Mediateam, Author at International Freight Solutions

Staff Profiles – Introducing… Catherine

by Mediateam | Jul 16, 2024 | IFS Staff

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 >

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30 Years on: How Eurotunnel revolutionised European road freight

by Mediateam | Jul 8, 2024 | International 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 freight Europa 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 >

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International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0

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Yvonne W.

2 months ago

I needed an antique dining table shipping to family in Queensland Australia. I was dreading the whole process but it couldn’t have been simpler thanks to Paul and the team at IFS.The service they provided was outstanding every step of the way, not to mention the impeccable packing of the table! I cannot recommend them enough and would give more stars if I could.

Response from the owner:Wow, thank you for such a fantastic review, Yvonne. We're delighted to hear that you were so pleased with our service and that everything went smoothly for both you and your relatives in Australia. Thank you for choosing us, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

Emma T.

2 months ago

First time using IFS and they made shipping my books to America really simple and stress free at a competitive rate. Thanks Paul & Jamie for keeping me updated throughout the process, will be using your services again soon.

Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.

The Rocking Horse S.

2 months ago

we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!

Response from the owner:Many thanks for your great review, James, it really is appreciated! Here is the URL for your case study - https://intfreight.co.uk/2022/10/export-from-the-rocking-horse-shop-in-york-to-new-zealand/

Tim D.

3 months ago

We use International Freight Solutions regularly. The service is always very good and they are always able to have a solution to fit our needs. Their pricing is good and they are very easy to work with and their communication is excellent.

Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!

Josh B.

3 months ago

We have used Paul and his team multiple times over the past couple of years and have never had a problem. They always work hard to find the best solution, and they deliver every time. We had a major client putting a lot of pressure on us due to manufacturing delays. Paul sorted the transport quickly and kept adapting the arrangements whenever delays changed, which made things much easier for us. He managed to get our shipment from Spain to England within two days. The pricing is very reasonable and completely justified for the level of service provided. Communication is always clear throughout the entire transport process, and they consistently deliver quickly and reliably. I would highly recommend Paul and his team. We never have to worry when we contact him, and he is the only freight forwarder we trust because of the consistently excellent service.

Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.

bredent U.

5 months ago

Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!

Clare O.

6 months ago

As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.

Response from the owner:Many thanks for the glowing review Clare, it really is appreciated. Jamie will be especially pleased seeing as you have given him a mention! We look forward to assisting you again

Barry S.

6 months ago

Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future

Jeff B.

7 months 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.

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Vacancy for Freight Forwarding Operator

by Mediateam | Jun 28, 2024 | IFS News

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.

Excellent

International Freight Solutions Ltd5.0

2 months ago

2 months ago

Response from the owner:Thanks so much for your great review Emma - it means a lot to us! We look forward to assiting you again soon.

The Rocking Horse S.

2 months ago

we have used IFS on a number of occasions. fantastic communication & service, would highly recommend and will be using again!

Tim D.

3 months ago

Response from the owner:Really appreciate your kind words Tim and it is good to know you are pleased with the services we provide. We look forward to helping you again next time!

Josh B.

3 months ago

Response from the owner:What a great review review Josh - it means a lot to us, thanks so much! We look forward to being of service to you again.

bredent U.

5 months ago

Had the best service provided by Jamie, excellent communication, went above & beyond thank you

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for taking the the time to leave a great review. Jamie will be delighted he got a mention!

Clare O.

6 months ago

As always IFS have provided an excellent service with plenty of support. Jamie couldn't have been more helpful and his communication is always timely and spot on. Can't recommend them highly enough.

Barry S.

6 months ago

Adam handled everything we needed for a quick delivery to Australia, the box was with us in less than a week, highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Many thanks Barry for taking the time to leave a great review for us - it is appreciated. Hope we can assist you again in the future

Jeff B.

7 months ago

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.