Rising unaccompanied volumes in UK traffic

The half-year shipping volumes in 2021 for the Cuxhaven-Immingham route exceed expectations and gives hope for continued successful development in the second half of 2021.

DFDS - Selandia Seaways

Positive trend in volumes despite current challenges

Following the Corona-related drop by 15% in total freight volumes during the first half of 2020 compared to 2019, Cuxhaven-Immingham can now record an increase of 18% in volumes in 2021.

“Looking at the first half of 2021, we are even better off than we were before the Corona crisis in 2019. This is despite the continuing difficult market environment in the UK business, especially caused by the introduction of customs formalities since 1st January 2021 and the still ongoing pandemic”, says Ortolf Barth, Route Director. “We can therefore be satisfied with the development in 2021 so far. With the current business potential, we are sure that we will be doing much better at the end of the year” he adds.

Unaccompanied cargo segment drives the development

Especially the cargo segment of unaccompanied transport is developing significantly. The strong increase in this segment is driven by exceeding volumes in the trailer and container traffic as well as the transport of mobile machinery, with a total of +18% compared to last year.

The main reason for this trend is the poor availability of drivers and equipment in general. New regulatory rules and formalities for foreign drivers in the UK, as well as constant changes to regulations due to the spread of the new COVID-19 variant, has big impact on the attractiveness for driver-accompanied transport.

Marcus Braue, Branch Manager at DFDS in Cuxhaven, says, “With our Cuxhaven-Immingham connection, we are predestined for unaccompanied transport to and from England. “

“The volume development proves that our customers appreciate the advantages of unaccompanied traffic and the fact that the customs procedures are working as planned. Adapting our timetable to 6 departures per week and direction, along with a shortened time between the ports was therefore the right decision.”

More Information about the route and booking here

Contact: Marcus Braue, Branch Manager, marcus.braue@dfds.com

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