Navigating the Future of Shipping in the UK and EU

19 April 2023 | BlueBridge One
Navigating the Future of Shipping in the UK and EU

The shipping industry plays a crucial role in the global economy, and the UK and EU are no exception. With the rise of e-commerce, Brexit, and the growing importance of sustainability, the shipping industry in the UK and EU is undergoing significant changes and trends. In this article, we will discuss these changes and trends and how they are shaping the future of shipping in the UK and EU. We will also highlight how platforms like OneShip can help companies remain agile in a changing world of shipping regulations.

 

The Rise of E-commerce:

The rise of e-commerce has revolutionised the shipping industry, creating a need for faster and more efficient shipping. As more consumers opt to shop online, companies that sell and ship products are turning to innovative solutions to keep pace with the changing demands of e-commerce. To streamline their operations and reduce delivery times, many companies are investing in various technologies, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics. For example, some companies are using automated sortation systems to sort parcels more efficiently, while others are using robotics to load and unload trucks more quickly. Artificial intelligence is also being used to optimise delivery routes and improve delivery times. One of the biggest challenges for companies, however, is generating shipping labels and managing customs documentation, which can be time-consuming and error-prone. That’s where innovative platforms like OneShip come in. By automating the process of creating shipping labels and customs documents, OneShip is helping companies stay abreast of the rise of e-commerce and remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry. For instance, companies like Pravera, PetShop.co.uk and Emma BridgeWater have adopted OneShip’s solutions to manage their shipping operations more efficiently and provide a better customer experience. With the help of OneShip, companies can focus on their core business and deliver products faster and more reliably to their customers, which is critical in today’s competitive e-commerce landscape.

 

The Impact of Brexit:

Brexit has had a significant impact on companies that sell and ship items both B2C and B2B in the UK and EU. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of customs checks and paperwork for goods crossing the border between the UK and EU. This has led to delays and increased costs for businesses, as they have to deal with additional administrative work. According to a survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) conducted in 2021, 49% of UK exporters and 48% of importers reported increased administrative burden since the Brexit transition period ended. In addition, 43% of exporters and 44% of importers reported increased costs associated with exporting/importing goods. To mitigate these challenges, companies are turning to innovative solutions to automate their document control and customs procedures. Platforms like OneShip are helping companies manage customs documentation more efficiently and accurately, reducing the risk of delays and errors. For example, OneShip’s automated customs documentation feature can generate compliant customs documents in seconds, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors. With the help of automation, companies can streamline their shipping operations and remain competitive in the post-Brexit landscape.

 

Growing Importance of Sustainability:

The shipping industry plays a critical role in global trade, but it also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), shipping accounts for around 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. As consumers and businesses become increasingly concerned about sustainability, SMEs selling B2C and B2B must consider eco-friendly shipping options to remain competitive. The IMO has set a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Shipping companies are exploring various ways to reduce their environmental impact, such as investing in low-carbon fuels, improving energy efficiency, and utilising more eco-friendly packaging materials. SMEs can do their part by partnering with shipping companies that prioritise sustainability and by reducing their own environmental impact by adopting sustainable practices, such as using recyclable packaging materials and optimising their supply chain to reduce unnecessary emissions. By embracing sustainability, SMEs can not only reduce their environmental impact but also appeal to eco-conscious consumers and enhance their brand reputation.

 

The future of shipping in the UK and EU is shaped by various factors, including the rise of e-commerce, the impact of Brexit, and the growing importance of sustainability. The shipping industry is adapting to these changes and trends by investing in new technologies, streamlining operations, and developing eco-friendly shipping options. As we move forward, it is essential for the industry to continue to innovate and adapt to ensure a sustainable and efficient future. With platforms like OneShip, companies can remain agile and competitive in a changing world of shipping regulations.

 

OneShip and Remaining Agile in a Changing World of Shipping Regulations:

OneShip is a cloud-based platform that can help businesses selling and shipping products remain agile in an ever-changing shipping landscape. By providing real-time visibility into the entire shipping process, OneShip enables companies to optimise their operations and reduce costs. With features such as automated customs compliance and electronic document management, OneShip helps businesses navigate the shifting regulatory environment and stay up-to-date with the latest regulations to ensure compliance. By streamlining the shipping process, businesses can improve efficiency and reduce costs while providing customers with faster, more accurate shipping. With the shipping industry constantly evolving, platforms like OneShip can help businesses stay competitive and responsive to changing market demands.

 

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