Navigating the Gateway to Global Growth

Navigating the Gateway to Global Growth title imageA service designed to help businesses accelerate in their International Goals.

We work in collaboration with Aspire Export Solutions Ltd, who specialise in providing comprehensive solutions for businesses looking to expand their reach beyond borders. These services encompass every step of the export journey, from market research and strategy development to navigating complex international regulations.

With expert guidance, we’ll help you identify lucrative opportunities, establish a strong market presence, and smoothly navigate the intricacies of global trade. Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just starting out, Aspire Export Solutions is your dedicated partner, committed to turning your aspirations into achievements on the global stage.

If you would like to find out more please contact: jackie@aspireexportsolutions.com

Or call: +44 7869 154 046

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Jeff B.
3 weeks ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy.

If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
3 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
Alan G.
4 months ago
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Emily S.
4 months ago
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Declan B.
5 months ago
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Tony P.
7 months ago
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
Daniel W.
9 months ago
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Sam R.
9 months ago
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Joanne G.
9 months ago
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

Valued Google Customer Reviews for International Freight Solutions Ltd

A Freight Forwarder who regularly go the extra mile when it comes to customer service. We believe in carving out long term business relationships…

An introduction to International Freight Solutions (IFS)

International Freight Solutions (IFS) can arrange Express or Economy services for your Documents, Parcels, Pallets, Part or Full Trailer/Container Loads, either by Road, Ocean, Air or Rail…

First Electric Heavy-goods Vehicle crosses Channel Tunnel with Leshuttle Freight

In a joint effort, Kuehne+Nagel, LeShuttle Freight, Voltempo, and DAF Trucks have successfully sent first eHGV) through the Channel Tunnel…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by International Freight Solutions

Learn more about a Freight Forwarder by International Freight Solutions. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for…

New EU Import Security Rules started in January 2026

Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is the new safety & security declaration system for movements into Northern Ireland and the European Union…

A Red Sea return would be a game changer for container shipping in 2026

Container lines deciding to navigate back to the Red Sea is arguably the most important development to watch for in the global shipping market this year…

Freight forwarding goes right back to the 1800’s!

Back in 1836 Thomas Meadows and Company Limited, London began to see the need for this industry with demand for more reliable rail transport…

IFS is a member of World Top Cargo Alliance of Freight Forwarders

International Freight Solutions are proud to be part of World Top Cargo Alliance and look forward to many years of fruitful partnership…

International Freight Solutions Ltd is a member of BIFA

The leading body representing the UK International Freight Services industry – The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the prime trade association for UK registered companies…

UK Government Moves to Scrap De Minimis Customs Rule

The UK government is in open consultation to reform customs treatment of low-value imports (LVIs) into the United Kingdom…

Logistics industry experts Logistics UK respond to Anti-Growth Budget

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ announcement in the Budget of an increase in fuel duty from September 2026 has come as a blow to the sector…

Member of FIATA, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations

FIATA’s membership is composed of 114 Association Members, overall representing an industry of 40,000 freight forwarding and logistics firms worldwide..

Port of Felixstowe receives its first two Autonomous Trucks (ATs)

Port of felixstowe has taken delivery of the first two units from an order for a further 34 autonomous trucks (ATs) from Shanghai Westwell…

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ pre-Budget speech fails to rule out tax rises

Warnings that businesses can’t take more tax hikes.  Fear amongst economists that increasing taxes will not help economical growth…

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Staff Profiles – Introducing… Catherine

Branch Manager, Bradford, Catherine Gibson

Catherine has nearly 30 years’ experience in the international freight industry. She very much enjoys the variety of projects which she manages for customers.

For example, one day she could be sorting out an urgent ‘same day’ delivery of a long tube from Yorkshire to the North East – The next she is responsible for an ‘Out of Gauge’ export consignment from UK to Egypt via Road and Sea Freight.

She says: “we are used to having enquiries for a vast array of shipments that come in all shapes and sizes.”

Outside of work, Catherine likes nothing better than cosy nights in front of the tv, with the log burner and a glass of Bailey’s. Catherine also loves taking her Miniature Dachshunds to log cabins in Scotland on the Solway Coast and enjoys going out for meals and the odd trip to the theatre.

Always here to help

If you need assistance from a freight forwarder with any shipment, no matter how large or small, we at IFS are always ready to advise on a freight solution. Simply call our friendly and helpful team on: +44 (0) 1274 059 827, or send a message >

30 Years on: How Eurotunnel revolutionised European road freight

Europa Road is reporting 2,600 journeys through the Eurotunnel every month – more than 30,000 annually – as the tunnel celebrates its 30th anniversary.

30 Years under the sea: How Eurotunnel revolutionised European road freightEuropa Road, is one of the largest commercial users of the tunnel and was one of the very first transport companies to establish express services into mainland Europe. The European road freight expert started using LeShuttle Freight service shortly after it opened in 1994.

It remains one of the greatest transportation innovations of a generation, being the longest undersea tunnel in the world, spanning 50km. Open 24/7, 365 days a year, LeShuttle Freight offers remarkable flexibility for frequent users like Europa Road, who transport a variety of time-critical groupage, part load and full load consignments from the UK’s largest groupage 1Hub in Dartford.

Cementing the UK’s trade ties with continental Europe, LeShuttle Freight offers the prospect of high-speed freight services, shorter journeys and a sophisticated IT/data transfer infrastructure allowing smooth border crossings.

A truck crossing the Channel on LeShuttle Freight service emits 12 times less carbon emissions than by ferry. Using its specific and bespoke IT integration, LeShuttle Freight’s infrastructure is customer-centric and easing trade burdens post-Brexit.

Dan Cook, Group Operations Director at Europa Worldwide Group, explained: “Eurotunnel opened access to new European markets for British businesses, offering faster transit times (of just 35 minutes compared to 90 minutes by ferry), fewer carbon emissions, and fewer disruptions associated with weather or traffic congestion at ferry ports.”

 

“There have of course been challenges along the way. Everything changed when the UK left the customs union and more complex border controls came into force after Brexit. Freight businesses transporting goods to the EU via France needed a more sophisticated IT infrastructure to improve operational efficiency, communication between stakeholders, and track & trace capabilities.”

Read more from Multimodal >

 

For a freight delivery quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Jeff B.
3 weeks ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy.

If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
3 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
Alan G.
4 months ago
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Emily S.
4 months ago
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Declan B.
5 months ago
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Tony P.
7 months ago
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
Daniel W.
9 months ago
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Sam R.
9 months ago
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Joanne G.
9 months ago
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

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Vacancy for Freight Forwarding Operator

Full time Permanent – Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Salary negotiable depending on experience with additional unlimited earnings through a team commission scheme.
 
 

Benefits

  • Holiday Purchase Scheme
  • Company pension scheme
  • Cashback on health care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, specialist consultations and more.

Brief Overview

International Freight Solutions are currently looking for a new team member in the role of ‘Freight Forwarding Operator’ to help support and develop this growing company.
 
This role is office based (Sheffield) and the candidate should have previous experience of working in a Freight Forwarding office with a general all-round knowledge of all modes of shipping including Road, Air and Ocean. Having a good commercial awareness and sales experience would also be beneficial.
 
The successful applicant will take direct ownership of customer relationships and ensure all business is implemented successfully with excellent communication being paramount. You will be involved in commercial activities such as quoting and following up with clients to secure new and existing business. Also key is liaising with existing carriers/suppliers and sourcing new partners as required to help provide solutions. Delivering an excellent standard of customer service is extremely important to this role.
 
 

Key Skills and Requirements

  • Knowledge of Import & Export procedures including basic Customs knowledge.
  • Good communication and customer service skills
  • Good organization skills and effective time management
  • Commercial awareness
  • Recognising new sales opportunities
  • Attention to detail
  • IT Literate in Microsoft Office
  • Problem solving
 

Key Tasks

  • Organise operational workflow to meet customer timeframes.
  • Communicate effectively with the customer to obtain relevant information and ensure their needs are met.
  • Resolve customer issues and escalate where support is needed.
  • Liaise and negotiate with sub-contractors to arrange carriage of goods to various worldwide destinations.
  • Raise payable invoices to customers through inhouse systems whilst monitoring financial Profit levels on own shipments.
  • Complete all administration functions in accordance with company policy and procedures.
 
To express an interest in this position, please email your CV with a covering letter or call 01709 610000.
 
Jeff B.
3 weeks ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy.

If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
3 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
Alan G.
4 months ago
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Emily S.
4 months ago
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Declan B.
5 months ago
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Tony P.
7 months ago
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
Daniel W.
9 months ago
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Sam R.
9 months ago
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Joanne G.
9 months ago
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

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Another successful ‘Out of Gauge’ Shipment completed by IFS, Yorkshire to Egypt

Out of Gauge export from Yorkshire to Egypt by IFS
Case Study:
Out of Gauge Export
Service provided by IFS:
Road / Sea Freight – Port to Port
Destination:
Egypt
Collection:
Yorkshire, UK
Consignment:
EX Rated Electro-Mechanical Pot-Lifter and Pot-Lifting Stairs and Platform & parts.
Transit Time:
12 Days.

At International Freight Solutions we are used to having enquiries for a vast array of consignments that come in all shapes and sizes. This recent order was no exception and the main crate even came with the nic name of Bertha!

All equipment and parts were dismantled and put in various crates for transportation. The IFS team arranged for the shipment to be collected for the start of its journey via the port of Felixstowe. Big Bertha and her friends were successfully on their way to their new home. As you can see from the photos (our customer asked we show Bertha’s good side 😂) everything was loaded, secured and on the flat rack, and with a survey report the goods were accepted by the shipping line.

Our customer’s engineers flew out to Egypt and met the consignment to put it all back together again. They were also very thankful for all our help and are already talking about their next assignments for India and Oman. Everyone is happy!

If you need assistance from a freight forwarder with any shipment, no matter how large or small, we at IFS are always ready to advise on a freight solution. Simply call our friendly and helpful team on: +44 (0) 1709 610 000, or send a message >

 

For an International Courier quotation or to book in your consignment, please click below…

Jeff B.
3 weeks ago
Working with Catherine and IFS has been a breath of fresh air. Communication has been excellent, she keeps you informed throughout the entire process and makes something that others could easily make difficult feel… well, easy.

If you want someone who treats your shipment like it actually matters (because it does), Catherine is the one. Highly recommend, my stress level definitely approves 😄.
Response from the owner:Glad you are happy with our service Jeff. Cath's communication is great - she does like to talk!😆We appreciate your business and look forward to assisting you again.
Rachel J.
3 months ago
Great service. We needed a parcel collecting from Italy - all arranged very smoothly, efficiently and a very quick delivery.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback Rachel. Glad everything went well for you and that you were happy with our service.
Alan G.
4 months ago
when a friend whose first langauge is not English needed a parcel shipping to Canada at short notice the team especially Paul came up trumps and pulled out all the stops i highly recommend this company
Response from the owner:Many thanks for the great review Alan, always happy to assist.
Emily S.
4 months ago
Lots of help and advice when shipping a ceramic sculpture to Dubai. Very smooth service and speedy delivery. Will definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Really glad you were happy with our service Emily - hope to assist you again soon.
Declan B.
5 months ago
Great customer experience all the staff are great
Response from the owner:Appreciate the kind words Declan
Tony P.
7 months ago
Had 3 pallets to bring in from Greece. Sender was struggling with UK regulations. Spoke to one freight forwarder who just said 'can't help sorry' as their agent in Greece couldn't help. Was starting to worry until I found IFS. Google reviews looked good and when I spoke to Paul he couldn't have made things any easier. Pallets here safely within a couple of weeks, price cheaper than I was expecting and great communication throughout. Top top company.
Response from the owner:Hi Tony, thanks so much for the great review, we would be more than happy to help you with any further shipping requirements you have in the future!
Daniel W.
9 months ago
I would like to give a special positive review to Catherine Gibson our account manager. Catherine's communication is great along with her speedy competitive quotes. Her communication and updates with our air / sea imports are always up to date and accurate. We have been using International Freight Solutions for well over 12 months now and look forward to many more years working together.

Keep up the good work !!!!

Dan Willerton

Healthy Step (Sensograph) Ltd
Unit E209 Warmco Industrial Park,
Manchester Road, Mossley,
Ashton-under-Lyne,
Lancashire
OL5 9AY
Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review Dan, it really means a lot to us and especially Cath as she’s bouncing along the clouds now!!
Sam R.
9 months ago
Amazing service from Paul - super helpful, informative and really has a wealth of knowledge. It is a pleasure working with him for our business needs.
Response from the owner:Sam, thanks so much for the kind words and taking the time out to leave such a fantastic review! Looking forward to assisting you again.
Joanne G.
9 months ago
Perfect to deal with and nothing is too much trouble.
Response from the owner:We really appreciate you taking time to leave your kind review - many thanks Joanne!

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