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Why UK retailers choose the Belgian Port of Zeebrugge as their central logistics hub

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6 key ways Zeebrugge-based NDQ optimises UK FMCG supply strategies

For retailers operating in the UK, efficient and reliable logistics are critical for staying ahead in a competitive market. Instead of centralising all goods in warehouses in Coventry, Birmingham, or other UK locations, have you considered Zeebrugge? This Belgian port offers strategic solutions for efficiently storing, shipping, and delivering goods to regional distribution centres across the UK. Here are six reasons why using Zeebrugge as your logistics hub could be a game-changer for your UK retail operations.

1. Prime location

The Belgian Port of Zeebrugge is the best location for storing goods that are UK-bound. Why? Because it provides a central point for reaching regional distribution centres throughout the UK. With some of the shortest shipping routes to the UK, the port offers faster and more direct connections to various destinations.

2. Reduced road miles

Shipping from Zeebrugge ensures flexibility in delivering goods to ports closest to retailers’ regional distribution centres, significantly reducing road miles on UK soil. On top of that, the port of Zeebrugge is well connected by rail, further minimising road transport on the European mainland.

 

Moreover, opting for the port of Zeebrugge helps avoid transporting goods up to and through the (often congested) Channel Tunnel in Calais, France. All of this means faster deliveries, reduced transportation costs, and less CO2 emissions.

3. Unaccompanied transport

At Zeebrugge, there’s no need to charter a driver to accompany goods from pick-up point to delivery. The port offers unaccompanied transport, where only the loaded trailer is shipped. Once the trailer arrives at one of the UK ports, local drivers take over to cover the last miles.

4. State-of-the-art warehousing

NDQ’s automated warehouse in Zeebrugge is designed to optimise retail logistics. With direct rail access and a highly efficient cross-docking facility near the RORO ferries, goods can be moved seamlessly to the UK. Certified to the highest safety and quality standards (BRCGS), we guarantee the security of your products while providing unparalleled flexibility in stock management.

5. Consolidated supply reduces local stock keeping

At NDQ, we store goods from multiple European manufacturers, allowing UK retailers to order a wide variety of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) directly from us. We consolidate shipments upon request and deliver them within 24 hours to regional distribution centres across the UK and Ireland. This multi-supplier, multi-retailer setup provides retailers with greater flexibility, reducing the need for excessive stock in UK-based warehouses.

6. Brexit-proof logistics

NDQ handles all customs declarations and paperwork, ensuring smooth, hassle-free logistics between Zeebrugge and the UK. Our team manages everything from customs clearance to certifications, offering a complete Brexit-proof solution. With bonded warehouses, temporary storage, and approved loading and unloading spaces, we keep your goods moving without delays.

Ready to optimise your UK retail supply chain?

With a prime location at the heart of the Port of Zeebrugge, NDQ serves as a central logistics hub for UK retailers. We store goods in our fully automated warehouse, consolidate shipments, and swiftly and efficiently import FMCG from the European mainland into the UK.

 

Discover how NDQ can help you leverage the advantages of the Port of Zeebrugge for your UK retail logistics strategy.