25 years as an independent among UK freight forwarding companies

This month we are celebrating our quarter century in the competitive world of freight forwarding and logistics – and remain proud of our status as reliable, human-facing, independent operators in the industry. It’s been quite the journey!

In 25 years, International Forwarding Limited (IFL) has grown from just three members of staff and a single vehicle to a business with a turnover of more than £8 million, a staff of 55, and offices in Birmingham, London and Dover. As a member of the Palletways network, the company now handles more than 200,000 consignments each year and has invested heavily in IT upgrades over the past year. Pictured are three members of the IFL board (from L-R): directors Roy Baker, Rob Pike and Nigel Parsons.

The industry has changed significantly too, as Roy Baker, original managing director and now part-time director of International Forwarding Limited, recalls.

“In 1989, the freight forwarding industry was dominated by small and medium-sized businesses,” he says, “but global logistics players have swallowed up many of the smaller players over the past 25 years. There are few truly independent forwarders left in the market and we are proud that the company has survived as such – despite several buyers approaching us over the years.”

MD Rob Pike, who joined IFL in March 2007, says that independence and great customer service remain International Forwarding’s vision for the future. “We have helped to develop the company in terms of modernisation, developing the website, new vehicle livery, more modern IT systems and procedures. But most of all, we pride ourselves on a very personal service and answering customers quotes within a target of 10 minutes. As an independent among UK freight forwarding companies we can remain more agile to industry changes and adapt to the needs of our customers.”

“Remaining independent and putting the customer first have always been important factors for us,” says Roy Baker. “To be recognised for excelling in these areas by Palletways and award wins from the British International Freight Association (BIFA), is testament to our commitment to this area. “We have a loyal team at International Forwarding Limited who all share this vision and I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support in driving the business forward.”

Get a quote

For further information, visit International Forwarding’s range of freight forwarding, logistics and supply chain solutions. Or to get a fast quote on your freight forwarding needs, call +44 (0)1675 434690 or email enquiries@internationalforwarding.co.uk.

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