health in the logistics industry.

Benefits of Prioritising HGV Drivers' Welfare

Prioritising truck drivers' welfare has numerous benefits. Not only do HGV drivers themselves benefit by improved physical and mental well-being, but other road users can have more confidence on the road.

Improved Road Safety and Reduced Accidents

By prioritising the mental welfare of truck drivers, significant improvements can be made in road safety and a reduction in accidents. Long hours on the road, isolation, and the pressure to meet deadlines can take a toll on truck drivers' mental health, leading to fatigue, stress, and decreased concentration. These factors increase the risk of accidents, not only for the truck drivers themselves but also for other road users.

The introduction of mandatory breaks has seen some startling reductions in the amount of traffic collisions. Studies show that just two breaks can reduce the chance of a crash by up to 83%, while taking a break of at least 30 minutes reduces the chance of a collision between 28-50% compared to the one-hour window before the break.

When truck drivers are well rested, they're better able to focus on the task at hand, make sound decisions and react quickly to potential dangers on the road. Prioritising their mental and physical state can help alleviate these risks, leading to improved road safety, fewer accidents, and ultimately, saving lives.

Increased Productivity and Driver Retention in the Transportation Sector

Workers with good mental health are up to 12% more productive according to research conducted by The Mental Health Foundation. When workers are well-rested, mentally and physically healthy, and supported in their work environment, they're more motivated and engaged in their jobs. This leads to improved job performance and higher levels of productivity.

By taking the health of their drivers into account, companies can reduce turnover rates and the associated costs of recruiting and training new drivers. Staff retention can be a significant problem for the logistics sector, particularly among younger HGV drivers. By the start of 2023, 55,000 drivers had recently left the industry, with under-30s making up 40% of the turnover. The number of HGV drivers under-30 decreased from 30,500 to 12,500, a loss of 18,000 drivers. Some of the top reasons for drivers leaving include long hours, time away from loved ones, stress and exhaustion

Enhanced Mental and Physical Well-Being of Truck Drivers

Sadly, drivers are amongst the most likely to experience poor physical and mental health of any profession. Below are some of the most concerning figures about the well being of HGV and van drivers:

Van drivers and HGV drivers have 25% and 20% higher suicide rates than the UK average, respectively.
48% of commercial drivers struggle to sleep doing shifts and while working unsociable hours.

When logistics companies prioritise the well-being of their drivers, they create a positive work environment that promotes better mental health. This, in turn, leads to increased job satisfaction and reduced stress levels.

Moreover, when truck drivers are healthy, they're better able to handle the physical demands of their job. By investing in the health and wellness of their drivers, companies can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, something that is especially important when storing hazardous goods.

Supporting Logistics Worker’s Mental Well Being

Ultimately, enhancing the mental and physical well-being of truck drivers benefits both the drivers themselves and the entire transportation sector.

At JJX we do all we can to support our drivers and local mental health awareness campaigns. We are proud to support Black Country Mental Health, a local initiative that helps over 5,000 people in the region via their support line, mental health first-aid courses, walking group and more.

Our partnership with Dudley Mind has enabled us to provide Mental Health First Aid training to our staff through the charity. This training is complemented by our dedicated room for our employees' well-being, which we affectionately refer to as the ‘green room’. It serves as a stress-free zone where employees can receive physical or mental first aid. It's a place where they can come to relax and take a break if needed.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Named BCC Business of the Year

Edward Martin — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 09:18:17 +0000

The Blog

JJX Named Business of the Year at the 2023 BCC Awards

10 November 2023 by Edward Martin

An evening of fantastic food, entertainment and networking organised by the Black Country Chamber of Commerce was topped off with taking home the Medium to Large Business of the Year award at the Chamber's annual awards ceremony held at the stunning Wolverhampton Racecourse.

With over 800 Chamber members and a record number of award entries, it was certainly a competitive field with national auotomotive industry apprenticeship leaders GTG Training, leading provider of water safety and legionella services Nant, the stunning 4* Edwardian country house The Mount Hotel and bespoke vocational learning provider LD Training also in the running for the prestigious award sponsored by Voestalpine Metsec whose 500 international locations in 50 countries began in Oldbury back in 1931.

JJX Logistics had also been nominated as finalists in two other of the 13 award categories which were for Excellence in International Trade sponsored by Azets and won by Lebronze Alloys and Business Commitment to the Community sponsored by Sandwell Council and won by the Wolves Foundation.

For the full list of 2023 award winners and highly commended companies, visit the Black Country Chamber website.

We're ready when you need us

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Q3 Sustainability Report

Edward Martin — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 10:01:42 +0000

The Blog

Q3 Sustainability Report shows 17% Reduction in Emissions

13 October 2023 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics have compiled our sustainability figures for the three months between July 2023 to September 2023 and have seen improvements across the board on our 40 strong fleet.

This success, headlined by a reduction of 51,912kg of CO2 emissions, comes off the back of our revised Corporate Sustainability pledge back in July which can be found below. With a strong ethos on #DeliveringGreener here at JJX, Managing Director John Donovan said he is “incredibly proud” with the latest report.

A major factor in supporting our push to net zero is fleet management company Samsara’s state-of-the-art vehicle tracking software. Using a combination of their integrated API solutions, we receive unparalleled real time data on vehicle efficiencies, idling, anticipation and fuel usage granting full fleet visibility to our stakeholders.

Furthermore, we are able to monitor the percentage of Gren Band driving across all our vehicles and educate our drivers where possible. This is the time a vehicle spends in the optimum efficiency RPM range for each specific vehicle type as a proportion of the overall driving time.

August also saw the beginning of our electric revolution as we introduced our first all-electric vehicle to the fleet. Covering final mile deliveries across the Black Country region, we have greater intentions to convert our existing Sprinters to eSprinters over the next two years as the UK’s infrastructure and battery technology improves to facilitate this.

Key Figures:

CO2 emissions reduction of 51,912 kg (16.9%)
Green Band driving has increased 3.2%
Idling waste has reduced by 106.4 gallons (25.9%)
Average fleet MPG has increased 7.4%

You can read more on our Corporate Sustainability pledge here:

https://www.jjxlogistics.co.uk/corporate-sustainability/

We're ready when you need us

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Safely Transporting Explosives by Road

Roman Hadley — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:32:31 +0000

Safely Transporting Explosives by Road

Safely transporting explosives by road requires utmost precaution and adherence to strict safety measures to prevent any mishaps or potential disasters. The transportation of explosives such as dynamite, fireworks, or hazardous chemicals demands specialised knowledge, rigorous training and extensive planning.

Where transportation is necessary, it is crucial to employ an experienced ADR carrier for explosive goods. This way, consignors can have total confidence in both the transportation method and all personnel involved, guaranteeing the safe transport of their shipment.

Below we will explore the key considerations of class 1 explosive goods transport, including a full explanation of the classes, hazards and potential consequences of mishandling these articles.

Definition of Explosive Materials and Class 1 Materials

Explosive materials cover a range of substances that under certain conditions have the potential to rapidly release energy in the form of light, heat, sound and a shock wave. This reaction can be triggered by factors, like heat, a spark or an impact. Some of the most closely regulated goods fall under classes 1.1 and 1.2, which have the most potential to cause extensive damage and loss of life if mishandled.

In the context of hazardous goods and ADR safety regulations, explosive materials fall under Class 1. This classification is based on their ability to cause an explosion that affects the entire load instantly or presents hazards from projectiles or fire.

It is essential to distinguish Class 1 materials from other classes to ensure they are handled, stored and transported with utmost care while complying with specific regulations to prevent accidental detonation.

Common Examples of Class 1 Explosive Materials

Fireworks:
Fireworks typically contain a combination of chemicals, including gunpowder, that combust and explode to create various colourful and dazzling effects when ignited. Fireworks can range from small handheld devices to large aerial shells.

Pyrotechnics:
Pyrotechnics refer to a broader category of explosive devices used for applications including entertainment, signalling and special effects. Pyrotechnics utilise a combination of chemical compounds that, when ignited, produce light, heat, smoke, or sound effects.

Ammunition & Propellant:
Ammunition includes various types of explosive materials used in firearms, such as bullets, shells and cartridges. Propellants can be solid, such as gunpowder or smokeless powder, or liquid, like rocket propellants.

Detonators:
Detonators, also known as blasting caps or initiators, are small explosive devices used to initiate larger explosions or detonations. They are commonly used in mining, construction and demolition industries. Detonators contain a small amount of sensitive explosive material that can be easily triggered by heat, shock, or electrical current.

Blasting agents:
Blasting agents are mixtures used in mining, quarrying and construction industries for controlled explosion purposes. Blasting agents often consist of a mixture of chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, fuel oil and other additives, which provide controlled explosive power when properly initiated.

Categories of Class 1 Explosive Materials

Class 1 explosive materials are further categorised based on their characteristics, such as their sensitivity to initiation, their net explosive mass (NEM/NEQ) and the specific risks they pose. By understanding the unique characteristics of different explosive materials within Class 1, couriers and consignors can ensure the highest level of safety and security in their handling.

Class 1.1: Mass Explosion Hazard

Class 1.1 explosive materials include substances and articles that have a mass explosion hazard. This division has the potential to cause an explosion that affects almost the entire load instantaneously. They typically contain extremely sensitive and powerful explosives, such as TNT (Trinitrotoluene), RDX (Research Department Explosive) and even military-grade explosives. Due to their high explosive power, Division 1.1 materials are generally considered to be highly dangerous. Due to the potential consequences of mishandling being catastrophic, it is crucial for those working with Division 1.1 explosives to receive proper training.

Class 1.2: Blast & Projection Hazard

Class 1.2 explosive materials refers to substances that have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard. These materials can release a significant amount of energy when ignited, but they do not result in a widespread explosion due to their inherent properties. They are typically characterised by their ability to propel fragments or debris at high speeds upon detonation. Due to their projection hazard, these materials can pose a significant risk to people and property in the immediate vicinity of the explosion.

Class 1.3: Fire Hazard

Class 1.3 pertains to substances and articles that present a fire hazard and a minor explosion hazard. This classification includes certain detonating cord and small arms ammunition. While these materials can cause fires, they are less likely to produce large explosions. Division 1.3 substances and articles must be handled with care and stored in appropriate conditions to minimise the risk of combustion.

Class 1.4: No Significant Blast Hazard

Class 1.4 includes substances that are sensitive to ignition but do not propagate a detonation or transition from deflagration to detonation. This category encompasses fireworks and pyrotechnic items that are commonly used for entertainment purposes. Fireworks, such as sparklers and firecrackers, fall under this division due to their relatively low hazard level. While the risk is lower compared to other explosive classes, they can still cause harm if mishandled and require proper labelling and attention to safety guidelines.

Class 1.5: Blasting Agents

Class 1.5 or blasting agents are very insensitive substances that have a mass explosion hazard. Blasting agents are designed to be less susceptible to detonation and require a substantial amount of energy to initiate an explosion. Blasting agents are commonly used in mining, construction and quarrying industries for activities such as rock blasting and excavation. While this division is relatively less volatile than others, it is essential to handle these materials with utmost caution and adhere to proper storage and transportation procedures.

Class 1.6: Very Insensitive Articles

Class 1.6 explosives are extremely insensitive articles that do not have a mass explosion hazard. Even if a large quantity of these explosives is present, the explosion will remain confined to the individual articles only, without propagating to nearby materials. Due to their more stable nature, Class 1.6 explosives have a reduced risk of accidental initiation, making them suitable for handling and transportation with less stringent safety precautions compared to other explosive materials. However, it is still essential to adhere to proper storage, handling and transportation procedures to ensure the utmost safety when dealing with these materials.

Hazards Associated with Class 1 Explosives

When it comes to transporting Class 1 explosives by road it's not a matter of moving goods from one place to another. These materials bring about hazards due to their very nature. The obvious danger is the potential for an explosion, particularly with division 1.1 substances. Such an explosion can have consequences which include completely destroying the vehicle and also causing extensive damage to the surrounding area, posing significant risks to human lives and the environment.

There is also a risk of fragments being projected, especially from Division 1.2 explosives, in the event they detonate. Even without a full scale explosion these fragments can cause grievous injury or damage, posing further risk to property and life. Furthermore, while division 1.3 materials may not project significantly, their explosive potential can quickly cause and spread fire with alarming rapidity, which poses secondary hazards especially in areas where further flammable or explosive substances are present.

Accidents are unpredictable by nature, such as road collisions or vehicle malfunctions. This means that even divisions like 1.4 which might be considered less risky cannot be taken lightly. While the risk may be minimal, an unexpected detonation in a populated area or on a roadway can lead to disastrous consequences.

An Overview of the Safety Regulations and Procedures for Transporting Explosive Materials

Transporting materials that are explosive via road requires adherence to safety regulations in order to mitigate the inherent risks. These regulations are designed to prioritise safety and are regularly reinforced by both international and local standards.

Preparing for Transport

Before transporting explosives by road, comprehensive checks are imperative. Firstly, ensure the materials are correctly classified, labelled and packed. A detailed transport document, mentioning the quantity, type and hazard classification, should accompany the shipment. The chosen vehicle must be inspected for any mechanical flaws and equipped with necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers.

The selection of transportation routes requires prior approval with a focus on the following:

Avoiding populated areas where possible.
Adhering to a pre-prepared route.
Avoid parking near tunnels, bridges or crowded areas.

Furthermore, these routes should be closely monitored through the use of tracking systems. In order to effectively respond to any incidents or diversions that may occur along the way, robust emergency response plans need to be put in place. Lastly, communication channels must be set up, enabling real-time tracking and immediate response in case of deviations or emergencies.

How to Safely Package Class 1 Materials

Ensuring the transportation of Class 1 explosives heavily relies on packaging. It is crucial to use packages that are specifically designed and tested according to the quantity and type of material being transported. The package should be robust and capable of reducing the risk of any explosion or projection while being able to withstand shocks, drops and punctures.

To minimise friction between items, internal packaging such as dividers can be employed. It may also be necessary to seal divisions in order to prevent moisture or contaminants from compromising the explosive substance.

All packaging must be well-labelled to indicate the presence of hazardous materials and any special handling requirements. The outer packaging should display the appropriate shipping name, UN number and hazard class/division. Furthermore it is vital to conduct preliminary inspections for any signs of wear, damage or tampering on packages or enclosures.

Proper Labelling and Documentation Requirements

Proper documentation and labelling are prerequisites when transporting Class 1 explosive materials. The label should clearly display the class and division of the explosive, ensuring quick identification. Labels often feature distinct colours and symbols to communicate the hazard level. An orange label indicates an explosive, accompanied by a compatible division number.

As for documentation, the courier must have a detailed record specifying the explosive's name, UN number, class, packing group and quantity. Additionally, an emergency action plan and contact numbers should be readily available. Documents should also outline any special instructions for handling and storage. Ensuring these are accessible and up-to-date is crucial, not only for adherence to legal obligations but to guarantee the safety of personnel, public and environment throughout the transportation process.

Training and Certification

Ensuring the proficiency of those handling explosives is paramount. Personnel must undergo comprehensive ADR training that covers the intricacies of the materials they'll transport. This encompasses the properties of the explosives, appropriate handling procedures, emergency response protocols and first-aid measures specific to explosive-related injuries.

Once training concludes, evaluations are administered to assess the competency of the personnel. Only upon passing these assessments are certificates issued, validating their ability to transport explosives safely. It's crucial to remember that the landscape of explosive transportation constantly evolves and periodic refresher courses are mandatory to keep staff updated with new safety standards.

Security Measures That Can be Implemented During Transport

The transportation of explosive goods presents significant security risks that need to be addressed through the implementation of effective security measures. This requires the commitment and expertise of both the consignor and courier.

A robust security system can include a combination of physical measures, appropriate procedures and the dedication of trained personnel. Though the particular techniques of physical security may differ based on the location, there are some shared features, including:

Physical and electronic security measures
Alarm systems or CCTV
Access control
Personnel searches

Before setting off, the driver should be made aware of any potential security risks local to regions he/she is travelling through as well as the nature of their explosive cargo. During transport, it is important to ensure the supervision of any explosives, particularly when parked, to reduce the risk of theft or tampering. Providing the driver of the vehicle transporting the explosive goods with a reliable method of communication allows them to report any security concerns or emergencies promptly.

Potential Consequences of Mishandling Explosive Goods

Detonation of Explosives

Legal Repercussions

Beyond the immediate physical risks, improperly handling or transporting explosives can have severe legal repercussions. Entities involved could face hefty fines, suspension of licences, or even criminal charges. The reputational damage to the company responsible can be immense, making future business operations challenging.

Environmental Damage

Environmental consequences shouldn't be understated either. Explosions can lead to fires, affecting flora and fauna, or the release of toxic substances, contaminating soil and water sources. Adherence to transportation protocols is not just about avoiding immediate hazards, but also safeguarding the environment and ensuring a company's long-term viability.

Consignors, carriers and recipients should possess a thorough understanding of the Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations. It is crucial to guarantee full adherence to ADR guidelines for the substances you intend to store and transport.

Non-compliance may result in legal repercussions, potential harm, or even loss of life. If you have any uncertainties regarding the procedural demands for your cargo, it is advisable to reach out to an expert ADR transporter for more advice.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Nominated in 2023 BCC Awards

Edward Martin — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:36:35 +0000

The Blog

JJX Nominated in 2023 BCC Awards

29 September 2023 by Edward Martin

Following on from our nomination for Business of the Year at the 2023 Express & Star Business Awards earlier in the year, JJX have now been nominated in three categories in the upcoming Black Country Chamber Business Awards being held on the evening of Thursday 9th November at the Wolverhampton Racecourse. These categories are:

Medium to Large Business of the Year

Excellence in International Trade

Business Commitment to the Community

A former #BCCAwards winner back in 2020 when our Managing Director John Donovan was named the region's Business Hero of the Year, the nominations are a fantastic recognition of the hard work the entire JJX team put in every day and hopefully we will be on stage celebrating again this year. Good luck to all of those nominated as well. Click here for more information on the awards.

We're ready when you need us

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Safely Transporting Radioactive Materials

Roman Hadley — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:17:02 +0000

Safely Transporting Radioactive Materials

Radioactive materials play a vital role in various industries, including healthcare, research, and energy production. From medical diagnostics and cancer treatments to scientific advancements and power generation, these materials have proven indispensable.

However, the transportation of radioactive goods requires meticulous planning, stringent regulations, and the utmost attention to safety measures. Helpfully, there are clear guidelines on how this applies to the road transport of these items from a number of global and regional organisations.

Where transport is essential, it's important to use an experienced ADR carrier for radioactive goods so consignors can be confident that the method of transportation and all personnel involved can ensure the safe transport of radioactive materials.

In this article, we delve into the critical aspects of safely transporting radioactive materials, exploring the challenges involved and the comprehensive systems in place to protect both people and the environment.

Definition of Radioactive Class 7 Materials

It’s critical to first understand what is classed as radioactive material, what class 7 materials are and how best to provide protection and security for radioactive materials in transit.

By definition, radioactive materials (radionuclides) contain unstable atoms as their nucleus. These substances can emit alpha, beta or gamma rays and damage living tissue when they penetrate the skin, thus being a risk to those handling or in the vicinity of the dangerous goods.

Class 7 materials are those which contain unstable isotopes of an element which is undergoing and emitting radiation. As a result, these substances differ from dangerous products classes 2 and 3 regarding storage, transportation limitations and packaging requirements.

Common Examples of Class 7 Radioactive Materials

So what are some examples of radioactive materials that are commonly transported? There are plenty to choose from, with research showing around 15 million packages of radioactive materials are transported by road, sea and rail every year. Contrary to what many may think and stated in the same study by the World Nuclear Association, around 95% of these packages are not directly related to nuclear power. Below are some of the most well known class 7 radioactive materials:

Medical isotopes:

Radioactive materials such as technetium-99m or iodine-131 are used in medical diagnostic equipment such as X-ray machines or treatments.

Surface contaminated objects:

Objects or materials that have radioactive contamination on their surface, which can pose risks if not handled properly.

Density gauges:

Devices that use radioactive material, such as americium or caesium, to measure the density or thickness of materials.

Radioactive ores:

Naturally occurring ores or minerals that contain radioactive elements, such as uranium or thorium.

Depleted uranium products:

Uranium that has a lower concentration of the isotope uranium-235, often obtained as a by-product of uranium enrichment. It is used in military applications.

Yellowcake:

A powdered form of uranium ore, used as a precursor for the production of nuclear fuel.

Mixed fission products:

Radioactive waste generated during nuclear fission reactions, consisting of a mixture of various radioactive isotopes.

Categories of Radioactive Class 7 Materials and Labels

The categories of Radioactive Class 7 materials refer to a classification system used to identify substances that emit radiation. Goods are marked according to the levels of radiation they emit, ensuring proper handling and safety measures are in place.

Class 7A: Category I White

This category comprises radioactive substances categorised as '7A'. These substances are identified by a maximum surface dose rate below 0.005 millisieverts per hour (mSv/h ). Packaging for these substances must display this information on the outside. While a transport code is not required, a specific hazard label must be visible and completed when shipping.

Class 7B: Category II Yellow

On the other hand, dangerous goods class 7B includes category II radioactive substances that expose individuals to external radiation, posing a significant risk, particularly for those who work with them. To minimise the risk to individuals, the exposure time for these substances must comply with ADR instructions. The surface dose rate for Group 7B ranges between 0.005 mSv/h and 0.5 mSv/h.

Unlike dangerous goods category 7A, category 7B must also specify the transport index (explained further on in this article), which cannot exceed 1. This category is commonly known as Category II-Yellow and is identified by a yellow hazard label.

Class 7C & D: Category III Yellow

Categories 7C and 7D can be combined as Category III-Yellow, although they have different limits. For radioactive goods class 7C, the radiation dose can range between 0.5 mSv/h and 2 mSv/h. Similarly, there are restrictions on exposure time and hazards associated with substance ingestion. The transport index must not exceed 10.

Class 7D goes even further: the dose rate on the outside can be greater than 2 mSv/h, but should not exceed 10 mSv/h. In cases where substances and objects are transported with "exclusive use" and specific additional requirements, the transport index is not limited.

Class 7E: Fissile Materials

Category 7E includes fissile materials and as such has its own category. 7E goods have their own white hazard label, which includes the word "Fissile" and an additional safety note. Furthermore, the criticality safety index (CSI) must be indicated on the hazard label to differentiate category 7E from others.

Overview of the Safety Regulations and Procedures for Transporting Radioactive Materials

Below are some of the specifics of the safety regulations and procedures that must be adhered to concerning the transport of radioactive materials.

Preparing for Transport

In the first instance, all receiving sites must be authorised to receive the radioactive item and the volume being delivered. As the consigner, you should consult with the site before arranging shipment to confirm they have the correct permissions to hold such materials.

Determining a Transport Index for a Radioactive Package

The Transport Index (TI) number is used to inform about radiation exposure during transportation and helps alert personnel in the transport chain of potential hazards. When yellow package labels are necessary, a TI must be established and recorded on the label and in the relevant transport documents.

To determine the TI of a package, the ADR instructs carriers to measure the maximum radiation level at one metre from all the external surfaces of the package where applicable. Should this figure be in millisieverts per hour, and then multiplied by 100. Alternatively, the figure can be recorded in microsieverts per hour and divided by 10. Finally round the figure to the first decimal place to obtain your TI number - if the number is below 0.05 then it is recorded as zero.

Transport Index (TI)	Maximum radiation level at any point on external surface		Package category
Transport Index (TI)	In millisieverts p/h	In microsieverts p/h	Package category
0	<0.005	<5	I-White
>0 TI <1	>0.005 n <0.5	>5 n <500	II-Yellow
>1 TI <10	>0.5 n <0.2	>500 n <2000	III-Yellow
TI >10	>2 n <10	>2000 n <10000	III-Yellow (Exclusive use)

How to Safely Package Class 7 Materials

Class 7 materials should be packed with extreme care and follow all applicable legal guidelines and regulations set out by the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (CDG) Act.

Packaging must ensure the product is maintained and protected with minimal threat to consignors, transportation operatives, receivers and any other parties who come into contact with the radioactive materials.

It should be explicitly designed with shipment in mind to offer maximum protection and take into account acceleration, vibrations and braking. The external packaging should also be free from damage to avoid contamination. It also needs to be designed not to collect or hold water or contain features that will compromise its integrity.

Packaging can be in the form of:

Bulk container systems
Pressure receptacles and similar
Smaller packages with inner receptacles
Packages such as drums or corrugated packages up to 400 in weight or 450 litres

In terms of packing, this refers to all the items included in packing the materials, including the immediate package around the dangerous material, e.g. a glass jar and all associated materials used, including packing foam, tape to seal outer packing, cardboard boxes and labels.

All packages must bear the correct radioactive warning labels to alert others of the content of the package.

Proper Labelling and Documentation Requirements

Because radioactive materials are particularly hazardous to humans, the environment and wildlife, specific care must be taken during transportation. These actions include complete transit documents and appropriate packaging, labelling, documentation and qualified handling.

Several UN guidelines and binding mode-specific laws, including ADR (road transport), RID (rail transport), ADN/ADNR (inland waterway transport), IMDG Code (maritime transport) and ICAO-TI (air transport) outline all of these requirements. The following information must be included in the transport documents:

The consignee's address
The UN number
The class of dangerous goods number (e.g. Class 7B)
Name and general description of the radioactive material
Information of radionuclides contained in the radioactive material
Package category
Package type
Total radioactivity
Physical state and chemical formula
Transport index (TI) and (if applicable) the criticality index
Marking of the approval authority (for packaging subject to approval)

Security Measures That Can be Implemented During Transport

Security and all parties in the shipping process should be a high priority at all times, from the consigner to the receiver. The carrier must know the role of transporting such goods and the security concerns they could encounter while transporting radioactive items.

A strong security system should include a combination of physical measures, proper procedures, and the commitment of both managers and employees. While the specific methods of physical security may vary depending on the location, some common features include:

Physical and electronic security measures
Alarm systems or CCTV
Access control
Personnel searches

Drivers and carriers should work to ensure that the correct protocols are followed when transporting and handling packages containing radioactive material. Personal protection equipment should be used where applicable, and proper handling techniques are always used.

On top of this, drivers should also be aware of the different security risks that can affect the cargo and be mindful of national security for each country they will be driving through before they set out.

For added security, it is advisable that the shipment is never left unattended, all windows and doors are kept closed and locked and that drivers have a method of communication in the event of an emergency or security breach, including a direct line to the police. The Department for Transport and ONR (Office for Nuclear Regulation) must be informed along with the local police department of any security breaches that occur during transit.

Importance of Monitoring During Transportation

As these volatile materials go through their lifespan, they are prone to change and unpredictability. There is the risk of damage from even the slightest change in the package; for this reason, careful and regular monitoring is required throughout the journey.

The degree of monitoring will depend solely on the type of goods being transported and the amount the consigner is shipping at once. If multiple packages contain more than one type of radioactive material, each package must be labelled individually and recorded so the driver knows the contents, the volume of the dangerous goods they are carrying and the correct protocols for safe handling and transportation. This allows for a more seamless transfer of goods and a reduced risk of complications arising from the movement of radioactive materials.

Potential Consequences of Mishandling Radioactive Goods

Failure to comply with guidelines and regulations can result in catastrophic results. Incorrect handling, sorting, packaging and driving techniques can render the radioactive packages dangerous and upset the unstable molecules. Below are just some of the possible consequences of mishandling a radioactive packages.

Radiation Exposure

Improper handling can lead to radiation leaks and exposure to the personnel involved in the transport, emergency responders, and the general public. This exposure can result in acute radiation sickness, long-term health effects, and an increased risk of cancer.

Environmental Damage

Radioactive materials, if not properly contained, can contaminate soil, water bodies, and ecosystems. This can harm plants, animals, and marine life, disrupting the natural balance and potentially causing long-term environmental damage.

Legal and Regulatory Consequences

Mishandling radioactive materials is a serious violation of regulations and can lead to legal consequences, including fines, penalties, and potential loss of licences or permits. The responsible party may also face civil lawsuits for damages caused.

Damage to Reputation

Mishandling radioactive materials can have severe reputational consequences for the organisations involved, including transport companies, regulatory bodies, and government agencies. This can lead to loss of public trust, negative media coverage, and long-term damage to the organisation's image.

Consigners, carriers and receivers must all be aware of the Carriage of Dangerous Good Regulations and to ensure complete compliance in accordance with ADR for the materials you will be storing and transporting.

Failure to comply can lead to severe consequences and potential harm. If you are unsure of any procedural requirements for your shipment in the first instance, you should contact the relevant government bodies to ascertain legalities and then work with an experienced carrier to facilitate the transfer of radioactive materials.

We're ready when you need us

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Krazy Races a Community Success in Wolverhampton

Edward Martin — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:50:10 +0000

The Blog

Krazy Races a Community Success in Wolverhampton

31 August 2023 by Edward Martin

Thousands flocked to the streets of Wolverhampton on the overcast Bank Holiday Monday this August to watch one of the fastest growing events in the country, the Krazy Races soapbox series. Founded in 2018 by event director Sarah Belcher, Krazy Races has gone on to become one of the countries largest 'free to attend' soapbox derby festivals and is the winner of the UK's best new event.

Having already brought smiles to faces in Lancashire, Shrewsbury, Northwich, Swansea and over 15,000 in Stockport, their visit to Wolverhampton this week and JJX Logistics were more than happy to help with transporting karts and setup equipment to and from the site.

It was also a great opportunity for organisations across the area to showcase their finest engineering ingenuity including the Wolves Foundation, Jaguar Land Rover, Wolverhampton City College, the University of Wolverhampton racing team and Collins Aerospace, a close partner of JJX's for over two decades and the headline sponsor for the fantastic event.

Pictured below: The four teams entered by the engineering graduates at Collins Aerospace.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Introduce First All-Electric Vehicle to Fleet

Edward Martin — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:53:21 +0000

The Blog

JJX Introduce First All-Electric Vehicle to Fleet

04 August 2023 by Edward Martin

Having started out 26 years ago delivering by himself with a single rented Ford Transit van, this week marks a landmark moment for JJX Logistics and its founder John Joseph Donovan as the company introduces it's first all electric vehicle to the fleet.

Our new eco-friendly Mercedes eSprinter is just the beginning of a new corporate sustainability pledge that sees the company move closer in line with the European Green Deal. It also saw the launch of JJX's #DeliveringGreener campaign, building on the success we have had with #DeliveringSmiles and #DeliveringPride.

"The world is all too aware of how big an impact the transport industry has on the environment but we are fully committed to working towards a better future." - John Donovan

With heavy investment in fleet modernisation to industry leading fuel efficient vehicles already well underway, this latest edition will completely revolutionise our final mile deliveries in city centres across the West Midlands.

As further breakthroughs are reached with more sustainable transportation backed up by a stronger infrastructure across the UK, our vision is to extend electric mobility to middle and longer distance delivery converting our already fuel efficient fleet with zero emission replacements over the coming years.

You can read more on our corporate sustainability pledge here: https://www.jjxlogistics.co.uk/corporate-sustainability/

We're ready when you need us

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Top 10 Tips for Helping to Manage Anxiety and Stress

Edward Martin — Tue, 16 May 2023 09:04:58 +0000

The Blog

Top 10 Tips for Helping to Manage Anxiety and Stress

16 May 2023 by Edward Martin

Mental Health Awareness Week which runs from 15th to 21st May will this year focus on the rising issue of anxiety. Organised by the Mental Health Foundation, this week we explore anxiety which can lead to more serious mental problems if left and get out of control.

It’s not surprising that the levels of anxiety are at an all-time high as stress surrounding financial issues continues to grow due to the cost-of-living crisis. The Mental Health Foundation state in a recent mental health survey that they carried out around stress, anxiety and hopelessness over personal finances, a quarter of adults said they felt so anxious that it stopped them from doing the things they want to do some or all of the time. Six in ten adults feel this way, at least some of the time. On a positive note, anxiety can be made easier to manage.

At JJX Logistics we are passionate about supporting mental health and have an active programme for supporting our team. This Mental Health Awareness Week we have 10 top tips for helping to manage anxiety and stress:

Avoid doomscrolling - Binging on negative news or excessively scrolling on social media can have negative consequences. Try to focus on facts rather than speculation.
Be physically active - Try to give your mind a rest, shifting the focus to your body instead. Physical activity creates mood-boosting chemical changes in the brain.
Be mindful - When thoughts feel like they’re spiralling, mindfulness activities may stop your mind from racing. Meditation and other mindful practices can help you feel present in the moment.
Try breathing exercises - Breathing is closely linked to the nervous system. Deep controlled breathing with extended exhalation can cause a fall in heart rate and blood pressure.
Take time to unwind - It’s essential to still engage in activities you enjoy. Creative outlets, such as hobbies, crafts, writing or home improvement, can be good distractions.
Maintain sleep habits - Although it may be hard to sleep anxious, try to maintain your usual sleeping pattern. Being well rested is vital for emotional balance.
Eat healthy, balance meals - Healthy eating is essential for your overall physical and mental health, improving your ability to navigate stress during troubling times.
Connect with others - Good relationships foster a sense of belonging and provide an outlet to share experiences. Sharing worries with others can improve your situation and feelings.
Be transparent - Talk to your manager if your stress or anxiety stems from work-related situations. There may be ways that they can help to lessen the burden.
Reach out for help - Feeling anxious or stressed is natural, but don’t suffer alone. Talk to your doctor or checking with your employer for mental health or well-being resources.

Here at JJX we are proud to partner with Black Country Mental Health who help over 5,000 people of all ages every year in the region with services including their support line, mental health first aid courses, walking group, bereavement support, Wellbeing Warriors initiative and much more.

For more information visit https://www.blackcountrymentalhealth.org.uk/

We're ready when you need us

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JJX to face Wolves All Stars in Charity Match at Molineux

Edward Martin — Tue, 02 May 2023 12:08:41 +0000

The Blog

JJX to face Wolves All Stars in Charity Match at Molineux

02 May 2023 by Edward Martin

We are delighted to announce our next charity event happening at the end of the month where we will be fielding a team to take on the Wolves All Stars to play on the hallowed turf at Molineux.

In a joint venture with the All Stars taking place on Monday 29th May, all proceeds from the day will be split between Cancer Research UK and Black Country Mental Health with plenty of ways you can help support both causes including an auction, raffle, football card and more.

Team information will be announced in due course but already confirmed to line up against us are three modern day club legends with a combined 21 years calling Wolves their home in Jody Craddock, Karl Henry and Rob Edwards.

For more information or to make any enquiries about the charity match, please drop an email to edward.martin@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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King Charles III to Attend Carnival

Edward Martin — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:13:54 +0000

The Blog

King Charles III to Attend Carnival

28 April 2023 by Edward Martin

On Sunday 7^th May, in celebration of the coronation of King Charles III, there will be a carnival running through Wall Heath and we are delighted to be supplying some of the trucks for the 13 strong float parade.

In what is looking to be a fantastic day of celebration, five of our will be part of the special day so make sure you line the streets and wave on the procession.

This will include a special guest in King Charles III, unfortunately not the man himself but the crown jewel of our fleet in the new DAF XG+ which is aptly named after the new King.

For your own convenience, please also be aware of the announced temporary road closures on Summerhill, Moss Grove, Dudley Road, Enville Road and Swindon Road between 1pm and 3pm.

We're ready when you need us

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£1,260 Raised from Charity Run

Edward Martin — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 10:09:09 +0000

The Blog

£1,260 Raised from Charity Run

25 April 2023 by Edward Martin

We would like to thank everyone of you that donated for our London Landmark Half Marathon and helped us raise £1,260 for Black Country Mental Health.

These funds will help BCMH continue their fantastic efforts working with over 5,000 people of all ages in the Black Country region this year.

We're ready when you need us

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Partnership Begins with Leading Vehicle Security Solutions

Edward Martin — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:27:31 +0000

The Blog

Partnership Begins with Leading Vehicle Security Solutions

13 April 2023 by Edward Martin

Security and safety is something taken very seriously here at JJX, proved by our founding membership of the TAPA (Transported Asset Protection Association) who are the leading industry association for supply chain resilience and security professionals.

We have now gone a step further by striking up an exciting new partnership with fellow TAPA members Maple Fleet Services, the leading authority on commercial vehicle security and safety solutions.

Founded back in 1974 by Jim Maple in response to a market severely lacking in sophisticated commercial vehicle security systems, the company quickly became one of the key driving forces in developing innovative, high quality, practical solutions for the commercial vehicle operator.

It’s those very foundations on which the business was built, innovative design, passion for engineering excellence and a comprehensive understanding of the logistics and road transport industry that have continued to drive the business forward.

We're ready when you need us

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Express & Star Business Award Finalists

Edward Martin — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:17:27 +0000

The Blog

Express & Star Business Award Finalists

22 March 2023 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics are so proud to have been named finalists in not one but two categories at this summer’s Express & Star Business Awards for the Business of the Year and best Small to Medium Sized Business.

Our staff work immensely hard, 24/7 and fully deserve this amazing achievement so we are shouting loud and proud about it.

The black-tie presentation evening will be held at Wolverhampton Racecourse on Thursday 8^th June.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Logistics Re-Join CILT as Corporate Members

Edward Martin — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 16:32:15 +0000

The Blog

JJX Logistics Re-Join CILT as Corporate Members

20 March 2023 by Edward Martin

We are delighted to announce we have re-joined the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK having had to withdraw our membership at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

CILT is the chartered body for professionals involved in the movement of goods and people and their associated supply chains. First established in 1919, their international family boasts over 33,000 members in countries all across the world.

“When the pandemic first hit, we were forced to make some very difficult decisions, but I couldn’t be happier now that we have renewed our partnership with CILT.” explained Managing Director John Donovan.

“We take our accreditations very seriously because of what they say about us as a company. We want our customers to know they are in safe, secure and professional hands.”

We're ready when you need us

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Annual Easter Egg Collection

Edward Martin — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:04:35 +0000

The Blog

Annual Easter Egg Collection

10 March 2023 by Edward Martin

It’s fast ‘appoaching’ that ‘eggcellent’ time of the year again as we ‘shellebrate’ Easter and indulge in plenty of chocolate.

We need your help though as we run our annual Easter Egg Collection before delivering them out to the Black Country Food Bank and Black Country Mental Health.

We are accepting donations at our offices in Kingswinford or if you need to arrange a collection you can contact us on 01384 221642 or email edward.martin@jjxlogistics.co.uk.

We will be dropping them to the chosen charities at the beginning of next month.

Let’s spread the happiness this Easter.

We're ready when you need us

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The 9 Classes of Dangerous Goods Explained

Edward Martin — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 13:48:19 +0000

The Blog

The 9 Classes of Dangerous Goods Explained

03 March 2023 by Edward Martin

In order to transport dangerous goods safely, certain principles must be adopted to prevent the vehicle and its occupants from being put at risk. Dangerous items can be carried safely when appropriate measures have been taken and they are deemed safe. No matter how cargo is being transported, it must comply with The United Nations (UN) nine hazard classes for dangerous goods.

This is an area of the industry we thrive at and can proudly say we have become one of very few hauliers in the whole country who can transport all nine ADR classes and even fewer who can do so temperature controlled.

Explosive materials (Class 1)

Class 1 items are not usually shipped by air and are divided into six subdivisions. They cover substances that have an explosion hazard, explosions that may project fragments and firebrands, and fire hazards.

Gases (Class 2)

This class is divided into three subdivisions that include flammable gases, toxic gases and gases that are neither flammable or toxic such as helium and oxygen.

Flammable Liquids (Class 3)

Class 3 comprises liquids or mixtures of liquids that will give off flammable vapours at specific temperatures and have a flash point of not more than 60.5 degrees Celsius / 140.9 degrees Fahrenheit.

Flammable Solids (Class 4)

Flammable solids are divided into three subdivisions that include highly flammable solids, solids that are likely to spontaneously and substances that, if they come into contact with water, emit flammable gases.

Oxidising Substances and Organic Pesticides (Class 5)

This class is divided into two subdivisions and covers agents that react with oxygen and organic pesticides.

Toxic and Infectioous Substances (Class 6)

Class 6 is divided into two subdivisions and includes substances such as cyanide, arsenic, vaccines and pathology specimens.

Radioactive Materials (Class 7)

Class 7 covers materials that have a specific activity greater than 70 kilobecquerels per kilogram.

Corrosive Materials (Class 8)

Class 8 does not have any subdivisions and comprises corrosive liquids and solids that will cause severe damage when in contact with living tissue; or, in the case of leakage, will materially damage or even destroy other goods or the aircraft itself. Corrosive items include battery acids, sulfuric acid and mercury.

Miscellaneous (Class 9)

Class 9 is for miscellaneous dangerous items. The class does not have any subdivisions but comprises any substance that may pose a danger during air transport that isn’t covered by the other classes. This includes items with anaesthetic properties, solid dry ice, asbestos, life rafts and chain saws.

To find out about our ADR services click here or call us on 01384 221 642.

We're ready when you need us

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‘Know The Zones’ Safety Campaign Launched by National Highways

Edward Martin — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:37:36 +0000

The Blog

‘Know The Zones’ Safety Campaign Launched by National Highways

01 March 2023 by Edward Martin

The National Highways have launched their latest road safety campaign centred around blind spots while overtaking heavy goods vehicles (HGV’s) called Know The Zones.

Responsible for operating, maintaining and improving over 4,500 miles of England’s motorways and major A-roads, safety is the number one priority for the National Highways who aim to at least halve the number of people killed or seriously injured on their roads by the end of 2025, with the ultimate long-term goal of achieving a zero-harm network.

In a recent survey commissioned by National Highways, while nearly three quarters of people said they take extra care when overtaking a HGV, 36% said they did not know how many blind spots an HGV had. 36% also admitted feeling nervous when passing trucks.

This new campaign demonstrates to drivers how to drive safely around larger vehicles and is designed to increase awareness and knowledge among road users of the limited visibility areas and vehicle limitations of HGV’s which include longer stopping distances, wider turning circles and speed restrictions.

Key Messages

All Drivers

Know the zones of an HGV’s limited visibility when approaching and overtaking lorries.
Once you have started an overtake, move safely past the HGV. Allow plenty of room and do not linger alongside the HGV. Move back to the left as soon as you can but do not cut in.
Make it easy for an HGV driver to see you by moving out of areas of limited visibility as soon as it’s safe to do so.
Never tailgate an HGV. It will prevent the HGV driver from seeing you and mean you can’t stop safely if there’s an incident.

HGV Drivers

Make sure your intentions are clear and visible so other drivers can see what you’re going to do. Be predictable.
Be prepared to cancel your manoeuvre if it would present a risk to others.
Assume there might be a car/van in the lane beside you. Before you manoeuvre, look and look again.

Supporting Messages

HGVs make up 9% of SRN traffic and are essential to keep the economy running. When they are involved in accidents this not only causes delays to other traffic but affects goods reaching their destination.
Of all the miles driven by lorries in England, two-thirds of lorry miles are driven on the strategic road network. What’s more, HGV movements and distances are forecast to further increase by 2030.

HGVs have limited visibility. Don’t linger around them. Know the zones.

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Charity Half Marathon for Black Country Mental Health

Edward Martin — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 13:41:22 +0000

The Blog

Charity Half Marathon for Black Country Mental Health

21 February 2023 by Edward Martin

In a little over a month, two members of the team here at JJX Logistics will be competing in the London Landmarks Half Marathon on Sunday 2^nd April 2023 raising funds for a charity very close to us, Black Country Mental Health.

The LLHM was first organised back in 2018 and has raised over £30m since then for various causes with over 14,500 runners taking part every year.

If the task of running 13.1 miles wasn’t challenging enough, our very own Ben Brown and Ed Martin will be completing it wearing weighted vests under their running attire to represent the weight many people carry around with them that mental health can cause.

Our partnership with the fellow Black Country Chamber of Commerce members dates back over a decade when they were part of the nationwide Mind Federation.

“The charity is extremely close to me and has been for a long time.” spoke JJX Logistics Managing Director John Donovan. "They have been there for me when I have needed them most and since then it has been a mission of mine to help them in any and every way that we can.”

Based in Dudley, Black Country Mental Health aim to improve, promote and enhance a better quality of life for people living across the Black Country affected by poor mental health with their fantastic efforts helping over 5,000 people of all ages every year!

Please donate through our JustGiving page below and thank you for your help:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/benbrown2023?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=benbrown2023&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=e045e150cc97490fa6e413d468aff611&fbclid=IwAR15ZRe4o6lMQ3OdGr0LQs-2qhYzVzU8_-cFVHh5z0LMzShafCnuHkLrfAo

We're ready when you need us

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Long Standing Service with Formula 1 Continues

Edward Martin — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:41:43 +0000

The Blog

Long Standing Service with Formula 1 Continues

20 February 2023 by Edward Martin

Alongside an office full of motor racing fans drooling over the release of the fifth installation of Netflix’s Drive to Survive series later this week, JJX Logistics have worked with the thrilling fast-paced entertainment industry for over a decade now.

Operating across Western Europe on a daily basis, last month saw us visiting Scuderia Ferrari’s headquarters in the beautiful Maranello, Italy.

One of our 44-tonne articulated lorries regularly makes the drive down the M40 to the renowned Silverstone Circuit delivering anything from perishables to cabling.

As our industry-leading standards in moving ADR goods have grown, we have also delved into the world of Formula E starting with battery transportation back in their inaugural 2014/15 season.

We're ready when you need us

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Safe Transportation of Lithium Batteries

Edward Martin — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:38:54 +0000

The Blog

Safe Transportation of Lithium Batteries

17 February 2023 by Edward Martin

Lithium batteries are now being used at an incredible rate due to their light weight, performance and relative low cost. The only downside are the dangers that come with transporting batteries such as, lithium Ion (rechargeable) and Lithium Metal (non-rechargeable). There have been well publicised accidents that involved Lithium batteries.

In September 2010, A United Parcel Service 747 cargo plane carrying more than 80,000 lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries from Hong Kong caught fire and crashed near Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The plane’s two pilots, who were killed, reported smoke in the cockpit so thick they couldn’t see their instruments. The plane crashed into an empty dining hall that only a short while earlier had been full of people. Most fires that occur from lithium batteries are due to thermal runaway. A thermal runaway happens when conditions are met that cause reactions to occur and cannot be easily stopped. These reactions are exothermic, meaning that they give off heat, and that heat may be enough to cause a fire.

In September 2018, a fire occurred in the garage of the superyacht My Kanga, at that time at anchor in the coastal area of Croatia. The fire quickly developed to the upper decks resulting in an uncontrollable situation. It took less than 25 minutes for the fire to spread to the sun deck, accompanied by explosions. Orders were given to abandon the ship. The safety investigation that was published in 2019 concluded that the fire in all probability was caused by the lithium batteries of an electric surfboard. The crew was not aware of the fact how dangerous lithium batteries can be.

Where can I find lithium batteries?

Rechargeable lithium batteries are used in most of the electronic devices that you use daily. These include:

Bluetooth Headsets
Mobile Phones
Computer Peripherals
Digital Cameras
E-Readers
Game Controllers
Laptops
Smartwatch
Smoke/Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Tablets

Are lithium batteries classed as ADR/hazardous?

Yes. Lithium batteries, when transported, must follow the relevant legislation for the mode of transport: for road — the Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). There may be some exemptions depending on the lithium content of the battery.

Do I need special training or qualifications to ship lithium batteries?

Yes, or at least work with someone who is trained and understands all of the necessary regulations.

How can I safely pack lithium batteries for transportation?

Lithium batteries are high risk and very dangerous so must be packed very carefully and correctly. The major risk associated with them is a short-circuit because of the terminals encountering other batteries, metal objects or conductive surfaces.

Packaged batteries or cells must be separated specifically to prevent short circuits and damage.
Must be contained in a strong outer packaging unless it’s contained in equipment as it surrounds the battery and provides it with protection.
For batteries contained in equipment, the packaging must provide protection against accidental operation during transportation.

Can I ship damaged / defective lithium batteries?

You are not allowed to ship faulty lithium batteries via couriers or post. Please speak with a qualified expert if you need to do this.

What are the rules for packing equipment with lithium batteries inside?

Effectively, when shipping any lithium batteries you should ensure you adhere to the Dangerous goods regulations. Whilst you can see further specific later in this guide, you should use good quality, sturdy packaging, ensure the devices / batteries cannot move or become “activated” during transit, ensure the appropriate labelling in in place (depending on how many items you are sending) and stick to the limits for numbers you can send in a single pack.

Definitions

What is IATA?

IATA is an acronym for the International Air Transport Association.

What is IMO?

IMO is an acronym for the International Maritime Organisation.

What is ADR?

ADR is short for The European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.

What is UN3090?

UN 3090 comprises the United Nations regulations covering Lithium metal batteries (shipped by themselves).

What is UN3091?

UN 3091 comprises the United Nations regulations covering Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment or packed separately with a piece of equipment Battery packaging Battery packaging for Lithium Ion is tightly regulated by various legislation, including UN3480, UN3481 and IATA specific rules.

What is UN3480?

UN 3480 comprises the United Nations regulations covering Lithium ion batteries (shipped by themselves).

What is UN3481?

UN 3481 comprises the United Nations regulations covering Lithium ion batteries contained in equipment or packed separately with a piece of equipment.

We're ready when you need us

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New Generation Fleet Arrives at JJX

Edward Martin — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 11:40:03 +0000

The Blog

New Generation Fleet Arrives at JJX

16 February 2023 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics are delighted to have received the latest addition of new generation efficiency maximising class-leading trucks from Dutch manufacturers DAF.

“I know just how important it is for everyone in the logistics industry to play their part in reducing our environmental impact and the arrival of these new top of the line vehicles helps continue the effort in reducing our carbon emissions.” describes John Donovan, Managing Director of JJX Logistics.

What’s the Big Deal?

The European Commission has introduced new masses and dimensions regulations with the objective to push the boundaries in terms of both emissions (CO2), traffic safety and driver comfort. DAF is the first of all European truck manufacturers to introduce a full new generation of trucks featuring a highly attractive and very aerodynamic design, using the additional freedom offered by the new legislation.

Class-leading efficiency, safety and driver comfort come together in the game-changing New Generation DAF trucks. That is why they have been awarded ‘International Truck of the Year 2022’, the most prestigious recognition in the truck industry.

Efficiency

With the New Generation XF, XG and XG+, DAF is introducing a new benchmark in transport efficiency. The sophisticated long haul vehicles feature an aerodynamic design which is leading the way in the industry.

Also significant innovations to the PACCAR MX-engines, TraXon automated transmission and DAF rear axles contribute to a fuel efficiency gain of up to no less than 10%. Low vehicle weight and excellent serviceability contribute to class-leading payload and uptime.

Safety

When it comes to safety, DAF’s philosophy has always been ‘Hands on the Wheel, Eyes on the Road.’ Therefore, the New Generation DAF offers class-leading ergonomics.

All driving related functions are operated from the steering wheel and the steering column stalks, as are the digital display menu, the TraXon automated gearbox and audio and phone functionalities. Secondary driving functions are operated from physical switches which are logically positioned on the dashboard and are easy to operate. This approach guarantees the driver to focus on the road, which is the starting point for optimal safety.

Large windows, ultra-low window belt lines and for instance the practical kerb view window result in a new standard for direct vision. And with a robust cab structure, class-leading ergonomics and smart features to make driving even safer, the New Generation DAF trucks are the industry leaders when it comes to road safety.

Comfort

From the driveline to the suspension, from the cab interior to the seats and bunks, we’ve seized every opportunity to give drivers superb driver comfort. The result is the smoothest ride on the market combined with the best environment for driving, relaxing and sleeping. The New Generation DAF starts a new era in driver comfort.

Thanks to high torque at low revs, the PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines deliver superb driveability. In addition, the latest generation of TraXon automated gearboxes makes manoeuvring much easier.

The increased cab length takes advantage of a new front chassis design with high torsional stiffness and low weight, contributing to exceptional driver comfort.

We're ready when you need us

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Key Impacts of Brexit on the Transportation and Logistics Industry

Edward Martin — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:18:45 +0000

The Blog

Key Impacts of Brexit on the Transportation and Logistics Industry

14 February 2023 by Edward Martin

A Decline in Commercial Activities

The UK’s commercial transaction with the EU is on the fall with several companies having to deal with checks and customs documents. Since October 2021, Britain’s trade with the EU was 15.7% lower than usual. Moreover, this figure will further rise as the UK is yet to impose many of its post-Brexit border controls this year. Starting this month, imports from European nations will be needed to come with customs declarations. Additionally, food items will require extra physical inspections. The trade deals of Britain with New Zealand, the USA, and Australia are expected to somewhat mitigate the problem.

Additional Expenses for UK Exporters

The fact that Brexit is adding to the freight costs of exporters in the UK has become more than apparent. Moreover, there has been an increase in freight expenditure from January 2022. John Lucy, the Head of International Transport at the UK Road Haulage Association aptly sums up the situation: “UK export freight costs have been traditionally low. This has since turned on its head, with the price for EU export loads from the UK now in uncharted territory. The number of empty trips from European hauliers is increasing, because they are not prepared to pick up return loads. The upshot is a reduction in supply subsequent increase in freight rates from the UK to the EU, which in turn has increased import freight costs since EU hauliers are pricing it up as a round trip.”

Shortage of Workforce

The delays are not happening just because of the trade barriers. Brexit has had a significant effect on the number of immigrants. Following the Brexit, a great number of workers have departed from the UK. Furthermore, the pandemic has also stalled the training process of new workers. In other words, there is a severe shortage of workforce that is very detrimental for the transportation and logistics industry.

Following Brexit over 200,000 European nationals departed the UK in 2020. This naturally triggered an extreme shortage of staff while leading to the much talked about fuel crisis and the shortage of truck drivers. Added to that there was also a shortage of warehouse staff. The multinationals like DHL, and Amazon are offering special incentives to recruit more workers. The workforce crisis has even prompted certain companies to call on the authorities to widen the scope of interpretation of Brexit so that they can easily recruit workers and retain productivity.

Increased Transit Times

The customs requirement and paperwork have taken a toll on the transit time from the UK to the rest of Europe. This is particularly true for freight moving between the UK and Ireland. Additionally, the impact on groupage deliveries has been particularly worrying. For example, the double-deck trucks can come with 50 pallets. This implies 50 times more paperwork. In the event of inaccuracies in any of the pallets, the entire trailer has to wait until that one item’s documentation is resolved.

Order Delays and Supply Shortage

As a result of all the above factors, Britain is experiencing a supply shortage. This shortage has become all the more palpable in the catering industry. It has taken such a threatening proportion that giants like McDonald’s and KFC are deleting several items from their menu and even shutting shops to deal with the shortage of food products. Moreover, the automobile sector is also going through a difficult time. Its productivity has suffered because of a shortage of semiconductors and other electric components.

Reduced Economic Growth

According to records from the Office for Budget Responsibility, even before the UK formally departed from the EU at the end of 2020, the size of Britain’s economy shrank by almost 1.5%. This was because of a decline in commercial investments and the shift of financial activities to European countries in view of greater trade barriers.

As per the estimates by OBR, the fall in trade volume will result in a 4% reduction in the size of the UK’s economy in the coming years. However, among all the regions in Britain, Northern Ireland, has fared well. The rest of the country as a whole is struggling to recover from the double threats of the pandemic and economic slump.

With JJX Logistics, a secured flow of goods is guaranteed. Find out more about our European services or call us on 01384 221 642.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Receives ISO Certification Renewal

Edward Martin — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:56:53 +0000

The Blog

JJX Receives ISO Certification Renewal

10 February 2023 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics has had their International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification renewed for an environmental management system (EMS) at our Kingswinford, West Midlands, base of operations.

ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard that provides companies with a framework to help identify, monitor and control their environmental performance through efficient resource consumption and waste minimization.

“We are committed to setting near-term company-wide emission reductions through in all areas of our operations from waste reduction in our offices to implementing energy and efficiency systems across our fleet. Achieving ISO 14001 certification helps advance our sustainable approach across all areas of our footprint including water, waste, energy and emissions,” said John Donovan, Managing Director of JJX Logistics.

“By developing a formal EMS that is ISO 14001 certified, JJX’s customers can be assured that we’re adhering to best practices that manage and minimize our impact on the environment. It is an important accomplishment and the direct result of the commitment and hard work by our team.”

We're ready when you need us

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2023 Valentine’s Day Charity Raffle

Edward Martin — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 11:36:53 +0000

The Blog

2023 Valentine’s Day Charity Raffle

09 February 2023 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics has several fantastic prizes on offer to celebrate Valentine’s Day next week with all proceeds benefitting Black Country Mental Health.

With entries open until 9am on Tuesday 14^th February, the grand prize available is a £300 voucher for Hoar Cross Hall, the esteemed award-winning luxury spa hotel nestled in the heart of Staffordshire.

One of the largest spas in Europe, the state-of-the-art leisure facility delivers a blissful relaxation with stylish bedrooms, spectacular grounds, decadent dining and breath-taking overnight escapes.

We have also got a second-placed prize consisting of a £100 gift voucher to use at any of the Miller & Carter Steakhouse restaurants and thirdly, a delicious Hotel Chocolat dipping adventure box. The draw will be conducted shortly after entries close on the morning of Valentine’s Day and using our time-critical logistics, all three prizes will be delivered in time to make the evening a special one.

Black Country Mental Health are a charity very close to JJX and we are always excited to help fundraise for the brilliant local cause whenever possible.

Follow the link to enter our charity raffle and good luck:

https://raffall.com/332416/enter-raffle-to-win-luxury-spa-experience-hosted-by-jjx-logistics

We're ready when you need us

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What is Transport and Logistics

Edward Martin — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 14:11:40 +0000

The Blog

What is Transport and Logistics

12 January 2023 by Edward Martin

Transport and logistics are a collection of processes involved in the production, storage, inventory, delivery, and distribution of specific goods or services. Sometimes referred to as transportation and logistics, it is an integral element of the whole supply chain and it involves proactive procedures to move products safely and efficiently from the manufacturers to the sellers, and up to the end users or the consumers.

The primary goal of managing transport and logistics- especially for businesses and those in cargo consolidation- is to properly oversee the flow of supply from point A to B, and for customers to receive products on time, damage free, and according to expectations.

The logistics industry is responsible for moving products domestically and internationally and is therefore a huge contributor to economic development. According to a report released by Allied Market Research, the transport and logistics market is projected to grow at $12,975.64 billion by the year 2027!

Importance

Companies utilize transportation and logistics for various reasons and optimizing them offers significant advantages not just for the company but for the supply chain in general. Transport and logistics’ main role can also vary per business, but its importance and benefits generally include the following:

Increases efficiency- Just like any other business practice that aims to simplify processes, optimizing transportation and logistics increases operational efficiency. Actively tracking the movement of products helps spot errors and discrepancies in the supply which in turn enables businesses to address them proactively.
Lower costs- Managing transport and logistics properly provides better visibility in the supply chain. This allows businesses to avoid unnecessary purchases, eliminate unproductive activities, implement recognized areas for improvement, and overall manage costs better.
Improves production turnout- An optimized transport and logistics process helps streamline operations, reduce downtime, and generally improve business performance.
Enhances inventory management- Greater supply chain visibility prevents material stockout and material overstock, avoids damages in products, and enables businesses to manage inventory more efficiently.
Prevents disruption in the supply chain- As an integral unit of the supply chain, an organized transport and logistics system helps spot inefficiencies in the process. It also enables companies to address issues before they cause disruption and significantly affect business operations.

To summarize, when executed properly, an optimized transport and logistics system can improve customer experience and give businesses stronger industry reputation.

What is the difference between transport and logistics?

Steps involved in the transportation and logistics may vary based on the industry the business is in and according to the actual product they produce. “Transportation” and “Logistics” are also often used interchangeably, but what really is the main difference between transport and logistics?

Transportation

As the name suggests, transportation is the operation involved in the actual physical delivery or movement of products from one place to another. It’s part of the larger system of logistics and considers factors such as secured item packaging, best delivery route, and the most appropriate mode of transport. Its functions are further divided into three areas that businesses must observe to ensure effective logistics operations:

Operations management- or the organization of processes involved in making goods and delivering services
Vehicle and fleet management- or the coordination of delivery vehicles to ensure optimum and efficient use of recourses
Infrastructure administration- or securing all infrastructures involved in the logistics process such as roads, ports, airports, canals, rails, and pipeline networks, among others

Logistics

Logistics is a bigger business unit which refers to the procedures involved in the supply chain that intend to safely and timely deliver goods and services to consumers. Aside from transportation, the following processes can be considered under the umbrella of logistics:

Material Sourcing
Warehouse Receiving
Product Storage
Inventory Managing
Fulfilling Orders
Packaging
Shipping
Delivery
Distribution

Top Challenges

Diverse industries encounter significant challenges for various reasons and the sector of transport and logistics also face them. Based on the report released by the International Finance Corporation, both small-to-medium and large logistics companies experienced setbacks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Other challenges faced by the industry include:

Rising fuel prices
Driver shortages
Meeting customer satisfaction
Sustainability concerns

We're ready when you need us

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Groupage Freight Services

Edward Martin — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 11:58:31 +0000

The Blog

Groupage Freight Services

12 January 2023 by Edward Martin

What is groupage freight?

Groupage freight is a shipping method used when unit of goods are transported in bundles to form a consolidated transport i.e., the combination of several smaller shipments into one full container. This shipping method is suitable for single pallets. For larger pallet quantity, partial load shipment is generally the cheaper option.

The groupage process works like this: the general cargo is collected from various shippers and combined into a groupage cargo in the warehouse of the forwarding agent. After delivery, they are separated again in the corresponding warehouses.

Due to its cost- effectiveness, transport as groupage freight is a widely used procedure in logistics, because mixing the different consignments has the advantage of being particularly cost-saving.

Groupage prices

Groupage prices depend on the size and weight measurements of your delivery by road, sea or air freight. You will usually be charged by the cubic metre depending on the weight of your items.

What are the benefits of choosing a groupage service provider?

For companies who wish to send small amounts of goods at a time, groupage transport solutions offer many benefits and advantages. It offers the company a way to save on shipping costs as they share the overall freight forwarding costs with the other senders.

Groupage services also offer more straightforward options for shipping to multiple destinations. With a wider range of itineraries, there are fewer complications then with full load transport solutions or larger loads can entail.

Of course, there are conditions to this kind of freight management service, and in order to offer a flexible offering, senders must be willing to be flexible too. One of the specifics of groupage services is that shipping can take slightly longer aa the load makes multiple stops to various destinations.

When would you use groupage services?

When the load being shipped is not enough to fill a full truckload
Despatch times are more flexible and not reliant on solid deadlines
Goods can be loaded on to one of more pallets
If you aim to dispatch goods to multiple countries

Overall, a groupage service provider can offer and alternative to standard freight forwarding and pallet delivery options by grouping together with other senders. Groupage services can also positively impact your carbon footprint and provide an economic mode of pallet delivery which can lower costs and offer significant savings for your business.

We're ready when you need us

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The JJX Logistics Story

Edward Martin — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:18:39 +0000

The Blog

The JJX Logistics Story

12 January 2023 by Edward Martin

In the beginning

The story began with humble roots of JJX Small Haul back in 1997. John Joseph Donovan, the founder, was a man with a van and a plan. To deliver upon any of his promises and the attention to customer service was key. Building a reputation for service, honesty, and loyalty.

From day one in September of 1997, John went to the bank to talk about the business plan. Excitedly returning to the bank, John handed it over. They laughed John out of the bank. Calling his business plan pathetic. For the next 10 years, John went about the UK and Europe personally growing his logistics business and delivering on the promise that the customer was king. Focusing on express and urgent deliveries.

Growth

Then came the acquisition of Express Light Haulage in 2007 from his brother Michael who, due to ill health, passed on the baton. John then began this chapter of the story with the mission of providing same-day time-critical shipping solutions throughout the UK and Europe. Two years later in 2009, the company changed its trading name to JJX Logistics.

Family

More about us, and the family here at JJX. Family has been an important part of the growth for John and JJX. With the first real base being set up in the garage of the family home. His wife Denise and his daughters all playing major roles in the development of the business. Thanks to the effort and time put in by the family and employees, JJX now operates from a large main hub in the Midlands, with satellite depots in Heathrow, Paris, and Ireland.

In early 2019 we moved into our new premises located on Pensnett Trading Estate in Kingswinford. Here we can accommodate thousands of pallets and operate over 50 vehicles.

Specialisation with variation

JJX Logistics is the “one-stop shop” for all your logistics requirements providing the total fulfilment solution to include warehousing and storage.

Whether it be our Same Day Express Service offering 24/7 Time Critical solutions to the UK and Europe, or our Groupage/FTL General Haulage and Hazardous service. Furthermore, we can help with special events and projects by providing services that are tailored to your needs.

We can transport everything from 1kg to 28,000 kgs across the UK and Europe, same day, over-night and timed delivery.

JJX Logistics is also part of the Hazchem Network ADR infrastructure with fully qualified ADR drivers.

Large warehouses provide us with the capability to provide excellent fulfilment services and a secure storage facility.

JJX Logistics’ main clients include companies within the Aerospace, Defence, Rail, Automotive, Chemical and Pharmaceutical industries.

Where speed and security are paramount JJX Logistics are the people who can deal with your crucial delivery. Providing personal attention to vital consignments from the moment of collection to final delivery. We thrive on keeping your supply chain running 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, whatever the obstacle.

Accreditations and Associations

Here at JJX, we also take quality and energy efficiency seriously. Our staff members have worked hard to obtain ISO 9001: 2015 and ISO 14001: 2015 for multiple years. This has been a very big achievement for all involved and keeps all procedures, policies, and data protection in check.

We are also proud members of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA), Road Haulage Association (RHA), The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) and The Black Country Chamber of Commerce (BCCC).

We also work with many different charities and community campaigns to help boost their funds and raise awareness of their great causes.

JJX Logistics’ future for the UK and Europe

As ever, we are growing and evolving. Not just in size but reaching further on a geographical scale too. The website is translatable, into French, Spanish, German, Italian. Along with the recent move, this cements our intentions of becoming a top UK and European Courier, which of course is an exciting prospect. John is extremely proud of where the company is now 25 years on and looks forward to expanding our 24/7 operation further.

Finally, we are still very much a family run business, and we operate today with the same ethos as when we started: The customer is king, be they a one-off caller or a multinational returning company.

If you want to know more about us, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call on 01384 221642 or arrange an appointment to drop by and see us.

We're ready when you need us

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Supply Chain Logistics

Edward Martin — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 16:26:03 +0000

The Blog

Supply Chain Logistics

11 January 2023 by Edward Martin

A definition of supply chain logistics

Because so many organizations make up a supply chain, the logistics involved in getting products and services into the hands of the consumers can be mindboggling. Known as the backbone of global trade, supply chain logistics is a network of transportation, warehousing, and inventory. Supply chain logistics executives must know how to choose the most advantageous mode of transportation, how to design and set up a warehousing facility, how to control and manage inventory and assets, and how to set up an efficient logistics network while minimizing cost and delivering top-notch customer service.

Challenges of supply chain logistics

Common supply chain logistics challenges include customer service, cost control, planning and risk management, supplier/partner relationship management, and talent. As companies become more global, however, they face the challenges of being flexible enough to successfully grow and expand into new markets to remain competitive.

Today’s supply chain logistics executives oversee and drive multiple supply chains and work tirelessly to meet the needs and expectations of customers and suppliers. Personalized offerings are helping them do so but managing personalization in and of itself is a logistics challenge. Advanced supply chain management systems, and big data are helping companies gain the visibility they need into their customers to make supply chain logistics efficient, cost-effective, and crowd pleasing.

Customer demands affect supply chain logistics

Certainly, supply chain logistics must run smoothly and efficiently enough to satisfy customers and suppliers. The challenge comes in when customer demands become taxing on the entire supply chain. In some cases, customers demand more transparency into the logistics processes themselves. They want to know where their orders are, how they are being fulfilled, and where the inventory is at each step of the lifecycle. Gaining and then sharing insight into each order and its associated item detail must happen in real time to appease customers but doing so puts companies into binds when they don’t have such transparency themselves.

Benefits of inventory management in supply chain logistics

Controlling the supply chain often comes down to managing warehouses and inventory quickly and easily. Creating dynamic, cost-effective, productive warehouse, logistics, and inventory processes is more feasible when supply chain logistics include best practices in inventory management. With detailed records of products and parts, organizations protect their bottom line and keep costs in check.

The best way to manage inventory and improve supply chain logistics is to implement inventory management practices that include tracking inventory with data on barcode labels and asset tags. Inventory management systems virtually eliminate the data entry errors and shipping mistakes so often associated with manual inventory tracking practices. Better yet, inventory management systems with barcode scanners add the level of transparency needed to meet customer demands and to provide personalized offers and answers to customers.

In fact, it is the insight provided by inventory management and tracking that helps supply chain logistics executives maintain effective supply chain visibility. With good supply chain visibility, organizations avoid shipment delays, supply chain disruptions, and revenue losses. Collaborative processes such as data sharing and demand planning across departments and business partners are reducing risk and closing gaps in visibility before they become issues.

We're ready when you need us

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What is temperature-controlled logistics?

Edward Martin — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:13:50 +0000

The Blog

What is temperature-controlled logistics?

11 January 2023 by Edward Martin

Temperature controlled logistics involves the storage, preservation and transportation of cargo that is sensitive to atmospheric conditions and requirements to maintain a certain temperature. This is very important for medicinal products, as spoiled drugs can lose their efficacy and have serious consequences on the patient’s health and wellbeing.

Elevated or sub-zero temperatures can affect the chemical stability of the medicine and may even alter its physical properties. This can occur in the form of sedimentation and separation of emulsion systems.

Due to the implications of improperly stored drugs, regulator demands have become more stringent and pharmaceutical companies need to be able to prove that their products are transported via a temperature-controlled supply chain.

The margin of error is different from product to product, but the industry has seen greater regulatory emphasis on drugs that can maintain integrity between 2ºC and 8ºC. this temperature range is referred to as “cold-chain” – a temperature range where the medicine is maintained above sub-zero temperatures. These conditions must be assured by all parties, including the manufacturer, the shipper, and the wholesaler.

While shipping services are responsible for maintaining the temperature of the cargo, it is the manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure the optimal conditions for the product are understood by all involved parties. There are several considerations to think about before choosing a temperature-controlled solution:

The acceptable temperature and humidity range
The margin of error for temperature ranges
Acceptable and potential levels of risk
Specific no-go actions that may compromise the integrity of the product

Additional conditions for selecting a cold storage system should be bases, but not limited to the following criteria:

The temperature range and volume of the medicine
Temperature controls
Back-up temperature controls
The layout of the storage unit and airflow
External temperature logging and data tracking
Cargo placement
Whether temperatures have been tested
The volume of medicinal product

Some argue that the biggest consideration when choosing transport for pharmaceutical logistics is the risk to the end-user if there is a delay or problem with the shipment. Either way, thorough risk assessments are necessary when selecting a suitable mode of transport and considerations must be made about the costs of replacing the product if something goes wrong.

Critical Touchpoints

Logistics is complex, dynamic, and ever-changing. As such, there is a wide array of touchpoints and hand-off processes between the various actors involved with the distribution of the product. It is important that these areas of risk are understood to ensure the proper handling of medicines.

Different medicines and different transportation methods have their own unique touchpoints, but here is a rundown of the most common risks to your medicine:

Preparing the product for transport to the shipper location. The primary transportation method may have temperature-controlled storage facilities, but the warehouse the product is stored in prior to transportation may not.
Transportation to the shipper location. Refrigerated vehicles or passive cooling systems will have to be considered to ensure the drugs will not be compromised en-route. Similarly, once the product reaches the shipper’s storage facilities, it should have the required apparatus to ensure the safety of your medicines.

Minimizing the amount of time, the drugs spend at ambient temperatures is critical, especially in warmer climates. Walk-in cold storage rooms or dry ice can be used to help maintain the temperature of active and passive containers.

Physical loading- Ramp handling, covered storage, and potential delays need to be accounted for. Additionally, if an electrical connection is required, do all the touch points have a compatible connection and ability to output appropriate wattage?
During transit- Finally, once the product is in the cargo hold of the aircraft or vessel, is it being sufficiently protected? The temperature controls may have been taken care of, but the positioning of the cold storage unit is just as important. Avoid storing the medicine near cargo doors and other cargo in general. Adequate circulation around the product is often required to reach a stabilized temperature. A notice to the captain should be issued to ensure that all variables are taken care of.

Furthermore, it is important to ensure cooling apparatus remains active for the duration of the transit. Mistakes can be made with energy saving modes being turned on without notice, and cooling apparatus being switched off during rest periods.

Standards and regulations for temperature-controlled logistics

Companies operating within the pharmaceutical cold chain must be aware of the latest rules and standards in the market. Due to the complexity of transporting drugs internationally, keeping up to date can be a daunting task.

Some countries may even have safety regulations that involves physically opening and inspecting cargo, which can result in temperature deviations, it is good practice to make data and temperature loggers accessible from outside of the storage container to keep opening containers to a minimum.

In the EU, the directive 2001/83/EC is the foremost legal document with regards to governing the production, distribution, and use of medicinal products.

In addition, regulations are routinely published in the following groups:

European Union
World Health Organization
Parenteral Drug Association
International Air Transport Association
Pharmacopeia

Types of temperature-controlled logistics

Refrigerated vehicles. This category includes conventional vehicles that have thermostatically controlled cargo compartments, enabling the temperature range to be maintained. Refrigerated vehicles often come in the form of small vans and trucks, which can be equipped with electronic control systems to manage temperature. While some vehicles in this category rely on the engine to supply power to the refrigeration unit, larger vehicles have independently powered units and electrical backups.
Passive shipping container. Passive shipping systems are storage containers that utilize a combination of insulating materials and electronics to maintain a temperature range. While they do not require human or external input to function, they can only maintain a temperature range for a set period before they expire, making them an effective option for short journeys. Impact resistant containers are often needed to mitigate any potential damage to the transported cargo during road transportation. Passive shipping systems can be used alongside the other major types of temperature-controlled logistics for an additional layer of protection.
Active shipping system. These are like passive shipping containers but are much larger in scope. Active shipping systems are used abroad airfreight and sea freight shipping- and are effectively large thermostatically controlled cargo containers. On air freight, they are typically powered via internal batteries or an external electrical source and maintain power via large cooling fans and heating mechanisms. Meanwhile, sea freight active shipping systems are generally powered by the ships onboard power supply.

Air freight temperature-controlled logistics

Air freight is the most popular form of temperature-controlled transport, as this method can help alleviate time considerations, geographical obstacles, and a lack of infrastructure. Air transportation is even the most popular mode of transport for in-country logistics.

Capacity oversupply- Overcapacity has created more competitive service for manufacturers and as a result, services have become more temperature-controlled and pharmaceutical focused, which I positive for the quality of the products.
Weak points- It is very acknowledged that the weakest points in the air freight supply chain are the transfer points between the different players. Staff training, increased planning for the aircraft type and increased due diligence are areas that require more attention.
Cost efficiency- A key element of cost-saving and efficiency in the air freight industry is modernization and the use of technology for process improvement and optimization. Like other industries, pharma logistics companies face the challenge of incorporating digitization, despite the cargo industry not being technology-driver.
The future of air freight- With the demise of huge blockbuster drugs hitting the market every couple of years, the generics industry now covers a large proportion of the genetic medicines that are being delivered to patients. Transportation methods will be approached in a far more cost-conscious manner in the years to come.

Types of air freight

Commercial airlines- Commercial airlines tend to primarily transport passengers, but most offer cargo services to take advantage of airport destinations. However, commercial airlines tend to have smaller storage capacity in comparison to dedicated cargo airlines. In addition, cold storage apparatus will likely be retrofitted within the airliner and hired from a third-party company, as opposed to being an innate feature of the airliner. Coordination will be balanced between a freight forwarding agent and the airliner.
Integrators- Integrators refer to dedicated mail delivery services such as DHL and UPS. These companies will coordinate directly within airlines to ensure the optimal delivery of the drugs.
Specialized cargo airlines- Cargo-only aircraft do not carry passengers and have substantially more room for cargo as a result.

Sea freight temperature-controlled logistics

In the last few years, the price of air freight has been on the incline; as a result, pharmaceutical companies all over the world are looking for alternative cost-effective methods to transport their life sciences products. Sea freight is the major alternative and is becoming increasingly more viable in comparison to air freight.

Around 20 per cent of pharmaceutical payloads are moved via ocean freight however its forecast this will increase to approximately 75 percent within the next decade. Here are the pros and cons of sea freight:

Pros

Cost effective. Sea freight temperature-controlled logistics is substantially cheaper compared to air freight shipping.
Less risky. Sea freight offers a more controlled environment in comparison to air freight. There are fewer control points and disruptions, as sea freight cargo will not be touched until it reaches its destination.
Easier to monitor. Sea freights are continuously improving, and most services offer real-time tracking and monitoring – further reducing the risk factor.
Fewer temperature excursions. This provides an unbroken cold chain and less exposure to ambient temperatures.

Cons

Seasonal products. Transporting seasonal products to the market such as the flu vaccine. Sea freight will always be slower than airfreight.
Agility. The pharmaceutical industry cannot react to very short lead times.
Inaccessible locations – Delivering temperature-controlled products to remote in-land locations via sea freight can be time-consuming.

Airfreight or sea freight?

Adam Tetz Peli, Bio Thermal’s director of worldwide marketing, says: “There will always be a need for air transportation when emergencies arise and there is the need to get products shipped more quickly.

"As regulators introduce tighter rules around transport and logistics, and more temperature-sensitive medicines enter the market, the gap between air and sea transportation will narrow. However, it will not make other forms of transportation redundant."

Some pharma products will always be in high demand or have a high enough value to only travel by air. There will always be emergencies and natural disasters that require pharmaceuticals to be transported quickly. Shipments sent over water could be unavailable for four to six weeks, so air transport is a valuable logistics service when speed is called for.

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Difference Between Intermodal And Multimodal Transport

Edward Martin — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 10:03:36 +0000

The Blog

Difference Between Intermodal And Multimodal Transport

11 January 2023 by Edward Martin

Both intermodal and multimodal transportation involve moving cargo from origin to destination using more than one method of transport. This can be truck, rail, barge, ship, or any combination of those. Both can also mean that several different carriers operate each leg of the journey.

In multimodal transportation, one contract covers the entire journey. One carrier takes sole responsibility and ensures door-to-door delivery is completed, even if other carriers are used in the journey.

In intermodal transportation, there is a separate contract for each individual leg of the journey. This means that there is more than one responsibility entity for the successful delivery of the cargo.

When using a carrier for your cargo, make sure you understand the difference and communicate your needs properly to your providers to help alleviate any misunderstandings. So now we’ll look in a bit more detail at the difference between intermodal and multimodal shipping.

Multimodal Shipping

Multimodal is defined as the movement of cargo from origin to destination using several modes of transportation. In this instance, however, each mode is operated by a single carrier or multiple carriers, but under a single contract or bill of lading. A single carrier for a single journey. The same transport carrier is responsible for moving the shipment across all legs, in all modes.

The difference between multimodal and intermodal lies in the contract/ bill of lading and transport carrier responsibility/ liability of the movement.

If we look back to our examples above, multimodal shipping would be where one company, or one contract would handle all legs of the journey. This means that the same company is going to be responsible for moving your shipment in all legs, in all modes.

This can be set up in several ways. You could go with a company that has all these modes of transport available to them. Another way to set up a single contract for yourself is to use an agent. An agent would do all the negotiation on the back end for you while you only have once contract to keep track of. The agent would also be responsible for coordinating loading, unloading and delays.

Advantages

This method holds several advantages, the first being less overheads for you. Companies that handle multimodal shipping will be able to handle delays in one leg of the shipment in relation to the other legs without you needing to be involved. This method provides a one stop shop service, so every single aspect is handled by one provider, giving you ease and peace of mind.

Advantages of multimodal shipping are:

Shipment tracking efficiency: being able to monitor with one transport carrier from door-to-door
Access to remote parts of the world with responsibility and liability of the movement with one transport carrier
Efficiency in delivery time
Minimization of logistics coordination expenses of a shipper

Intermodal Shipping

Intermodal is defined as the movement of cargo from origin to destination using several modes of transportation. Each mode is operated by a different carrier, and each leg requires an independent contract. Multiple carriers for a single journey with each leg handled by a separate transport carrier.

The origin and destination are both land locked and on different continents. This could mean that your cargo needs to be moved by truck to a rail yard, by rail to the shipping port, and by vessel to the next port overseas. It will then be moved by rail from the shipyard to another rail yard, and then by truck from the railyard to the destination.

When using intermodal shipping, each leg of that shipment will be handled by a separate company and you will have several contracts, one with each carrier, to handle their specific leg of the shipment.

Advantages

These are some advantages to doing this, namely that you can negotiate terms separately with each company. This, however, means more overheads for you as you will need to keep track of several contracts with different providers. You may also be responsible for handling coordination of delays, as one company will not be aware of the delays that another company may be having.

Advantages of intermodal shipping are:

Shippers can choose carriers to take advantage of lower rates for each transport leg
Shippers gain flexibility and specialized handing of loading and unloading goods at different ports
Shippers reduce their carbon footprint by choosing environmentally friendly carriers
There is increased security of the products being transported
Shippers have more access to equipment and can better control capacity and selection of transit schedules

The advantages of both intermodal and multimodal transportation are that they combine the most efficient transport modes. This optimises lead times, reduces inventory cost, and keeps the level of freight costs under control. It also results in increased environmental sustainability, reducing the transportation carbon footprint.

Regardless of your choice, be it intermodal or multimodal, you will require a transportation management system to ensure door-to-door tracking visibility. This will give you the ability to perform routing scenarios to determine the best overall total shipping cost with the best overall transit time. The transportation management system must have the capability to coordinate with and between transport carriers and suppliers, along with freight rates and contract management.

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What is 3PL in Logistics

Edward Martin — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:09:32 +0000

The Blog

What is 3PL in Logistics

10 January 2023 by Edward Martin

What is 3PL?

A 3pl (third-party logistics) provider offers outsourced logistics services, which encompass anything that involves management of one or more facets of procurement and fulfilment activities. In business, 3pl has a broad meaning that applies to any service contract that involves storing or shipping items. A 3pl service may be a single provider, such as transportation or warehouse storage, or it can be a systemwide bundle of services capable of handling supply chain management.

How third-party logistics work

Here is an example of how 3PL arrangements operate: A book publisher hires writers, editors, and graphic designers to produce publications, but it may not want to handle the consumer ordering process or transportation of book shipments. Instead, the book publisher uses a fulfilment centre to process its online orders and hires a trucking carrier to haul its freight. The fulfilment centre and carrier both act as 3PL providers. It's possible for a single 3PL provider to fulfil and ship book orders, too.

By contracting with a 3PL provider, the book company can use supply and distribution services only when needed, thus controlling costs more effectively while focusing on its core competency of producing books.

The growth of 3PLs

Aspects of 3PLs probably date back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals traces the actual 3PL abbreviation to four decades ago. "The term 3PL was first used in the early 1970s to identify intermodal marketing companies in transportation contracts," the council wrote in a glossary. "Up to that point, contracts for transportation had featured only two parties, the shipper and the carrier."

The Motor Carrier Act of 1980 deregulated the trucking industry, which reduced trucking rates and increased the amount of competition, all of which fed into 3PL concepts.

The term 3PL got bandied about more by consultants and during conferences in the 1990s, likely tied to evolving technology, including the rise of the internet.

Later, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 legally defined 3PL: "The term third-party logistics provider means a person who solely receives, holds or otherwise transports a consumer product in the ordinary course of business but who does not take title to the product."

According to a frequently cited 2017 report from Armstrong & Associates, a supply chain consultancy, 90% of domestic Fortune 500 companies rely on 3PL providers to handle logistics, compared to the 46% Armstrong reported in 2001.

The growth in online sales and increasing consumer demand for faster delivery and lower prices have spiked demand for 3PL services. 3PLs have also bloomed thanks to tracking technology, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) and global positioning system (GPS), both of which offer extended supply chain visibility. Meanwhile, internet of things (IoT) technology has improved tracking metrics for trucking and other carriers.

The benefits of 3PL

The primary benefit of using a 3PL service to handle logistics, such as packaging, warehousing, fulfilment, and distribution, is cost savings -- for example, not having to maintain a warehouse or the staff to monitor supply chain operations.

A 3PL service likely offers better performance on efforts such as shipping while also enjoying an easier ability to scale its operations. If the publishing company in the example above suddenly needs to ship more copies of a popular title, a fulfilment centre will have an easier time meeting that demand than if the publisher itself had to ship additional copies of the book.

3PL vs. 4PL

The term 4PL (fourth-party logistics) often pops up in discussions about 3PL. In brief, when 3PL providers outsource any of their own contracted services, they become a 4PL provider. In the example of a book publisher, if the fulfilment centre subcontracts out its shrink-wrapping and freight weighing to other companies, then the centre acts a 4PL provider.

Some observers view 3PLs providers as managers of a particular outsourced service, while 4PL providers oversee services across an entire supply chain.

Another way to look at a 4PL service is as a provider that acts as a client company's single point of contact in the supply chain; the 4PL provider selects and manages various 3PL activities 4PL is also known as lead logistics providers (LLP).

3PL vs. freight forwarding

Freight forwarding and 3PL may come across as similar, but there are noticeable differences.

Freight forwarders do not actually ship materials, and instead function as a liaison between a client company and shipping firms. The freight forwarder negotiates prices, determines the best modes of transportation, establishes economical shipping routes and works on other logistics concerns. As noted earlier, 3PL providers handle a broader range of services compared to forwarders.

Also, a 3PL provider takes responsibility for the goods or services being shipped, while a freight forwarder likely will not, given it is just an intermediary.

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Freight Charges

Edward Martin — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 12:43:16 +0000

The Blog

Freight Charges

10 January 2023 by Edward Martin

What are freight charges?

Freight charges are the expenses charged by a carrier for shipping freight to a destination location. The individual who wants the goods carried from one place to another is responsible for paying the freight charges. The freight cost is determined by the form of transportation used to deliver the goods.

Ships, airplanes, trains, and trucks are some common transportation types that can be used. Additionally, freight forwarder companies charge various freight costs based on the cargo’s weight. For oversized cargoes, higher rates are applicable.

Factors Affecting Freight Charges

Freight is one of the most significant costs of doing business for companies that keep inventory. When transporting goods from the manufacturer’s facility to the customer’s warehouse, the freight charges may change based on different factors. The shipping cost might be billed before or after the goods are delivered. We also published a comprehensive blog post on factors affecting shipping rates.

The following are some of the factors that influence freight charges:

Fuel Cost

The freight cost pricing model of several shipping companies includes fuel costs. The fuel price determines the cost of road and sea shipping, and the final cost charged to the customer must include the fuel price at the time of shipment.

If fuel prices are low, road and sea transportation will be less expensive, and the savings will be passed on to the customer. However, if fuel prices rise, so will the price of land and sea freight, and the increased cost will be passed on to the customer.

Low/High Customer Demand

The demand for freight services has an impact on freight costs. During periods of high demand for shipping space, there will be enormous volumes of goods to ship, and users will compete for the limited capacity. As a result, shipping companies can charge higher prices for the limited space.

When demand for freight services is low, on the other hand, shipping companies will decrease their rates to compete with the fewer consumers looking to ship cargo.

Incidents

Emerging incidents like terrorism, piracy, and a rogue government can lead to higher freight charges as shipping companies try to cover their losses. Shippers may choose longer routes that provide better safety, raising costs. To cover the risks, higher insurance premiums are requested; to avoid pirate-prone shipping routes such as Somalia, longer shipping routes are chosen, increasing freight charges.
Shipping companies can charge a higher premium when moving cargo through areas prone to terrorism and criminal groups to increase cargo safety.

New Rules & Regulations

In some countries, the government may introduce laws that affect the shipping industry. For example, during times of the year, government officials may impose restrictions on truck drivers’ maximum driving hours. This means the shipment will take longer to arrive at its destination.

To compensate for possible losses, shipping companies increase freight costs. Other government rules that may impact freight prices include a prohibition on night driving, emission tax legislation, and restrictions on the number of goods that trucks can move.

Different Types of Freight Charges

The following are full explanations of all the terms related to the freight charges.

Consignee Collects

The consignee is the one who receives the goods. When the consignee or buyer receives the goods, he/she is responsible for all charges. He is responsible for customs declarations, which are statements that prove that products are imported. Also, he will have to fill out paperwork and pay taxes.

Prepay and add charges

In this case, the shipper is responsible for freight costs and collects them from customers afterward. If the customer-shipper relationship is excellent, this strategy will work. It will not be difficult for the shipper to obtain higher rates, which will be impossible for customers.

FOB Destination Charges

When the shipper’s title to the goods passes through the consignee’s dock, the shipper pays the freight costs. Before the goods are dispatched, the freight charges should be paid.

FOB Origin Charges

The term FOB (Free on Board) refers to the supplier paying for the freight costs up to a certain point, after which the customer is responsible. It is the buyer’s responsibility If the goods are damaged. For the consignee, the same regulation applies. He oversees the freight.

Freight Prepaid and FOB Origin Charges

This approach is like FOB Origins in that the consignee is responsible for the cargo, and the shipper is simply responsible for the applicable local expenses.

Freight Collect and FOB Destination Charges

The consignee receives ownership of the goods and is responsible for any costs.

Cash on Delivery

After the cargo is delivered, the carrier collects the freight costs, which the shipper reimburses after submitting it to him.

Allowed, FOB Destination, and Freight Collect

The consignee is responsible for paying the freight and local charges to the carriers once the goods arrive at their destination. The consignee bears the risk and obligation for paying and settling any costs at the destination

FOB Origin, Pre-Paid Freight, and Chargeback

The consignee is responsible for the freight in this method, and the costs for the freight are paid by the consignee’s representative at the origin. The shipper then sends the consignee an invoice for the freight charges paid.

Points to Consider When Shipping:

The term “freight on board” does not indicate who owns the freight. It is an internationally recognized legal term that states that the consignor must transport the goods to the consignee by a vessel.

It refers to when the consignor’s responsibility for the freight ends, and the consignee is accountable for the shipping charges. In an ideal circumstance, the consignor pays to have the freight delivered to a specified location. The consignee subsequently covers the cost of carrying the freight from that place to the consignee’s location.

Who owns the freight is stated on the bill of lading (BOL). The conditions of sale specify who is responsible for freight charges.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Freight charges are the expenses charged by a carrier for shipping freight to a destination location. The individual who wants the goods carried from one place to another is responsible for paying the freight charges. The freight cost is determined by the form of transportation used to deliver the goods.

Factors Affecting Freight Charges

The following are some of the factors that influence freight charges:

Fuel Cost

Low/High Customer Demand

When demand for freight services is low, on the other hand, shipping companies will decrease their rates to compete with the fewer consumers looking to ship cargo.

Incidents

New Rules & Regulations

Different Types of Freight Charges

The following are full explanations of all the terms related to the freight charges.

Consignee Collects:

Prepay and add charges:

FOB Destination Charges

When the shipper’s title to the goods passes through the consignee’s dock, the shipper pays the freight costs. Before the goods are dispatched, the freight charges should be paid.

FOB Origin Charges

Freight Prepaid and FOB Origin Charges

This approach is like FOB Origins in that the consignee is responsible for the cargo, and the shipper is simply responsible for the applicable local expenses.

Freight Collect and FOB Destination Charges

The consignee receives ownership of the goods and is responsible for any costs.

Cash on Delivery

After the cargo is delivered, the carrier collects the freight costs, which the shipper reimburses after submitting it to him.

Allowed, FOB Destination, and Freight Collect

FOB Origin, Pre-Paid Freight, and Chargeback

Points to Consider When Shipping:

Who owns the freight is stated on the bill of lading (BOL). The conditions of sale specify who is responsible for freight charges.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Why Use A Moffett Truck?

Edward Martin — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 14:44:38 +0000

The Blog

Why Use A Moffett Truck?

09 January 2023 by Edward Martin

Our Moffett forklift service will save you time and money. We can deliver to customers with no offload facilities, deliver anywhere within a site and removes the need for the manual handling of loads. Best of it all it can free up valuable time as our driver will do the loading for you.

At JJX it is our business to make your business easier. Our Moffett truck mounted forklifts are special forklifts that offer the most flexible, portable delivery systems on the market. The Moffett forklift adds value to our transport haulage service as it means we can cater for all of your offloading needs: offering an inclusive offloading service for customers who do not have access to a forklift and delivery to difficult, problematic sites.

Our mounted forklifts have lift capacities of up to 2000kg (2 tonne) and off-road capabilities. The benefit is that they work independently to the lorry, which enables us to work faster and move your goods exactly where you need them.

Benefits of using Truck Mounted Forklifts

Offers lifting capacity of 2000kg
Deliver to customers with no offload facilities
We supply the forklift and driver, ready to offload
Offload anywhere on a site
No manual handling of loads
Improve site safety
Save customers on hire & labour costs

More info about Moffett Trucks

INDUSTRIAL LANDSCAPES

The compact and agile Moffett is built to handle industrial and commercial jobs with ease. Don’t be fooled by the small size, it has tremendous power and performance and can deliver loads safely and precisely on both paved and firm, off-road surfaces. This versatile truck mounted forklift will negotiate tight areas even with the heaviest loads.

COVER ROUGH TERRAIN

Muddy ditches, narrow trails, marshy ground; there’s pretty much nothing our Moffett can’t cruise through. They perform like battle tanks.

History of the Moffett

In just a few short decades, MOFFETT has changed the way to deliver goods and set the pace for a sustainable future.

1945- Founded by Cecil Moffett, the company first produced special agricultural equipment for the local industry.

1986- Cecil Moffett created a small revolution in the transport industry with the invention of the truck mounted forklift.

1990- Success quickly followed with the introduction of the ‘Moffett Mounty’ in the USA and Europe

2013- Launch of eSeries- ProFuture, the world’s first Lithium-ion powered truck mounted forklifts

We're ready when you need us

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Benefits Of Social Media

Edward Martin — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:08:37 +0000

The Blog

Benefits Of Social Media

09 January 2023 by Edward Martin

There are many benefits of social media use to promote your company. As many people know, social media is a rapid growing industry which makes billions per year and is a massive part of our future. Over 4.9 billion people worldwide are accessing social media, on average a social media user uses 6 to 7 social media apps.

Getting attention

If people don’t know about your business, they can’t become your customers. Social media skyrockets your customer data base as it allows you to broaden your horizons when it comes to acquiring customers. It helps you reach a wider audience but of course needs large amounts of time and effort, the beauty is that you have nothing to lose whether you gain customers or not. The one thing that can be certain is that you won’t lose customers from it. As a beginner you will need to post a hell of a lot to try and put your profile on the map, this is the most difficult part of the whole operation, acquiring followers. You want to use hashtags on every post relating to the service your company provides as this will draw in the target audience.

Presentation

One key aspect of promoting your business on social media is making your pages look very professional and eye catching as the first thing the potential customer will see is home page. You need to make this look like it was designed for a multi-national corporation with high class clientele. Put as much hard work in as possible as this will help make the potential customer feel very comfortable and intrigued.

Variety

It’s important to have multiple social media platforms as is allows for a more diverse community to see your company. Customers are becoming more cautious about which business they’ll support so you must make it looks as professional as possible, this means linking multiple platforms together and even including a link to the company website (if you have one). Look for ways to demonstrate your expertise as a thought leader in your industry, like writing pieces related to your expertise or expanding on your company’s mission. By showing what your business offers and values, you will establish confidence in potential customers.

Authenticity

Customers aren’t interested in dry, boring posts that appear to be automated, they like to have that personal touch. Allow your brand’s personality to shine through, give a personal feel to your posts so it allows your customers to know what kind of person you are. While brands need to be polite and empathetic to their audiences, it is more important to find a voice and take a stand. Practice getting your tone just right, whether it’s casual and funny or formal and friendly. Ne true to who you are, not who you think you should be. Followers want to see real people behind your social profiles.

Interact with the audience

Followers love to engage with posts that include them. There are many ways to include you followers such as creating a poll asking them for their personal opinion on what they want to see, this normally works really well and allows the follower to feel included. Social media opens the conversation for instant interaction, relationship building, and customer loyalty. It’s really important that companies have the right organizational structure to support social media, for example a customer support team and a product development team tends to be extremely effective. Just remember, you don’t have to do everything. Best way to learn is play around with new ways to connect with your audience and give yourself permission to learn as you go. Everyday will be different from the last which makes each day a new adventure into the world of social media.

Grow your page

Social media isn’t a place to be overly salesy, but after all, it’s a marketing channel and you need not ignore the opportunity to make sales, should it present itself. Sponsored info on timelines, videos with CTAs, cross-channel retargeting and shoppable posts are the mainstay of social media. Marketing costs do add up and many businesses can’t afford massive campaigns, but you can get a lot of value for your money with media advertising. Your business, regardless of size or budget, has an opportunity to grow your audience and reach objectives through ads on social platforms like Facebook and Instagram. A very good social platform to use for business use is LinkedIn, this platform is designed specifically for finding jobs and promoting your company. On LinkedIn you can pay for sponsored posts which reach more people depending on how much you want to spend of course, this is very useful to promote your company and reach potential new customers who you wouldn’t normally access. When building an ad campaign, know who you’re trying to reach and what goal you want to achieve so you don’t waste any of your budget on unhelpful advertising. Avoid overly salesy ads and opt for content that educates or entertains.

Provide feedback

Running a professional social media platform can be a very demanding job as you need to track every aspect of the platform. Instead of calling a customer service line, many people turn to social media to try and find an answer to their query. An important part of running a platform is responding to your followers, making sure you answer any question that they may have. Develop your reputation as a responsive, caring brand by offering support through social channels:

Create a system for tracking customer comments, questions, and complaints on social media.
Respond as quickly as possible to questions and concerns.
Go out of your way to be positive and helpful.
Listen to criticism and make customers feel heard.
Know when to resolve public conversations in private messages.

Why social media is essential for businesses

Social media is a crucial part of your business marketing, but it doesn’t have to be stressful to manage. Take the first step, create a profile, and start engaging with your customers. As it continues to weave itself into the daily patterns of our lives, more consumers will go to new and upcoming social platforms for purchasing decisions. Those who have a strong social media presence and branding will increase conversation rates, while those without active social media campaigns could lose potential customers.

We're ready when you need us

The post Benefits Of Social Media appeared first on JJX Logistics.

How many classes of dangerous goods are there?

Edward Martin — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 16:15:52 +0000

The Blog

How many classes of dangerous goods are there?

15 December 2022 by Edward Martin

Dangerous goods are materials or items with hazardous properties which, if not properly controlled, present a potential hazard to human health and safety, infrastructure and/ or their means of transport.

The transportation of dangerous goods is controlled and governed by a variety of different regulatory regimes, operating at both the national and international levels. Prominent regulatory frameworks for the transportation of dangerous goods include the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, ICAO’s Technical Instructions, IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations and the IMO’s International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. Collectively, these regulatory regimes mandate how dangerous goods are to be handled, packaged, labelled, and transported.

Regulatory frameworks incorporate comprehensive classification systems of hazards to provide a taxonomy of dangerous goods. Classification of dangerous goods is broken down into nine classes according to the type of danger materials or items present, click on a class to read more details.

Class 1 - Explosives

Explosives are materials or items which could rapidly conflagrate or detonate because of chemical reaction.

DGI are proficient in handling explosives, Class 1 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of explosives; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Explosives are capable by chemical reaction of producing gases at temperatures, pressures and speeds as to cause catastrophic damage through force and/or of producing otherwise hazardous amounts of heat, light, sound, gas or smoke

Sub-Divisions

Division 1.1: Substances and articles which have a mass explosion hazard

Division 1.2: Substances and articles which have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard

Division 1.3: Substances and articles which have a fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard or a minor projection hazard or both

Division 1.4: Substances and articles which present no significant hazard; only a small hazard in the event of ignition or initiation during transport with any effects largely confined to the package

Division 1.5: Very insensitive substances which have a mass explosion hazard

Division 1.6: Extremely insensitive articles which do not have a mass explosion hazard

Commonly Transported Explosives

Ammunition/cartridges, Fireworks/pyrotechnics, Flares, blasting caps / detonators, Fuse, Primers, Explosive charges (blasting, demolition etc), Detonating cord, Air bag inflators, Igniters, Rockets, TNT / TNT compositions, RDX / RDX compositions, PETN / PETN compositions.

Class 2 - Gases

Gases are defined by dangerous goods regulations as substances which have a vapour pressure of 300 kPa or greater at 50°c or which are completely gaseous at 20°c at standard atmospheric pressure, and items containing these substances. The class encompasses compressed gases, liquefied gases, dissolved gases, refrigerated liquefied gases, mixtures of one or more gases with one or more vapours of substances of other classes, articles charged with a gas and aerosols.

DGI are proficient in handling gases, Class 2 Dangerous Goods. DGI can service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of gases; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Gases can pose serious hazards due to their flammability, potential as asphyxiants, ability to oxidize and/or their toxicity or corrosiveness to humans.

Sub-Divisions

Division 2.1: Flammable gases

Division 2.2: Non-flammable, non-toxic gases

Division 2.3: Toxic gases

Commonly Transported Gases

Aerosols, Compressed air, Hydrocarbon gas-powered devices, Fire extinguishers, Gas cartridges, Fertilizer ammoniating solution, Insecticide gases, Refrigerant gases, Lighters, Acetylene / Oxyacetylene, Carbon dioxide, Helium / helium compounds, Hydrogen / hydrogen compounds, Oxygen / oxygen compounds, Nitrogen / nitrogen compounds, Natural gas, Oil gas, Petroleum gases, Butane, Propane, Ethane, Methane, Dimethyl ether, Propene / propylene, Ethylene.

Class 3 - Flammable Liquids

Flammable liquids are defined by dangerous goods regulations as liquids, mixtures of liquids or liquids containing solids in solution or suspension which give off a flammable vapour (have a flash point) at temperatures of not more than 60-65°C, liquids offered for transport at temperatures at or above their flash point or substances transported at elevated temperatures in a liquid state and which give off a flammable vapour at a temperature at or below the maximum transport temperature.

DGI are proficient in handling flammable liquids, Class 3 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of flammable liquids; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Flammable liquids can pose serious hazards due to their volatility, combustibility and potential in causing or propagating severe conflagrations.

Sub-Divisions

There are no subdivisions within Class 3, Flammable Liquids.

Commonly Transported Flammable Liquids

Acetone / acetone oils, Adhesives, Paints / lacquers / varnishes, Alcohols, Perfumery products, Gasoline / Petrol, Diesel fuel, Aviation fuel, Liquid bio-fuels, Coal tar / coal tar distillates, Petroleum crude oil, Petroleum distillates, Gas oil, Shale oil, Heating oil, Kerosene, Resins, Tars, Turpentine, Carbamate insecticides, Organochlorine pesticides, Organophosphorus pesticides, Copper based pesticides, Esters, Ethers, Ethanol, Benzene, Butanol’s, Dichloropropenes, Diethyl ether, Isobutanes, Isopropyl, Methanol, Octanes.

Class 4 – Flammable Solids

Spontaneous Combustibles - ‘Dangerous When Wet’ Materials

Flammable solids are materials which, under conditions encountered in transport, are readily combustible or may cause or contribute to fire through friction, self-reactive substances which are liable to undergo a strongly exothermic reaction or solid desensitized explosives. Also included are substances which are liable to spontaneous heating under normal transport conditions, or to heating up in contact with air, and are consequently liable to catch fire and substances which emit flammable gases or become spontaneously flammable when in contact with water.

DGI are proficient in handling flammable solids, Class 4 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of flammable solids; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Flammable solids can pose serious hazards due to their volatility, combustibility and potential in causing or propagating severe conflagrations.

Sub-Divisions

Division 4.1: Flammable solids

Division 4.2: Substances liable to spontaneous combustion

Division 4.3: Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

Commonly Transported Flammable Solids; Spontaneous Combustibles; ‘Dangerous When Wet’ Materials

Alkali metals, Metal powders, Aluminium phosphide, Sodium batteries, Sodium cells, Firelighters, Matches, Calcium carbide, Camphor, Carbon, Activated carbon, Celluloid, Cerium, Copra, Seed cake, Oily cotton waste, Desensitized explosives, Oily fabrics, Oily fibres, Ferrocerium, Iron oxide (spent, Iron sponge/direct-reduced iron (spent) , Metaldehyde, Naphthalene, Nitrocellulose, Phosphorus, Sulphur.

Class 5 - Oxidizers, Organic Peroxides

Oxidizers are defined by dangerous goods regulations as substances which may cause or contribute to combustion, generally by yielding oxygen because of a redox chemical reaction. Organic peroxides are substances which may be considered derivatives of hydrogen peroxide where one or both hydrogen atoms of the chemical structure have been replaced by organic radicals.

DGI are proficient in handling oxidising agents and organic peroxides, Class 5 Dangerous Goods. DGI can service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of oxidising agents and organic peroxides; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Oxidizers, although not necessarily combustible in themselves, can yield oxygen and in so doing cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials. Organic peroxides are thermally unstable and may exude heat whilst undergoing exothermic autocatalytic decomposition. Additionally, organic peroxides may be liable to explosive decomposition, burn rapidly, be sensitive to impact or friction, react dangerously with other substances or cause damage to eyes.

Sub-Divisions

Division 5.1: Oxidizing substances

Division 5.1: Organic peroxides

Commonly Transported Oxidizers; Organic Peroxides

Chemical oxygen generators, Ammonium nitrate fertilizers, Chlorates, Nitrates, Nitrites, Perchlorates, Permanganates, Persulphates, Aluminium nitrate, Ammonium dichromate, Ammonium nitrate, Ammonium persulphate, Calcium hypochlorite, Calcium nitrate, Calcium peroxide, Hydrogen peroxide, Magnesium peroxide, Lead nitrate, Lithium hypochlorite, Potassium chlorate, Potassium nitrate, Potassium chlorate, Potassium perchlorate, Potassium permanganate, Sodium nitrate, Sodium persulphate.

Class 6 - Toxic Substances, Infectious Substances

Toxic substances are those which are liable either to cause death or serious injury or to harm human health if swallowed, inhaled or by skin contact. Infectious substances are those which are known or can be reasonably expected to contain pathogens. Dangerous goods regulations define pathogens as microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, rickettsia, parasites and fungi, or other agents which can cause disease in humans or animals.

DGI are proficient in handling toxic and infectious substances, Class 6 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of oxidising agents and organic peroxides; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Toxic and infectious substances can pose significant risks to human and animal health upon contact.

Sub-Divisions

Division 6.1: Toxic substances

Division 6.2: Infectious substances

Commonly Transported Toxic Substances, Infectious Substances

Medical/Biomedical waste, Clinical waste, Biological cultures / samples / specimens, Medical cultures / samples / specimens, Tear gas substances, Motor fuel anti-knock mixture, Dyes, Carbamate pesticides, Alkaloids, Allyls, Acids, Arsenates, Arsenites, Cyanides, Thiols/mercaptans, Cresols, Barium compounds, Arsenics / arsenic compounds, Beryllium/ beryllium compounds, Lead compounds, Mercury compounds, Nicotine / nicotine compounds, Selenium compounds, Antimony, Ammonium metavanadate, Adiponitrile, Chloroform, Dichloromethane, Hexachlorophene, Phenol, Resorcinol.

Class 7 - Radioactive Material

Dangerous goods regulations define radioactive material as any material containing radionuclides where both the activity concentration and the total activity exceeds certain pre-defined values. A radionuclide is an atom with an unstable nucleus, and which consequently is subject to radioactive decay.

DGI are proficient in handling radioactive material, Class 7 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of radioactive material; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Whilst undergoing radioactive decay radionuclides emit ionizing radiation, which presents potentially severe risks to human health.

Sub-Divisions

There are no subdivisions within Class 7, Radioactive Material.

Commonly Transported Radioactive Material

Radioactive ores, medical isotopes, Yellowcake, Density gauges, Mixed fission products, Surface contaminated objects, Caesium radionuclides / isotopes, Iridium radionuclides / isotopes, Americium radionuclides / isotopes, Plutonium radionuclides / isotopes, Radium radionuclides / isotopes, Thorium radionuclides / isotopes, Uranium radionuclides / isotopes, Depleted uranium / depleted uranium products, Uranium hexafluoride, Enriched Uranium.

Class 8 - Corrosives

Corrosives are substances which by chemical action degrade or disintegrate other materials upon contact.

DGI are proficient in handling corrosives, Class 8 Dangerous Goods. DGI could service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of corrosives; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Corrosives cause severe damage when in contact with living tissue or, in the case of leakage, damage or destroy surrounding materials.

Sub-Divisions

There are no subdivisions within Class 8, Corrosives.

Commonly Transported Corrosives

Acids/acid solutions, Batteries, Battery fluid, Fuel cell cartridges, Dyes, Fire extinguisher charges, Formaldehyde, Flux, Paints, Alkylphenols, Amines, Polyamines, Sulphides, Polysulphides, Chlorides, Chlorosilanes, Bromine, Cyclohexylamine, Phenol / carbolic acid, Hydrofluoric acid, Hydrochloric acid, Sulfuric acid, Nitric acid, Sludge acid, Hydrogen fluoride, Iodine, Morpholine.

Class 9 - Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Miscellaneous dangerous goods are substances and articles which during transport present a danger or hazard not covered by other classes. This class encompasses, but is not limited to, environmentally hazardous substances, substances that are transported at elevated temperatures, miscellaneous articles and substances, genetically modified organisms, and micro-organisms and (depending on the method of transport) magnetized materials and aviation regulated substances.

DGI are proficient in handling miscellaneous dangerous goods, Class 9 Dangerous Goods. DGI can service all customer requests pertaining to the logistics of miscellaneous dangerous goods; packing, packaging, compliance, freight forwarding and training.

Reason for Regulation

Miscellaneous dangerous goods present a wide array of potential hazards to human health and safety, infrastructure and/ or their means of transport.

Sub-Divisions

There are no subdivisions within Class 9, Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods.

Commonly Transported Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Dry ice / cardice / solid carbon dioxide, Expandable polymeric beads / polystyrene beads, Ammonium nitrate fertilizers, Blue asbestos / crocidolite, Lithium ion batteries, Lithium metal batteries, Battery powered equipment, Battery powered vehicles, Fuel cell engines, Internal combustion engines, Vehicles, Magnetized material, Dangerous goods in apparatus, Dangerous goods in machinery, Genetically modified organisms, Genetically modified micro-organisms, Chemical kits, First aid kits, Lifesaving appliances, Air bag modules, Seatbelt pretensioners, Plastics moulding compound, Castor bean plant products, Polychlorinated biphenyls, Polychlorinated terphenyls, Dibromo difluoromethane, Benzaldehyde.

We're ready when you need us

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Exporting goods to and from the UK/Europe

Edward Martin — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 15:22:56 +0000

The Blog

Exporting goods to and from the UK/Europe

15 December 2022 by Edward Martin

Exporting goods from UK to Europe

As a member of the European union, the UK currently enjoys preferential market access to 40 of the 70 countries that have trade relations with the EU. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, with no new agreements to compensate for the loss of the previous ones, the UK will have to follow the World Trade Organisation’s MFN (Most Favoured Nation) tariffs while exporting goods. Negotiations are still underway to prevent the UK from experiencing huge losses while exporting goods.

Meanwhile, here are the steps you’ll need to follow in case of a no-deal Brexit scenario. You may have to cope with changes related to exporting and declaring excise goods like tobacco and alcohol.

Must Have's

You need to make sure your business has an Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number (EORI). To continue importing goods into the UK, you will need to have a 12-digit EORI starting with GB. If your business does not have an EORI number, then you might face delays and increased costs while importing goods. However, you may not need an EORI number if your business is service-based or if you want to move goods between Northern Ireland and Ireland. If you are exporting goods to your business space in the EU, then you will need to have an EU EORI number. If you don’t have one, then you can get one from the customs authority in any EU country.

Make export declaration

To make export declarations, you can either hire an agent or do it yourself.

Hiring a customs agent

Freight forwarders, brokers, and fast parcel operators are some of the types of agents who can handle customs for you. To help you with imports from the EU, they must be established in the EU.

Freight forwarders: can assist you with moving goods around the world. They can even plan to help you get customs clearance.

Brokers or custom agents: ensure clearance through customs.

Fast parcel operators: can help you move documents, parcels, and freight around the world within a specific time frame. They can even handle customs clearance for you, provided you give them written instructions. The instructions must clarify whether these agents are acting for you directly or indirectly. If your business is new and you are still in search of a customs agent, you can find one from HMRC’s list of customs agents.

Declaring exports yourself

If you are making customs export declarations by yourself, then you must know three important things when you export goods outside the UK: how to submit, when to submit, and which boxes to complete.

How to submit –If you are submitting your declarations on your own, they must be sent electronically through the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system. To do this, you must first apply to gain access to CHIEF and then buy third-party software to submit declarations electronically via CHIEF.

While moving merchandise in baggage or small vehicles, you will need to submit a full declaration in advance if the goods meet any of the following conditions:

– the value of the goods is over 900 Euro

– the goods weigh more than 1,000 kg

– you are moving excise or restricted goods

– the goods need a licence

– you are planning to claim relief

When to submit–For most of the goods that you export, you will need to submit a full declaration, without which your goods will be stopped at the border and delayed.

If you are exporting goods using the simplified declaration procedure, then you will need to present your goods to customs before you move them. Likewise, if you are sending your goods via roll on roll off ports or the Channel Tunnel, you will be asked to show customs declarations documents. You may also be asked to pay any customs duty, excise duty, or VAT due.

Boxes to complete– Each time you are moving goods, you must include the commodity codein your customs declarations. You may also have to include the Customs Procedure Code (CPC) which identifies the customs procedure applied while moving the goods.

Check the tax and duty rates to be paid

If you are exporting goods from the UK to the EU, then your importer in the EU will need to pay any taxes and duties levied on the goods which you have sent. The amount of taxes and duties owed will depend on the classification of the goods.

Check the rules for your specific goods and destination

Depending on what you are exporting, you will have to check:

– if you have to apply for an export license

– the rules to export goods like alcohol and tobacco

– the rules to export controlled goods like firearms

– the import rules of the country to which you are exporting your goods

Make sure you are prepared to transport your goods

You can always hire an agent to transport your goods outside the UK, but if you’re transporting them yourself, there are some things you’ll need to do.

OPERATOR LICENCES AND PERMITS

– Decide if you require an operator licence

– Apply for an operator licence, if you need one.

– Check if you need any other licences and permits (this depends on the countries you will be driving through)

– Check if your vehicle needs to pass an ADR test (if your vehicle will be carrying hazardous goods in bulk by road)

DRIVER DOCUMENTS

The driver of your vehicle will need to carry the following documents:

– a valid passport

– a valid CPC card

– an IDP (applicable in some EU countries)

RULES FOR TRANSPORTING DIFFERENT GOODS

You must get clearance from the customs department before your goods leave the UK.

You may need to abide by some specific rules while transporting certain goods. Your driver maybe asked to drive on routes with specific checkpoints if you are moving mixed loads or specific goods. Here are the categories and the rules:

– live animal or animal products

– dangerous goods

– perishable foods

– abnormal loads

EXPORT DOCUMENTS TO BE CARRIED BY DRIVER

Your driver must have copies of the following documents:

– export licenses

– a Movement Reference Number (MRN), in a no-deal Brexit scenario

– an MRN and an LRN, if you are transporting goods under the CTC
– an ATA Carnet document, if you are moving your goods temporarily out of the UK

– a TiR Carnet Document, if you are moving goods in a sealed load compartment with a seal number

VEHICLE DOCUMENTS TO BE CARRIED BY DRIVER

In addition to the documents about the goods you’re transporting, your driver will also need to carry copies of:

– Vehicle documents for legally crossing international borders

– A written system for securing your vehicle, and a checklist showing that the system is being followed

– Other documents, such as tachograph charts and insurance

We're ready when you need us

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Christmas At JJX

Edward Martin — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 14:31:17 +0000

The Blog

Christmas At JJX

01 December 2022 by Edward Martin

Christmas Hours

Unlike many companies, we at JJX remain open throughout the Christmas period. unfortunately we're not able to do the same deliveries, as European jobs are suspended from December 19th with a dedicated service only, same with the Irish jobs. Last trunk will be suspended after the final delivery on December 22nd and return to normal on January 3rd. We like to think that we remain loyal to our customers by staying reliable during this hectic time of year and keeping you supplied with our services.

Donations

Here at JJX we love to help those who are in need, that's we donate chocolates and toys to those who are less fortunate. We also request donations from anyone that is willing to help and we make sure they're delivered safe and sound. Whether it's bars of chocolate or game systems, we will make sure they end up in the hands of those who are unable to buy their children the gifts that they dream of. We like to make dreams a reality.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

We're ready when you need us

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Warehouse, Fulfilment And Storage

Edward Martin — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:48:53 +0000

The Blog

Warehouse, Fulfilment And Storage

28 November 2022 by Edward Martin

Why store your goods with us?

We have a great team that works around the clock to take care of your goods. With 24/7 security and 100% CCTV we can assure your goods are safe with us. Our Warehouse Management System allows us to fully control the inventory of your goods and track and trace their movements. Our pick and pack capabilities allow us to service many different industries. We can do everything from receiving and unloading the goods, storage through to picking, dispatching and invoicing. Let us take the hassle away from you.

What we will need to know:

Size of the warehouse space required,
Are the goods on pallets,
Type of goods,
Type of storage,
Length of storage,
more details may be required.

Learn more about our warehousing, storage and distribution services by clicking here.

Get in touch with our team on 01384 221642 or email them on info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Logistics And Distribution. What’s The Difference?

Edward Martin — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:47:13 +0000

The Blog

Logistics And Distribution. What’s The Difference?

28 November 2022 by Edward Martin

Many people can get logistics and distribution mixed up slightly. A key difference is that logistics relates to the overall planning and organisation of transport, storage and the control of goods, whereas distribution is related to the physical movement of the goods.

Logistics and distribution are critical. Both elements generally relate to the flow of goods. With logistics focusing on the planning and organisation before the goods are moved and distribution focusing on the actual movement.

Every company that produces a mass amount of product will agree that both logistics and distribution are crucial individual processes. Ensuring that stock is delivered to the right location, at the right time, whilst remaining cost-effective. However, they are two very different business functions which work together, and many people struggle to identify the differences.

Logistics

Logistics refers to the management of transport and warehousing concentrating on the handling of goods before they are taken to their destination. It’s the management of this start to end process that we know as logistics.

The logistics strategy is an integral part of any supply chain and the production of goods. Ensuring that the entire process is effective in the delivery of the product to its destination.

Distribution

Distribution is the process of making goods available to the end-user. The difference here is that this function refers to the physical movement of goods including the steps taken to make the products consumer-ready.

Distribution is also a critical step in the supply chain. It involves the storage, handling and the processing of goods for them to arrive with the user in a cost-effective and efficient way.

It relates to overseeing the moving the goods from its source to the destination.

Get in touch

Here at JJX we can do as little or as much as you’d like us to do. We can assist you with the entire logistics process of organising and planning transport or the distribution and storage of your goods from our warehouse facility in the Midlands.

We have a varied fleet of vehicles which we can utilise to transport different types and amounts of goods. Our team can help manage how your products are acquired, stored, and transported.

We're ready when you need us

The post Logistics And Distribution. What’s The Difference? appeared first on JJX Logistics.

Do You Sell Fragile Goods? Here Are Our Top Tips When Delivering Fragile Goods.

Edward Martin — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:44:15 +0000

The Blog

Do You Sell Fragile Goods? Here Are Our Top Tips When Delivering Fragile Goods.

28 November 2022 by Edward Martin

As a business that transports fragile goods daily, we’ve put together a little bit of advice for you. Most fragile items can be expensive, invaluable or irreplaceable, you’ll need to take all appropriate steps to safely package your consignments. Sometimes, fragile items can also be hazardous, which then means you will have to adhere to more regulations.

If you sell fragile items, here’s what you need to think of when sending the consignment out for delivery.

Packaging

Firstly, choose the correct size of box/pallet/packaging. Ensure it will fit your items in comfortably. Next, ensure the protective filling is suitable, whether it’s Styrofoam, bubble wrap, foam pellets etc. The fragile item needs to be sufficiently protected in order to travel.

If the package contains fragile items, it’s a good idea to label your box as ‘fragile’. This let’s let the handler and transporters know to deal with the consignment with care. It’s also important if the items are going to be stored in a warehouse.

Accurately weigh the consignment

Once your goods are packed and ready to be sent, weigh and measure the package to enable us to provide you with an accurate cost.

These measurements will provide our team with appropriate guidance of how to handle the parcel. For example, if the fragile consignment is classified as heavy, it will need further due attention and consideration during transportation.

Let us know your requirements

Some fragile items such as mechanical parts, may also be valuable. This is where we can assist you further. Fragile goods can also be food items or need extra requirements such as temperature-controlled transport, ice sculptures for example. We also have the capability to carry this type of product due to possessing temperature-controlled vans and trailers. These vehicles are also able to print out a report of the travelling temperature.

Security

We are TAPA accredited, meaning that we are certified to carry high value goods in a secure and safe manner. All staff and drivers are DBS checked to ensure extra safety and peace of mind for you. This way you can ensure your goods are handled in the correct way.

If a fragile consignment requires a high level of security, you’ll want reassurance every step of the way. The logistics account manager will work with you to fully understand your requirements and needs to ensure your confidence.

How JJX can help

Our logistics and warehouse teams are fully aware of how to safely handle fragile goods (Hazardous included). They give care and attention to every individual movement.

The JJX team are on hand every step of the way. The logistics account manager and planners work together to ensure your requirements are met and we provide you the service you need.

Whether it’s temperature-controlled, hazardous or just ambient general transport for fragile goods, the JJX team can help.

Please get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.

We're ready when you need us

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Find Out More About Our Secure Transport For Confidential And High Value Goods

Edward Martin — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:29:08 +0000

The Blog

Find Out More About Our Secure Transport For Confidential And High Value Goods

28 November 2022 by Edward Martin

Find out more about our secure transport for confidential and high-value goods transport.

Your goods are in safe hands with JJX.

Looking to move or transport confidential documents or high-value goods? We know you will want to be sure that the consignment is protected every step of the way. JJX offer a professional and trustworthy service, being TAPA registered also gives evidence of our secure logistical movements.

What is TAPA?

The Transported Asset Protection Association is an association of security professionals and related business partners. It covers many different industries including many transportation companies. The association have come together for the purpose of addressing the emerging security threats that are common to the relevant industries. JJX meet the TAPA standards and are recognised as a secure transporter of goods. We have the relevant procedures and processes in place to ensure the required security and protection of your goods.

Our clients trust us to move their sensitive documents, hazardous or high-value goods from one location to another. Backed up by our track and trace system it allows us to know what’s going on with your goods at every moment. Working to the global standards of TAPA we assure you that your goods are safe in our hands.

With a highly experienced team that handles all the planning, coordination and delivery of goods, you can rest easy while we complete that final mile of the journey.

How can we help

Whether your consignment is time-critical, confidential or needs handling according to specific instructions, our knowledgeable team is here to ensure you have complete peace of mind.

Each member of the JJX team is DBS Security Cleared.

We provide a dedicated same-day service. This means we can organise a journey with no stops and organise a vehicle that carries only your goods on board.

Flexible to your requirements. Let us you know what you need, and we will make it happen.

Give our team a call on 01384 221642 or email info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Environmentally Friendly Logistics And Transport

Edward Martin — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:08:07 +0000

The Blog

Environmentally Friendly Logistics And Transport

28 November 2022 by Edward Martin

As a logistics firm, we are committed to reducing our impact on the environment and becoming more environmentally friendly. Although this is a tough task within our industry, we would like to inform you how we ensure it happens to the best of our ability. This way, you know that by us reducing our carbon footprint you can too!

We have implemented an innovative warehouse and transport system in order to make our processes more efficient. From warehouse consolidation to the route planning of drivers.

Top Technology

HaulTech is our chosen Transport and Warehouse management system. As well as managing it from our side, it also gives you the ability to log in and check the current status of a job.

This system also allows us to work on streamlining the proof of delivery process and introducing a paperless system. Therefore, becoming more environmentally friendly. However, we are aware that some of you do require extra paperwork to be completed and process due to the types of products we handle for you.

Groupage service

Groupage is when we combine a range of goods into one efficient shipment. It’s the perfect way to transport goods without that premium price tag while also having a reduced impact on the environment. If you have daily dispatches or one-off pallet deliveries our groupage service could work for you. A flexible, cost-effective and practical option for sending freight within the UK and Ireland. By using a trailer to its full capacity, we reduce the number of journeys and vehicles out on the road and therefore reduce fuel pollution.

Efficient transport planning

Regular breaks, rapid acceleration, travelling on bad roads are all cause for poor fuel economy and can increase damage to a vehicle. Our team of transport planners work wonders on mapping and organising our fleet of vehicles to provide the most efficient routes. Strategic breaks plus the effective use of the roadways ensure improved fuel usage and reduce pollution.

Although traffic is unavoidable, and all-electric HGVs are a fair way away now, we do as much as we can to efficiently plan and reduce our impact on the environment.

Vehicles

All our vehicles are Euro 6 standard, meaning they comply with high emissions standards. These standards were put in place by the EU to reduce pollutants from vehicle exhausts. With all company vehicles conforming to this standard, we can ensure that the journey’s we take reduces harm on the environment.

Using efficient route planning means that less fuel can be used when carrying out our journeys and means that parcels can be delivered to customers far more cost-effectively, without delay.

Get in touch

When it comes to logistics it’s tough to be environmentally friendly while keeping costs low. While we may not be the cheapest logistics firm, we can certainly guarantee a quality service. There’s no added cost because of all the above, it’s just part of the package we provide and a bonus of being good at what we do.

info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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What are dangerous and hazardous goods?

Edward Martin — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 15:38:35 +0000

The Blog

What are dangerous and hazardous goods?

24 November 2022 by Edward Martin

Dangerous Goods (DG) are items that are a risk to health, safety, property or the environment when transported.

Did you know that dangerous goods which pose a risk even when not being transported are known as hazardous material (HAZMAT)?

The following goods are classed as dangerous:

Explosives
Gases
Flammable liquids
Flammable solids
Oxidizers
Organic Peroxides
Toxic substances
Infectious substances
Radioactive material
Corrosive substances

Packaging

Packaging must be UN-approved. This means that it has been designed and constructed to the specification standards of the UN. They have to pass certain tests such as being dropped, stacked or put under pressure.

Before you order any packaging make sure that the packaging supplier sends you: a copy of the certificate, information on how to use the packaging properly and any packaging test reports.

If you need advice on dangerous goods packaging, contact the VCA dangerous goods office on 01372 226 110.

Labelling

Dangerous goods MUST be labelled with the appropriate hazard symbols, warnings and safety advice. Please note, that labelling requirements can vary between countries.

Handling

If your business handles, processes or transports dangerous goods you must appoint a qualified Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor. Their role is to monitor compliance with safety measures when transporting dangerous goods. They will investigate any related accidents and should prepare an annual report.

Documentation

All dangerous goods must be accompanied by the correct documentation identifying what the products are. The driver should have or know where to get, a copy of the safety data sheets of the goods being transported.

Shipping

Shipping requirements vary depending on transport type; by road, rail, inland waterway, sea or air, with different authorities responsible for governing each method.

Responsibility

The consignor (the sender of the goods) is responsible for ensuring that the goods are classified, labelled, packed and identified correctly. However, when it comes to the actual movement of the goods, many of the regulations apply to all involved those who ‘allow dangerous goods to be transported.

Limited Quantities

If you are transporting limited quantities, you don’t need to follow certain packaging and labelling regulations, and you do not need a dangerous goods safety adviser.

Transporting goods of this nature by road is called ADR transport. This acronym stands for Accord Dangereux Routier which is the European regulations concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by road.

We can carry class 2 up to and including class 8. We also can store hazardous goods too.

For any help on transporting goods of this kind please contact us on 01384 221642 or email info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Free Will Month with Dudley Mind

Edward Martin — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 15:47:23 +0000

The Blog

Free Will Month with Dudley Mind

06 October 2020 by Edward Martin

This month the Mental Health Charity Dudley Mind is offering FREE wills for those over the age of 55.

As you know we have supported Dudley Mind for a while now. We would like to help them extend their offering of helping those over the age of 55 to update their will for free.

All you need to do is to get in touch with one of the charity's solicitors and mention Mind Free Wills Month. You will find a list of solicitors below.

Charity's solicitors

Rest assured, Mind will not expect you to leave them a donation in your will. This is just a service they are offering to those which may need a little help on what can be a difficult subject to address.

We're ready when you need us

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NEW DATE: Black Country Business Festival – Creating a mentally healthy workplace

Edward Martin — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 14:42:28 +0000

The Blog

NEW DATE: Black Country Business Festival – Creating a mentally healthy workplace

21 September 2020 by Edward Martin

As part of the Black Country Business Festival, we are holding an event in partnership with Dudley Mind, creating a mentally healthy workplace. After it being postponed in May, we now have a new date Wednesday 7th October.

Mentally Healthy Workplace

Since our event was postponed the Time to Change campaign has come to an end. However, Sandra, Chief Executive from Dudley Mind, will be leading the event.

Our relaxed lunchtime event will provide local employers with the understanding and actions they need to proactively create a mentally healthy workplace. Sandra is highly experienced in helping individuals with their mental health troubles and also provides mental health first aid training.

Mental health problems affect every employer, regardless of size or sector. This event will provide delegates with an understanding of how they can create and use an action plan as a framework to create a mentally healthy workplace.

Mental health problems are the leading cause of sickness absence in the UK and affect every organisation regardless of size or sector, costing UK businesses almost £35 billion per year.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of mental health in the workplace. This means they can create a personalised action plan to promote and enable better mental health within their own organisation.

Sandra will also discuss how Dudley Mind as a charity can help businesses and how you could become more aware of mental health illnesses and respond accordingly.

Location in discussion. Possibly looking at turning this into a virtual event. Stay tuned.

Book your ticket by clicking the button below.

Book Your Place

We're ready when you need us

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Generous donation from Jonathan Hayward

Edward Martin — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 08:51:54 +0000

The Blog

Generous donation from Jonathan Hayward

21 September 2020 by Edward Martin

In our efforts to raise money for Breast Cancer Now through our Wolves Truck Auction, the news managed to reach Jonathan Hayward, one of Sir Jack’s son who gave a generous donation.

Generous Donation

He was not aware that the truck existed. However, while he was catching up on news about the Wolves on the Express and Star website he spotted the article we had released in the paper about the auction.

We had a conversation with Jonathan who was impressed with our tribute to his father and the Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club.

“I am very touched that you thought Dad warranted a special place in your fleet. With this in mind, I would like to make a donation of £5,000.00 to your Breast Cancer Charity.”

He has very kindly made a donation of £5000 which will be added to our total raised by the auction. This will then be donated to Breast Cancer Now through the Legacy4Lucy charity.

JJX and Legacy4Lucy are extremely appreciative of this amazing donation. Here at JJX we are hoping to help the Legacy4Lucy team take their fundraising efforts to over £250,000 with this auction.

You only have until 28^th September to place a bid on the Wolves inspired Sir Jack DAF truck.

Take a look at our other blogs to learn more about the truck.

We're ready when you need us

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The auction for the Wolves inspired DAF Truck is LIVE!

Edward Martin — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 14:23:07 +0000

The Blog

The auction for the Wolves inspired DAF Truck is LIVE!

18 September 2020 by Edward Martin

The auction for the Wolves inspired Sir Jack DAF tractor unit is now live!

Win a Truck

Every penny over the reserve of £15,600 will go to Breast Cancer Now through Legacy4Lucy.

Legacy4Lucy is so incredibly close to surpassing the QUARTER OF A MILLION fundraising mark. We hope that this auction will help them to smash through the £250,000 barrier.

Cancer has not gone away. Even through the COVID-19 pandemic people are suffering from cancer and having to have their treatments, risking their health further by going into the hospitals.

Over 55,000 women a year fight breast cancer in the UK and the Breast Cancer Now charity fund breast cancer research and care to provide support for today & hope for the future.

Help us help them. Spread the message about the auction to all your Wolverhampton Wanderers fans and lorry drivers. The auction is live, please tell as many people as you can!

Play Video

We're ready when you need us

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VIDEO – Wolves inspired ‘Sir Jack’ DAF Truck

Edward Martin — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 11:29:08 +0000

The Blog

VIDEO – Wolves inspired ‘Sir Jack’ DAF Truck

07 September 2020 by Edward Martin

Take a look at Andy's new video all about our Wolves-inspired DAF truck that's going up for auction.

Win a truck

Our MD here at JJX is an avid Wolves supporter. He created one of the most unique vehicles in the region when he decided the decorate the DAF with the faces of Wolves players, past and present, and name it after the legend himself, Sir Jack.

This year we will not be holding our annual fundraising event for Breast Cancer Now and Legacy4Lucy. However, instead, we are putting this fantastic vehicle up for auction. Every penny over the reserve of £15,600 will go Breast Cancer Now.

Read more about the details of the truck by clicking this link.

Check out this video below created by the driver of the truck himself, Andy Day, Trucker by Day.

Want to see the Wolves-inspired truck in person? Book an appointment on Saturday 12th September to view the truck before making a bid.

Play Video

We're ready when you need us

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UP FOR AUCTION – DAF Wolves Inspired ‘Sir Jack’ Truck

Edward Martin — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 11:59:50 +0000

The Blog

UP FOR AUCTION – DAF Wolves Inspired ‘Sir Jack’ Truck

11 August 2020 by Edward Martin

Our Wolverhampton Wanderers inspired Sir Jack DAF truck is going up to auction on Friday 18^th September.

The Sir Jack Wolves tractor unit will be going up for auction on Friday 18th September and have a reserve of £15,600 but every pound over that will go to Breast Cancer Now via the Legacy4Lucy charity.

The Legacy4Lucy foundation was started by Jason Guy in memory of his wife Lucy who sadly passed away in 2015 aged 33 from breast cancer. His fundraising has surpassed £200,000 and now we are hoping to help him tip the £250,000 with our auction. All funds raised by the foundation are donated to Breast Cancer Now who provide world-class research and life-changing care for people affected by breast cancer.

As we are unsure that we are going to be able to run an event to raise money this year, we thought that this was the next best thing. Considering that the coronavirus has put a stop to many events and has made it incredibly hard for charities to fundraise.

The Sir Jack Wolves tractor

This infamous vehicle has been a working truck for JJX logistics and has travelled all around the country, collecting and delivering many types of goods. Truck spotters are also big fans, Wolves supporter or not. It is definitely one that stands out from the crowd.

All up to date information will be posted on the auction page when it goes live.

There will also be a viewing day on Saturday 12th September for those who would like to take a closer look. Booking by appointment only to ensure social distancing. To book to view the vehicle please email emily.hyde@jjxlogistics.co.uk.

FEATURES

460bhp Mid-lift DAF XF Super Space Cab
Bluetooth radio
Built-in Sat Nav
Alloys all round
Black leather mats inside
Pullout fridge/freezer
Plenty of storage
Two bunks
Wolves themed exterior
1-year manufacturers driveline warranty

If you are a transport company looking to add to your fleet or a bunch of Wolves fanatic friends wanting to own something that is truly one of a kind, then please take a look at the pictures below.

To make this an even more memorable moment, the winner of the auction will also be given the keys by a former Wolves player.

UPDATE

DAF Trucks have very kindly supported our attempts to raise money for Breast Cancer Now and provided us with a 1-year manufacturers driveline warranty to go with the truck.

This is a very kind offer from DAF and we really appreciate their support.

We're ready when you need us

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Top tips on driving in the wet and windy (great British) weather.

Edward Martin — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 13:27:55 +0000

The Blog

Top tips on driving in the wet and windy (great British) weather.

10 August 2020 by Edward Martin

Tips on driving in the rain

As you all know we are due some thunderstorms, heavy rain and there’s a potential of flash floods in places. With this in mind, we need to be aware of travelling in this weather. Here are some top tips on driving in the wet and windy (great British) weather.

Check the weather and news before travelling.
Keep both hands on the wheel to give you more control.
Give a little more room to cyclists and motorbikes.
Keep a steady, slightly slower, speed.
Be aware of surface water as it can cause you hydroplane and lose control of the vehicle.
Test your brakes when you come out of standing water.
Are you comfortable? If not, do not harsh break. Pullover and find the nearest services stop or parking area.
Be aware that high winds can affect the handling of vehicles.
Avoid driving through deep water.
Put your dipped headlights on in heavy rain, as this will make you more visible to other drivers.

Did you know that driving in the wet can double your stopping distance! You should maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front at all times.

If you do break down in torrential rain you still need to exit the vehicle, especially if you’re on the motorway. Do not open the bonnet until help arrives, this will prevent the rain from getting to the electrical system.

Also, a little side note, be considerate to others. Do not purposefully spray other road users and pedestrians. If you can’t avoid a puddle just slow down.

The list is endless, we could sit here all day giving you advice on driving in wet and windy weather. However, it really is all about common sense too. If you do not feel comfortable driving in such conditions, don’t.

We're ready when you need us

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Operation Cesium – Bin the knife!

Edward Martin — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 17:54:19 +0000

The Blog

Operation Cesium – Bin the knife!

14 July 2020 by Edward Martin

Today (14th July) we took our Life or Knife trailer to West Cross Shopping Centre to help out Smethwick Police with Operation Cesium.

What is Operation Cesium?

Operation Cesium is an initiative to make a difference, prevent crime in Smethwick and to bring the community together.

The police have been in and around the area talking to many different people, listening to their concerns and taking action.

The Litter watch team, Sandwell Partnerships, Sandwell Young Peoples Services and others were all in attendance.

Our trailer was on site to help emphasise the message. The #LifeorKnife campaign, set up by the West Midlands police, displays images of a few people that have been affected by knife crime.

This trailer is part of our working fleet therefore it travels all around the UK and Europe. It's actually part of our temperature-controlled fleet where we can transport a variety of chilled and frozen goods. Check out more information about this service by clicking HERE.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX in Lockdown – Julie Edmunds (Episode 2)

Edward Martin — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 14:06:29 +0000

The Blog

JJX in Lockdown – Julie Edmunds (Episode 2)

24 June 2020 by Edward Martin

JJX in Lockdown YouTube Series Episode 2 - Julie Edmunds HGV Driver

In this episode, we hear from Julie and what it has been like to be a lady driver working throughout the pandemic. You will also learn more about an incident her vehicle was involved in on a smart motorway.

Let us know what you think about smart motorways as we are now in touch with Highways England to provide them with experience and knowledge from those who use the smart motorways nearly every day.

To find out more about the services we offer here at JJX head over to our Transport or Warehousing tabs.

We're ready when you need us

The post JJX in Lockdown – Julie Edmunds (Episode 2) appeared first on JJX Logistics.

JJX in Lockdown – Craig Pickin (Episode 1)

Edward Martin — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 10:40:24 +0000

The Blog

JJX in Lockdown – Craig Pickin (Episode 1)

10 June 2020 by Edward Martin

JJX in Lockdown YouTube Series Episode 1 - Craig Pickin HGV Driver

A series of videos showing you the lives of keyworkers who have been working throughout the pandemic to keep the country running. We are thankful to have such amazing staff that have worked extremely hard throughout this tough period. It's not been easy, but we are starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

In this episode, we talk to Craig who has been with us for a couple of years now. He joined us as a class 2 driver, we then put him through his class 1 later in the year that he joined us. He loves being part of the team and is such a great worker. Craig shows enormous passion for his job as a HGV driver, and we would like to thank him for his hard work.

What have you been up to in lockdown? Our drivers have been busy making deliveries all over the UK and Europe for our European Logistics services. We have a regular network that we travel so we may be able to assist you with your regular European shipments too.

We're ready when you need us

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A very worthy winner of the silent auction for Dudley Mind

Edward Martin — Tue, 19 May 2020 12:36:08 +0000

The Blog

A very worthy winner of the silent auction for Dudley Mind

19 May 2020 by Edward Martin

very worthy winner of the silent auction for Dudley Mind.

You may or may not know that we have recently held a silent auction to win our JJX Logistics Model Truck with all the proceeds going to Dudley Mind.

How to participate

We asked followers on our social media to submit an amount to our Twitter and Facebook pages via direct message. No one but us knew the amounts coming in, and every single bid amazed us!

Who won

It’s with absolute pleasure that we announced Nick Davies as the winner with a whopping bid of £450, yes, you read that right £450. Such a generous donation to a fantastic cause.

The model truck, and an extra trailer, is now in the worthy hands of Nick who actually collects model trucks.

Nick, who now possess a large number of model trucks, started collecting when he was only 14 and is still collecting in his adult life.

“I have always been interested in transportation,” said Nick “My first job from school was a trainee fitter for Craddock Road Services in Coven”.

Nick is a supporter of various charities including the Thin Blue Line UK and now Dudley Mind. Nick also says “The ones suffering mental health issues need all the help going to support the long climb. Hard work and self-determination, it’s not easy, but there is a winner in every one of us.”

We gave Nick an extra model trailer too which he put on a Classic Scania 143H 500 tag axle.

We're ready when you need us

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Silent Auction to raise money for Dudley Mind

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 04 May 2020 09:52:26 +0000

The Blog

Silent Auction to raise money for Dudley Mind

04 May 2020 by Dayna Rudge

Silent Auction to raise money for Dudley Mind

We have decided to put our JJX Logistics model truck up for auction in order to raise funds for Dudley Mind.

Follow the instructions below to enter the silent auction.

How it works

To enter the silent auction you must send in a direct message with the maximum amount that you are willing to donate to our Twitter or Facebook pages.

Bid amounts will not be shared, so you will not know the current highest amount.

We are giving you TWO WEEKS to enter. Silent Auction entries must be in by midnight on 17th May. The winner will then be contacted and asked for their donation on Monday 18th May. If you are not contacted, unfortunately, you have not won.

Ready...Set...GO!

Any questions, please email emily.hyde@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Supporting the NHS, care homes and the local community

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 04 May 2020 09:45:38 +0000

The Blog

Supporting the NHS, care homes and the local community

04 May 2020 by Dayna Rudge

Our support to the NHS

Here are some pictures of the work we have been doing over the past few weeks, supporting the NHS, care homes and the local community.

We're ready when you need us

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COVID-19 Update

Edward Martin — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:01:32 +0000

The Blog

COVID-19 Update

29 April 2020 by Edward Martin

COVID – 19 UPDATE

We are open and operational.

Our transport and storage solutions are still available 24/7, however, there are some restrictions in place.

May

With more people back at work safety precautions have been put in place with regards to government guidelines.

Toilets are available to drivers who are waiting.

There are still restrictions on meetings and visitors on-site only visit if completely essential.

Viewings for our offices to rent are taking place.

April

We’ve temporarily stopped goods in and collecting drivers from entering the JJX premises for any other reasons apart from the loading/unloading of freight in our outdoor yard.
Temporary halt on non-urgent face-to-face meetings on-premises.
All customer own paperwork is suspended.

Due to the current business climate caused by Covid - 19, timed deliveries may not be met. Please accept our apologies in advance, we are doing everything we can in order to meet your requirements. We ask for your patience and understanding.

If possible, please inform us of your transport requirements/plans as soon as possible. Also, you must inform us of changes to any regular loads.

------------

We are still available to discuss quotes and book in transport and storage jobs over the phone or even by video call if you require. Staff continue to work and are working harder than ever to help provide solutions.

Extra measures have been taken throughout the offices, warehouse and driver cabs. Deep cleaning in all departments has taken place and continues to do so for the foreseeable future. Signs reminding staff to adhere to social distancing rules and other governments guidelines have been placed around our facility. PPE and hand sanitiser have been made available for everyone in the business.

Avoid doomscrolling - Binging on negative news or excessively scrolling on social media can have negative consequences. Try to focus on facts rather than speculation.
Be physically active - Try to give your mind a rest, shifting the focus to your body instead. Physical activity creates mood-boosting chemical changes in the brain.
Be mindful - When thoughts feel like they’re spiralling, mindfulness activities may stop your mind from racing. Meditation and other mindful practices can help you feel present in the moment.
Try breathing exercises - Breathing is closely linked to the nervous system. Deep controlled breathing with extended exhalation can cause a fall in heart rate and blood pressure.
Take time to unwind - It’s essential to still engage in activities you enjoy. Creative outlets, such as hobbies, crafts, writing or home improvement, can be good distractions.
Maintain sleep habits - Although it may be hard to sleep anxious, try to maintain your usual sleeping pattern. Being well rested is vital for emotional balance.
Eat healthy, balance meals - Healthy eating is essential for your overall physical and mental health, improving your ability to navigate stress during troubling times.
Connect with others - Good relationships foster a sense of belonging and provide an outlet to share experiences. Sharing worries with others can improve your situation and feelings.
Be transparent - Talk to your manager if your stress or anxiety stems from work-related situations. There may be ways that they can help to lessen the burden.
Reach out for help - Feeling anxious or stressed is natural, but don’t suffer alone. Talk to your doctor or checking with your employer for mental health or well-being resources.

For more information visit https://www.blackcountrymentalhealth.org.uk/

We're ready when you need us

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New JJX Trailer – ThankYouNHS

Dayna Rudge — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 09:49:09 +0000

The Blog

New JJX Trailer – ThankYouNHS

08 April 2020 by Dayna Rudge

Our trailer for the NHS

Here it is, our newly sign written trailer in appreciation of the NHS. #ThankYouNHS

At this moment in time, things are tough. Especially for the NHS and all the key workers out there risking their health every day to help others. We regularly thank our staff as they are doing a great job in keeping supply chains working. However, we wanted to do something to show our appreciation of the NHS and all the hard work they have done, are doing and will do over the coming months.

A big thank you to Baker Ward signwriters who made our design come to life and fitted the graphics on the truck.

We believe it's important to so our respect and support for our fellow key workers. It's not just about JJX and the drivers out there, it's about us all working together for the sake of the country. If we can help bring a smile to peoples faces through a bit of support then, why not. We could all use some positivity right now!

Hands up if you agree that the NHS is amazing because we certainly believe that!

If you see the trailer out and about making it's deliveries, try and get a picture (without breaking social distancing and government rules of course) and post it on social media using the hashtag #ThankYouNHS. Don't forget to tag us too, because we love seeing pictures of our trucks out on the road.

Finally, please do your part in all of this by staying at home and abiding by the government guidelines.

Stay safe everyone!

We're ready when you need us

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MD shaves head in aid of Dudley Mind

Edward Martin — Tue, 07 Apr 2020 09:06:31 +0000

The Blog

MD shaves head in aid of Dudley Mind

07 April 2020 by Edward Martin

You probably know that we support many charities, one of which is Dudley Mind, a local mental health charity.

The current situation regarding the coronavirus will cause many of us to feel stress, anxious, alone and many other feelings we may not have experienced before. We all have mental health, just like physical health, and we need to ensure that both our physical and mental well-being is good. Although Dudley Mind is not operating their walk-in and group sessions at the moment, their phone lines are still open along with their email service. They are there to support you, so we want to be there to support them. Raising as much money as we can to help them in this tough time due to having to close other revenues of the business.

For that reason, our Managing Director John Donovan has committed to full shaving his head in order to raise awareness and funds for Dudley Mind.

We aim to raise at least £500 with this fundraiser. Once we reach the target John will fully shave his head and it will be streamed live on our Facebook page.

How to donate

All donations will be greatly appreciated. To make your donation please visit our JustGiving page

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So, it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you in advance for your help and support.

HERE IT IS. THE PROOF IT ACTUALLY HAPPENED.

We're ready when you need us

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Coronavirus and your well-being

Dayna Rudge — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 16:36:36 +0000

The Blog

Coronavirus and your well-being

10 March 2020 by Dayna Rudge

You might be worried about coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) and how it could affect your life. This may include being asked to stay at home or avoid other people.

This might be a difficult or stressful time regarding the coronavirus. But there are lots of things you can try that could help your wellbeing.

This information is to help you cope if:

you’re feeling anxious or worried about coronavirus
you’re asked to stay at home or avoid public places, for example, if your employer asks you to work from home
you have to self-isolate. This means you avoid contact with other people for 14 days and follow strict hygiene rules.
The NHS has advice about self-isolation in English and advice about self-isolation in Welsh.

And it covers:

Plan for staying at home or indoors
Take care of your mental health and wellbeing
Checklist: are you ready to stay at home for two weeks?

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Pedal the Pennines Cycling Challenge for Breast Cancer Now

Dayna Rudge — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 14:17:26 +0000

The Blog

JJX Pedal the Pennines Cycling Challenge for Breast Cancer Now

03 March 2020 by Dayna Rudge

POSTPONED - DUE TO CORONAVIRUS - WE WILL UPDATE YOU WHEN WE HAVE MORE INFORMATION

We are taking part in the Pedal the Pennines challenge to support the Legacy4Lucy team raise funds for Breast Cancer Now in memory of Lucy.

Jason, from Staff Today, and his team will also be joining us. Jason is the guy behind Legacy4Lucy.

Why We Do It!

Lucy was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of Breast Cancer in 2013 aged just 31 - Triple Negative, a form of the illness which is particularly difficult to treat and more common in younger women.

Despite receiving fantastic treatment, Lucy died in 2015 aged just 33 ... but will not die in vain. To date, with YOUR help Legacy4Lucy has raised over £220,000 for Breast Cancer Now, a charity which in the words of the top UK Oncologist is; "pioneering as it seeks to research a cure for the illness in which 55,000 women are diagnosed each year killing 11,000".

Here at JJX we regularly support Jason in raising as much as we can in memory of Lucy. Please help us in our challenge to help the Legacy4Lucy team reach a QUARTER OF A MILLION!

On 25th & 26th March, we’re going head-to-head with other local companies and cycling 350km as part of Pedal the Pennines to raise money for everyone living with breast cancer.

Help us cycle to victory by signing up for a 15-minute cycling slot.

Time slots --> http://bit.ly/JJXPedal

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just want to do your bit, everybody is welcome.

We're ready when you need us

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Black Country Business Festival – Creating a mentally healthy workplace

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 16:23:54 +0000

The Blog

Black Country Business Festival – Creating a mentally healthy workplace

02 March 2020 by Dayna Rudge

POSTPONED!

Due to the Coronavirus, this event has been postponed, along with the rest of the festival. Updates coming soon with the new date.

As part of the Black Country Business Festival, we are holding an event in partnership with Dudley Mind, creating a mentally healthy workplace.

Our relaxed lunchtime event will provide local employers with the understanding and actions they need to proactively create a mentally healthy workplace using the Time to Change Employer Pledge which has positive and measurable business benefits.

Mental health problems affect every employer, regardless of size or sector. This event will provide delegates with an understanding of the Time to Change Employer Pledge and how they can create and use the action plan as a framework to create a mentally healthy workplace.

Mental health problems are the leading cause of sickness absence in the UK and affect every organisation regardless of size or sector, costing UK businesses almost £35 billion per year.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of mental health in the workplace and the Time to Change employer pledge. This means they can create an action plan to promote and enable better mental health within their own organisation.

There will also be talks from Dudley Mind (our local Mind charity) discussing how they can help and how you could become more aware of mental health illnesses and respond accordingly.

Free parking at the GTG training centre

Lunch will be provided - buffet style

We're ready when you need us

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Top tips for driving in bad weather

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 17 Feb 2020 15:59:30 +0000

The Blog

Top tips for driving in bad weather

17 February 2020 by Dayna Rudge

How to drive in bad weather

Storm Ciara and Storm Dennis have both taken their toll on us here in the UK. With fallen trees and floods throughout the country, the roads are a little more dangerous at the moment. Whatever vehicle you are in please be careful out there.

Leave room
Plan ahead
Wrap up warm
Check the vehicle
Wear your seatbelt

These are obvious safety tips and there are many more too. Just make sure you keep yourselves and others safe out on the roads at this time of year.

Also, check out this link for safe driving in adverse weather conditions. It includes rules for driving in adverse weather conditions, including wet weather, icy and snowy weather, windy weather, fog and hot weather.

We're ready when you need us

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Turning Dudley from Blue to Green

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 11:53:47 +0000

The Blog

Turning Dudley from Blue to Green

20 January 2020 by Dayna Rudge

Blue Monday isn’t so Blue over here in Dudley. We are turning Dudley from Blue to Green.

We are helping to turn Dudley from Blue to Green in support of mental health.

Today, Monday 20^th January, is known as the most depressing day of the year, hence Blue Monday. The Christmas and New Year cheer has been and gone, and it feels like we are on the 100^th day of January!

Take a moment today to ask a family member, friend or colleague how they’re doing. It might make their day.

Support Dudley Mind turn Dudley Blue to Green

Mental Health Matters, not just today but every day!

Our, aptly named, Green Room at JJX Logistics is dedicated to the mental health and wellbeing of staff. Stacey, our HR Coordinator, is also a mental health first aider and is there to support staff whenever they need.

We are big supporters of Mental Health and consistently help Dudley Mind in raising awareness. Taking part in many fundraisers and even organising our own. The next big Dudley Mind event is the Mind Ride, an annual motorcycle ride taking place on 29th March at Himley Hall. Our Golf Day is yet to be confirmed, but we will keep you in the loop.

We're ready when you need us

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Brand New Scania Silver Knight

Dayna Rudge — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 15:06:12 +0000

The Blog

Brand New Scania Silver Knight

08 January 2020 by Dayna Rudge

JJX's Scania's Silver Knights - Sir Lucan the Butler

We are the proud owners of one of Scania's Silver Knights - Sir Lucan the Butler.

It's a massive investment for us and it will earn its keep by travelling all over the UK and Europe collecting and delivering various kinds of goods.

This V8 650 is absolutely stunning, and we are glad to have added it to our fleet!

If you see it out on the road, and manage to snap a picture, make sure you tag us in it on social media.

Thank you to Tony Biddlestone at Keltruck for helping us get our hands on one of these. Great service, much appreciated.

Also, a big thanks to Baker Ward Signs for helping us getting the Scania looking so fantastic and Broadbeach Films for putting together the film for us.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVfLAarnphE

We're ready when you need us

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Sorcerer: The Ultimate Trucking Movie by Ali Karim

Edward Martin — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 13:21:41 +0000

The Blog

Sorcerer: The Ultimate Trucking Movie by Ali Karim

17 December 2019 by Edward Martin

Sorcerer 1977: our professional opinion

Take a read of this blog from Ali Karim on the ultimate trucking movie, Sorcerer.

As a scientist working for John Donovan at JJX Logistics, I (Ali Karim) apply my chemical knowledge and experience in the Trucking of Dangerous Goods to help our customers.

I thought I’d write a little about a favourite film of mine – one that combines my passions, Chemistry and Trucking.

In my teenage years, I was memorised by the 1953 French-Italian thriller film directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot titled THE WAGES OF FEAR.

The trailer can be viewed above or from this link HERE

It was re-worked by William Friedkin in 1977 as Sorcerer and is a reworking of Georges Arnaud's 1950 French novel "Le Salaire de la peu".

The trailer can be viewed above or from this link HERE

Sorcerer opened in 1977 during the same week as STAR WARS, and its title was a mystery as it was perhaps trying to attract viewers of Friedkin's THE EXORCIST. It bombed, then again it is a hard film to watch as its nihilism and downbeat premise and execution were at odds with the optimism of STAR WARS as to what it means to be human.

The plot depicts four outcasts from varied backgrounds meeting in a South American village, where they are assigned to transport cargoes of aged, poorly kept dynamite that is so unstable that it is 'sweating' its dangerous basic ingredient, Nitro-Glycerin. The explosives are required to blow-out an oil-field fire, and requires four desperate men to drive the trucks over perilous roads to the oil-field.

It obviously has specific appeal to me and my colleagues at JJX Logistics as it combines Chemistry with Trucking, something we are passionate about.

I have worked internationally in hazardous conditions in some very scary places and found myself in troubling situations in the past - due to my vocation, so I felt a growing unease as the trucks set off with their payload of unstable dangerous goods.

"The Sorcerer is an evil wizard and in this case the evil wizard is fate. The fact that somebody can walk out of their front door and a hurricane can take them away, an earthquake or something falling through the roof. And the idea that we don’t really have control over our own fates, neither our births nor our deaths, it’s something that has haunted me since I was intelligent enough to contemplate something like it"
William Friedkin

Walon Green, the screenwriter, said that he and Friedkin "wanted a cynical movie where fate turns the corner for the people before they turn it themselves".

Director Friedkin considers Sorcerer among one of his favourite works, while Stephen King said at EW "........although Wages of Fear is considered one of the greatest movies of the modern age; I prefer Sorcerer, and consider Roy Scheider's role as Jackie Scanlon one of the two best roles in his entire career...."

Friedkin stated that the premise of The Wages of Fear (both the novel and the first film adaptation) seemed to him a metaphor for "the world [being] full of strangers who hated one another, but if they didn't cooperate, if they didn't work together in some way, they would blow up."

At JJX Logistics, from our Midlands, London and Paris operating centres we can support your requirements, working with you.

For all your Logistics Requirements ADR [and IMDG] warehousing throughout UK Mainland, Ireland and Mainland Europe please contact our team.

We're ready when you need us

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AEO accreditation and Brexit

Edward Martin — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 13:21:14 +0000

The Blog

AEO accreditation and Brexit

09 December 2019 by Edward Martin

AEO Accreditation

The AEO status is an internationally recognised quality mark that shows:

role in the international supply chain is secure
customs controls and procedures are efficient and meet EU standards

The AEO status is not mandatory, but gives quicker access to some simplified customs procedures and, in some cases, the right to ‘fast-track’ shipments through some customs and safety and security procedures.

How will Brexit have an impact?

Brexit will inevitably impact the movement of goods between the UK and the EU. However, the stories that have been fashioned about long waits at the borders and traffic that queues for miles, might not pose such a problem for JJX.

Having worked hard to obtain the AEO accreditation will give JJX great benefits when crossing borders. The UK government has estimated that UK customs border entries may increase fivefold. It’s anticipated that where there are clearance hold-ups at the port, businesses with AEO will be given priority. Therefore, allowing JJX to ensure delivery of express solutions, just-in-time consignments, and perishable goods.

With JJX Logistics’ European Scheduled Network a secured flow of goods is guaranteed, even if/when a no-deal Brexit is confirmed.

Find out more about our European Services.

We're ready when you need us

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Keep your eyes peeled for the new JJX trailer featuring Dudley Zoo

Edward Martin — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 16:21:50 +0000

The Blog

Keep your eyes peeled for the new JJX trailer featuring Dudley Zoo

02 December 2019 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics & Dudley Zoo

We’ve recently collaborated with Dudley Zoo to create new graphics for a fantastic 40 ft trailer which will be trucking its way around the UK and Europe. This is one of many new trailers and vehicles to join the JJX fleet this year.

John Donovan, JJX Logistics UK Founder and Managing Director, said: “We are very pleased to have teamed up with Dudley Zoo on our recent trailer project, with the creation of this wonderful and bold truck.

“Business partnerships like this are vital, helping each other goes a long way and ultimately creates business for us both, in turn helping the local economy thrive.”

Dudley Zoo Marketing Manager Andrea Hales, said: “The freight trailer looks superb and certainly catches the eye out on the road.

“We can’t wait to see where people spot it as it travels around the country and the continent, so snap a picture and tag us on social media as we’d love to see where about in the world it is!”

Tag us in your photos when you spot the trailer!

JJX Logistics
Facebook
Instagram

Dudley Zoo
Facebook
Instagram

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Logistics vs The Wolves Allstars

Edward Martin — Sun, 10 Nov 2019 14:25:59 +0000

The Blog

JJX Logistics vs The Wolves Allstars

10 November 2019 by Edward Martin

JJX Logistics vs the Wolves Allstars

Here at JJX, we pride ourselves on being more than just a Logistics company. Not only providing many different types of transport but storage and fulfilment solutions too. On top of this, we like to give back to our community, helping in every way possible whether it’s a simple dress-down day or organising big charity events.

Charity Football Match

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness month (October) we organised a charity football match at Wednesfield FC in aid of Breast Cancer Now – Legacy4Lucy.

This wasn’t just any football match.

The JJX Logistics Team took on the Wolves Allstars, a team of Wolverhampton Wanderers football legends. To say the match was tough would be an understatement with the final score being 7 – 2 to the Wolves Allstars, however, the real winner here is Breast Cancer Now. Over £2750 was raised through sponsors, entry fees, a raffle, an auction and extra donations.

We would like to thank Staff Today who sponsors the Wolves Allstars for making this happen. Also, thank you to Direct Letterbox Marketing for helping us to produce the match programme, allowing us to raise even more for charity. The Kingswinford Sports Shop also deserve recognition for the awesome JJX kit they produced.

Despite the weather, everyone had an amazing day. Thank you to all who came to support the day and supported the charity by donating!

Also, to put you out of your misery, here's where the ball was in the picture.

We're ready when you need us

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Logistics of Dangerous Goods between UK and Mainland Europe by Ali Karim

Edward Martin — Mon, 04 Nov 2019 15:04:42 +0000

The Blog

Logistics of Dangerous Goods between UK and Mainland Europe by Ali Karim

04 November 2019 by Edward Martin

Ali Karim talks about the Logistics of Dangerous Goods between UK and Mainland Europe.

As the clock ticks relentlessly toward Brexit - Journalists Joe Mayes and Alex Morales of Bloomberg Business Week speculated upon the implications of Great Britain leaving the European Union vis-a-vis cross-border trade, and preparations from international logistics operators such as JJX Logistics.

Read the full Bloomberg article >“The Day After Brexit: What a Crash Out of the EU Might Look Like”

The Logistics of Dangerous Goods

A decade ago, Maersk Shipping line reported that 17% of containers/vehicle transport units entering the UK contain bulk and packaged dangerous goods (in some shape or form). Today that percentile may well be higher.

Trade disruption poses serious issues for the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sectors [as well as related manufacturing industries], who are critically dependent upon the seamless flow of both raw materials and finished product.

Beyond speculation, no-one knows in precise terms the implications that Brexit will pose to cross-border trade.

One certainty is to ensure alignment to a robust and established logistics partner for your Logistics of Dangerous Goods. One experienced in all aspects of cross-border movements from warehousing as well as road/sea transportation and versed in the complex regulatory aspects of ADR and IMDG compliance of ambient as well as temperature-controlled products.

In 2007, Karl Lumbers of Marine Insurers the P & I Club, indicated that the offshoring of chemical manufacture was proving challenging to the Maritime industry, as the quality control aspects on goods outward procedures, had not kept pace with the growth in manufacture. Packaging that is suitable for road transport may not be robust enough to withstand rolling and pitching at sea [inside a container or truck] in bad weather. Lumbers added “We are seeing more and more incidents. Massive explosions are occurring, destroying cargo and ships, and people are getting killed at sea”.

One of many critical aspects in consigning dangerous goods by sea is adherence to the IMDG Code ensuring goods are packed robustly, and the dangerous goods declaration accompanying the freight [often referred to as a DGN, Dangerous Goods Note] is accurate. The Maritime DGN must be signed by a competent person from [or on behalf] of the consignor, and details the Hazardous goods information, UN Number, Packing Group, Description of Goods, Packing instructions et. al. It is mandatory that security within the supply chain must be factored for High Consequence Dangerous Goods [HCDG].

This Dangerous Goods Declaration [DGN] has to be provided to the shipping line, as there are restrictions on certain products, specific ferry/shipping routes, including quotas on passenger vessels and dedicated freighter crossings.

The Kemmler Classes that require additional attention are Classes 2 [Compressed Gases], 6.2 [Biologically Infectious], 5.1 and 5.2 [Oxidizing Agents and Organic Peroxides]. Naturally, Classes 1 [explosive] and Class 7 [Radioactive] are special cases.

Shipping lines check the Dangerous Goods Notes before agreeing proposed shipments, but ultimately, the Ship’s Master [aka ‘Captain’] via his Chief Officer has the final say.

Though there are similarities between ADR and IMDG carriage regulations, however, there are also crucial differences as to what can be packed together on a pallet, or even shipped on the same container-unit. An example in a divergence between Road [ADR] and Sea [IMDG] regulations are Class 8 [Corrosive products]. Acids can be shipped on the same vehicle/pallet as an Alkali by road, but cannot be mix-loaded for sea carriage under the IMDG Code [or be within the same vehicle or container-unit]. This is because under certain conditions, acids when in contact with alkali can generate heat via an exothermic reaction leading to toxic, corrosive or flammable fumes being evolved, which could ultimately result in a fire and/or explosion in the cargo hold while the vessel is at sea.

Regulatory details and compliance for Hazardous Goods on Multi-Modal [Road-Sea] carriage can be obtained from your Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor [DGSA] as well as from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency [MCA].

Care must be undertaken when ‘unloading’ and ‘de-stuffing’ containers as goods may have moved in transit and leaked. The vehicle/container-unit and the vessel’s cargo-hold could become saturated with noxious, toxic and/or flammable vapour.

When a container/vehicle-unit containing dangerous goods is presented to the dock-side [and consignee] - it is vital trained staff extend caution, gingerly opening the container doors.

The container/transport unit must be well ventilated (and away from sources of ignition), doors secured and left to stand for a minimum of 20 minutes before the unit is unloaded. A robustly considered [and documented] risk assessment is vital for stuffing and de-stuffing containers [and vehicles] by a professionally experienced operator such as JJX Logistics.

Useful Links

For more information about shipping goods by sea

To download an IMDG Code Compliant Dangerous Goods Declaration Note [DGN]

PDF Download “Making Brexit Work for the Chemical Industry” from The Chemical Industries Association

For all your Logistics of Dangerous Goods, ADR, IMDG [and Non-Hazardous] warehousing and transport requirements [UK Mainland, Ireland and Mainland Europe] please contact;

Adam Bull, Commercial Director

eMail: adam.bull@jjxlogistics.co.uk Mobile : +44 (0) 7876 626 167

Ellis Blackham, Logistics Accounts Manager

eMail: Ellis.Blackham@jjxlogistics.co.uk Mobile : +44 (0)7703 838 474

For Technical Queries & Chemistry Advice

Contact Ali Karim FRSC CChem, Technical Manager

eMail Ali.Karim@jjxlogistics.co.uk Mobile : +44 (0) 7812 584 249

Blog by Ali Karim. Ali has over 30 years’ experience of dealing with chemicals and gas in a production as well as in a sea and road transport environment at a senior management level in the UK and overseas with Interoute Transport Services, Gas and Equipment Ltd, Linde Gas UK Ltd, United Transport, Inspectorate International [Saudi Arabia] and Transport Development Group [TDG].

He was the co-founder and Managing Director of Hazchem Network Ltd [2004-2018] and currently works in a technical capacity for JJX Logistics and Keedwell Scotland.

We're ready when you need us

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Temperature controlled article from TCS&D

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 11:22:08 +0000

The Blog

Temperature controlled article from TCS&D

28 October 2019 by Dayna Rudge

Take a look at our recent article in the Temperature Controlled Storage & Distribution (TCS&D) magazine.

Our MD John Joseph Donovan CMILT recently spoke to TCS&Dregarding our Temperature Controlled Fleet; how we got into this type of transport, our current capabilities and, you guessed it … Brexit.

Click the image below to take you over to the TCS&D website to read the full article.

Temperature Controlled Storage and Distribution

The central editorial theme is the perishable product supply chain, but space is also reserved for other applications of temperature and environment control that may benefit our readers. Readers are drawn from a wide spectrum – Food Manufacturers, wholesalers, independent and multiple retailers, caterers, importers, exporters – all who either provide their added value logistical services – cold and chill storage, primary and local distribution, truck and trailer rental, inter – and multi-modal operations by road, rail, sea and air.

We're ready when you need us

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Prepare your food and drink business for Brexit

Dayna Rudge — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 10:52:07 +0000

The Blog

Prepare your food and drink business for Brexit

17 October 2019 by Dayna Rudge

The impact of Brexit of Food & Drink Businesses

We have had some great information from Defra to share with you so that you can prepare your food and drink business for Brexit.

Many of our clients work within the food and drink industry, and we transport these type of goods daily, as well as store them. Therefore, we want to help our customers as much as possible prepare for Brexit. Nobody knows exactly what will happen, but we have some handy information from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for you.

Check out the video below.

We're ready when you need us

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Alex Hudson, on what it’s like to have been crowned LGV Driver of the Year 2019

Edward Martin — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 08:29:51 +0000

The Blog

Alex Hudson, on what it’s like to have been crowned LGV Driver of the Year 2019

15 October 2019 by Edward Martin

LGV Driver of the Year 2019

Talent in Logistics interviewed Alex, one of our drivers who recently won LGV Driver of the Year 2019.

LGV Drivers shape the reputation of businesses within the transport and logistics industry. According to the RHA, 98% of goods are moved by road, so what would we do without our lorry drivers!

It's important for the younger generation to understand this and the industry itself to be open to employing young people and training them up. This was exactly what happened to Alex here at JJX. He first started as an office apprentice, moving on to a UK delivery driver and then travelling into Europe. Read what Alex has got to say about JJX Logistics, the transport industry, why he became a driver and his beliefs on the importance of the job role.

Read the interview over on the Talent in Logistics website by following this link.

Alex Hudson - LGV Driver of the Year - Talent in Logistics

We're ready when you need us

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The Day After Brexit by Bloomberg

Dayna Rudge — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 14:13:01 +0000

The Blog

The Day After Brexit by Bloomberg

01 October 2019 by Dayna Rudge

The day after Brexit - Bloomberg

Read this great piece of journalism by Bloomberg's Joe Mayes and Alex Morales on what the day after Brexit might look like.

Featuring our very own Roger Moore, JJX Driver.

A dark blue Mercedes van hurtles down the motorway toward the white cliffs of Dover. The 007 theme blares from a Samsung Galaxy S7. Roger Moore—the 65-year-old driver for courier company JJX Logistics, not the deceased actor known for his license to kill—answers. On the line is his boss, John, calling from the head office in Dudley. “How’s it going, Rog?”

“All good, John, no trouble at all. Traffic’s completely clear.” The roads are quieter than usual, and he’s making good time. In the back of the van are wooden crates packed with Airbus plane parts that need to be in Paris by early tomorrow. After he’s crossed the channel, Moore will become one of the first Britons in four decades to enter the Continent as a non-EU citizen...

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Tackling Knife Crime Tour – Coops Boxing Camp

Edward Martin — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 10:58:30 +0000

The Blog

JJX Tackling Knife Crime Tour – Coops Boxing Camp

26 September 2019 by Edward Martin

Help JJX Logistics and Coops Boxing Club fight against Knife Crime.

We, JJX Logistics, are teaming up with Coops Boxing Gym to spread the word about the reality of knife crime. Hoping to use sport as a way of combating knife crime.

Local police officers will also be in attendance to give real-life accounts and advice on situations involving knives.

The Boxing Camp would also like to welcome the public to come and view their facilities. If you’re a parent with children that would like to get into boxing or want to see what it’s like, then come along and take a look at this fantastic boxing club.

Boxing fight details

Thursday 3rd October

5:30pm – 7pm

At Coops Boxing Camp
Unit 17 The Premier Industrial Estate
Leys Road
Brockmoor
Brierley Hill.
DY5 3UP

https://www.facebook.com/coops.boxingcamp

We're ready when you need us

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Living & Working in the Logistics sector by Ali Karim

Edward Martin — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 10:45:30 +0000

The Blog

Living & Working in the Logistics sector by Ali Karim

19 September 2019 by Edward Martin

Living & working in the Logistics sector

With it being the Road Haulage Association’s National Lorry Week 2019, Ali Karim, Technical Manager at JJX, shares his thoughts about living & working in the Logistics sector.

The logistics sector provides challenges every day, and the opportunity to problem-solve and help others. During the day it is tough, hard work physically and mentally; but when the dust settles, you get a sense of satisfaction because you made a difference, and you helped others.

Transport and Warehousing is an industry that is invisible to many within society because few understand how goods are moved, business-to-business from raw material, production, quality control, warehouse to end-user or retailer. With the advent of the online world, deliveries are frequently being directed at our homes which is changing the sector in-concert with technological innovation. The logistics industry becomes visible when things go wrong, or predicted to take an adverse turn, such as the revelations from the recent ‘Brexit / Yellowhammer’ affair – where supply-chain disruption is predicted; and then all eyes turn as the hunt goes by.

At dinner parties, when asked, “What do you do?” I reply “I love Trucking”, which usually raises a smile, especially if it’s a noisy party.

I know many consider the Transport industry a tad old-hat when we see the newspapers, and social media talk of the dynamism [and innovation] of Silicon-Valley online companies, and the advent of teenage millionaires. What the media commentators fail to understand is that, for many in society, the logistics industry provides significant opportunities for the next generation, especially those who have not been born of wealth and privilege. It can provide a livelihood including a solid career with vocational qualifications for those displaying a strong work-ethic, and those who enjoy a challenge and diversity in colleagues and workloads.

I enjoy working for John Donovan and his team in a technical capacity at www.jjxlogistics.co.uk. It is energising working with a humble entrepreneur, who well over two decades ago in the midlands, started trucking with one vehicle, and now has expanded his business into Europe. While his business has grown with increased geographical reach, he continues to provide jobs and opportunity for others.

“Trucking” is more than just a job. For some of us, it is a way of life, with several career paths available to those who enjoy testing themselves, and never fear hard work.

For more information about JJX Logistics go to www.jjxlogistics.co.uk

If you are interested in working in the Logistics sector for JJX logistics click here for a job application.

Ali Karim has over 30 years’ experience of dealing with chemicals and gas in a production as well as in a sea and road transport environment at a senior management level in the UK and overseas with Interoute Transport Services, Gas and Equipment Ltd, Linde Gas UK Ltd, United Transport, Inspectorate International [Saudi Arabia] and Transport Development Group [TDG].

He was the co-founder and Managing Director of Hazchem Network Ltd [2004-2018] and currently works in a technical capacity for JJX Logistics and Keedwell Scotland.

We're ready when you need us

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Wolves All Stars vs JJX Logistics Veterans

Dayna Rudge — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 15:25:06 +0000

The Blog

Wolves All Stars vs JJX Logistics Veterans

18 September 2019 by Dayna Rudge

As you know, we are pretty big wolves fans. Therefore, in aid of Breast Cancer Now - Legacy4Lucy we have decided to hold a charity match against the Wolves All-Stars! Make sure you get the date in your diaries. Sunday 3rd November, kick-off 2pm at Wednesfield Town FC.

Businesses, if you would like to support us by offering a raffle or auction prize that would be fantastic. We are also looking for companies to take up some advertising space in the match programme.

Words from Legacy4Lucy

Why We Do It!

'pioneering as it seeks to research a cure for the illness in which 55,000 women are diagnosed each year killing 11,000'.

Next year we will breakthrough A QUARTER OF A MILLION!!!

Wolves Legends confirmed:

Nick Griffiths
Gordon Simms
Brett Hayward
Tony Dinning
Josh Skidmore
Colin Taylor
Paul Jones
Karl Henry
Mark Duncombe
Dennis Pearce
Seyi Olofinjana
Adam Proudlock
Matt Forman
Stephen Hunt
Simon Osborn
Micky Holmes
Michael Kightly
Jason Guy
Mel Eves

To donate please follow this link to the just giving page.

The event is sponsored by JJX Logistics, Staff Today and Direct Letterbox Marketing.

If you have any questions please email Emily.hyde@jjxlogistics.co.uk

Avoid doomscrolling - Binging on negative news or excessively scrolling on social media can have negative consequences. Try to focus on facts rather than speculation.
Be physically active - Try to give your mind a rest, shifting the focus to your body instead. Physical activity creates mood-boosting chemical changes in the brain.
Be mindful - When thoughts feel like they’re spiralling, mindfulness activities may stop your mind from racing. Meditation and other mindful practices can help you feel present in the moment.
Try breathing exercises - Breathing is closely linked to the nervous system. Deep controlled breathing with extended exhalation can cause a fall in heart rate and blood pressure.
Take time to unwind - It’s essential to still engage in activities you enjoy. Creative outlets, such as hobbies, crafts, writing or home improvement, can be good distractions.
Maintain sleep habits - Although it may be hard to sleep anxious, try to maintain your usual sleeping pattern. Being well rested is vital for emotional balance.
Eat healthy, balance meals - Healthy eating is essential for your overall physical and mental health, improving your ability to navigate stress during troubling times.
Connect with others - Good relationships foster a sense of belonging and provide an outlet to share experiences. Sharing worries with others can improve your situation and feelings.
Be transparent - Talk to your manager if your stress or anxiety stems from work-related situations. There may be ways that they can help to lessen the burden.
Reach out for help - Feeling anxious or stressed is natural, but don’t suffer alone. Talk to your doctor or checking with your employer for mental health or well-being resources.

For more information visit https://www.blackcountrymentalhealth.org.uk/

We're ready when you need us

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National Lorry Week – more about Ellis, our Logistics Accounts Manager

Edward Martin — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 10:19:35 +0000

The Blog

National Lorry Week – more about Ellis, our Logistics Accounts Manager

17 September 2019 by Edward Martin

As part of National Lorry Week, run by the RHA, our Logistics Accounts Manager answers a few questions about why he loves the industry.

What do you love about working in transport and logistics?

Every day is different. I enjoy the challenge of coordinating the transition of client’s freight from A to B in the most cost-effective and efficient way possible.

What does the transport and logistics industry mean to you?

Effectively, it’s a lifestyle. I’m on hand at all times of the day, offering advice and solutions to clients. Working for a family run business means that not only do I represent a company brand, but I represent the values of our MD who started the company over 21 years ago.

Why did you decide to work at JJX?

I wanted to progress my career in logistics from being on the road to learning the planning and compliance aspects of the trade. I finally settled in the commercial department where I thrive on saving my clients money and improving their service levels throughout the total supply chain.

What is something that people wouldn’t expect you to do in your role?

From time to time I go out and manage specialist exhibition, heavy lifting, Moffett and construction projects. I make sure that the plan runs smoothly whilst maintaining the highest level of onsite customer service levels and comply with health and safety regulations.

Why should people get involved in the transport industry?

It’s stereotyped as an unglamorous and pressurised. Like many other trades, it can be at times, but it’s not all doom and gloom I promise!

Everything in this world needs to be transported at some point in its lifecycle. Without logistics, the world would come to a stop!

There is currently a high demand for HGV drivers and the need to educate young people about the supply chain. It’s critical that we promote recruitment and training within the sector. Through the help of the RHA and National Lorry Week, we can promote the industry and emphasise how important it is to keep it alive.

Ellis is our Logistics Accounts Manager here at JJX, he works tirelessly to get the best deals on collecting or delivering your freight. Ellis manages all our clients here at JJX with daily support from our customer services team. He will work closely with clients to find out their exact requirements and produce a solution for the job, whether it’s a time-critical delivery, hazardous goods transport, storage or more.

If you would like to get in touch with him and ask more about our services you can call 01384 221642 or directly email him on ellis.blackham@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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National Lorry Week 2019

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 14:02:53 +0000

The Blog

National Lorry Week 2019

02 September 2019 by Dayna Rudge

JJX at the National Lorry Week 2019

We will be taking part in the National Lorry Week 2019.

From Monday 16 September 2019 until Sunday 22 September 2019.

This is the RHA's fifth annual National Lorry Week.

JJX Logistics agree with the RHA when they say "We know that the haulage industry is the life-blood of the country, and we want to make sure that everyone in the country knows it too!"

We will all be sharing what we love about the industry, as well as telling you what it's really like and breaking some myths about the transport industry.

For now, here are some facts about the Transport and Logistics Industry straight from the RHA themselves.

We're ready when you need us

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We are all winners here! JJX Golf day report

Edward Martin — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 10:42:38 +0000

The Blog

We are all winners here! JJX Golf day report

28 August 2019 by Edward Martin

Although the weather looked bleak, everyone arrived to Bewdley Pines Golf Club in good spirits ready for the day ahead. Players grabbed a tea or coffee before play, and a few managed to sneak in a fry up.

Players headed off to put on their waterproofs ready to battle mother nature. Some players hit the practice nets to warm up, while others dived straight in and had a go at the putting competition. Six holes were set up to test the players skills, with 10 being the winning score.

Now the players were ready to tee off. The rain held off for a moment or two for most people to tee off in the dry. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t work out as hoped. Cold and wet, the players managed to get around to the 9^th hole in good time with another competition to enter. This time, it was a bet. Players bet £2 that they would hit in the green in one shot, with the chance of doubling their money. Sadly, for them, but good for us, no one won the bet! So, all the money went into the pot for Black Country Mental Health.

The next hole presented them with a long drive challenge where the furthest shot would win a bottle of wine. After spending a few hours out on the course, the players started finishing their round. Coming to the 18^th hole where there was a nearest the pin challenge waiting for them.

Now the players were finished they could sit down, relax, have a drink and enjoy the steak and ale pie which was kindly sponsored by Clamason Industries.

After talks from Clamason Industries, ourselves and Sandra at Black Country Mental Health we commenced the presentation.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Putting Competition - Darren

Longest Drive – Nic Hawkes

Nearest the Pin – David

Wooden Spoon – Ellis Blackham

Third Place – Martin Lord

Second – Jack Knowles

First – Richard Tonks

We are proud to announce that we raised £715 on the day through entries, additional competitions, a raffle and extra donations.

Thank you to all who participated in our Charity Golf Day.

We're ready when you need us

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Dudley Ladies Hockey Club

Edward Martin — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 14:58:16 +0000

The Blog

Dudley Ladies Hockey Club

15 July 2019 by Edward Martin

You may or may not know that JJX Logistics sponsor Dudley Ladies Hockey Team. In September they are hosting a Back to Hockey event for past, present and future players. Please see the poster for details and information about the day.

About JJX Logistics

We operate a varied and modern fleet of vehicles, therefore, allowing us to provide bespoke transport solutions. Above all, our time-critical services are second to none.

Our Services include

Express transport
West Midlands courier service
Groupage deliveries
ADR Transport
Refrigerated transport
European collections and deliveries
Truck-mounted forklifts
Event logistics
Storage and Warehousing
plus much more.

If you need to get in touch with us please call 01384 221642 or email info@jjxlogistics.co.uk

We're ready when you need us

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Life or knife … the choice is yours.

Dayna Rudge — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 11:25:31 +0000

The Blog

Life or knife … the choice is yours.

09 July 2019 by Dayna Rudge

JJX's support to the life or knife campaign

JJX has worked with many charities over the years, with various truck signage dedicated to The Alzheimer’s Society, Dudley Mind and Breast Cancer Legacy for Lucy. We are now proud to reveal our latest truck to be sign written, with the life or knife campaign.

In partnership with the West Midlands Police, we are supporting their Life or Knife campaign to help combat knife crime. We have had one of our refrigerated trailers sign written with a very clear and bold message regarding the campaign.

Superintendent Phil Dolby said: “It’s great to have support from JJX Logistics in getting out our #lifeorknife message. Tackling knife crime is not just the responsibility of the police so it’s great to see a local business endorsing the campaign and taking up our message in this way.

“The truck will undoubtedly make an impact as it travels across the West Midlands and further afield and we hope it will inspire other businesses to lend their support to the campaign to stop knives claiming young lives across the West Midlands.”

Every 9 days a teenager in the UK is stabbed.

We hope that with this small bit of support we can help make a difference, whether that’s helping someone to talk about their experience or prevent someone from committing a crime.

The truck had it's first outing to an event on Saturday 6th July, at the Netherton Fun Day. It was a fantastic day with many coming to talk about knife crime and enquiring how they can do their bit to stop this terrible act.

We're ready when you need us

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Charity Golf Event in aid of Dudley Mind

Dayna Rudge — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 13:38:21 +0000

The Blog

Charity Golf Event in aid of Dudley Mind

03 July 2019 by Dayna Rudge

Charity Golf Event

You are all invited to our Charity Golf Event that we are holding for Dudley Mind on Friday 16^th August, at Bewdley Pines Golf Club first tee time 12:30pm.

This is an individual Stableford competition but bring a friend, colleague or client to help us raise awareness and funds for Dudley Mind and fight the stigma against Mental Health.

The entry fee is £40 per individual but if you wish to enter a set fourball you get the discounted price of £35 per person (£140 for the fourball).

This Charity Golf Event includes tea and coffee, 18 holes then a one course meal afterwards.

Bewdley Pines Golf Club
Habberley Rd,
Bewdley
DY12 1LA

First tee time 12:30pm. Once entered you will receive a confirmation email with an allocated tee time.

Prizes: First, Second, Third, Wooden Spoon

Longest Drive Men, Longest Drive Ladies, Nearest the Pin

Other fun competitions and extras throughout the day to raise more funds for Dudley Mind.

We would like to say a big thank you to Clamason Industries for sponsoring the one-course meal after the 18 holes.

We're ready when you need us

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Award LGV Winning Driver

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 10:45:29 +0000

The Blog

Award LGV Winning Driver

01 July 2019 by Dayna Rudge

LGV Driver of the Year award

Recently Alex Hudson, a JJX LGV driver, was shortlisted for the LGV Driver of the Year award from Talent in Logistics. Alex has been with us at JJX Logistics for 9 years, he is a hard-working and well-loved individual that takes much pride in his work and every job he does. He goes above and beyond and truly loves his role as a driver.

LGV drivers are the face of the Transport and Logistics industry. Their actions form the image and the reputation of the business, and we are glad to have Alex as part of our team.

On Thursday 27^th of June, John (MD), Alex and others attended the Talent in Logistics Awards Ceremony in Milton Keynes.

Before the event, Alex had to take part in numerous checks and examinations. With strong competition from other and much larger transport firms across the UK. Alex also had to undergo a driving assessment on the roads of Milton Keynes to prove his level of skill.

However, after a tough few hours, all the tests and inspections turned out to be a success. We would like to say congratulations to Alex on his win and becoming the Talent in Logistics LGV Driver of the Year 2019.

We are all proud and would like to commend him on his achievements in becoming an Award Winning LGV Driver.

For more information about our services please check out our same-day express delivery service or give us a call on 01384 221642

We're ready when you need us

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Birmingham Pride Carnival Parade 2019

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:56:53 +0000

The Blog

Birmingham Pride Carnival Parade 2019

24 June 2019 by Dayna Rudge

JJX at the pride Carnival Parade

In celebration of Pride month, we recently supported Birmingham Pride by providing them with three curtain sided trucks to be used as floats for part of the pride Carnival Parade. Along with these three trucks our Dudley Mind truck was also in attendance, helping us spread the word about mental health.

An enjoyable day was had by all. With our drivers loving every minute of the Carnival Parade and being successful in raising awareness and funds for Dudley Mind.

We are lucky to have been a part of the Birmingham Pride Carnival Parade for such a wonderful event.

If you would like to find out more about what we offer head over to our services page https://www.jjxlogistics.co.uk/services/

Play Video

We're ready when you need us

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Cupcake Day 2019 in aid of Alzheimer’s Society

Dayna Rudge — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:55:46 +0000

The Blog

Cupcake Day 2019 in aid of Alzheimer’s Society

24 June 2019 by Dayna Rudge

Our contribution to the Alzheimer’s Society

On Thursday 13^th of June, we started the day with 400+ cupcakes. By 5 pm we were left with only wrappers! With the help of Whiffaway Bins, we successfully sold these cupcakes to multiple businesses around the Pensnett Trading Estate raising a total of £700 for the Alzheimer’s Society. We would like to thank all companies and their employees that donated to this fantastic cause.

The next big planned fundraiser day will be Denim for Dementia day. This will be in September to correspond with World Alzheimer's Month. Denim for Dementia day will be a day where employees ditch their uniforms to wear denim. Then, for every piece of denim worn £1 is to be donated.

If anyone would like any more information about supporting Alzheimer’s Society they can drop Emma Bulter an email at emma.butler@alzheimers.org.uk.

Donate to Alzheimer's Society now by following this link.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Logistics carries unique product for European Market

Edward Martin — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 09:24:39 +0000

The Blog

JJX Logistics carries unique product for European Market

20 March 2018 by Edward Martin

JJX's European scheduled network

JJX Logistics has a dedicated European scheduled network which delivers all around Europe on a daily basis.

Sievert UK, part of the Rothenberger group of companies, manufacturers it’s MAPP gas product in Wednesbury, West Midlands. This unique product gives a maximum temperature of 2400 degrees centigrade, significantly higher than standard propane/butane mix and it can also be used in temperatures as low as -20, which makes it ideal for use in the Scandinavian countries.

This is a new product launch for Rothenberger in European countries and is being launched at the International Hardware Fair Cologne 2018 March 4^th-7^th.

Melvyn Baumber, General Manager SIEVERT UK LTD commented:

“We needed a company that could transport our first delivery of UN 1077 ADR goods into Europe on a timed and efficient basis, this being a new class of dangerous goods for us. JJX Logistics delivered this for us along with excellent customer service”.

We're ready when you need us

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UK Rail Trade Envoy Heads To Bangladesh

Edward Martin — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 14:57:55 +0000

The Blog

UK Rail Trade Envoy Heads To Bangladesh

21 September 2017 by Edward Martin

The UK and Bangladesh trade partnership

An envoy of nine rail companies from the UK, led by MP Rushanara Ali (the Prime Minister’s trade envoy for Bangladesh) to showcase the country’s expertise and experience in the rail sector, while underscoring the importance that the UK places on its investment and trade partnership with Bangladesh.

Ms Ali has also announced that even more export finance support will be available for UK trade with Bangladesh, climbing from £150 million to £625 million. This means that there will be nearly £500 million in extra capacity to assist exporters in the UK and their buyers in Bangladesh access goods and services from Britain.

“The mission is a demonstration of UK companies’ willingness to learn more about the opportunities in Bangladesh and seek partnerships for the benefit of both our countries. Given the strong friendship and close ties between the UK and Bangladesh, I am confident that Rushanara Ali’s visit will open up new avenues for trade,” Alison Blake, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, commented.

Getting in touch with the Department for International Trade might be a good idea if you’re keen to start exporting overseas, using air freight services in the UK. The DIT in Bangladesh can help UK brands increase competitiveness through overseas trade in the country, while also offering professional and personalised assistance to help Bangladeshi companies locate and expand here in the UK as well.

The website has all sorts of useful resources to help you start exporting, or increase the number of goods and services you sell abroad. There’s even a selling online overseas tool that can help you locate the very best marketplaces to show your products online.

We're ready when you need us

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Wolverhampton Speedway

Dayna Rudge — Wed, 13 Sep 2017 08:30:04 +0000

The Blog

Wolverhampton Speedway

13 September 2017 by Dayna Rudge

Here at JJX Logistics we try to help all where possible. We support Alzheimer's with our charity that we promote where possible.

But here we have the Wolverhampton Speedway!

As Chris Van Straaten explains:

"There is a high octane atmosphere on a night at Wolverhampton Speedway Four riders race and compete four laps in around a minute -without any brakes !! It is an adrenaline charged night out for people of all ages with the riders risking life and limb to win points and entertain. One of the advantages of Speedway compared to other motor sports is that you can see all of the action all of the time. Nothing can replace the excitement of the gladiators of shale who are all looking to be the best ,either to help their team or score points for themselves. Fans are friendly and there are clear announcements explaining the scoring system. The riders are approachable -one minute they are blasting around a track at up to 70 mph around a track of 264 metres (288 yards),the next minute they will chat to fans and pose for selfies.

Speedway -The original extreme sport-is all about grabbing a piece of the action.

Wolverhampton Speedway- Elite League Champions in 2016-are proud to be supported by JJX Logistics and thank principal John Donovan for his continued support."

For interest Wolverhampton Speedway has won over major trophies all in. Not counting the runners up medals/trophies. Included with some of these are British Champion Tai Woffinden, and Elite Rider Champion, Freddie Lindgren. British under 19 Champion Max Clegg.

To know more visit:

http://www.wolverhamptonwolves.co/fixtures17

We're ready when you need us

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UTA increase security on fuel cards

Dayna Rudge — Tue, 12 Sep 2017 09:27:21 +0000

The Blog

UTA increase security on fuel cards

12 September 2017 by Dayna Rudge

UTA Security Increased

UTA Have recently announced that they have made security changes to their fuel cards. With the ability to now manage limits of usage of the card online. These will include things such as: transactions per day, which countries can be used in value of transactions to name a few of the new implementations. Customers using the portal will be able to essentially implement parameters to suit requirements of their needs. This will be especially useful when companies are dealing in the intercontinental logistical services.The services added by UTA are set to be somewhat similar to those by online banking. Doing this has been met with positive response from customer feedback. Customers are said to be happy with the available options and the customisation available to them. Other security features are features such as:

- Pin code query.

- Controls on transaction.

- Alert system for suspicious activity.

- Features in place to block the card in any fraud suspicions.

- email alerts to limit when reached. These features are obviously designed to make the whole user experience more engaging and more secure. With optimisation features to suit the customers. UTA are among the leading issuers of fuel and service cards for commercial goods transport. With 54,000 points of acceptance across 40 European countries this will be good news to all.

We're ready when you need us

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UK Export Sales ‘Going From Strength To Strength’

Edward Martin — Thu, 07 Sep 2017 12:44:13 +0000

The Blog

UK Export Sales ‘Going From Strength To Strength’

07 September 2017 by Edward Martin

Exporting to Europe from the UK

Export sales in the UK appear to be particularly robust at the moment, which will surely be music to the ears of all those companies making good use of air freight services in the UK right now.

New figures from EEF The Manufacturers’ Organisation have revealed 60 per cent of all companies would now consider the EU as having the most growth opportunities for businesses in the UK, with all sectors now benefiting from an upswing in global trade.

Among the key findings, it was revealed that export orders continued climbing in the third quarter of the year, with three-fifths of firms noting positive demand conditions throughout Europe – the UK’s biggest market – almost unchanged from the second quarter and up from the 47 per cent seen 12 months ago.

This has all had a knock-on effect for industry in the country, leading to a hike in both recruitment and investment intentions, with more companies taking on more new recruits and investment prospects and capital expenditure plans more than doubling.

Chief economist at EEF Lee Hopley said: “There is little doubt that Brexit is likely to weigh on sentiment over the next 12 months with uncertainty over the UK’s terms of exit. As such, it is vital the government sends a signal to industry and investors in the UK and overseas that it is doing everything in its power to get growth of the UK economy back on the agenda. This must include a bold and ambitious cross -government industrial strategy.”

Where Brexit is concerned, senior government figures have just come out and said that the UK will not be able to renegotiate trade deals that are already in existence between the EU and third countries. Instead, they intend to come up with copycat deals – which have been described as ‘ cut and paste’ by some – in large part driven by a lack of resources to negotiate on deals that have already been signed by the EU and third countries.

We're ready when you need us

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Lorry Platooning

Edward Martin — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 07:19:26 +0000

The Blog

Lorry Platooning

04 September 2017 by Edward Martin

New wireless technology trials for lorries on motorways are soon to be carried out, which could have very real benefits for logistics companies in the UK and beyond.

Announced by the Department for Transport, the £8.1 million government-funded project will see three platooned heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) travelling in convoy, with their braking and acceleration controlled by the vehicle in front.

It’s thought that the benefits of driving in this way could include lower emissions, greater efficiencies and improvements to air quality. But rest assured that all lorries travelling in this platoon formation will always still have a driver ready to assume control of the vehicle when necessary!

Highways England chief executive Jim O’Sullivan explained that trials are due to take place on major roads by the end of next year – and testing will only be carried out when evidence is there to suggest that it can be done safely.

He went on to add: “The trial has the potential to demonstrate how greater automation of vehicles – in this instance, HGVs – can deliver improvements in safety, better journeys for road users and reduction in vehicle emissions. Investing in this research shows we care about those using our roads, the economy and the environment, and safety will be integral as we take forward this work with the Transport Research Laboratory.”

Meanwhile, those sending goods by air freight could soon see the planes used by fuels made from rubbish being sent to landfill as part of plans to really promote cleaner alternative fuels. Trials of jet fuel made from waste have already been carried out in Europe and North America – and now a competition in the UK has been launched for groups interested in carrying out research in this particular sector.

We're ready when you need us

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JJX Logistics

A Comprehensive Guide to Cold Chain Logistics

A Comprehensive Guide to Cold Chain Logistics

What is Cold-Chain Logistics?

Why Temperature Control is Critical for Perishable Goods

Key Components of Temperature-Controlled Logistics

Temperature Controlled Vehicles

Temperature Controlled Packaging

Cold-Chain Storage Facilities

Temperature Monitoring and Tracking

Cold-Chain Logistics Industry Use Cases

Cold-Chain for Food and Drinks

Cold-Chain Logistics for Pharmaceuticals

Cold-Chain Logistics Regulations and Compliance

The Global Importance of Cold-Chain Logistics

Team to Complete Charity LLHM Run

Team to Complete Charity LLHM Run

JJX Triumph at 2024 Fleet News Awards

JJX Triumph at 2024 Fleet News Awards

Training to be a HGV Driver

Training to be a HGV Driver

Understanding the HGV Driver Role

Requirements for Becoming a HGV Driver

Overview of Different HGV Licence Categories

Applying for a Provisional HGV Licence

The HGV Driving Test

Obtaining a Driver CPC

Finding HGV Driver Training Institutes

Annual Charity Easter Egg Collection 2024

Annual Charity Easter Egg Collection 2024

Transporting Electric Car Batteries

Transporting Electric Car Batteries

Understanding Electric Car and Lithium-Ion Batteries

Why are EV Batteries Challenging to Transport?

Regulations and Classifications that Apply to EV Battery Transportation

Packaging and Handling Electric Car Batteries

Environmental Risks

Transporting Electric Car Batteries: Choosing the Right Logistics Partner

National Apprenticeship Week 2024

National Apprenticeship Week

Common Strategies and Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

Common Strategies and Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

Common Practices of Sustainable Logistics

Optimised Route Planning

Consolidation of Shipments to Reduce Emissions

Use of Electric, Hybrid or Fuel Efficient Vehicles

Efficient Packaging and Materials

Benefits of Sustainable Logistics

Decreased Pollution and Emissions

Conservation of Natural Resources

Cost savings & Increased Efficiency

Lower Fuel Consumption

Reduce Waste & Packaging Costs

EnergySaving

Improved Reputation and Brand Image

JJX Logistics’ Commitment to Sustainability

JJX Complete Christmas Collection for BCMH and Black Country Food Bank

What is a Bonded Warehouse?

What is a Bonded Warehouse?

Why Use a Bonded Warehouse?

Wet and Dry Bonded Warehouses

What Goods are Eligible for Storage in a Bonded Warehouse?

Using a Bonded Warehouse

How to Store Goods in a Bonded Warehouse

Goods Stored in a Bonded Warehouse

How to Take Goods out of a Bonded Warehouse

Requirements for Operating a Bonded Warehouse

Responsibilities of Bonded Warehouse Operators

Wet Bonded Storage at JJX

JJX Granted Excise Bonded Status

Christmas Operations at JJX

Christmas Operations at JJX

Christmas Schedule

Donations

HGV, Van & Truck Driver’s Mental Welfare

HGV, Van & Truck Driver’s Mental Welfare

Challenges Faced by Truck Drivers

Long Working Hours and Fatigue

Living Conditions on the Road

Lack of Access to Healthcare Facilities

Energy
Saving