Felixstowe's new booking system could increase costs for hauliers

RHA and industry representatives met with the Felixstowe Port Users' Association (FPUA), BIFA and representatives from the Port of Felixstowe
to discuss the urgent matter of the port's new Container Booking System (CBS.)

At the meeting, operators expressed worries over operational challenges they've faced 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 new 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.

Our members and our industry contribute billions to the UK economy each year and we play a critical role locally and nationally in creating jobs and keeping the supply-chain moving. The Port of Felixstowe is also critical to the economy. We therefore want to collaborate with the port and with others across our sector to make things work and keep things running smoothly.

We welcome the fact that there's now a commitment to review the system and we'll continue to engage with the port on behalf of our members and the industry.

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.

Our next meeting is on the 4th September. We'll keep you updated on developments. Our thanks to Hutchenson Ports for attending the meeting and listening to our members concerns.