Palletforce

Palletforce, a UK palletised freight network built on member hauliers

Palletforce operates an express palletised freight distribution network in which independent transport companies act as members and depots. The company states that its network comprises over 150 depots across the UK and, in its own presentation, describes itself as a market leader in express palletised freight distribution. Its members collect and deliver to every UK postcode every day, and the network also covers Ireland and more than 30 European countries.

Palletforce was created 25 years ago and reports having delivered more than 65 million pallets of freight over that period. It is part of the global logistics group EV Cargo, which the company says extends its services and products worldwide. The network is presented as serving over 15,000 SME businesses daily.

Consignments from a quarter pallet to a full truck

The service range covers consignments of all sizes, from a quarter pallet to a full truck load. Palletforce frames this as giving smaller or infrequent shippers access to economies of scale and competitive rates comparable to those of larger organisations. Quote requests are handled by member depots, which then contact the requester.

The SuperHub and live tracking technology

At the centre of the operation is a central SuperHub that the company describes as the largest drive-through distribution centre in Europe, with 620,000 sq ft of space and capacity to process more than 450 trucks and 30,000 pallets of freight daily. Palletforce also highlights patented technology that weighs, scans and photographs every pallet passing through the hub, together with live tracking, real-time updates and images of goods in transit. The company presents this combination as unique among express networks.

Network scale and sustainability approach

The company summarises its network with figures including 130 member companies, 10,000 network colleagues, 150 UK depots, 4,000 delivery vehicles and coverage of over 30 countries. On the environmental side, Palletforce states that its model keeps trucks fully loaded for as long as possible to reduce unnecessary miles, fuel and emissions, and that its sustainability strategy is driven by Sustainability Champions within the business and underpinned by a commitment to the UN Global Compact and its Sustainable Development Goals.

Quality and safety accreditation

Palletforce reports ISO accreditation for quality management systems, health and safety and the environment. According to the company, this demonstrates its ability to minimise waste and errors, increase productivity and ensure that its products and services are safe, reliable and of good quality. The business also describes itself as a multiple business award winner.

Membership and industry sectors

The network is formed by quality hauliers, described in one part of the site as over 100 and elsewhere as more than 120 or 130 member companies. Palletforce markets membership benefits and technology access to transport companies, and organises its commercial offer around palletised distribution, European services and specific industry sectors. It also maintains a depot finder for customers seeking local collection and delivery.