Felixstowe Port to review its booking system

Following a meeting this week with representatives of the port, the trade association said it welcomed the review and would continue to engage with it before the system is fully rolled out following a trial.

The CBS has been described as “challenging” for hauliers delivering and picking up goods, with the RHA warning that it could create greater costs and spark delays.

The meeting also included representatives of the Felixstowe Port Users’ Association and BIFA.

RHA MD Richard Smith said: “At the meeting, a number of operators expressed concerns regarding the operational challenges they’ve faced to date when delivering and picking up goods from the port since the introduction of the trial period for the new booking system.

“Concern was expressed too that there’s been a lack of clarity from the port regarding the changes, with some operators feeling they’re going to pay a price for circumstances beyond their immediate control – such as congestion and delays.

“If current plans for the new system proceed unchanged, there could be considerable additional costs for many hauliers.”

Another meeting is scheduled for 4 September. Smith added: “We urge the port to ensure that all feedback and learnings during the trial period will be considered before the system is fully rolled-out.”