At Firstpoint Logistics, we specialise in creating bespoke logistics solutions that cater to the specific requirements of our clients. One of our standout partnerships is with a leading print and media supplies firm, where we’ve demonstrated our ability to adapt and excel in meeting industry-specific challenges. This case study explores how our reliable haulage services have played a vital role in supporting their operations, ensuring seamless delivery of essential supplies while maintaining our commitment to accuracy, timeliness, and secure handling.
Partnering with Firstpoint Logistics revolutionised the firms ability to urgently deliver print and media supplies to locations across the UK. With over 200,000 sites to serve across the UK and European Union, the firm needed a partner who could not only ensure reliable, timely deliveries, but also align with its sustainability commitments - reducing carbon emissions or offsetting them where unavoidable. Additionally, Firstpoint’s advanced tracking technology and proactive account management helped streamline operations, enabling the firm to meet tight deadlines with precision and efficiency.
The challenge:
The company faced significant challenges in managing the delivery of urgent print and media supplies across the UK. With specific requirements for vehicle size, tight delivery windows, and complex logistics scenarios, the need for precise coordination was critical.
Issues such as receiving incorrect ETAs, long waiting times, and the delivery of unsuitable vehicles that couldn’t fit into their loading bays added to the difficulties. Additionally, managing HGV driver hours during peak periods added further complexity. These challenges highlighted the need for a reliable transport provider, capable of exceeding expectations and supporting long-term partnerships using service level agreements.
The Firstpoint solution:
Firstpoint Logistics addressed the company's challenges with a comprehensive, tailored approach.
Through careful planning, advanced Onepoint technology, and dedicated account support, Firstpoint addressed key issues such as inaccurate ETAs, unsuitable vehicles, long waiting times, and compliance with HGV driver regulations. Here’s how each problem was resolved:
- Incorrect ETAS: Others rely on general systems like Google Maps for ETA calculations, often overlooking HGV-specific speed limits and mandatory driver break requirements. Our Onepoint technology eliminated these issues by tracking the driver’s location in real-time and factoring in all regulatory considerations. Clients received precise ETAs and regular updates from their dedicated account team, ensuring complete transparency. To further enhance reliability, our intuitive portal provided live tracking and automated notifications, delivering peace of mind to all stakeholders throughout the journey.
- Wrong vehicles: The client required specific HGVs that fit into their loading bays. Firstpoint took proactive measures by ensuring the vehicle registration details were thoroughly checked over to confirm that only the correct-sized HGVs were dispatched. Not only did this guarantee compatibility with the client’s facilities, but also prevented delays, demonstrating our commitment to precision and customer satisfaction.
- Waiting times: To minimise waiting times and optimise efficiency, Firstpoint strategically staggered collection times based on the clients requirements. This ensured the right number of vehicles were on-site at any given time, preventing overcrowding and reducing delays. By doing this, we were able to maximise operational efficiency, enabling smoother operations and faster turnaround times.
- HGV Driver hours: To ensure compliance with HGV driver regulations, Firstpoint adjusted collection schedules, factoring in necessary rest periods for drivers. This ensured that consignments arrived at the required times, even during unsocial hours throughout the night. This helped us to maintain strict adherence to regulations while guaranteeing timely deliveries and minimising disruptions.
- HGV Fleet Availability: Given the time-sensitive requirements of the print industry, materials frequently needed to be delivered under demanding turnaround times. By utilising Firstpoint’s expansive partner network of over 2,500 lorries, the team could swiftly secure a high volume of HGVs at short notice, and sometimes mobilising more than 18 vehicles per day. This flexibility ensured that even the most demanding delivery schedules were met with precision, allowing our clients to maintain their production timelines without delays or disruptions.
- Real-Time Visibility – To address any potential delivery delays or inaccurate ETAs, we used our advanced portal, featuring live tracking and automated notifications. This system granted both the sender and the recipient real-time insights and peace of mind, delivering complete transparency and accurate ETAs throughout every shipment journey.
The Benefits:
The partnership with Firstpoint Logistics delivered substantial benefits, transforming the company’s operations. The seamless integration of Onepoint technology and dedicated client account support enabled the company to better manage urgent deliveries and ensure greater reliability. Our tailored haulage solutions helped the company optimise vehicle coordination, reducing waiting times and improving operational efficiency. As a result, the print and media firm could scale its operations with greater flexibility, handling increasing demand without compromising on delivery speed or accuracy.
Additionally, Firstpoint’s focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices aligned with the company's environmental goals, offering a comprehensive solution that supported both operational growth and long-term sustainability.
Conclusion:
The partnership between Firstpoint Logistics and the print and media firm has significantly improved their logistics operations. By offering tailored and reliable solutions, Firstpoint has helped the company overcome key challenges and streamline their delivery processes. Through a focus on sustainability, precise coordination, and advanced technology, Firstpoint has become an essential partner in supporting the company’s long-term goals, ensuring they can continue to meet customer demands with flexibility and reliability.