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PML's venture with FreshLinc to operate a remote HMRC / DEFRA approved Border Control Post (BCP) and ERT (bonded warehouse) facility has finally been given the green light after a delay of over three months caused by the pandemic.

The global perishable cargo specialist will run the operation at FreshLinc’s Spalding HQ. It aims to enable faster movement of product from the ports and an extended shelf life of up to 48 hours.

The BCP sits on a 70,000sq ft site and should have been effective from 1 January 2021. The £400,000 facility includes a purpose-built 10,000sq ft warehouse with the capacity to store 330 pallets and dedicated inspection areas for customs and DEFRA. Four new staff have been trained to ensure a seamless 24-hour service.

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PML explained that the Spalding location is ideally placed for freight traffic coming out of Dover and Southampton docks and the move to set up a BCP away from the ports represents a solution to the delays and excessive queues which impede the onward movement of freight.

The company added that it was unwilling to risk further disruptions anticipated post Brexit and therefore joined forces with FreshLinc – with whom it shares a long-standing and trusted working relationship - to provide a viable alternative.

Commented PML sales director Nick Finbow said: “It is unfortunate that the official opening of the facility at Spalding was delayed but of course, we are accepting that we are all working under exceptional circumstances. We are delighted that we can now offer our customers the benefit of a safe and speedy transfer out of the ports which should ultimately deliver a minimum of 24-48 hours additional shelf life on perishable goods with no break in the cold chain.

"As a business PML has always demonstrated forward thinking and is proactive in identifying innovative solutions to any challenge which threatens to impede its ability to deliver the effective, seamless service for which it is renowned.”

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