DHL to co-ordinate 300 subbies for UK's bumper grain harvest

DHL Supply Chain is co-ordinating more than 300 subbies to handle a bumper grain harvest across the agricultural sector.

With prospective grain volumes this year anticipated to be up to 30% higher than in 2013, DHL is calling on its national network of regional tipper operators, together with a multitude of smaller farm-based hauliers, which will be managed centrally though a logistics control room in Hertfordshire.

Ian Hartley, vice president, control towers and transport services at DHL Supply Chain, said: “We understand the success of many UK agricultural businesses depends on their ability to deliver a profitable harvest.

"Maintaining product quality is of paramount importance to cereal farmers, merchants and processors and often relies on the timely movement of product at short notice, so having a robust and flexible transportation solution is critical.”

He added that at a critical time for the agricultural industry, with significant increase in demand for bulk haulage, DHL’s capacity together with its network of TASCC-certified hauliers (Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops) “provides a reliable, truly nationwide service to ensure product is moved where and when it needs to be”.

DHL said it can provide flexible, short notice “pay as you use” services, as well as longer-term fixed-rate contracts for farmers looking to transport their grain.