Pall-Ex has moved swiftly to ensure coverage continuity after St Albans-based member Bill Chippington Haulage ceased trading last week. (14 June).

The company was placed into administration last week Peter Wastell and Michael Young, partners at FRP Advisory, handling affairs.

The haulier had traded from its St Albans premises since 1976, as well as from a site in Corby.

It joined Pall-Ex in April last year from Palletline  to take on work across Hertfordshire, plugging the gap left by Miniclipper, which moved the other way.

Adrian Russell, MD of Pall-Ex, said: “Prior to this announcement, the team at Pall-Ex was already in the process of restructuring this postcode area and undertaking member recruitment.

“The postcode in question is currently being covered by existing members DA Clayton, 1st Class Transport, Matthews Haulage, Woodrush Express Freight and Premier Palletised until our recruitment is complete and we are able to announce a new member.”

FRP’s Wastell said the haulier had been “struggling with its financial position for a prolonged period”.

“Refinancing options were explored, as was the viability of selling the business as a going concern, but, regrettably, the business has ultimately had to shut down with the loss of 53 jobs across the company's two trading sites,” he added.

The company held an O-licence authorising 52 vehicles and 49 trailers at three locations  (Corby, St Albans and Wolverhampton).