LATEST NEWS

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Welcome to our Newsletter for March 2010. We hope you will find this information of interest.

Changing Rates for Imports
Import rates from the Far East continue to increase and the peak season surcharge implemented last year is still in place (or has been incorporated into the base rate). Space is still at a premium from the Far East (with all vessels sailing full, and even over booked) therefore it is likely that shipping lines will continue with the rate restoration programme they have implemented over recent months. As usual clients will be advised individually of any adjustment to their current rates.

Changing Rates for Exports
Export rates continue to increase with many shipping lines increasing such surcharges as Aden and Suez, and introducing a heavy weight surcharge for 20’ containers (some starting at 16,000 kgs). As always we will continue to monitor the changing rates and all clients will be notified individually of their current rates.

Changes to HMR&C Rules Regarding IPR Drawback
HMR&C have announced that IPR drawback – simplified procedure will be withdrawn from 1st April 2010. You will be able to import under IPR drawback using the pre approved authorisation until 2013 when a new system (MCC – Modernised Customs Core procedures) will be implemented. Anyone who requires further information please contact us.

Ban on the Shipment of Hazardous Cargo in and out of Shanghai during EXPO 2010
We have received notification from several shipping lines that it is likely that the movement of hazardous materials (both imports and exports) will be severely restricted during EXPO 2010. We are seeking further clarification as to the exact nature of the restrictions. Please contact us for further information.

Nigerian Cargo Tracking Note
Following the introduction of Nigerian cargo tracking notes from January 2010, we have now prepared and presented a number of notes on behalf of clients. All cargo in and out of Nigeria requires a cargo tracking note, if anyone requires any further information or assistance in this matter please contact us.

Haiti Services Resumed
Services have been resumed for Port au Prince. The port is not yet fully restored so operations are very slow and the port is suffering from congestion. Vessels are being anchored off shore and containers are being discharged with the use of vessel gears onto landing craft utilities which will take the containers to shore. For any enquiries to Port au Prince contact us.

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Moving with the times
Locker Freight endeavours to always provide the best possible service to all its customers.

We have recently installed the internet based program ‘Skype’. This new technology enables us to deal with our customers through the internet either via video voice call or normal voice call through a head set. As well as an instant messaging service we are able to have a more effective and personal relationship with our customers and best of all, it’s free of charge!!

Also on communication issues, the week beginning 28/09/09 we will have a new phone system installed, so please, bear with us in case there are any teething problems. The installation company hope there is no undue interruptions but we shall see…..

Banking
The accounts department is an integral part of any company. We also keep up to speed with the latest changes in technology and we are just in the process of negotiating with our accounts package provider to upgrade to Sage 200. E-banking will also be introduced by the end of September, this will stream line our payments.

Vehicle loading on the rise
As shown on the warehousing section of our website we wish to make you aware that Locker Freight Ltd are fully equipped and able to load any type of motor vehicle. Word is spreading of the professional service we are offering. We work alongside major shipping agents also dealing with Personal shipments and military vehicles to British Embassy’s around the world.

Expanding
We are pleased to confirm the increase in overall business this means we are looking to expand our Export department to help with the increasing demands and work load. This also coincides with a constant increase in our warehousing which has prompted us to acquire additional warehouse premises still located in Huyton.

Back to work
Last but by no means least we welcome back Reg Dickson who has been absent due to a heart operation he had in May. He is now fit and well and looking forward to his return!!