Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What are the best hauliers and logistics providers for exporting pallets and containers from the UK to Europe, Australia, and beyond?
Members recommend a handful of specialist providers with proven track records on specific routes. **Europe (Germany & Switzerland):** - **Supplychain21** — frequently recommended with direct contact: richard.jones@supplychain21.com. Multiple members have used them successfully for pallets to Germany and Switzerland. Note: one member reported that prices have risen significantly this year and reliability has declined (recent shipments heavily delayed); another mentioned they quoted better pricing and shorter transit times than Supplychain21. - **Albatrans** — mentioned as an alternative option for European routes. - **Kerry Logistics** — suggested as another option for Europe. - **Hillebrand** — flagged as very expensive; members advise avoiding if possible as it pushes up landed costs. DHL has recently acquired Hillebrand. - **Wineflow** — quoted better prices and shorter transit times than Supplychain21 for some shipments, though was not accepting new business at the time of discussion (may have changed). - **DSV** — used successfully for a pallet to Germany at around £300, but does not ship alcohol. **Australia:** - Members have arranged groupage shipments with **Tudor Rose**. Contact: Louis can provide introductions and group shipments with other brands (Pinkster mentioned). **Container export (20ft):** - **Supplychain21** — members sense-check quotes against them. - **Uni Express** — recommended as an alternative. - **Wineflow** — noted as normally cheaper than Supplychain21 for container freight. **Caveats:** Members note that European pricing and reliability have become unpredictable (Supplychain21 in particular has faced delays). Always get multiple quotes and consider groupage to reduce costs.
Which hauliers can pick up from LCB warehouse and handle EU exports with UK excise movement guarantees?
Members recommend using hauliers with established excise movement guarantee capabilities for LCB warehouse pickups to Europe. **JS Forwarding** — contact Bob Granger (bob.granger@jsforwarding.co.uk) is a known option with movement guarantee and specialises in UK-to-Europe alcohol transport. Other suppliers mentioned with relevant experience include **JF Hillebrand**, **Wineflow** (contact Christianne Smith at christianne.smith@wineflow.com), and **A Hartrodt**. One member noted that LCB can provide a seed check, which allows the haulier to proceed on LCB's excise movement guarantee rather than the supplier arranging it separately.
Which hauliers do members recommend for exporting spirits to France?
Members recommend several established hauliers with France export experience: - **Sustainaholics** — mentioned as a reliable option - **Blue Sky** — listed as a France export specialist - **Continental** — recommended for this route - **Ampualla** — named as an experienced France haulier - **MSE International** — specialises in arranging and clearing exports; members can be put in touch - **STI Internazionale SpA** — recommended for France shipments - **KC Shipping** — praised by members for European shipments including France - **JS Wines & Spirits** — received multiple endorsements from members shipping to France - **Wineflow** — used by at least one member for European logistics Members note there are more options beyond those listed. If you're looking for a new haulier, asking for direct introductions to contacts at firms members already use (e.g. MSE International) can be helpful.