RS March 2012

March 2012 Number 452 £4.00 www.bar.co.uk

Commercial Movers: JT and Sons Relocations

Alan Ward on moving the private-rented sector 52 How to prepare for an inspection 38

DMotY 2012 shortlist and CMotY 2012 entrants!

No: 452 March 2012 www.bar.co.uk

This month:News from Watford 06

Industry News 07-16

- Road user charging looms for HGVs- Green light for new Thames Crossing- HS2 – a vanity project?- New timetable for workplace pensions- NEST’s pensions jargonbuster- Forth Ports takes full control of Tilbury- MPs call for Southampton port action- New road works powers for councils- Two traffic commissioners appointed- Northern Ireland prepares operator licensing- Grants for electric vans- New lorry park for Birmingham- Hebrides hauliers concerned by ferry rates- TfL launches live London traffic news- Bristol motorway scheme underway- Road works on M6 and A14- Resentment rises at HMRC spot checks- Small business confidence crashes- Middle managers feel the squeeze- Managing the pay freeze - Deminter reopens Libya office- Harrow Green steps up recycling operation- Ingram’s move British film favourite- Loyal custom for Leatherbarrows- The cream of the crop- Anglo Pacific supports children’s charity- Goodwins goes down memory lane- Housing market stands still

BAR News 22-30

- DMotY 2012 shortlist- Countdown to Conference- Young Mover: Adam Palmer - Industry statistics- BAR in Europe

BAR Services 32

Olympics Monitor 34

QSS Update 38

Commercial Moving Group News 39

Overseas Group News 42

Training News 44

European News 47

Competition 50

People News 59

Memberships 61

Letters 61

Diary Dates 62

March 2012 Removals & Storage 5

On the cover: Jenny Thorncroft of JT and Sons Relocations, members of BAR’s Commercial Moving Group

49

“Owner occupation could be seen as a one hit market, whereas with the private-rented tenant, if you give them a good service, in 19 months’ time you may well have them as a customer again.” Alan Ward, Chairman of the Residential Landlords Association

- The R&S Interview: Alan Ward of the RLA

- CMG Profile: JT and Sons Relocations

- New Member Profile: Swift Shift Removals

- When the customer is not always right…

- John Mason International: a forward looking family business since 1884

- BAR Affiliate Agility GRMS supports Britain’s war wounded

- Employment: new ways to reward employees

Features: 52-58

56

54

59

52

Removals & Storage March 20126

BAR News

Editorial Contributions on all aspects of the removals and storage industry are welcome, together with photographs if appropriate.Please contact the Managing Editor, Louise Gale on:Tel: 020 3235 1806Email: [email protected]

Advertising For all enquiries and bookings, please contact Steve Pearce on:Tel: 0117 957 5400Email: [email protected]: The booking deadline for all display advertisements for the April 2012 issue of R&S is 9th March.

Subscriptions Removals & Storage is subscribed to by members of the British Association of Removers in the UK and Overseas. Current annual subscription is £48.00 in the UK and £72.00 overseas. Additional subscriptions are available from BAR (see contact details to the left).

Registered as a magazine © The British Association of Removers 2012. ISSN 0034-4265

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be scanned, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in part or whole in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the British Association of Removers.

Opinions expressed in Removals & Storage are not necessarily those of the publisher, British Association of Removers. The description of a product or service in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the publisher. The publisher does not accept any responsibility for any claims by advertisers. The articles in this publication are for general information only and are not intended to be advice to any specific person. Readers are recommended to seek professional advice before taking or refraining from taking any action on the basis of the contents of any article in this publication.

The British Association of RemoversTel: 01923 699 480 Fax: 01923 699 481 Email: [email protected]

Tangent House, 62 Exchange Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD18 OTG

President: Reg HackworthyDirector General: Stephen VickersCompany Secretary: James Falkner

Removals & Storage is designed on behalf of The British Association of Removers by:Rubicon Marketing Ltd. Tel: 0117 957 5400Email: [email protected]

NewsFROM WATFORD

As I type this on a cold and snowy morning at BAR headquarters, our Director-

General, Stephen Vickers, and Training Manager, Loren Webster, are at West Herts College here in Watford to sign the contract to deliver the new Commercial Moving Apprenticeship. This innovative scheme is available to Members across the UK, not just in Hertfordshire, as the training takes place at company premises and ‘on the job.’ Importantly, funding is available for the registration and administration costs. Also, this is not just aimed at youngsters, although youth unemployment is an obvious current concern; both new and existing staff members can take part. Full details are available on the BARTS website at www.removalstraining.com and click ‘Apprenticeship.’

In February, a call for volunteers was made, to take part in the forthcoming round of BAR elections (Directly Elected

Director for the Board, and replacement Directors for QSS and BAR Services). The elections will take place electronically this month, and thanks are due to all those who have stepped forward to stand for these important posts in the democratic structure of the Association. Thanks are also due to the Directors who are standing down under the well-established retirement-by-rotation process. In particular, we should mention the many years of devoted service given by David Trenchard who is standing down from the QSS Board.

On page 15 we read that Tunisia-based International Associate, Deminter International, have re-opened their office in Tripoli in Libya, which had been obliged to suspend operations during the months of the civil war in that country last year. It is good to see that life is steadily getting back to normal in that troubled country, and we wish Deminter every success with their renewed activities there.

Road user charging, a concept which has received much discussion over the years, is back on the political agenda. It would certainly be welcome to see foreign vehicles, HGVs in particular, paying their share towards wear and tear on the roads of the UK. Assurances are apparently being given that a reduction in other costs, such as lower VED rates, will offset the charge for UK operators. Well, let us hope that this is so, and that road user charging does not become just another device to raise revenue for the Government.

Contact Details:

Article submission: 4th of the month preceding publication

Booking of display Adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of classified adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of trade adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Artwork for adverts: 15th of the month preceding publication

Copy and advertising deadlines 2012 for future issues of R&S magazine

March 2012 Removals & Storage

Industry News

7

Road user charging looms for HGVs The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on a proposed road user charging scheme for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) of 12 tonnes and over. Users of HGVs may have to pay around £10 a day for using any road in the UK, from 2015.

T he scheme is designed to ensure fairer arrangements for UK hauliers. UK-registered HGVs already pay tolls or user

charges on motorways and, frequently, on other roads in most EU Member States. Save on some specific pieces of infrastructure (such as the M6 Toll and various bridges and tunnels), there are no tolls or user charges in the UK.

“As most foreign operators currently purchase their HGVs’ fuel outside the UK, they therefore contribute nothing towards the cost of our roads,” Roads Minister Mike Penning said.

Most EU states charge lorries for using their roads; a vehicle doing a two-day return trip from the UK to Belgium, Luxembourg or the Netherlands pays €16 in user charges. Because a scheme for HGV road user charging cannot discriminate between UK-registered vehicles and vehicles registered elsewhere in the EU, it would apply to both UK and foreign-registered HGVs. It must also comply with the Eurovignette Directive. The Government is proposing a simple time-based charge, applying to the use of any road in the UK, meaning that a five axle HGV of 38 tonnes or more would pay £1,000 a year or £10 a day. The Eurovignette Directive’s maximum permitted charge is currently €11 per day, although with the introduction of the charge this is likely to have been uprated by inflation to €12 (about £10 at current exchange rates). The precise level of charges will depend on exchange rate and inflation at the time of implementation – which is likely to be 2015.

Offsetting the chargeUK hauliers would pay an annual (or six months’) charge for each HGV at the same time and in the same transaction as they pay its Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). Mr Penning said this would avoid extra administration costs for UK business. Foreign hauliers could pay daily, weekly, monthly or annual charges. As VED and the charge are paid 12 months in advance, UK hauliers would begin to pay the user charge as they renew an HGV’s VED from eleven months before the introduction of charging for foreign vehicles. “The Government will also come forward with measures to offset the additional user charges for UK hauliers, through reductions in taxes, duties or charges they currently face, or through appropriate spending measures,” Mr Penning said. “The most likely balancing measure in practice will be a reduction in VED towards minimum EU levels.” According to the Government, the overall cost burden will not increase for the vast majority of UK-registered vehicles. Mr Penning said: “We believe that, if we reduce VED to levels at or just above the minimum rates set out in the Eurovignette Directive, around 94 per cent of the current UK vehicle fleet would be no worse off, with 98 per cent paying no more than £50 a year extra.”

Non-payment of the user charge would be a criminal offence, which could result in a fine imposed by the courts. The user charge would be enforced by DVLA records, ANPR cameras and checks by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) at the roadside. VOSA would also be able to issue fixed penalties on the spot to non-compliant drivers (and take financial deposits from drivers based outside the UK).The consultation will run until 18 April 2012. The consultation document can be found at www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/dft-2012-03/.

Industry responds to HGV plansThere has been a cautious welcome from industry to the proposals. The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has long argued that foreign lorries should pay their way on the UK’s road network. The association has said that the measure should be positive as long as it doesn’t involve an extra cost or administrative burden for UK businesses. Leading transport academic Professor Stephen Glaister, who is Director of the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) Foundation, said “in the interests of fairness across Europe we think this is good news. The key will be the administrative burden it places on hauliers.” Simon Chapman, FTA’s Chief Economist, said the proposal “ticks the right boxes in terms of fairness, firmness and forward thinking on future competitive challenges that the UK haulage industry may face.” According to the FTA, the proposal recognises that for this system to work it needs to be both revenue neutral and not administratively burdensome for UK hauliers. The Association accepts that the proposal to ask for payment from UK hauliers at Vehicle Excise Duty renewal time makes sense. The high-rate of duty of UK-purchased diesel compared to diesel purchased elsewhere in Europe has provided foreign carriers with a cost-advantage over UK-based hauliers, the FTA said. Meanwhile the gradual liberalisation of domestic haulage markets in Member States has allowed hauliers to compete fiercely for business on price, and undercut domestic rates charged by UK hauliers – pushing rates to uneconomic levels in certain parts of the UK, particularly around East Coast ports. Meanwhile, the Road Haulage Association’s Head of Communications, Kate Gibbs said “this scheme is good news for

UK transport operators and should be welcomed also by motorists, many of whom have complained that foreign hauliers pay nothing for using our roads.” The RHA is now urging the Government to press forward with this project as a priority. However, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) is concerned that the Government’s proposals will still result in extra costs for some UK operators. The Department for Transport estimates that 6 per cent of the current UK HGV fleet will pay up to a maximum of £79 extra per year, resulting in extra costs of around £500,000 for the whole industry. This would seem to contradict Mike Penning’s earlier pledge that “I will not bring in a lorry road user charging scheme that costs industry money.” BVRLA Chief Executive John Lewis endorsed the idea of making foreign hauliers pay their way, but said that some important concerns still needed to be addressed. “This scheme is long overdue and will help improve the competitiveness of UK logistics companies. “But we want to see some evidence that the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency will be given adequate powers and resources to enforce this charge. “We also need some assurances that the government will not let the extra costs faced by UK hauliers rise in future years. Half a million pounds is already too much.”Peter Quantrill, Director General of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) said “on first view, this looks like a positive development. However, it is a very complicated issue and we need to look into the details.” BIFA agrees with the notion that all haulage companies that use UK roads should contribute to the cost of their maintenance and development, regardless of where they are from. “Haulage companies with trucks registered in the UK already do that of course through excise duty on fuel and road fund licences,” Quantrill added. “However, some of our members that operate European trailer services sub-contract the transport to foreign haulage companies, and it is not immediately clear how this plan might affect them. It seems conceivable that some of our members could see increased operating costs should this plan come to fruition.”


Industry News

8

Forth Ports takes full control of Tilbury

Forth Ports has acquired from DP World and Associated British Ports the 67 per cent of Tilbury Container

Services (TCS) that it did not already own.

TCS is located on the River Thames within the Port of Tilbury, which is wholly owned by Forth Ports and is a key shipping and distribution location with unrivalled access to London and the South East of England. TCS handled around.314,000 containers in 2011, up 2.4 per cent from 2010 volumes. The Port of Tilbury also runs a short sea business which handled approximately 126,000 containers in 2011, up 7.6 per cent from 2010 volumes. The short sea business provides regular links to Continental Europe and to other UK coastal feeder locations.

The acquisition is important for Charles Hammond, Chief Executive of Forth Ports, who sees this as a major step forward in Forth Ports’ plans to grow and develop its ports business. “We believe that stronger links between our container and distribution customers will provide benefits in the supply chain for them and further underpins our portcentric strategy,” he said.

With 100 per cent ownership of TCS, Forth Ports now plans to combine its existing short sea container terminal with TCS to create a new container business branded ‘London Container Terminal’. The combined terminal will handle close to half a million containers and makes Forth Ports the third largest single container operation in the UK and one of the few UK ports servicing both deep sea and short sea customers. This acquisition is considered to further underline Tilbury’s role as a distribution and transhipment hub for London.

Flemming Dalgaard, DP World’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Europe & Russia said “the offer from Forth made good sense to us and the decision was taken in line with the changing market dynamics in the liner industry including the rapid escalation in vessel sizes. DP World will continue to focus on our other UK businesses in DP World Southampton and at London Gateway.”

The Mayor intends to deliver a new road tunnel between the Greenwich Peninsula and Silvertown in the Royal Docks, which

could potentially move 2,400 vehicles an hour in each direction under the river. Transport for London has already started preliminary consultation work on the new tunnel.

The London Assembly believes that providing a full gauge tunnel at Silvertown will help alleviate the closures caused by over height vehicles attempting to use the Blackwall Tunnel. Silvertown Tunnel will also provide much needed resilience to the Blackwall Tunnel, which between April 2010 and January 2011 was closed for a total period of nearly five days due to incidents.

The extra capacity and resilience provided by the Silvertown Tunnel should reduce the typical 20 minute delay approaching the Blackwall Tunnel. Initial estimates suggest the scheme offers journey time savings of around 16,500 vehicle hours per day. This equates to over £200,000 of benefits per day, or £55m per annum.

Welcoming the new tunnel proposal, Edmund King, President of the AA, said it will help alleviate congestion and emissions around the Blackwall Tunnel. “It is not good for the environment having traffic waiting 20 minutes to use the Blackwall Tunnel. We support these proposals although it remains to be seen how the tunnel will be paid for.”

Green Light for new Thames CrossingThe Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has confirmed that a major new river crossing for the east of the capital will be completed within a decade.

HS2 – a vanity project?

The RAC Foundation has expressed its concern over the Government’s confirmation that it will go ahead with

the HS2 high speed rail link between London and Birmingham.

Professor Stephen Glaister, Director of the RAC Foundation, said “it is good news that more money is being spent on infrastructure, but a profound disappointment it will go on a project for which the economic, business, social and environmental case is weak at best.” The RAC considers that by going with HS2 the Government is essentially sidelining many better value schemes “and condemning people across many parts of the country to a bleak travel future.”

“Large chunks of the existing road and rail networks are literally at breaking point. You

only need look at the chaos caused by the closure of the crumbling A4 flyover in Hammersmith to see the grim reality we face on many routes. We should be doing more to preserve what we already have before committing to a vanity project of dubious merit.”


Industry News

9

I n order for the Port of Southampton to remain competitive with European and UK rivals, two existing berths need to be

redeveloped and dredging is required to allow access by the latest and largest container ships to the container port.

ABP plans to redevelop berths 201 and 202 into a new 500-metre quay wall. Because of the increased size of container ships, the Port of Southampton cannot accommodate four large container vessels at the same time, so it needs to invest in this new capacity.

Labour MP for Southampton Itchen, John Denham, told Parliament that the entire project has faced a number of delays because of errors made by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and red tape at the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Mr Denham has received cross-party

support from other Hampshire MPs.“There is no reason to believe that the

container work lost from Southampton will end up anywhere in the UK,” Mr Denham told MPs. “If the effect is that ships go to Rotterdam and their cargo is broken down for trans-shipment, there is a huge loss to the entire UK economy.”

Shipping Minister Mike Penning said “frankly, successive Governments have not taken ports seriously enough... we need to make sure that our nation is not left behind, and that we have the necessary capacity in the UK.”

After the debate, Mr Denham said “Mike Penning admitted mistakes had been made and he promised that the Marine Management Organisation would have the necessary staff and expertise to deal with the planning application now in order to deal with mistakes of the past.

New road works powers for councils

The Government has announced new powers to help councils cut the disruption caused by road works.

Under ‘lane rental’ schemes councils will be able to charge utility companies up to £2,500 a day to dig up the busiest roads during peak times when road works cause the most disruption. This will incentivise utility firms to carry out their works more quickly and at times when roads are quieter. Companies would be able to avoid the charges by carrying out works during off-peak periods or, if appropriate, at night.

Parliamentary Under Secretary for the Department of Transport, Norman Baker (pictured above), said: “it is incredibly frustrating to find vital roads being dug up in the middle of the rush hour or, even worse, traffic lanes closed when no one is even carrying out any work. “This disruption is not only inconvenient but very expensive, with road works-related congestion costing the economy an estimated £4 billion a year, which is why we are taking firm action....we believe lane rental schemes provide a further incentive to utility companies and local authorities to carry out their works at times when they will cause the minimum disruption and to complete them as quickly as possible.”Any revenue raised from the implementation of lane rental charges will have to be used by councils to fund measures which could help to reduce future road works disruption. This could include infrastructure work, research or measures to improve the management of works.

Jargon busting pensions

NEST, the National Employment Savings Trust, has helpfully produced a guide to pensions

language. The NEST phrasebook aims to simplify the language that pensions industry professionals use and the latest version adds news terms and phrases following feedback from NEST members and employers.

For more information, see www.nestpensions.org.uk/schemeweb/NestWeb/includes/public/docs/NEST-phrasebook,PDF.pdf

MPs call for Southampton port actionA Southampton Member of Parliament has called for the Government to unlock the £150 million of investment from Associated British Ports (ABP) that Southampton port, the fourth largest port in the UK, needs for expansion. The investment is currently blocked by judicial review proceedings launched by Hutchison Ports, owners of the rival port of Felixstowe.

Grants for electric vans

New timetable for workplace pensions

Van buyers will be able to receive 20 per cent – up to £8000 – off the cost of a plug-in van, the government has said.

This is an extension of the Plug-In Car Grant which offers 25 per cent – up to £5000 – to motorists buying a new plug-in car.

To be eligible, vans will have to meet performance criteria to ensure safety, range, and ultra-low tailpipe emissions. Consumers, both business and private will receive the discount at the point of purchase.

There are currently ten cars eligible for the Plug-In Car Grant – 5 of which came onto the market in 2011, with the other half expected to be available to purchase this year. During the first year of the scheme, over 1000 eligible vehicles were registered and, up to 31 December 2011, 892 applications were made for the Plug-In Car Grant.

The Government has now invited van manufacturers to apply for their vehicles to become part of the scheme.

The Department for Welfare and Pension has published a revised timetable for when employers of all sizes must start

enrolling their staff in a workplace pension.

The changes reflect concerns from small businesses who were concerned that they did not have sufficient time to prepare for automatic enrolment, particularly in this exceptionally tough economic climate.

Automatic enrolment will begin in October 2012 and the Government anticipate that this will bring 10m people into pension saving.

The timetable for employers to begin enrolling their staff will start with the largest firms (with 250 or more employees) first, followed by medium, then small companies.

All existing firms will have enrolled their staff by April 2017, followed by all new employers by February 2018. The level of pension contributions will be phased in over time to help employers and individuals adjust. Full contributions will have to be paid from 1 October 2018.


Industry News

10

Two new Traffic Commissioners have been appointed by Justine Greening, the Secretary of State for Transport. Nick Denton and Kevin Rooney will be Traffic

Commissioners for the South Eastern and Metropolitan Area Traffic Office and North Eastern Area Traffic Office respectively, and will take up their new roles in the Spring.

BAR Director General, Stephen Vickers, welcomed the two new appointments. “We look forward to building constructive working relations with Nick Denton and Kevin Rooney as we have with the other Area Traffic Offices across the country.”

The Traffic Commissioners are responsible for the regulation of bus, coach and goods vehicle operators, and registration of local bus services. Where appropriate, they can call operators or individual drivers to a Public Inquiry where concerns about service operation or driver conduct can be heard.

More Traffic Commissioners appointed

The Environment Minister for Northern Ireland, Alex Attwood, has told the Freight Transport Association that he was

confident Operator Licensing would be introduced into Northern Ireland by April.

Following industry pressure, the scope for the new ‘O-licensing’ regime was passed in January 2010, but since then there has been a lack of progress.

Tom Wilson, FTA’s Head of Policy for Northern Ireland, met Mr Attwood at Stormont. He said “in all our meetings with Mr Attwood – and, indeed, with previous Assembly ministers – we have put the need for an O-licensing regime for all truck operators right at the top of our agenda. We believe that through this we can significantly improve the safety standards of HGVs on Northern Ireland’s roads.

“The economic argument for O-licensing is also strong. If commercial vehicle owners were legally bound to make regular, preventative maintenance checks and drivers were properly

trained to detect vehicle faults then this would reduce congestion resulting from vehicle breakdowns, improve air quality and reduce those indirect costs associated with unreliable deliveries and vehicle downtime.”

The FTA said that licensing of transport operators has had a positive impact on road safety in Great Britain, where it has existed for over forty years. The system requires commercial vehicle operators to hold an ‘O-licence’ to carry goods connected with any trade or business on a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes, whether for ‘own account trade’ or ‘hire and reward’. However, this new legislation will mean that every goods vehicle operator in Northern Ireland, including for ‘own account trade’, will now be legally required to hold an O-licence.

Mr Wilson said “the Minister absolutely gets the importance of O-licensing to Northern Ireland, and we are encouraged by the confidence he has that it will be introduced by the April deadline.”

Road hauliers in the Hebrides have voiced concern about the Scottish Government’s plans to replace the Road Equivalent

Tariff pricing scheme (RET) for commercial vehicles on CalMac ferry routes with a new rebate scheme.

According to reports, the new rebate system could result in fare increases of up to 175 per cent for local hauliers. Transport Minister Keith Brown said that “the cost of RET for commercial operations to the Western Isles, Coll and Tiree is around £2.7m in public subsidy per annum. This is the same as the cost of foot and car passengers combined.”

He believes that the likely impact for hauliers on the Oban-Castlebay route, the particular route commentators have drawn on as an example of moving from RET to an enhanced Traders’ Rebate Scheme, is an increase in fares of 26 per cent for a 17 metre long vehicle, and 20 per cent for a 10 metre long vehicle. Mr Brown added: “We accept that, in these difficult financial times, some hauliers who previously received RET may find the change away from RET challenging. But we see the increase of the maximum discount from 15 per cent to 25 per cent will help reduce the impact on those affected hauliers.”

Northern Ireland prepares operator licensing

Hebrides hauliers concerned by ferry rates

New lorry park for Birmingham

A new dedicated coach and lorry park, serving Birmingham city centre, is now open to hauliers and coach

operators, nearly ten years after the closure of the city’s last such dedicated facility.

The new secure park, at Brewery Street will provide 32 coach or lorry spaces, be monitored by CCTV and feature a rest room with hot and cold water, showers and toilets.

Since the loss of the Masshouse Coach and Lorry Park in 2002, there has been no dedicated long stay coach or lorry parking facility for the city centre except for limited non-secure coach parking spaces at some attractions and venues.

The design of the facility has taken on board market intelligence on lorry parking collated by the Department for Transport (DfT) and the West Midlands Freight Quality Partnership, and coach parking information from Birmingham’s main visitor attractions.

The coach park will cost £12 for up to 12 hours parking and £15 for 24 hours.

Director of Policy at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), Jack Semple, said this was good news for the industry because it meets an urgent need. “Safe and secure rest areas are essential for truck drivers who must take regular breaks by law and in the interests of road safety,” he said.

“Birmingham has been very poorly served in terms of suitable truck parking, with good driver facilities and also security – crime against the industry is a serious problem, which we are discussing with the police and government.”

Roadworks on M6 and A14

Work to introduce a managed motorway system on the M6 between junctions 5 to 8 started

at the end of February, with construction work due to get underway between April and June 2012.

Members using the A14 are also warned that their journeys may be disrupted over the next two or three months as the Highways Agency carries out works to improve drainage, replace joints and resurface the road at the River Ouse viaduct and bridge and on the Cow Lane bridges near Huntingdon.


Industry News

12

B y simply visiting www.tfl.gov.uk/trafficnews, TfL says motorists can now gain a bird’s eye view of London’s traffic

hotspots to see where traffic is building up and which areas to avoid.

This includes access to a network of 170 ‘jam cams’, as well as information on incidents that may affect their journey.

A live Twitter feed, @TfLTrafficNews, will also carry up to the minute information, and particular roads and routes are searchable using hashtags (#).

On London’s red routes 23 managers have also been created to oversee each individual ‘corridor’. Corridor managers are tasked with scrutinising every mile of the corridor to ensure TfL optimises the smooth movement of all road users as far as possible.

Boris Johnson said: “This new service will give motorists and indeed other road users the power to become the eye in the sky and avoid nasty snarl ups.

“Anyone with internet access or a mobile phone will be able to check out the latest situation on their chosen route and make informed journey choices.”

Garrett Emmerson, Chief Operating Officer

for Surface Transport at TfL said: “Technology now allows us to put a wealth of information at motorists’ fingertips.

“Those who know their route well can now pre-empt any congested areas by checking online before they set out on their journey, or – when safe – take advantage of our @TfLTrafficNews Twitter feed for advance warning of any congestion ahead and then apply their local traffic knowledge to avoid the jams.

“For those unfamiliar with their route, our road information service at is an excellent means of ensuring a stress-free drive. So the clear message is check before you drive.”

TfL launches live London traffic news Transport for London has launched a live online information tool that it says identifies traffic hotspots and makes congestion easier to avoid.

Bristol motorway scheme underway

Major construction work on a vital £88.6 million scheme to increase capacity, reduce congestion and

improve safety on the M4 and M5 near Bristol was officially started in late January by Roads Minister Mike Penning.

When the scheme is complete in spring 2014, road users will benefit from improved journey times thanks to the use of variable speed limits to smooth out traffic flows and the opening up of the hard shoulder as an extra traffic lane.

The managed motorway scheme will be the first of its kind in the South West. On the busy

Almondsbury Interchange, it will cover 3.4 miles of the M4 between junctions 19 and 20 and 3.1 miles of the M5 between Junction 15 and Junction 17. It is one of 20 major road improvement projects due to start before March 2015, as part of a £2.1bn Government package of strategic road projects to boost the economy.

Work on the M4 and M5 will include strengthening the hard shoulder, building emergency refuge areas, installing gantries and electronic signs, and installing sensors in the road to measure traffic flow. CCTV cameras will also be installed to monitor the motorway and emergency refuge areas.

Mr Penning said “while this will be the South West’s first managed motorway, experience on the M42 and M6 around Birmingham, shows that managed motorways deliver significant safety and journey time benefits.

That’s why I am delighted that work is getting underway today to provide much-needed additional capacity on the M4 and M5 near Bristol, for more than 140,000 road users who travel on these motorways every day.”

Small business confidence crashes

Small business confidence plummeted in 2011 as businesses were hit by high inflation, rising utilities bills and

reduced consumer spending power according to the latest findings from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) ‘Voice of Small Business’ Index.

The Index, comprising some 1,600 responses from businesses across the UK, recorded a score of -24.5. This is the lowest level since the Index started in 2010 and is a fall of some 15.2 points over the quarter. Given that economic recovery is reliant on business investment to create jobs and support the recovery, the ongoing weak sentiment is worrying.

And, with one in eight (12.6 per cent) firms expecting a worsening economic situation in the coming three months, the FSB is calling on the Government to act on policies and initiatives already announced to help boost small business confidence so that they can invest and grow.

While the short term prospects look weak, an improving inflation outlook will certainly help confidence over the year. Inflation is expected to fall back sharply this year as the impact of 2011’s VAT rise lessens. Recent energy price cuts are an encouraging sign that inflationary pressures are finally easing.

Falling inflation should help cash-strapped consumers by providing more room for discretionary spending. Businesses will benefit too, as the cost pressures they faced in 2011 fade, improving their margins and profitability.

Reforms announced by the Government should help too. The FSB has supported many of the policies outlined in the Growth Reviews and the Autumn Statement, such as the measures to encourage bank lending to small businesses and to boost investment through the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme. Proposed reforms to the planning system and government procurement contracts to increase small firms’ access were further steps in the right direction.

John Walker, National Chairman of the FSB, said “the message is clear – things are going to get worse before they get better. But, we are hopeful that as the inflationary pressures lessen in 2012, businesses will become more confident. There are some good policy proposals in the pipeline too. However, the Government needs to quickly put in place the actions that it has promised.

Small firms have heard what the Government has to say but are still waiting to see implementation. We believe that must be the Government’s priority: to make 2012 the year of doing, with the aim of creating a dynamic business landscape in which our entrepreneurs can grow and flourish.”


Industry News

13

T he Forum has written to David Gauke, the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, to complain about HMRC’s ‘harassment and

mistreatment’ of small businesses. It has objected to HMRC imposing steep fines for even slight delays in tax bill payments as well as records errors or omissions, while at the same time agreeing ‘sweetheart deals’ with some of the UK’s largest companies.

Recently the Public Accounts Committee estimated that unpaid taxes from big businesses could amount to more than £25bn, prompting the Prime Minister, David Cameron, to pledge action on tax avoidance.

However, in September 2011, following a pilot exercise in which just 12 per cent of firms displayed ‘seriously inadequate’ paperwork, HMRC extended its small business records checks project, meaning 20,000 firms are in line for visits from the taxman in 2012-13.

In addition to facing potential fines of up to £3,000 for records deemed inadequate, firms are being forced to negotiate ever more costly red tape at a time when the Government is pledging to reduce bureaucracy.

The not-for-profit Forum’s latest ‘cost of compliance’ referendum survey, carried out in July 2011, showed tax administration is now the main regulatory burden for small business owners, leaving them with an annual bill of £5.1bn.

While HMRC’s SME strategy covering 2012-13 and 2014-15 warns of an increase in ‘potential rule breakers’ – estimating 28 per cent of SMEs could be found to have poor records – it recognises that 88 per cent of business tax red tape falls on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The Forum is arguing HMRC’s clampdown

flies in the face of the Government’s plans to reform small business regulation in order to free firms to act as a catalyst for economic growth.

The pilot record checks scheme showed 44 per cent of small firms experience problems with record keeping. The Forum believes these struggling businesses, which are facing extremely difficult trading conditions and yet are expected to create jobs and drive growth, should be offered better advice, guidance and support rather than being threatened with steep fines. These fines are also being imposed on small firms forced to pay their tax bills late as a result of cash flow difficulties.The Forum’s Chief Executive, Phil Orford, said “entrepreneurs are crying out for a better tax regime that supports their ambitions and is conducive to growth, not one that provides constant hurdles to overcome and punishes them disproportionately. “Operating such a strict, punitive small business records checks regime while effectively allowing large companies to do as they please is completely unfair. Mr Orford warned business owners to be prepared and, wherever possible, proactive.

Firms are expected to keep records going back at least six years. Information including invoices, bank statements, receipts and cheque stubs will have to be supported by up-to-date accounts books and detailed analysis.

Resentment rises at HMRC spot checks

The Forum of Private Business is warning firms to pay their tax bills on time or face large fines, amid criticisms that HM Revenue & Custom’s paperwork spot checks regime is targeting small businesses at the expense of large companies.

Managing the pay freeze

Two in five employers fail to communicate the rationale behind their decision to raise, cut or freeze

their employees’ pay and, of those who do communicate, less than one in five relate the decision to the individual’s performance. The figures come from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s (CIPD) annual survey of Employee Attitudes to Pay, which also found that communication is the key to ensuring that employees remain satisfied, even when they don’t get the pay decision they were hoping for. The survey found that a larger proportion of employees received pay cuts or freezes in 2011 than in any year since 2008 and that satisfaction, even amongst those who received a pay rise, had diminished year-on-year in the same period. However, satisfaction levels in 2011 were higher amongst those whose employer had explained the pay rise to them. According to employees, the most common explanations given to them by their employers for the pay decisions were: the state of the economy (45 per cent); how much money the organisation has to spend (38 per cent); and the performance of the individual (15 per cent). Charles Cotton, Rewards Advisor at the CIPD, predicts 2012 will be another year of subdued pay rises for many in the private sector and pay freezes for most of those in the public sector. While inflation looks set to fall and personal allowances due to rise, these will not be enough to increase real earnings back to their pre-recessionary levels. He says: “The challenge for employers is to keep staff motivated at work while many employees see their living standards hit. Organisations should review how they communicate the economic realities the business faces and what needs to happen for pay to increase. Managers face a tough challenge in maintaining employee commitment and motivation but the penalties of failure will be falling national productivity and a vicious circle of continued declines in pay and jobs as we lose out to our international competitors.” CIPD’s survey findings suggest that employers attach more importance to communicating pay freezes and cuts than they do pay rises. “However, with only 19 per cent of employees feeling that their pay rise reflected their performance, there is clearly a need for improved communication of positive news, so that employees feel valued and understand what’s important to their organisation. Only then might employees remain engaged with their work and motivated to perform well.”

UK middle managers are feeling the squeeze as a result of the economic downturn, according to the Chartered

Institute of Personnel and Development’s (CIPD) quarterly Employee Outlook survey of 2,000 employees.

Almost half (49 per cent) of middle managers say they are under excessive pressure either every day or once or twice a week, compared to the average of 37 per cent of all employees in the survey. They are particularly unhappy with their work-life balance; just 44 per cent agree they are satisfied with their work-life balance, compared to 70 per cent of those employees

with no managerial responsibilities.In addition, middle managers worry most

about their job security. One in three (29 per cent) think it is likely they could lose their job as a result of the economic downturn, compared to 21 per cent of employees with no managerial responsibility and 15 per cent of senior managers.

Perhaps not surprisingly given these findings, middle managers are the category of employees who are most likely to be looking for a new job with a different employer, with 29 per cent looking to move organisations compared to a survey average of 21 per cent.

Middle managers feel the squeeze


Industry News

14

The Silvertown head office operation is responsible for the transfer and recycling of used office furniture and the storage of

waste electrical and electronic equipment, pending collection or delivery to approved specialist recyclers.

David Holmes, Head of Quality and Compliance for Harrow Green, said “the issue of the formal permit is an acknowledgement

not only of our compliance with the stringent terms the Environment Agency sets in this area, but it emphasises the company’s commitment to comprehensive and environmentally responsible recycling solutions.”

Harrow Green helps companies meet their legal and environmental responsibility for redundant furniture, IT equipment and secure data disposal.

Ingram’s move British film favourite

Lovers of the classic Michael Caine film Get Carter should have no problem in recognising the building in

this photograph; it’s Dryderdale Hall, a listed building which was extensively used in the 1970 film for internal and external scenes. Ingram’s of Bishop Auckland have recently finished moving the contents of the property, a seven bedroom mansion on the outskirts of Hamsterley Forest, Bishop Auckland.

Ingram’s carried out the move when their customer moved to the hall in 1991. At the time Malcolm Ingram, now Operations Director, was himself a team leader on the move. Twenty one years later and Ingram’s were again contracted to move the customer out again. The move took place in mid-January.

Four days were necessary for the move, the first two days consisted of packing and containerising 1,250 cubic feet at residence for storage and eventual delivery to the customer’s second home in the South East of England. The following two days were required to pack and move 3,500 cubic feet of furniture and effects locally to the customer’s new home in the small village of Hamsterley, Bishop Auckland.

Malcolm reports that the move went very well, without a hitch. Three staff were involved with the move on the first three days, with an additional two staff required on the fourth day to offload the 3,500 cubic feet consignment.

Three of Ingram’s team leaders were extensively involved with the move, Kevin, ‘Simo’, and Steve, with a combined service record of 76 years in the industry.

Harrow Green steps up recycling operation

Harrow Green has formalised its Silvertown office furniture recycling operation with the granting of an Environment Agency permit that governs recycling activities, compliance, documentation and reporting.

David Trenchard of Leatherbarrows tells us he has just completed his sixth transatlantic move for a charismatic

American lady. David originally met the client when she

popped into the office on a Saturday morning and asked for a price for clearing customs at Southampton and delivering and unpacking a 40-foot container of household furniture to Bournemouth. To David’s surprise, she then proceeded to pay in cash from her handbag and hand over a signed waybill – the container had arrived the day before.

David left Trenchards shortly after this transaction but the satisfied customer went out of her way to find him. She sought him out at Leatherbarrows a couple of years later and contracted him to ship a 40-foot container back to the USA.

“We have done this exercise, this time

organising both directions, three times since then,” David says. “She’s a lovely lady with a beautiful home. We are currently packing her up again to go back to the US, and she is still moving 40-foot containers!”

Loyal custom for Leatherbarrows

Ingram’s Team Leaders, from left to right: Kevin Pedelty, ‘Simo’ Simpson, Steven Santon.

Ingram’s vehicles outside Dryderdale Hall

David Holmes, Head of Quality and Compliance for Harrow Green


Industry News

15

Robert Goodwin of Britannia Goodwins Removals of Stafford has paid a nostalgic visit to the school he attended in the

1950s, to distribute high visibility safety vests to the Headmaster.

Robert says that St Paul’s School in Stafford

has changed dramatically since he was a young schoolboy there. The owner of Goodwins Removals, which has been a member of the Britannia Movers group for many years, said the up to date teaching methods of the school were almost unrecognisable.

Goodwins goes down memory lane

Anglo Pacific supports children’s charity2012 is an important year for Winston’s

Wish as it signals 20 years since this vital support service for bereaved children was

set up. Anglo Pacific has backed the charity for four years and intends to do its bit in making the anniversary a financial and educational success.

Liz Caines, HR Director at Anglo Pacific, said “our allegiance with Winston’s Wish began in 2007 when Channel 4’s three-part series, The Mummy Diaries, featured a woman known by our Director’s family. The moving documentary showed the heart-wrenching yet heartwarming journeys of ordinary but terminally ill mothers who would go on to leave their children without a parent

Anglo Pacific recognizes the exceptional work of Winston’s Wish and wants to help ensure that this specialist bereavement provision is available to as many children and their families as possible. To date, Anglo Pacific has raised more than £15,000 for the charity and hosts various events throughout its working calendar to fundraise from fancy dress to dress down, Easter bunny raffles to the Three Peaks Challenge tackled by four staff including Managing Director, Stephen Gray.

Last December Anglo Pacific held its Christmas Fun Day, raising over £900 via a raffle and bake sale. In traditional Fun Day

style, Father Christmas (AKA Anglo Pacific’s semi-retired Trade Manager) distributed Secret Santa gifts insisting that everyone – Directors included – sat on his knee!

The next event on the Winston’s Wish fundraising calendar is the Firewalk Challenge to be held in Gloucestershire in February. Firewalk professionals will give two hours of training to equip volunteers with the courage and skills necessary to literally walk across hot coals.

To find out more about Winston’s Wish, in particular the Firewalk, visit www.winstonswish.org.uk/firewalk and to sponsor Fiona, Winston’s Wish Chief Executive, visit www.justgiving.com/fionafirewalkchallenge.

Jack Dorrington, semi-retired Trade Manager and Teresa Connolly, Trade Manager at Anglo Pacific

The cream of the crop

Over the years people in our industry have put wardrobe containers and other packaging to sometimes

surprising and creative use, but this one, kindly sent to us of Sarah Rowlands, an Assessor with QSS, is exceptional.

Sarah’s niece made a milk carton out of a wardrobe carton (kindly donated by Andrew Robbins / Britannia Robbins in Swansea) for her school’s Christmas fancy dress party.

R&S would like to congratulate her niece and to invite readers to send in any photos and stories they might have in a similar vein.

Deminter reopens Libyan office

Deminter International has confirmed its removal operations in Libya have resumed.

Patrick Le Merrer told R&S: “Our Tripoli office is open for business and we look forward to working with organisations, embassies, businesses and residential customers moving in and out of Libya.”

The civil war in Libya last year meant that moves into and out of the country came to a standstill. Now that there is a new interim government in place, Patrick expects removals work to resume to and from the country.For more information, email [email protected]

Robert Goodwin (left) giving Hi-Vis vests to his old school


Industry News

16

Figures from the Land Registry show an annual price decrease of 1.3 per cent in December, which takes the average

property value in England and Wales to £160,384. There was no monthly change from November to December.

The only region in England and Wales to experience an increase in its average property value over the last 12 months is London, with a movement of 2.8 per cent. The North West experienced the greatest monthly rise with a movement of 1.5 per cent. The North East experienced the greatest annual price fall with a decrease of 7.1 per cent and the most significant monthly price fall with a decrease of 1.9 per cent.

The most up-to-date figures available show that, during October 2011, the number of completed house sales in England and Wales decreased by 6 per cent to 55,309 compared to 58,634 in October 2010. The number of properties sold in England and Wales for over £1 million in October 2011 decreased by 10 per cent to 525 from 582 in October 2010.

Nationwide, which covers the whole of the UK and is based on a sample of loans issued in any given month, reported that prices declined by 0.2 per cent in January. The price of a typical home is now £162,228, 0.6 per cent higher than in January 2011. Chief Economist Robert Gardner said “given the challenging conditions prevailing in late 2011, with the UK economy contracting in the final three months of the year, it’s not surprising that house price growth softened at the start of 2012. The demand/supply balance may move further in favour of buyers in the months ahead. The economy is not expected to gather much momentum until the second half of 2012 at the earliest, which suggests that labour market conditions and buyer sentiment may be slow to improve. Nevertheless, with the flow of properties coming onto the market still more of a trickle than a flood, house prices are likely to continue to move sideways or only modestly lower in the months ahead.” Mr Gardner also noted that affordability has improved on some measures: “Since 2007, initial mortgage payments as a percentage of take home pay have fallen from 46 per cent to 31 per cent for a first time buyer borrowing with a 20 per cent deposit. Compared to take home pay, initial mortgage payments are now at their lowest level since 2003, just above the long run average of 29 per cent.”

Halifax, which also covers the entire UK, but bases its index on a sample of each lender’s own loans each month, said that on a monthly basis, house prices fell by 0.9 per cent between November and December. House prices in the final quarter of 2011 were 0.1 per cent lower than in the previous quarter. This compared with

a 0.1 per cent rise between Quarter 2 (April to June) and Quarter 3 (July to September).

Figures from Communities and Local Government (CLG) for November show that UK house prices decreased by 0.3 per cent over the year whilst they remain unchanged over the month. The average mix-adjusted UK house price was £205,796. Average house prices increased by 0.2 per cent over the quarter to November, compared to no change over the quarter to August. Average prices decreased during the year in all UK countries; England (-0.1 per cent), Wales (-1.6 per cent), Scotland (-0.8 per cent) and Northern Ireland (-11.7 per cent). Prices paid by first time buyers were 0.7 per cent higher on average than a year earlier whilst prices paid by former owner occupiers decreased by 0.7 per cent. Prices for new properties were 7.7 per cent higher on average than a year earlier whilst prices for pre-owned dwellings decreased by 0.9 per cent.

And, according to the latest monthly market report from the National Association of Estate Agents, the number of sales decreased during December, with average branch selling 6 properties in December 2011 compared to 5 per branch in November. This figure is the same as in December 2010 and a reduced level is what one would expect at this time of the year. However, the report did find that interest in UK property rose during December, with the number of house-hunters registering with an agent rising across the country, from an average

of 262 per branch in November to 294 in December. In contrast in December 2010, demand for property reduced to 227, from 241 in November. NAEA President, Wendy Evans-Scott, said: “It is pleasing to see that prospective house-hunters remained determined to continue their search for a home despite the slowdown we normally expect to see at this busy time of the year.” While this has not currently converted into actual sales, which were slightly lower than in previous months, she remains confident that “this clear demand for property will be met with sensible pricing of homes by sellers in 2012.”

Price change by region Source: Land Registry

Housing market stands stillThe UK Housing Market remains in a condition of permafrost, with the economy contracting in the fourth quarter of 2011 and no current sign of any improvement in activity.


BAR News


BAR News

Countdown to Conference

It’s only three months to go to what promises to be a memorable BAR Annual Conference 2012, which will

take place in the dazzling surroundings of Royal Windsor in the build-up to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations.

Speakers will include David Silvey from Transport for London, who will provide a detailed overview on how to prepare for the transport challenges of the Olympic Games. Alan Ward of the Residential Landlords Association (interviewed in this issue of R&S) will explain how removal companies can best

serve the fast-growing private rental sector – a very appealing sector for the industry, given the lack of movement in the owner occupier market!

On the political front, there will be speakers from both the UK and European Parliaments. MEP Mike Nattrass will discuss the threat to the industry from Brussels as well as the opportunities of the European market.

Business sessions will include special sessions on how to make the most of social media and social networking to market your services.

• Andrews of Kent• Britannia Anchor Removals• Maidman’s• Matt Purdie & Sons Bathgate• Matt Purdie & Sons Kilmarnock• MJ Christopher & Son• Reddaways Removals• Richard Healey Removals

The BAR Domestic Mover of the Year competition is for outstanding performance, commitment and leadership in the domestic removals market.

An initiative of the National & European Council initiative, the aim of the competition is to encourage and celebrate high standards, and to reward those companies who really lead by example.

The two judges appointed by the National & European Council, Reg Hackworthy, BAR President and Mark Chudley, former National Council Chairman and current FEDEMAC representative, were both impressed with the overall quality of entries, particularly the significant “customer facing” elements of the submissions. They scored each entry against the following main criteria:• Commitment to quality and standards• Quality and appearance of premises and vehicles• Knowledge, professionalism and helpfulness of staff• Customer satisfaction• Compliance with the BAR Code of Practice• Support and participation in BAR activities and services

• Promotion of BAR through marketing, display and advertising materials• Adherence to essential issues, e.g. Health & Safety• Commitment to training and development of staff.The judges found the scoring so close that they finished up with 8 shortlisted companies (based on the top 6 and ties). The second stage of the competition, the mystery shopping exercise, has also been carried out and onsite inspections are due to start shortly, after which the three finalists will be identified. It is looking like it will be a very close competition this year.

DMotY 2012 shortlist!Congratulations to the following BAR Member companies who have successfully reached the shortlist for the Domestic Mover of the Year 2012.

Last year’s winner: Maidman’s


BAR News

Countdown to Conference

There are still various Sponsorship Opportunities available from £500+VAT to help promote businesses – please email: [email protected] for more details. Stands and sponsorships opportunities are allocated strictly on a first come first serve basis (and limited), so book early to avoid disappointment! Formoreinformationaboutthepackagesavailable,floorplan,andtobookpleasecontactPaulSwindonorCarolineSuardon +44 (0) 1923 699 483. See you at Conference!

That’s a very large and high quality audience of decision makers and leaders in our industry.

And BAR has developed some exciting new features for exhibitors at this year’s Conference who want to use the event to raise their profile, attract new talents, network within the removal industry, or promote their products and services.

This year’s All Inclusive Exhibition Packages provide exhibitors with the opportunity to enjoy sustained, high-calibre PR and advertising over the course of six months, through a combination of branding and advertising in pre- and post- conference communications.

The exhibitor package, available from only £2,500+VAT, includes: • Exhibition stand• Stand shell scheme (3m x 2m), 1 x

dressed table, 2 x chairs, spotlights, power supply in the exhibitor area

• Full delegate entrance• Two full delegate packages• Brand exposure• Company logo on all conference literature

and publicity material across the BAR family of media, both printed and online

• Details and logo on the www.bar.co.uk website on the public facing area with a link to the company website

• Promotional item or brochure (to be

provided by the exhibitor) room drop• Banner display in the tea and coffee area

& during the Gala dinner (to be provided by the exhibitor)

• Logo, contact details and a 25-word description in the programme• Logo display on the welcome desk• Logo display on the business session slides• Advertising• Banner or ¼ page advertising in the programme (artwork to be provided by the exhibitor)• Showcasing opportunity (15 minutes) in dedicated area. Showcase details to

Exhibitors and SponsorsAt BAR’s Annual Conference in Manchester last year, over 200 delegates attended, including: BAR Members, International Guests ((Federation of International Furniture Removers (FIDI) and Federation of European Movers Associations (FEDEMAC) Members), BAR Affiliates and companies that provide products & services to the professional Removals & Storage industry in the UK.

be published in the programme.


BAR News

I n his cover message to this report, David remarked on the “the excellent spirit amongst the delegates – they enjoyed the

social parts of the weekend especially the gala dinner in the Chapel at the Hotel and the afternoon visiting Windsor Castle.”

Four of the long serving delegates/representatives (including David) retired and were presented with framed certificates of thanks by the President – Arnoldo Righetti.

Report by the B.A.R. FEDEMAC Representative on the FEDEMAC Annual General Assembly 2011The recent Annual Council meeting was held in Royal Windsor on the 18th and 19th of November 2011. BAR was the host association and the arrangements were made by Stephen Vickers and Tracey Britten. The General Assembly was opened by BAR President, Reg Hackworthy, who welcomed all the delegates to the UK and to Royal Windsor.

Arnoldo Righetti (Italy), the FEDEMAC President, opened the Assembly proceedings and expressed a very warm welcome to those attending for the first time, especially Serge Fontaine, the President of the French Removers Association, La Chambre

Syndicale de Déménagements et Garde Meubles Francais (CSD) and Charles Seegmuller from CSD International Group.

On the EU radarOn the previous day, the meeting of the FEDEMAC Representatives and National Presidents had received the detailed report from the lobbying consultant Tony Richman on his current workload and matters either currently being considered by the EU or likely to be on their agenda very soon. There is an indication that the EU Driving and Rest Time Rules are to be reviewed and updated. Tony reported that the International Road Transport Union (IRU) had set up a working group to prepare for such a review.

There is likely to be a Social Code for mobile transport workers and it seems possible that the EU will seek harmonisation of treatment of mobile workers throughout the EU. Tony recommended that each Association ensure a debate amongst their members to look for what should and could be incorporated into such a Social Code.

There seems to be a consideration of the harmonisation of penalties for infringements and how these penalise both driver and company. This has serious consequences if

the proposals include penalties for the Transport Manager even if he had no involvement in the driver’s offence.

The fear is that ‘harmonisation’ may mean the adoption of the highest penalties currently in place amongst the participating countries for everyone else.

We need to monitor and lobby for fairness of treatment.

The dossier for secure parking areas for trucks is still very high on the political agenda. National assessment committees are now being set up under the auspices of the IRU transport scheme to judge parking areas and give them star ratings.

At the moment, insurance companies are not passing on any insurance benefits for operators using these facilities as their view is that they are ‘self assessed’ and therefore their suitability has not the same value as if it were being assessed independently.

The EU STARTS (Skills and Training in the Road Transport Sector) Project is in draft form and recommendations currently include mutual recognition by member states of accreditations in other states, better use of EU funds and recognition and acceptance of training schemes.

BAR in Europe The report on the Federation of European Movers Associations (FEDEMAC) Annual Assembly that follows below was prepared* by David Trenchard of Leatherbarrows.


BAR News

Areas for FEDEMAC activityTony Richman has been heavily involved in keeping an eye on matters affecting the Industry and the meeting was very appreciative of the work he has been doing.

Working Time Regulations: In December 2010 the EU announced its intentions to revise the General Working Time Directive by July 2011 but so far the cross sector partners have failed to agree terms for opening discussions. We need to ensure that the existing provisions applicable to Mobile Workers are not removed. We need to discuss the ‘opt out’ available to those workers other than Mobile Workers – should this ‘opt out’ option be removed.

David Trenchard (pictured above) on behalf of BAR queried this statement: mobile workers could not ‘opt out’ in the UK. This places our workforces at a disadvantage for earning extra income if they wished through working overtime and extra shifts. Why should workers in other industries be allowed to ‘opt out’ because for both social and Health & Safety reasons there was virtually no difference in the actual work done? It meant that we stood to lose good employees who may transfer to another non-mobile industry where they could enhance their pay if they were so minded.

Tony accepted this point of view and said that all FEDEMAC Members needed to consider the ramifications of this review and if this view expressed by David Trenchard were to be supported generally, then the FEDEMAC lobbying would be in favour of every worker being included with no ‘opt out’ option available.

EU Transport White Paper: This paper covers many issues such as objectives for the long-term to 2050 and medium-term to 2030, with the next decade including decarbonisation, alternative fuels and urban logistics. Targets could include the reduction of CO2 emissions and fuel use for HGVs, and targeted transfer to rail for road journeys over 300 km. There is an obvious need to lobby for the special needs/exemptions for removal contractors and their customers.

Energy Taxation Directive: We need to monitor this and lobby for our Industry not to be over taxed on road journeys. FEDEMAC needs to lobby for a level playing field and ensure trucks are not isolated from Maritime and Rail Transport.

Eurovignette Directive 2011/76: Member states must ensure that national law complies with the Eurovignette Directive by 16th October 2012. At the moment there is no obligation to actually implement the law. By 16th October 2012 the EU will present a report on ‘Internalisation of External Costs’ in all modes of transport and by the 16th October 2015 a further report on implementing the Directive and possibly including proposals to amend it.

Modal Shift: The EU still has the objective of ensuring that journeys over 300km are moved by rail rather than road by 2030. We need to lobby for optional modal shift rather than compulsory action. We need to lobby to ensure trucks are not treated worse that cars. Tony would like to hear from all FEDEMAC Members regarding their views on the European Modular Concept as FEDEMAC needs to formulate an overall position for the future.The EU is still considering the concept of allowing combinations of existing loading units (Modules) into longer and sometimes heavier vehicle combinations to be used on some parts of the road network. There is still discussion on harmonisation and standardisation relating to weights and dimensions.

NB BAR needs to have an internal debate on the European Modular Concept and to ensure that the membership at large understands the options and the consequences. This needs to be on the BAR groups’ agendas and discussed with knowledge and detail by all Members and a report prepared for FEDEMAC. Many members have no knowledge of the issues, benefits and costs so only with information can a sensible conclusive recommendation or view be reached.VAT: As from 1st January 2010, FEDEMAC succeeded in obtaining a one stop shop (OSS) pilot scheme for refunds – the question Tony posed to delegates queried whether this was working successfully. FEDEMAC is keeping up the pressure to extend this by continuing to lobby for the VAT on receipts to be dealt with in the same way but this is still on-going. It is understood that, if the current OSS scheme is a success, a scheme to include receipts for selected industries will be piloted in 2015, to be fully implemented by 2019. If this is successful, it will be widened to include transport companies and extended further.

Are movers using the current pilot scheme on payments and saving the 20-25 per cent commissions that agents previously took from the VAT recovered?

N.B. Can BAR ensure that all Members post a view and express understanding of this fundamental change to a system we have lobbied for and give their up to date experience and views for the future?

Consumer Rights Directive: Many of the difficulties that could have arisen were removed due to the work by FEDEMAC and AMOE in getting amendments incorporated. There is still work to be done on translations of the proposals to ensure each country is dealt with in the same way.


BAR News

FEDEMAC businessThe highlight of the Assembly was the announcement that the French Removers Association, La Chambre Syndicale de Demenagements et Garde Meubles Francais (CSD) had decided to rejoin FEDEMAC and unanimously agreed to the Board’s proposal to accept them into immediate membership, paying their full fees from 1st January 2012. Both the German Association representative and BAR representative expressed their congratulations to the French President on this decision.

The Luxembourg Removers Association was also accepted into membership which meant that Streff, who represented Luxembourg as an affiliate ceased their direct affiliation.

N.B.: The French Association had left FEDEMAC over a difference of opinion as to the direction lobbying should take at the EU. This occurred some 5 years ago and considerable effort had been made to bring them back into membership so that FEDEMAC truly was representative of the principal movers throughout Europe. All were very pleased that the situation appeared to be resolved.

The meeting also learnt that the FEDEMAC DIRECTORY of all members and their services and resources throughout Europe was now on line and available for all members to access from November 2011. All the information that was registered for use in the hard copy directory published by Werner Brandeis is now available on line. Stephen Vickers explained the way in which BAR has incorporated a Broadcast function to enable a member to send messages to an extended group of other members. This has proven useful to BAR Members and is widely used in the UK. FEDEMAC agreed to fund the development of a similar function for the users of this directory and it was hoped that this will be available in March 2012.

FEDEMAC is preparing to allow national associations to issue FEDEMAC membership certificates to their members in an electronic format that members can use on their websites and emails. It will be up to national associations whether to issue a hard copy.

The Assembly agreed to the action plan and budget for the coming year and noted that all the 14 European removals associations were now in full membership of

FEDEMAC. They also noted that one of the objectives was to assist the other countries to form their own national associations.

The Annual Reports from each Association were considered and noted.

The Netherlands had developed a special carbon neutral removal service and this had now been taken up by a significant number of customers opting in on a voluntary premium basis.

The President referred to a number of high profile individuals who had made a significant contribution to the work of FEDEMAC over the past decades and who were standing down from their posts, this was their last General Assembly and the President recorded special thanks for their efforts.

Message from David TrenchardI was able to introduce Mark Chudley to the Assembly as the new BAR FEDEMAC representative and I have left it to him to report on his impressions of the work and commitment of the organisation and the general social content of this important annual meeting of the representatives of our industry throughout Europe.

May I record my thanks to the Members of BAR for their unfailing support of me

throughout the twenty years that I have been first deputy and then the representative of BAR to FEDEMAC. I have received good responses to my requests for detailed information and general views and opinions. I have enjoyed being involved in organising and chairing formal debates at European Conferences in Stuttgart and Vienna and in an open discussion forum in Budapest, as well as attending the Assemblies, Brain Storming sessions and Quality

presentations and working groups.The contacts made through FEDEMAC

were vital in assisting me with the work of CEN and chairing the Working Group 4 of Technical Committee 320. Many of these individuals were members of the working party with me and played a vital part in developing the quality service standards that now exist in our industry. Many thanks to everyone involved.

David Trenchard FMI 3.12.2011

* This text was lightly edited for space purposes.

Do you have any news to share with R&S readers?

Send to: [email protected]


BAR News




BAR News

Adam got his first start in the industry at the tender age of fifteen, when he worked summers, half terms and

Saturdays at the Southampton facility of White and Company, the company for which he still works today.

“White & Company is the only company I have ever worked for, first as a porter and now in the office in Portsmouth as a trainee manager/surveyor,” Adam says.

“I really enjoyed my work as a porter, when I would sweep the yard, clean the vehicles, and load the shipping containers,” he remembers. “When I got a little older I was able to go on removals where I was taught to pack and load the vehicles by my regular driver Shaun Meredith.” After he had proved himself in domestic removals, he was asked to do continental removals in France, Belgium and Germany. “With White and Company I have travelled a great deal of Europe and have done some very interesting moves, including moving diplomats into sixth floor flats in Paris with a hoist – all great experience when quoting for European moves. It has really helped when selling the job as I can tell customers what to expect.”

White and Company are clearly providing Adam with a very well planned, all-round training in the removals business, and are committed to keeping him motivated and challenged at work. That philosophy of investing in the development of their employees partly explains the longevity of the business; the company is still owned by the White family today, making it the largest (and possibly the oldest) family owned removals business in the UK, with around 200 vehicles and over 450 staff.

As a trainee manager/surveyor, Adam now surveys private moves, European moves, overseas shipments, corporate accounts and movements both to and from the Channel Islands. As part of his management training, he

has also passed the BAR surveying and overseas course, and has just completed the BARTS BTEC in Removals management course with the exam fast approaching. “Some customers are quite surprised by how much I know, as people tell me I look about twelve years old!” Adam says.

Global experienceWhite and Company has also been far sighted and forward thinking enough to give Adam time for his own personal development. At the age of eighteen, Adam took seven months off and went on a memorable voyage around the world, visiting Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Asia. In between surfing on Bondi beach, sky diving in Queensland and dog sledding in Canada, Adam was able to visit the facilities of international removals businesses, including Tippet-Richardson in Vancouver, and Movements International in Sydney. In his favourite country, New Zealand, Adam spent some time working as a porter for the Auckland branch of The Moving Company. “The guys were brilliant and absolutely huge, they were predominately Samoan or from Tonga and they were able to lift washing machines, fridge freezers and huge dining tables on their own, and the customers were never awkward around them either!”

Working for a moving company whilst travelling also had some clear personal advantages for Adam; “I was able to see things I wouldn’t see if I had just stuck to the normal tourist route, and when I wanted to move down the Island I would just let the office know and they would put me on the next truck moving down.” Thanks to the connections of White and Company, Adam also went on a couple of surveys with New Zealand Van Lines in Wellington, an eye-opening experience. “In Wellington I witnessed some of the notorious removals of houses which are built into cliffs – after doing this type of removal I

think no one in the removal industry would ever complain about an access ever again.”

On another trip, this time to South Africa, when Adam was not out on safari or cage diving with sharks, he was able to visit the facilities of Stuttafords and get a taste for the business in the African continent.

Unsurprisingly, Adam is now keen to work on developing the overseas business of White and Company, as well as creating ever closer ties with the company’s partners in the industry. Closer to home, Adam says the Young Movers events in the UK have proved to be very worthwhile networking and learning opportunities. Like many BAR Young Movers, he says it was the Laser Quest day in Birmingham which stands out as the highlight.

A keen golfer and tennis player, and a high standard footballer who used to play at Academy level for Barnet & Portsmouth football clubs, Adam is clearly a competitive and ambitious team player. For young people like Adam with international aspirations and experience, the removals industry can be an exciting choice of career – and BAR Members such as White and Company and the Young Movers organisation are leading the way in keeping the new generation motivated and committed to our fast moving and rewarding business.

Adam Palmer: Learning the ropes in Portsmouth and EuropeAt White and Company of Portsmouth, Young Mover Adam Palmer is enjoying a career development plan that is second to none. Adam talks to R&S about how he first learned the ropes as a young porter before becoming a management trainee. With the support of White and Company, Adam has also travelled the world, visiting leading removals companies in three continents and gaining priceless experience that is standing him in good stead as he progresses in the world of UK and European moving.

Young Mover Profile: Adam Palmer

“In Wellington I witnessed some of the notorious removals of houses which are built into cliffs – after doing this type of removal I think no one in the removal industry would ever complain about an access ever again.”


BAR News


BAR NewsBAR News

Our latest results revealed an increase in domestic removals of approximately 6% for January 2012 compared to January

2011. Although this is perhaps encouraging, it is also worth considering that the UK removals industry is not a buoyant market and has not been for a while. The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) also paint a realistic picture for the industry; NAEA Chief Executive Peter Bolton King said 2012 will see a ‘gradual’ recovery for the UK property market, as it continues to bounce along the bottom – with no “great upturn” to mark a change from the previous 12 months.

Results show a significant increase of almost a third (29%) in the number of European moves for January 2012 compared to the same month for the previous year. Conversely, the overseas market at the start of this year was weak – moves to non-European destinations decreased by 22% compared to January 2011.

BAR Members identified the top European removal destinations for January 2011 as France followed by Spain and then Portugal. The top European removal destination for January 2012 was Spain. The next most popular destinations were Switzerland, Portugal and the Netherlands.

BAR Members identified the top Overseas (non-European) removal destinations for both

January 2011 and 2012 as Australia followed by USA and then New Zealand.

Number of staff employed in January 2012 dipped slightly by 3.52% compared to January 2011. The number of vehicles in use for January 2012 also decreased by almost 3% compared to the same time last year.

BAR will continue to report monthly industry statistics. To take part in the new industry incentive scheme, look out for the monthly email which will contain a link to the online survey.

It is important for BAR to receive these monthly statistics from Members as it helps BAR gain a better understanding of the industry and allows BAR to send regular reports to the press and relevant industry bodies.

Industry Statistics: January 2012/11

BAR would like to thank those Members who have participated in the Industry Surveys.

Take part in the online industry surveys and automatically be entered into the monthly cash draw to win £100.

For more information, please contact the Commercial Department: [email protected] or call 01923 699 483

Please note all information received is aggregated and treated in the strictest of confidence.

30.00%

20.00%

10.00%

0.00%

-10.00%

-20.00%

-30.00%

+6.28% -22.22% -2.59%+29.00% -3.52%

-22.22%

+6.28%

-2.59% -3.52%

+29.00%

Industry Statistics: January 2012 compared to January 2011


BAR NewsBAR News


BAR NewsBAR Services

Products of the Month

BAR Services prides itself on its range of specialist equipment that has been designed to get the job done more

quickly and easily thus reducing unnecessary man hours.

The use of handling equipment is a must on a removal. By simply replacing manual lifting and carrying with material handling equipment, removal companies can comply with health and safety legislation and provide a safer working environment, therefore reducing the risk of costly injury and possible litigation.

BAR Services feels it is important to raise awareness about the integral role handling equipment plays in its comprehensive packaging range so here is some handy information about a few of its best sellers:

Sack TruckThis product is the most commonly utilised truck in the industry. The sack truck is a heavy duty option which is versatile, reliable and capable of carrying a weight of up to 350kg. Available with either a 9” or a 12” foot, the truck can also be ordered with pneumatic tyres which improve manoeuvrability. Expresso TruckSuperbly light, this hand truck is an innovative product offering an ergonomic shape for ease of handling. The truck also comes complete with nylon skids to make stair climbing possible. Its high back and solid rubber wheels contribute to its carrying capacity of 300kg.

Spider TruckThe ingenious action of its rotating three axle wheels ensure that this purpose built truck makes stair climbing a breeze. Suitable for loads of up to 200lbs, the truck comes complete with a nylon strap to ensure going up and coming down stairs is no longer an arduous task.

Dolly TruckThis literally is a platform on wheels, making moving awkward and heavy items easier and safer. The rubber-topped dolly is the standard product used by the removal industry but did you know BAR Services also stocks a brand new, economically priced ‘uni-dolly’ that has the same carrying capacity of 300 kgs? Why not give this cheaper option a try? It negates the expense commonly incurred by dolly trucks that are left behind on removals.

Quilty CoversExtensively tested by the membership, BAR Services offers an extensive range of quilted covers from suite covers to plasma screen covers. Each quilted cover is made of a high quality and

durable material with 4oz nylon outer and can be easily fastened using 38mm webbing straps with ladder lock buckles. Not only do the covers provide optimum protection but they are also reusable. By using one of these quilted covers, not only will you be helping the environment by using less plastic and paper but you will also be helping to save yourself money. You can save yourself further, by ordering the 3 in 1 TV cover which will encompass all sizes of flat screen TV. This negates the need to buy three separate sizes. Manufactured in the UK, these high quality reusable covers are available in navy blue, royal blue, red, green and black and your logo can be applied to help identify your company.

According to Miranda Hyder, BAR Services General Manager, removal companies shouldn’t underestimate the importance of good quality, heavy duty handling equipment. “With removal companies having to adhere to strict health and safety legislation that is forever changing, many of these trucks can help reduce accidents in the work place that are often incurred through manual carrying.”

All of the above products are just a small taster of the complete range available from BAR Services. To view all of the equipment that is available, simply log on to www.barservices.co.uk and select ‘handling’ or alternatively call our sales office on 01342 870087 to order a catalogue.

BAR Services – helping you towards a safer working environmentWith over 25 years’ experience in the removal industry, BAR Services is renowned for its range and quality of corrugated cases. But did you also know that it also holds a complete range of high quality, no-nonsense material handling equipment?

Article submission: 4th of the month preceding publication

Booking of display Adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of classified adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of trade adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Artwork for adverts: 15th of the month preceding publication

Copy and advertising deadlines 2012 for future issues of R&S magazine


BAR NewsBAR Services

BAR Services expands Sales teamBAR Services would like to introduce Suzy Barrack who is the latest member of staff to join its rapidly expanding team. With Sales Manager Tim Oliver settled in his new role, Suzy has been appointed in a Customer Services and Telesales capacity.

Her main role is to support BAR Services’ existing customers and she will also be encouraging new business.

After a short career break to raise her two daughters, Suzy is very glad to be back in the sales and support environment. For six years Suzy worked in the extremely pressurised environment of the RAC control room dealing with new business and customer issues. After this role, she ran a small telesales department before moving on to work with Canon Business Solutions. Other than her two daughters, Suzy has a passionate

interest in nutrition and in particular in Ayurveda (for those of you who don’t know, this is a holistic system which focuses on food, lifestyle, massage, yoga and herbal remedies to keep the body healthy). If you need a quotation, to place an order or have a sales enquiry, Suzy will be your main contact. Who knows, perhaps when you order your Pack 2s Suzy can advise you how to cure your cold too! BAR Services welcomes Suzy and is sure she will be an invaluable member of the sales team.

Our company’s sole purpose since its inception in 1977 is to serve the membership – to supply good quality, innovative packaging products at low prices. This is achieved by buying jointly on your behalf and passing on the discount achieved from this bulk purchasing power!

As a member, we should be your preferred supplier but are we? For many of you the answer will be yes but for those of you that say no then we would like to know why? Your feedback is important so please ring us on 01342 870087 or you can simply emai [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you.

Are we your preferred supplier - if not, why not?

Suzy Barrack, Customer Services and Telesales


BAR News

>> Olympics monitor

This regular section of R&S is designed to help members prepare for the transport challenges that we face this Summer as the UK hosts the largest sporting event in its history.

Atraffic information firm is warning that London road users face a “perfect traffic storm” on the weekend of the 27th, 28th

and 29th July, and Londoners will face increased traffic congestion of 33 per cent in late July and early August, with core routes slowing to just 12mph.

Greg Hallsworth, Lead Scientist and Traffic Analyst at Inrix, believes that scheduling the Olympic opening ceremony and the Men’s Road Cycling race on one of the busiest holiday getaway weekends, is a recipe for the perfect traffic storm. “Nearly 100,000 ticket-holders are expected at the opening ceremony, with tens of thousands of visitors anticipated at the live sites at Hyde Park and Victoria Park,” he says. “This, combined with thousands of closed roads for the Men’s Road Cycling event will undeniably create huge stress on the UK’s road networks.”

On the weekend in question, traffic levels are normally already around 30 per cent above average. A trial event for the race in August 2011 resulted in traffic chaos, when journeys of just a few miles took several hours and some drivers were forced to abandon their cars.

Inrix predicts that journeys with an average travel time of one hour will take at least 12 additional minutes throughout Greater London for the duration of the Games. Journeys through routes identified as Games hotspots such as Vauxhall Bridge and the Blackwall Tunnel will take at least 15 minutes longer and people travelling on the Core Games Network should plan for at least 20 minutes more for their journey.

The firm is forecasting that in early August the start time for daily congested periods will move forward by as much as 90 minutes, with

morning peak traffic hitting at 05:30 rather than 07:00, and evening peak traffic hitting as early as 15:30, rather than 17:00. However, evening traffic congestion may ease by 18:00 rather than 19:30 as people head to meeting places to watch events on TV.

Combined with rush hour traffic, Londoners should also anticipate increased traffic around lunchtime as venues clear and refill between sessions – adding an anticipated nine minutes to standard lunchtime travel times.

To help minimise traffic in Central London, it is hoped that 80 per cent of visitors to the main Games park will arrive by public transport, using park and ride schemes that have capacity for 18,000 vehicles in Essex and 9,000 in Ebbsfleet. However, traffic trouble will be near impossible to avert: the major shopping centre, Lakeside, draws half a million shoppers weekly and is situated next to the Essex site, and both Games sites are adjacent to the M25, one of the UK’s most congested routes. This congestion risk is compounded by the fact that tickets are required for entrance into the park and ride sites and any people with misplaced tickets will add to tailbacks, causing a domino effect onto the already congested M25.

Mr Hallsworth said “UK holiday routes are busier in July and August but in holiday periods, commuting routes are naturally quieter. This will assist the London travel network and planners are also hoping for some additional capacity as commuters change their travel routines.

Despite this generally being a quieter time of year, Londoners need to be prepared for a huge volume of traffic in the City that they are unlikely to have experienced previously.”

Road users face perfect storm Damp squib for business

New figures show that six out of ten small firms believe the London 2012 Games will not

have a positive impact on their business in the long term despite David Cameron saying today that the UK is “on track” for a lasting legacy.

The Voice of Small Business’ Survey Panel of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) shows that 62 per cent of small firms believe that the Games will have no long term positive impact on their business, despite promises that the legacy of the London 2012 Games will continue for years.

Only seven per cent of small businesses believe the Games will benefit their business overall, and a quarter expect a negative impact on their business.The FSB is concerned that when the bid for the London 2012 Games went through, it was sold on the basis that is would create a long legacy for the country, yet small businesses do not believe that they will benefit from this.With 200 days to go, the FSB is calling on the Government and Olympics Authorities to ensure that small firms are aware of how they can reap the benefits of the Games, including tourism. John Walker, National Chairman of the FSB (pictured above), said “we all know times are tough, but 2012 is a year of big events that small firms should be able to benefit from. The Government and Olympic Authorities must help show small businesses how they can reap the rewards from one of the biggest sporting and tourism events the country has seen for years.”


BAR News

>> Olympics monitor

Support package for freight operators

Olympics Monitor

MPs gather evidence on Games

The Transport Committee has been collecting evidence on the transport plans for the 2012 Olympic and

Paralympic Games, and will hear oral submissions this month.

In June 2011 the Olympics Delivery Authority (ODA) published the latest edition of their Transport Plan for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, presenting an overview of the proposed transport arrangements for the Games.

The Committee is focusing on the impact on the road network resulting from Games Lanes and the Olympic Route Network (ORN), and the measures taken to manage travel demand during the Games. It will look at the impact on public transport, including aviation, of increased demand during the Games, as well as the effects of travel disruption for businesses and services and the delivery of a transport legacy following the Games.

Transport for London has launched a widespread support package to help freight operators and their customers

continue to operate effectively during the London 2012 Games. At the centre of the package, known as TfL’s Freight Advice Programme, are 230 free workshops aimed at businesses in Games transport ‘hot spot’ areas which receive freight deliveries, and those companies that deliver to them.

The free workshops, which aim to attract businesses from across all sectors and will help them to plan and prepare, started on 30 January and run until the end of April. Around 160 sessions will be held in London and 70 will be held outside the Capital, in cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff and Southampton which have a significant concentration of businesses supplying London.

Other areas which also generate a large number of freight movements into and out of the Capital will also be targeted, including Slough, Northampton, Chelmsford and Milton Keynes. According to TfL, deliveries and collections make up 17 per cent of all traffic in London, rising to 25 per cent in central London, with 281,000 freight journeys made in the Capital between Monday and Friday each week. London’s Transport Commissioner, Peter Hendy, said: “Our new programme of workshops and tailored advice for freight operators and their

customers greatly enhances the support package already on offer to help businesses of all sizes stay one step ahead during the Games.”

The move was welcomed by The Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain. Sarah Bell, lead Traffic Commissioner for Olympic Delivery, is urging operators to take advantage of the opportunity to assist their preparation for the commercial opportunities that the Games will bring. “The very experienced TfL freight team have worked closely with Traffic Commissioners, trade associations and other partners to produce a wealth of information in a user-friendly format,” she said. “The seminars will offer a practical insight into how best to use that information and ask questions directly relevant to particular business sectors.”

The Freight Transport Association and the Road Haulage Association have also welcomed the availability of practical advice and information through these workshops. “An effective, cost effective and efficient transport network is crucial to the success of the Games; this initiative will ensure that operators are fully prepared,” according to Kate Gibbs at the Road Haulage Association.” To apply for a free workshop place, businesses should visit tfl.gov.uk/2012 where there is a full list of workshop dates, times and locations. Businesses should email [email protected] to book a place.




Industry News

38

Every Member of BAR will have had an inspection at some point, either for the initial application or as part of the on-

going 3-yearly routine as required under the OFT Code of Practice. Many will also have had an audit for a quality standard, or many such annual visits over the years. Given this familiarity with the process, plus the fact that several weeks’ notice is generally given and a copy of the inspection checklist is provided showing the documents etc. required to be available, it is surprising for the QSS auditors (and sometimes not a little frustrating!) that some Members are clearly unprepared when the day comes.

To help you help us make these visits as easy and trouble-free as possible, we have put together a number of the most common issues that can get things off to a less than ideal start:

As soon as the date has been agreed, tell all your staff that there’s going to be an inspection or audit, what it involves, and remind them a few days beforehand.Sometimes we arrive and nobody seems to be expecting us, and when we explain who we are and what we have come to do, there’s still a blank look. We don’t expect red carpet treatment but that kind of welcome really doesn’t give a very good first impression!

Please make sure there is a clear working area ready for use i.e. desk, chair, a bit of space to review files and documents etc.We’re not looking for a penthouse suite and we fully recognise that some offices are a bit cramped and we don’t mind being stuck in a corner somewhere, but it’s not good to be traipsed through the premises looking for somewhere to perch…please do organise this in advance.

An inspection or audit will take several hours – try to keep that time free.Sometimes, as soon as we arrive we are told that key person(s) aren’t in that day or need to

leave shortly for some reason. Of course, urgent and important appointments can arise, and if it is unavoidable we will understand. And it is good to let us know this right at the start, so that we can work around it. But sometimes it appears that insufficient priority is being given to the auditor’s visit and that the other appointment could easily have been re-organised, or wasn’t really that important.

Ensure that all the required files, documents and records are readily available.This is almost certainly the no.1 issue! So often, valuable time (for all of us) is lost hunting down essential records e.g. insurance policies, training records, vehicle and forklift inspection certificates, fire and accident logs etc. For quality standard audits we always need to check the Quality Manual, but it is not uncommon for this to have gone AWOL and when it is eventually discovered lurking in somebody’s bottom drawer, the dust has to be blown off it. Not good!

A list of all such required items is provided well in advance – for good reason – we will need to see them - please do assist the process by having them ready for us, or at least know where they are.

Review the results of the last inspection or audit and make sure you have dealt with any action points.This is one of the first checks we will make, and if you haven’t addressed whatever came up last time it doesn’t instil us with confidence or bode well for the rest of the visit. Please make sure that the necessary action has been taken and that this has been suitably recorded (we can’t just take your word for it, we need to see some sort of evidence).

Quality Systems are not just for one day, or the day before our visit.An effective quality management system will be embedded in daily working practice and there will be signs that it is being monitored on a regular basis with changes or improvements

being made throughout the year. We need to see that you have held review meetings during the year, done some internal audits (where applicable), updated polices and documents etc. – but not, please, all done on the day before our visit!

Have a tidy-up and generally make the effort to look your best on the day.First impressions count for a lot and it helps if the office and warehouse are clean and tidy, fire exits are clear, staff are reasonably well dressed (operatives in uniform), vehicles are clean and properly equipped, etc.

And finally:Yes, we carry checklists and clipboards and we go around ticking things off against standards, membership criteria and the Code of Practice. But at the end of the day we could be potential customers, just like anyone else who might walk through your door. And we form opinions about the movers we visit, based on what we see and hear. We ask ourselves: would I be happy to move with this company? Would I be happy to store my goods here? Would I recommend them to friends or family?

If you’d like us to leave saying Yes, Yes and Yes, may we suggest that you prepare for your inspection or audit by… quite simply, being prepared!

Chris Waymouth, Chief Executive of Quality Service Standards Ltd, sets out some tips for your QSS inspection.

The QSS clipboard cometh …how to prepare for an inspection

QSS Update

“First impressions count for a lot and it helps if the office and warehouse are clean and tidy, fire exits are clear, staff are reasonably well dressed (operatives in uniform), vehicles are clean and properly equipped, etc.”


CMG News

BS 8522

The three judges on the Judging Panel have each been in contact with three of the clients for whom the candidates carried out moves during 2011. Each candidate had to

submit details of seven commercial clients. The judges are Graham Briscoe, the ‘Client’ judge. Graham is

on the BIFM Board and Chairs their Audit Committee. He recently retired from Royal Sun Alliance (RSA) where his last responsibility was the closure and work transfer of a 1,200 staff unit in Bristol. Beth Goodyear will bring her many years of experience as a Facilities Management professional to judge the competition. And, in his fourth year as the ‘Removals’ judge for the CMotY competition, David Bunting will draw on more than 25 years’ experience in the office and commercial relocation business, and his long relationship with the CMG, both as a former long-serving member, and past Chairman of the CMG Council.

The next stage is for BAR to evaluate the reports and the scores of the judges. Each of the judges works independently to each other. They selected their own questions based on their area of expertise, and each question has been scored separately. The reports include the questions asked to each of the clients, the score weighting against each questions asked and scores for each of the three selected jobs. The maximum score for all questions, per judge, per client was 100.The CMG members who have entered CMotY 2012 are (in alphabetical order): • BCL• BusinessMovesGroupLtd• CompanyMoves• DeliveryServices• Ede’sUKLtd• GreensRemovals&StorageLtd• HarrowGreenRemovals• JohnsonsBusinessMoves• JT&SonsRelocations• MaidmansRemovals&Storage• P.Fahey&Sons• PremierMoves• RoseRemovals• SpecialisedMovers• XpressRelocations

The finalists will be announced at the BAR Annual Conference 2012 on Friday 18th May, and you will find out who the winner is at the Gala Dinner on Saturday 19th May 2012.

CMotY: the scores are in!Fifteen members of BAR’s Commercial Moving Group have entered this year’s Commercial Mover of the Year 2012.

This year’s BAR Conference will be set in the wonderful surroundings of Windsor. For more information, please visit www.bar.co.uk/conference2012.aspx


CMG News

BS 8522

“We had talked about starting up on our own for years,” Jenny says. “I worked in domestic and international shipping and

Timon had been in the commercial sector for many years and worked in senior management for many years.

JT and Sons Relocations was incorporated at the end of that year, just as the worst economic downturn in living memory began to take hold.

Despite the economic situation, in 2009 the company exceeded all the expectations of Jenny and Timon, with turnover of close to one million pounds.

Although based in Sussex, the majority of the company’s business has come from London, where JT and Sons runs a hub in the SW8 area that includes Clapham and Battersea. Over the last years, the company has undertaken removals ranging from small private offices to the headquarters of multinational companies and entire hospitals and factories. In January last year, Jenny says the team relocated two thousand people in one move.

In addition to the bread and butter work of carrying out the commercial moves and relocations, the company also works closely with office furniture companies on office design and on the installation of new furniture and fittings for their clients. JT and Sons also has warehousing facilities across the UK.

In 2009 and 2010, Jenny says that installation of office furniture represented 30 to 40 per cent of company turnover. In 2011, as the market began to slow, that figure began to decline a bit.

“It’s not the easiest market for anyone right now, and prices have come down” Jenny says, “but we are competing well and protecting our margins, investing in new technology and working hard to be certified for standards.

We are a young and flexible company, so in many ways it is easier for us to adapt.Timon and I both come from large companies, so in some respects it is odd to be the new kid on the block.”

As a young company, standards certification has been an important way of proving the credentials of JT and Sons to the market. The company has been accredited to BS 8552 for over two years, and has recently completed the ISO 14001 process.

“As a relatively small and new company, we didn’t have much history behind us or years of accounts we could show to our prospective customers when bidding for a job,” Jenny explains. “A lot of customers were asking for BS 8522, and many tenders are only open to BAR/CMG members. The standard shows that we know what we are doing, and that we are capable of doing what we say.”

“People seem to be a little bit frightened by standards,” she adds, “but they needn’t be. It was easy for us to adapt to the standard, and it’s helped us enhance how we run the business.”

“Being in the BAR and CMG has opened many doors to us,” Timon says. “The CMG has a high level of recognition in the business – although its website could do with an upgrade which is currently in progress”

At the same time, JT and Sons has also invested heavily in staff training, providing clients with the confidence that they are in good hands. “We take what we do very seriously,” Jenny says. “We focus a lot on training. All of our staff are CRB checked and have been security vetted by Government Agencies. We also have a health and safety consultant who keeps us regularly updated and assists with our training needs.”

“We also employ fully qualified electricians and plumbers to enable us to undertake electrical and plumbing work, which can be signed off as per the current regulations.”

Meanwhile, in the company’s continuous effort to add value to their clients, JT and Sons has invested in new technology and innovation that can help it stand out in a very competitive marketplace. “We’ve introduced an e-inventory system for our clients, so that they

CMG Profile: JT and Sons RelocationsR&S Editor Andy Stern talks to Jenny and Timon Thorncroft about JT and Sons Relocations, the Sussex-based office relocation and commercial moving company the couple established in 2008. By working hard to be accredited to standards, and investing in staff training, JT and Sons has won an outstanding reputation in the market after just over three years of business.

CMG News

JT & Sons won a Certificate of Merit award in the CMOTY 2011 competition during their first year of membership

The Commercial Moving Group (CMG) is a dedicated group of companies within the British Association of Removers that specialise in all aspects of commercial relocations.


CMG News

BS 8522

can track their items online from our client portal,” Jenny explains. “We want to be more than just a great removal company – we want to add value for our clients, and that means thinking hard about how we can go the extra mile.”

Cost controlsAs company secretary, Jenny is in charge of credit control and book keeping, while managing director Timon is often out with clients and on surveys.

Between them, over the course of the last year the couple has focused heavily on keeping fixed overheads down and protecting margins.

“Sticking to budgets is a top priority for us,” Jenny says. “We have found so many ways to save money. It’s not a question of making huge cuts but of having sensible and sustainable business practices.

For instance, we don’t have glossy presentation material that the market doesn’t want. And we don’t have huge stores of stationery – we create all of our stationery and business cards online, which also reflects our company environmental policy.”

And the mood in the office is upbeat and positive. “There are always opportunities in the market,” Jenny says.

“Companies are still changing premises and moving buildings, and of course we keep a close eye on tender notifications.

It’s hard work, but we keep bashing away. The next few years look like being challenging for all of us in the industry, but we are also becoming stronger and better at what we do, and when the good times return we are all going to have a lot of fun!”

CMG News

“We want to be more than just a great removal company – we want to add value for our clients, and that means thinking hard about how we can go the extra mile and investing in innovation.”

Jenny Thorncroft JT and Sons Relocations

Contact JT and Sons Relocations

Lower Morgay Farm, Junction Road, Staplecross,

Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5SH

Tel: (01580) 831 235 www.jtsrelocations.com

Dedicated BAR website for commercial removals!

As part of their bid to keep up high standards in commercial moving, the BAR UK

Commercial Moving Group has launched a fantastic website dedicated to its area of business.

If you are a member of the CMG, you can access the secure Members Area so you can network with other Commercial Moving companies throughout the UK. The Members Area provides information about the latest benefits, unique offers and discounts on products and services relevant to the commercial

removals industry that are specifically available to BAR CMG Members.

Members of the CMG – whose motto is “Working together to raise the moving standard” – have worked together to devise a site that is well-thought out and is clearly focused on the needs of the commercial removals industry.

You can also use the website to find out more about how to become a member of the CMG.

Look out for more information in the BAR Newsletter.

Web Banner Offer

Advertise in 5 or more issues of Removals & Storage magazine and get a free static banner on the BAR website with a direct link to your own website.

Call Sandra on 0117 957 5400 for details


Overseas Group News

J ohn Mason International Ltd has been providing transport and removal services since 1884, when Mary Mason first

established a carting business in Wavertree in Liverpool. Son John then expanded into long distance removals at the turn of the century, working for clients including the giant Anglo American Oil Company and extending the company’s reach into Manchester.

Over the course of two world wars, horse drawn vehicles were gradually phased out, replaced by a completely motorised fleet. In 1948, the private limited company of John Mason (Wavertree) Ltd was established, which in 1950 became one of the founder members of the Federation of International Furniture Removers (FIDI), the global alliance of international removals companies. Mason’s services continued to expand across the UK, with distribution routes serving most of the country and a series of giant warehouses acquired in Merseyside. A branch was opened in London to serve the company’s growing corporate market, and in 1989 a new warehouse and offices opened in Croydon.

Today international, commercial and household moves and storage are at the core of the firm’s business. John Mason International currently facilitates over 8,000 removals each year across the globe.

Taking customer feedback on boardThe company is still family-owned and proudly maintains its tradition of providing a quality service to customers. “We strive to be highly efficient and to provide a personal touch to our services,” says David Ozard, who has been with Mason’s for 21 years, in the positions of National Sales Manager and Trade Shipping Manager before assuming his current role of General Manager.

John Mason International’s main groupage destinations are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and South Africa, with regular monthly services to all ports in these areas. Mason’s provides trade shipping services to any part of the world and has access to a worldwide network of agents and shipping lines.

David says that in today’s difficult economic conditions, Mason’s has been able to respond flexibly to shifting requirements from the company’s corporate clients. “We have held meetings with trade customers to discuss ways in

which we can improve our shipping services in response to the changing market,” he explains.

It’s a similar story of evolving patterns of demand in the private overseas market. “We are finding that customers’ expectations are changing,” David says. “Although individuals and families are not necessarily looking for the cheapest service, they are looking for the best value for money.”

Addressing industry challengesThe company has always enjoyed close links with BAR, in particular with the Overseas Group. In 1965, John Mason’s son Stanley Mason was elected President of the OG.

BAR membership continues to be an important element in Mason’s marketing strategy. For David, “One of BAR’s main strengths is the high level of brand awareness of the BAR badge within the UK removals market. Customers know that BAR removal companies provide a quality service and this engenders trust.”

And it’s not only in sales and marketing to the public that BAR membership performs an essential role. “For many years, BAR has united removal companies and helped to develop relationships within the industry,” David says. “Enabling companies to work together on specific issues relating to the industry has brought great benefits. BAR also provides a

John Mason International: a forward-looking family business since 1884

David Ozard, General Manager of John Mason International, talks to R&S about the growth of the company’s shipping business and the advantages of Overseas Group membership.

Overseas Group News


“For many years, BAR has united removal companies and helped to develop relationships within the industry. Enabling companies to work together on specific issues relating to the industry has brought great benefits. BAR also provides a sense of community to the UK Removals Industry.”

Contact John Mason International

International House, 35 Wilson Road, Huyton Business Park, Liverpool, L36 6AE

Tel: (0151) 449 3938 www.johnmason.com

sense of community to the UK Removals Industry.”

“BAR membership has helped us by providing a forum for networking and forming friendships and business partnerships with other removal companies. It is also a place to come for keeping up to date with the industry and a platform for companies to work together on shared goals.”

In the online world in which we now all operate, barriers to entry to the removals industry have collapsed and word of mouth recommendations can spread much further than before. David says that in this environment, the main challenge facing the industry is to inform the public about the importance of using a quality provider. BAR is ideally positioned to assume the industry’s response to this challenge.

“BAR Members must work together to educate people that the removals industry is a skilled trade and should be treated the same way as any other professional service,” David argues. The success of the Overseas Group provides a clear example of the way ahead for BAR and the industry, illustrating how competitor companies can work together to grow the market and raise standards in the sector. “The Overseas Group offers a great benefit to our customers,” David

says. “In particular, the IMMI (International Movers Mutual Insurance) guarantee is a very useful selling tool as it provides a clear and reassuring benefit to the customer; our membership means that customers are entitled to the free financial guarantee for any advance payment.”

Supported by the BAR network, John Mason International is now moving into the future with all the confidence that comes from a tradition of over 125 years of growth, value for money, and high quality service.


Training News

On Monday 23rd January 2012, BARTS delivered a one-day course on the Introduction to Estimating at our

Watford HQ, a new course designed to train people who have little or no experience in estimating. Once delegates have attended this course and understand the basic principles of estimating, they can then attend the BARTS BTEC in Practical Estimating which, providing they pass the examination, will give them a nationally recognised qualification in removals.

The course is designed to teach the trainees how to ‘cube-up’ using the unit system and familiarising them with certain items of

furniture to use as a benchmark, then covering the aspects of surveying, types of packing cartons, vehicle sizes and weights, together with risk assessment.

Peter Walters, BAR Field Trainer delivered the course to three trainees: 2 delegates came from Sheppard’s Removals and Storage Ltd, both delegates had some experience in removals as operatives and one from Weston and Edwards who had a little experience in the removals industry.

After the morning session of theory-based training, Peter set them a task in order to estimate the volume of the training room and considering that the trainees were all new to

estimating, it was clear that they had grasped the idea of calculating the volume very well, even allowing for the reduction in cubing for flat packing furniture.

Introduction to Estimating

Delegate feedback

James Edwards of Sheppard’s Removals and Storage Ltd: “Really knowledgeable Trainer, happy to share his experience and insight.” Ross Luther-Veitch also of Sheppard’s Removals and Storage: “I really enjoyed the course, it helped me lots and was good fun.” Megan Weston of Weston and Edwards: “I was really impressed with the course and was interested in the different ways and techniques there are for

estimating, Peter was excellent, very useful course.”

Delegate feedback

Stephen Mark Welch: “Course speaker came over very well and some information was very useful.”

Terry Cope: “I found the course informative but not too intensive; time was given for humorous comments from both the course speaker and everyone taking part.

Above all very enjoyable.”Kes Mayatt: “I learnt so much, how to

drive safe and be more sensible, also how to promote my company and maintain its image.”

Lester Keith Human: “It was a very good course & well presented with good

information and a bit of humour thrown in which kept you interested.”

Steve Myers: “While this course and qualification is now a legal requirement, the overall content of this series of modules proved informative and as a general overview, a very good revision package.”

BARTS delivered a three-day Driver CPC Training course in January 2012 to 13 drivers who all work for UTS Bournes in

Rye, East Sussex, a large family-run company. Six 3.5 hour training course modules were delivered over the three days, these were:

• Safe and Efficient Driving• Company Image and Customer Care• Risk Assessment• Emergency Situations• Manual Handling• Prevention of Physical Risk

“The drivers had a range of experience and one had 40 years’ experience, and with experience like that, you would think it would be difficult to deliver training on something that he wouldn’t already know but it can be handy to refresh memory or as a reminder of best practice” says BARTS Field Trainer Peter Walters. Many shared

their experiences on the road and with some humour, in some cases they were highlighting some of the more serious incidents and in general showing the less experienced drivers the potential dangers of driving on the road for a living.

The three days were very enjoyable to deliver and there was good humour along the way, especially when Peter covered the module on Prevention of Physical Risk, a part the module covers diet, trying to emphasise the fact that bad diet can affect your health that could lead to you not being able to drive vocationally, which Peter thinks may have upset the kebab-loving drivers!

Overall, the courses were well received and Peter thinks all of the drivers benefitted gaining perhaps just a little more knowledge and they appreciated the refresher training. Even though the Driver CPC training is a legal requirement for those who wish to continue to drive vocationally, BARTS provide removals industry specific modules in order to be of more relevance to their Members.

UTS Bournes

Delegate feedback

Stephen Mark Welch: “Course speaker came over very well and some information was very useful.”

Terry Cope: “I found the course informative but not too intensive; time was given for humorous comments from both the course speaker and everyone taking part.

Above all very enjoyable.”Kes Mayatt: “I learnt so much, how to

drive safe and be more sensible, also how to promote my company and maintain its image.”

Lester Keith Human: “It was a very good course & well presented with good

information and a bit of humour thrown in which kept you interested.”

Steve Myers: “While this course and qualification is now a legal requirement, the overall content of this series of modules proved informative and as a general overview, a very good revision package

UTS Bournes

BAR Training Services carries out a range of training courses for removals companies. The following is a summary of the types of training recently delivered and the feedback from some of the individuals who followed the courses.

To book Call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

Just £99 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

Selling Skills/Promoting the BAR OFT Code of PracticeThis 1 day course is designed to enhance sales skills and to demonstrate the most effective way of promoting the BAR OFT Code of Practice to win business, covering topics such as:

• The Role of the Salesperson • Marketing• Prospecting & Negotiating • Promoting the OFT Code • Communication & Presentation• Identifying Customer Needs • Closing the Sale

Course Dates 201211 July

Introduction to EstimatingIdeal for staff who are new to the role. This 1 day course focuses on teaching students the unit system, methods of estimating, risk assessment, the role of the Estimator and selling services to the customer

• Quantity Assessment • The Role of the Estimator• Health & Safety • Contract Conditions • Communication Techniques • Removals Insurance

Course Dates 201205 March 08 May


BRANDNEW

for 2012!

BTEC in Removals ManagementThe course can now be completed in 5 days meaning less time away from your place of work!

Upon completion of the later exam, successful students will be presented with a nationally recognised BTEC qualification.

Course Dates 201216-20 April

£1,675 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

NEWLY IMPROVED for 2012!

BTEC Award in Practical EstimatingThis 2 day course is practically based and is designed to teach students the art of estimating as well as face to face sales techniques, covering topics such as:

• Quantity Assessment • The Role of the Estimator• Health & Safety • Contract Conditions • Communication Techniques• Removals Insurance

Course Dates 2012

06 & 07 March 09 & 10 May

£545 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

NEWLY IMPROVED for 2012!

1 Day (7hours) Driver CPC

£100 + VAT per driver (BAR Member) prices start from as little as £49.25 + vat per driver, delivered on site at your premises

Course Dates 201202 May

JAUPT APPROVED CENTRE AC00191

*BAR Training Services train you at BAR in Watford, In the BAR areas or at your premises.

BAR Training ServicesTraining from the Removals Experts

BARTS 2012 Training Dates All courses taking place at BAR Watford*


Training News

Delegate feedback

Brady Wheadon of A.W.Wheadon Ltd: “A well tailored course appropriate to our industry.”

Gary Osborne also of A.W.Wheadon Ltd: “A much more relative course. Actually based around the Removals Industry.”

Dean Hoad of D. Durrant Removals Ltd: “I found the course very useful and highlighted lots of things to me.”

Phil Fitzgerald also of D. Durrant Removals Ltd: “This is the 4th Drivers CPC training course I’ve attended & the only one

that has been run by BAR & the only one relative to our industry.”

Lee Buckland of Ede Brothers: “Being industry specific, the course was made more interesting.”

Delegate feedback

Shayne Kearney of Pollards Moving and Storage: “I found the course both informative and exciting, I definitely

learned a thing or two about my day to day work place.”

Paul Green who works for both Michael Heap Ltd & Pollards Moving & Storage: “It was really good, I learned a lot. The Trainer was good and described and explained everything.”

On Saturday 14th January, BARTS delivered a Drivers CPC training course to drivers from 4 removal companies at the

premises of Martell’s International Removers in East Grinstead. The drivers were from Martell’s International Removers, Ede Brothers, A. W. Wheadons Ltd & D. Durrant Removals Ltd.

Peter Walters, BAR Field Trainer delivered two 3.5 hour modules to complete the required 7 hours of the Driver CPC training covering the Vehicle Loading & Emergency Situations training

course modules, the delegates were mainly experienced drivers and they all shared some interesting views of the new laws regarding the Driver CPC but they did seem to appreciate the importance of the course, especially Emergency Situations which covered Breakdowns, Additional Rules for the Motorway, Incidents Involving Dangerous Goods and First Aid. Many of the delegates found the course to be a useful refresher and appreciated the fact that the course was relevant to the removals industry.

Peter also delivered a one-day Manual Handling Course in January to Michael Heap Ltd and personnel from Pollards

Moving and Storage. Michael Heap Ltd are primarily a domestic

removal company who occasionally undertake commercial removals, they used to be a haulage company but are now concentrating on domestic removals and storage, although they still have a couple of tractor units.

Pollards Moving and Storage also share their yard and rent storage space from their neighbouring company and both sets of personnel seemed to have a good social and working relationship with each other.

We were asked to deliver the course to highlight the incorrect way of lifting and the possible damage that it could cause to the back and spine, and when injured, how it can impact upon your daily life.

The course covered topics like double carries, team lifts, planning your route and lifting aids.

Martells International Removers

Michael Heap Ltd

Rather than throw away or send your used office paper for recycling, shred it and use as cushioning or protective packaging.

Marchhandy tip

BARTS Field Trainer, Peter Walters


European NewsEuropean News

R&S is grateful to FEDEMAC for its contribution to this sectionNews Roundup R&S is grateful to FEDEMAC for its contribution to this section

Looking for the world’s best lorry driver!

The 5th edition of the Scania Driver Competition, launched in partnership with the IRU, is now

open for applications from young truck drivers. To date, more than 100,000 drivers of heavy trucks have participated in Scania Driver Competitions, making it the world’s largest truck driver competition and training event.

This year over 45,000 young drivers from 27 countries on five continents are expected to compete to become the world’s best truck driver. National rounds and the final competition will include theoretical tests on road safety regulations, and practical tests on vehicle inspection, fuel-efficient driving and safe manoeuvring. The winner will be offered a brand new truck from Scania.

French ban SatNav speed cam sensors

With effect from 4th January 2012 a new decree in France makes it illegal to

use radar/camera speed trap sensors that operate through SatNavs.

It has actually been illegal to use speed trap sensors for some time.

The new decree prohibits the possession, transport and use of any device to alert or inform the location of roadside checks e.g. speed or radar cameras, and supposedly includes all devices (GPS, smartphone applications, portable boxes, etc..) that indicate the presence of radars.

Both ‘Tom Tom’ and ‘Garmin’ have made efforts to comply with various foreign laws on this issue.

Members using other SatNav suppliers are requested to notify their supplier direct and to ask whether they too are aware of the new decree. Apparently fines/penalties for non-compliance could be as high as 1500 Euros!

EU looks again at lorry sizes The European Commission has just completed a consultation that could pave the way for the introduction of 45-foot containers and larger lorries on European roads.

The weights and dimensions of heavy-duty road transport articles are currently regulated by a Directive that dates back

to 1996.The Commission says that “there is now a

case to adapt these rules.... to make road transport more resource-efficient and to further integrate the various transport modes to achieve a Single European Transport Area.” It will review the legislation on weight and dimension to adapt it to new technologies and needs, and to facilitate intermodal transport and the overall reduction of energy consumption and emissions.

The Commission says that allowing 45-foot containers could increase the efficiency of road transport. Transport of 45-foot containers in the EU is currently only allowed under

special circumstances. Allowing these containers to be transported on European roads could require the weights and dimensions legislation to be reviewed to enable larger vehicles.

Italian lorry drivers went on wildcat strikes and blockaded roads across the country in January, protesting at higher

fuel, insurance and toll prices. The new Italian government has raised fuel prices as part of its austerity drive.

Prime Minister Mario Monti has increased fuel taxes, raising prices by 8 cents a litre to around 1.76 Euros. The lorry drivers also want the government to make it easier to claim back fuel tax, and to clamp down on unlicensed operators.

Taxi drivers also joined the protests, which led to traffic chaos in cities and motorways from Milan in the north to Naples in the south.

The International Road Transport Union (IRU) called for immediate action to lift blockades to ensure the free movement of goods, and to guarantee the safety of other drivers and their trucks. The IRU said that a large number of foreign lorries were blocked throughout Italy, and despite the presence of Italian police, no effort was made to enable them to drive on. According to the IRU, EU Member States are obliged to notify to the European Commission in advance of major events such as demonstrations or road works concerning important routes, which could potentially impede trade.

Italy hit by mass lorry strike

As part of the austerity measures being applied by many European countries, VAT rates are increasing in Europe.

Hungary plans to increase its rate to 27 per cent – the highest in Europe. Ireland now has a 23 per cent VAT rate, and Cyprus has increased its VAT to 17 per cent. As from September of this year, Italy is planning to increase its rate to 23 per cent, and in October 2012, France is due to raise its VAT to 21.2 per cent.

VAT hikes across Europe

European News



European News

R&S is grateful to FEDEMAC for its contribution to this section

Mixed year for port of Le Havre!

The Port of Le Havre in France has reported mixed results for 2011, with overall tonnage handled

falling by 4 per cent to 68.5 million tonnes, due largely to a decrease in bulk shipments.

However, container traffic found its way back to growth over the course of the year. Poor results in the first quarter (483,000 twenty foot equivalent units (TEU)) were partly compensated for over the following months. At 559,000 TEU, the second quarter showed a distinct recovery and was up by 16 per cent compared with the first quarter. The peak in activity was achieved in summer 2011 with 600,000 TEU.

Although there was growth of 5.7 per cent compared with the same period in 2010, the fourth quarter slowed somewhat with 576,000 TEU.

Cross-channel freight traffic held steady in the year, with 25,560 freight vehicles in 2011.

Road transport indices point to double dip According to recent IRU Road Transport Indices, economic development and transport performance in OECD and EU countries will slow down and stagnate in 2012, following feeble economic growth in 2011.

The IRU Road Transport Indices allow the comparison of GDP growth, road freight transport volumes and new vehicle

registrations in 58 countries. They are now forecasting that the OECD and EU countries will be confronted with a considerable slowdown of economic growth and transport activities after a year of feeble economic growth.

IRU Head of Sustainable Development, Jens Hügel highlighted that “when comparing the 2010 and 2011 figures, BRIC countries have outperformed OECD countries in terms of growth in tonnes transported and will continue doing so in 2012. In fact, transport operators from BRIC countries transported 7.7 per cent more goods in 2011, whereas transport operators in the OECD and EU transported only 1.7 per cent and 1.6 per cent respectively more transport volume.”

The 2012 forecast for OECD and EU countries shows that growth in transport volume will slow down to 0.9 per cent and 0.8 per cent respectively, before finally stagnating in the 3rd and 4th quarters. New vehicle registrations for the first 2 quarters of 2012 will increase for the OECD and EU by 0.9 per cent and 0.7 per cent, before equally coming to a hold in the second half of the year. Mr Hügel added, “after a modest recovery in OECD countries in 2011, uncertainties will increase and the current financial turmoil will again impact the real economy. There are many parallels to the 2008 economic crisis situation as well as early signs that the OECD and EU are heading for a double dip recession. However, this new recession is not unavoidable. There are political options to prevent it and it is imperative to learn from how BRIC countries coped with the last crisis.”

European News


The registration process for this year’s Young Movers Conference, which will be held in Budapest from 24-27 May, is now underway. Representatives from 14 different countries have already booked.

FEDEMAC Young Movers Conference: May 2012

The Danish Movers’ Federation’s Jubilee General Assembly was a great success, celebrating their 100th anniversary at the

end of 2011.FEDEMAC was represented at the

celebration of this important achievement. FEDEMAC President, Arnaldo Righetti, presented a beautiful statuette to mark the occasion.

A jubilee book on the history of the Danish removal industry had been produced to honour the past and look at the future.

The author of this book, Anders Rehde Nielsen, summarized the results of his research in saying:

“I have studied the history of removal men back to 1911, and if there’s something

characteristic, it’s that they never neglect an opportunity to make a celebration.”

The anniversary celebrations, the assemblies and other meetings of the Danish movers last year were characterized by the good food and drinks, humorous entertainment and dancing with the ladies.

The new DMF President, Leif Jensen, says that the anniversary was also an opportunity for the DMF to promote itself and its member companies by increasing public awareness about professional movers.

“We are more than happy to highlight old ethical values such as credibility, reliability, responsibility and propriety. It’s what customers expect to receive from us.”

Danish furniture men celebrate 100 years


European News

Bulgaria tolls to go electronic

Bulgarian Road Infrastructure Agency Chairman Lazar Lazarov has said that electronic toll

systems will replace Bulgaria’s existing road vignettes (stickers).

Lazarov said a GPS-based toll system is the most likely choice. The devices will constantly send signals for the distance travelled by the vehicle and the taxes will be paid at the end of the month or at the end of the year.

In two years, electronic toll systems are expected to be implemented for cargo vehicles passing through the country, Lazarov has advised. Local cargo traffic is the next to be covered by the new electronic toll system.

A vignette is currently required for driving on Bulgarian state roads. These are practically all main roads in Bulgaria and there is no option to avoid buying a vignette for driving across Bulgaria. The current cost of an annual vignette for a car is BGN 67 (£28.50), a price unchanged since 2007. The stickers can be bought in the Petrol, Lukoil, Shell, OMV, ECO Bulgaria, Litex, Rompetrol, in the Piccadilly stores, in Easypay’s offices and Bulgarian Post Offices, as well as on the www.vinetka.com website.

Austria imposes emergency corridors Drivers travelling on Austrian road should be aware that there is an obligation to form emergency corridors on Austrian motorways and expressways.

An emergency corridor helps emergency services to get faster to victims of traffic accidents. On dual-lane motorways and

expressways, vehicles in the left lane move to the left as far as possible, while those in the right lane move to the right as far as possible, also using the breakdown lane, thus building the emergency corridor in between.

On three- or four-lane motorways and expressways, the same principle applies to the emergency corridor: all vehicles in the far left lane drive as close to the left as possible. All vehicles in the other lanes, including the centre and right-hand lanes, drive as close to the right as possible, also using the breakdown lane. What is important is that a corridor of at least 3.5 metres is left as an emergency corridor right next to the far left lane. This emergency corridor may be used only by emergency services (ambulances, fire fighters, police),

breakdown and road service vehicles.The rules came into force at the beginning of

this year, and fines of up to 2180 Euros will be imposed for not forming emergency corridors or in case of unlawfully driving on such emergency corridors.

European News


In Germany, most of Baden-Württemburg Low Emission Zones (LEZs) have tightened to Euro 3(PM). These are:

Freiburg, Heidelberg, Heilbronn, Herrenberg, Ilsfeld, Karlsruhe, Leonberg, Ludwigsburg, Mannheim, Mühlacker, Pfinztal, Pforzheim, Pleidelsheim, Reutlingen, Schwäbisch-Gmünd, Tübingen, Ulm (Stuttgart is already Euro 3, Markgröningen going yellow a year later).

Frankfurt has tightened to Euro 4(PM) 1.1.2012

The Ruhr LEZs have expanded their area to a single area of 820km as of January 2012.

The current Ruhr LEZs are: Bochum, Bottrop, Dortmund, Duisburg, Essen, Gelsenkirchen, Mühlheim, Oberhausen, and Recklinghausen. From 1st January 2012 it has also included Castrop-Rauxel, Gladbeck, Herne and Herten.

In Austria, Osnabrück is tightening to Euro 4(PM).

Lisbon is now Portugal’s first LEZ in operation.

Meanwhile, in Italy, the city of Naples has announced that their LEZ has been altered and extended until at least 30th June 2012. The emissions standard is Euro 4 for all vehicles at specific times of the day and days of the week.

Low Emissions Zone update




BAR News

Don’t delay! Send in your answers now to [email protected] The answers to last month’s quiz were: 1) 2000, 2) Italy 3) Ronan O’Gara 4) 1990 5) Serge Blanco 6) Brian O’Driscoll 7) Croke Park 8) 1908 9)Wales 10) Dean Richards and John Jeffrey.Congratulations to Kathy Lugg who has won Herbert Davis Removals a free quarter page advert in a future issue of R&S.

1) What day is celebrated as St George’s Day? 2) Which two writers died on St George’s Day in 1616? 3) In which city is it traditional to give books as presents on St George’s Day? 4) St George’s Day is a holiday in which Brazilian city? 5) Who is thought to have been born on St George’s Day in 1564? 6) Which of Shakespeare’s characters said “Cry ‘God for Harry, England and St George’”?7) St George is the protector of the people of which Maltese island? 8) StGeorge’swasthenameofthefirstsettlementonwhichAtlanticisland?9) The Order of the Garter holds its annual service in which place of worship? 10) The obverse of which gallantry award for civilians depicts St George and the Dragon?

By George, it’s St George’s day soon!

Deadline for entries: 16th March 2012.

R&S Competitionthe biz!

Don’t delay! Send in your answers now to [email protected]


Industry News

52

Feature – RLA interview

R&S: How many people rent properties from private sector landlords nowadays?

Alan Ward: The private-rented sector is growing. It now represents 16 per cent of the market, which is interesting because the social-rented sector (housing associations, registered social landlords, council landlords) is about the same. They’re going down and we’re going up. The whole rental sector in England and Wales is about 4.1 million properties and that provides homes for about eight and a half million people, and half of those tenancies are people aged under 35.

R&S: How does the length of tenancies in the private-rented sector compare with owner-occupation?Alan Ward: The average tenancy in the private-rented sector is 19 months. This presents a very interesting market for BAR Members, because people stay much longer in a property where they are owner occupiers. Owner occupation could be seen as a one hit market, whereas with the private-rented sector tenant, if you give them a good

service, in 19 months’ time you may well have them as a customer again. So you need to look after them and get regular business out of them.

R&S: How would you assess the current rental market, and prospects for 2012?Alan Ward: On the rental side, there are two markets. There is the metropolitan London market and the rest of the country. London is rising at a rate of about 7 per cent on rents. You can also subdivide the rest of the country even further because there are good markets and there are poor, weak markets. A recent report on the private rented sector prepared for the RLA by Michael Ball, Professor of Urban and Property Economics at the University of Reading warns that current returns for landlords are in fact very low, once things like maintenance, repairs, regulatory compliance, financing costs and inflation are taken into account, despite headline reports of rising rents. This is restricting the amount of new accommodation available to meet increasing demand. The rental market is buoyant because of current supply-side problems. In other words, we

are 100,000 properties short every year between the number of households being formed, which is about a quarter of a million, and the number of houses being built, which is about 120,000. So that forces up demand in the rental market. Of course, the other aspect is the cost of getting a mortgage, particularly first-time buyers getting mortgages, and the amount of deposit that is required. The mortgages that we’re interested in at the RLA are the buy-to-let mortgages as opposed to the owner-occupier mortgages. Although the market has picked up and there are new offerings, there’s a threat to buy-to-let mortgages from Europe at the moment. In their wisdom, Brussels is arguing about whether buy-to-let lending, for borrowers for buy-to-let mortgages, should be allowed to take into account the revenue from rentals. And they’re trying to stop it. The British market is unique. The rest of Europe has no problem with the proposal. Fortunately all of the British MEPs have supported the amendments that we want to put forward to protect the buy-to-let market.

The R&S Interview: Alan Ward

Alan Ward has been Chairman of the Residential Landlords Association since 2009. The Association represent over 15,000 landlords across England and Wales and works to keep its members up to date on ever-changing legislation and ensure that landlords’ concerns are heard by central and local government. R&S Managing Editor Louise Gale spoke to Alan about the key issues in the UK rental market and how these impact on the removals and storage industry.

Photo: Alan Ward, Chairman of the Residential Landlords Association


Industry News

53

Feature – RLA interview

“When you’re moving in or out, any odd knocks or damage are going to cost the tenant. And the removals company is also going to be liable for that, if the finger can be pointed in their direction.”

R&S: What do you think could be done to increase housing supply?Alan Ward: The housing market is in crisis because of this 100,000 shortfall. And this is like turning the proverbial supertanker. To get the construction market to build more houses isn’t going to happen this side of the Olympic Games. It is going to take two or three years before you start to see some change. The traditional house builders build for the owner-occupation market. Some of them are beginning to do build-to-rent but that’s only on a small scale. What we need is major corporate investment. There have been attempts at this in the past with financial devices called REITs, Real Estate Investment Trusts and economists will quote American experience and say they work over there. Well, they do but only 1 per cent of the market is covered by REITs. Corporate investment in Britain has worked in the past ten years in some very limited markets, such as the student market and the market for the elderly (which represents 5 per cent of the private-rented sector). Given that half of the private-sector accommodation is rented to people under 35, corporate investment is likely to be geared towards aspirational renting: lovely, new properties with rents at the top end of the range for working people whom everybody wants as tenants. Corporate investment has two further problems: they need high returns and large margins plus there is no real track record of successfully managing build-to-rent properties. In order to encourage the traditional private-rented sector (where almost 90 per cent of the landlords are individuals) to continue investing in more properties, we are calling for the Government to change the rules on Capital Gains Tax in cases where rental properties are sold at a profit and the monies are reinvested. We have been banging on to the Treasury for years about the inequity of this and have

presented a number of ideas for addressing the problem. For example, if a landlord sells a property to a first-time buyer, then it should be exempt from capital gains – that’s a fairly novel approach.

R&S: Is there anything particular for the private-rented sector that BAR Members should be aware of when moving customers into and out of private-rented sector properties?Alan Ward: The one thing that is different between owner-occupation and rental is the inventory and this is crucial. About 65 per cent of tenancies involve deposits protected by one of three government-approved schemes which sort out any problems if there are disputes between landlord and tenant at the end of the tenancy.

An inventory, or a ‘statement of condition’ to be more accurate, is compiled before occupation of the private rented property. What the landlord is looking for at the end of the tenancy is any change in the condition of the property, in which case they retain money from the deposit to offset any costs. So when you’re moving in or out, any odd knocks or damage are going to cost the tenant. And the removals company is also going to be liable for that, if the finger can be pointed in their direction. Somebody will have been round the premises with a clipboard and a camera looking at the condition of doors,

frames, paintwork, handles, banisters, posts, walls up staircases and so forth – all the areas which can, even in the most careful of operations, get a nudge from removers

R&S: Is there a segment of the private rented sector that would be interested in using storage facilities? Alan Ward: You’ve got to look at the different markets. For example, the student market typically involves mum and dad rolling up with their estate car and stuffing everything in the back, with the student sitting in the front with another bag of extra bits on their lap at the end of term.

However it’s seems a very good idea to me to promote the option of students putting things into storage for two or three months, for example over the Summer break. If they get in to the habit of doing this while students, they may well see the advantage of doing it when they moved on to sharing houses, and getting flats. It is amazing how much young people can accumulate in one room!

So, there are market opportunities for BAR members to see how they can satisfy that, because economy is clearly paramount in young peoples’ minds.

Contact Residential Landlords Association:

1 Roebuck Lane, Sale, Manchester, M33 7SY

Tel: 0845 666 5000E: [email protected] www.rla.org.uk

Alan Ward at the BAR Conference

RLA Chair Alan Ward will be a speaker at the BAR Annual Conference on Friday 18th May 2012.

16%4.1m50%19

of the housing market is in the private-rented sector.

properties are rented in England and Wales.

of all tenants are under 35.

months is the average tenancy.

>>>>


Industry News

54

Feature – New Member Profile

Swift Shift: A growing family business based in Antrim

Swift Shift Removals Limited is a successful family run business based in Antrim. It was founded in 1984 by Eric Wilson when he bought himself a lorry to move his family from England to Northern Ireland. Those days are now a distant memory as the company is now run by Eric’s sons and daughter, Edward Wilson, Andrew Wilson and Shirley Wilson.

Photo (below): Campbell McGimpsey, NI Chairman, presents Mr Eric Wilson, founder of Swift Shift Removals Ltd with their certificate of membership to the British Association of Removers.

Eric Wilson’s very first removal job earned him the princely sum of £30 and he still has the receipt. Eric ran the business

from his current residence, with warehousing built behind the family home and a portacabin with a manual typewriter was used as a make-shift office.

The company has expanded dramatically since that first move. The Central Office in Antrim now encompasses a larger purpose built warehouse with accessible and customer friendly offices. Since 2007 the warehousing has ballooned from its original 10,000 sq ft to 36,000 sq ft with three other warehouses throughout the Province.

Swift Shift Removals Ltd specialise in providing high standard containerised storage and domestic removals but are expanding the remit to target commercial and overseas customers.

The family are hands on Directors/Owners with Edward and Andrew on the road as Class

II drivers with the removal crews on a daily basis, being first point of contact for all our customers and sourcing work as they travel. Shirley runs the busy Central Office and manages the daily schedules, accounting and administration. Due to its rapid growth within the marketplace, the company became limited in 2008.

“‘We are delighted that we have recently joined the British Association of Removers as we see this membership pivotal to our plans to be more visible within the marketplace,” Andrew Wilson says. “We have seen the

effects of recent years on the economy and believe that if a company is to survive in this current climate we must be realistic in our goals. We have found removals are being more competitively priced and priority for the customer base is cost rather than service.

As the name implies, our commitment to ‘shifting swiftly’ ensures our customers get a quality service at a reasonable cost and now we can show our quality by displaying the BAR logo. We believe that when our customers place their business with us again and again, a relationship of trust is built around the job we do. “

As a BAR member, Swift Shift Removals Ltd is committed to exceeding its customers’ expectations. “We aim to identify our customer’s requirements and match them with the services they need,” Andrew says. “We continually strive to improve the services we provide and demonstrate to our customers and staff that we provide ever-improving removal

Photo (below): Campbell McGimpsey, NI Chairman, presents Mr Eric Wilson, founder of Swift Shift Removals Ltd with their certificate of membership to the British Association of Removers.


Industry News

55

Feature – New Member Profile

“We are delighted that we have recently joined the British Association of Removers as we see this membership pivotal to our plans to be more visible within the marketplace.”

Andrew Wilson, Director, Swift Shift Removals

Contact Swift Shift Removals:

Swift Shift Removals Ltd, 47 Castle Road, Antrim, County Antrim BT41 4NA

Tel: (02894) 468743 E: [email protected] www.swiftshiftremovals.co.uk

and storage services of the highest standards.”Swift Shift Removals Ltd is still growing and

thriving despite rising costs of fuel and materials and the downturn in the housing market. “We will continue to seek greater efficiency, to acquire further satellite centres throughout Northern Ireland and extend our services in the public and private sectors,” Andrew explains.

In 2011 the family were joined by Move Co-ordinator, Julie-Anne Weatherup. With over 7 years’ experience in the removal industry and 20+ years in senior administrative/operations roles, she brings a wealth of experience in office procedures, Health & Safety in the Workplace and Human Resources as well as project management, overseas shipping, commercial removals and warehouse storage. Julie-Anne has specialised in the project management of contracts within the public and

private sectors in regards to porterage, storage and removal services and has proved successful in implementing quality standards into companies.

‘We are looking forward to embracing our BAR membership and working alongside other members in improving the removal industry and the challenges the current economy has placed on our industry.,” Julie-Anne says. “In conjunction with BAR, we are actively looking to achieving higher quality standards and training accreditations for our business and staff.’

In line with the company ethos to demonstrate its quality of service, Swift Shift Removals Limited has achieved the Quality Service standard BSEN 12522: 1998 for Domestic Removals. Julie-Anne comments: “Receiving this accreditation so soon after joining BAR demonstrates our commitment to

work at promoting our ability and quality in the area of removals and storage to our customers and reap the rewards such a standard can bring to our business.’

‘Being a member of BAR can only open more doors for our family run firm!’

Many employers are currently considering ways in which to enhance employee reward in a more cost-efficient manner other than increases to basic pay. In this article, consultancy Cobia looks at some of the alternatives which are valued most highly by employees.

New ways to reward employees

In a recent survey, 69 per cent of employees said they felt more valued when offered training and/or education.

As a tax free benefit, increasing numbers of businesses have noted that the funding of GCSEs, A-Levels, University Degrees and professional training can act as a key recruitment and retention tool. Combining such arrangements with a salary sacrifice can allow for employees to benefit from effective course discounts of up to 55.8 per cent at no overall cost to the employer.

Annual LeaveThe provision of an extra day’s annual leave or the ability for employees to ‘purchase’ additional holiday days through a salary sacrifice arrangement comes in a close second. Added flexibility allowing employees to take additional days’ holiday during quieter periods can reduce costs to the business whilst enhancing value to the employee.

Car ParkingWith motoring costs increasing in recent months and many local authorities charging higher car parking charges, car parking at or near work through a salary sacrifice arrangement can provide employees with an effective discount of up to 55.8 per cent off their car parking charges, again at no overall cost to the employer.

Subsistence AllowancesFor those employees ‘on the road’ in a sales or maintenance role, a salary sacrifice in lieu of a scale rate lunch allowance can result in an increase in pay of up to £1,339 per annum at no cost to the employer where such costs are not currently reimbursed.

Just the beginning…..At a time where pay rises continue to represent a genuine challenge for most employers, maximising the flexibility and options available to employees remains a key competitive advantage.

In addition to the above, childcare, company vehicles, cycles, health screening, life assurance, pensions and loans are all areas where employers can increase the value of employee reward without increasing company costs.If any BAR Member would like to discuss existing arrangements, Cobia would be pleased to help. For more information, telephone 01582 390003 or email [email protected]




Industry News

56

Affiliate News

Supporting Britain’s war wounded

Simon Kirby, Senior Project Manager at Agility’s Global Removals Management Services division in Reading, says that

because of the MoD contract the team at Reading have become deeply aware of the effects of the conflict in the Middle East. Agility staff deal with injured soldiers and bereaved families regularly he says.

“Moving is always a very emotional business. We’re dealing with soldiers who are coming back from the Middle East or other conflict areas, who might be injured, and who are facing major changes in their lives that can be traumatic for them,” Simon says. “We thought the time was right for giving back to the armed forces.”

Simon describes the first year of the contract as “a huge learning curve for us, but now we have a clear direction on how we can supply the best quality services for this contract. The team here is passionate and committed to this contract. Making BLESMA our preferred charity fits in with everything we want to achieve as a partner with the MoD to give the

most efficient, professional services to our forces, and means we can visibly give something back to those who serve and protect us.”

Simon quickly struck up a relationship with BLESMA, which has members aged from 19 to 99. BLESMA helps amputees with rehabilitation, based on the principle of amputee helping amputee and the fellowship of shared experience. The charity provides lifelong welfare support to wounded British soldiers.

Agility and its primary suppliers of removal services – all BAR Members – have so far raised £7,250, with some suppliers, including Agility, donating as much as £1000 to the cause. The giant cheque was handed to BLESMA’s representatives recently at a presentation at the Agility GRMS offices in Reading.

“We are proud that we have mustered together this amount of money, and we think it’s a good thing to show the outside world that in these hard economic times we can make

such an effort to give back from the industry to the needy. We will continue to support BLESMA as our preferred charity,” Simon says.

Other BAR Members will have the opportunity to donate to this very worthy cause by participating in a Charity Golf Day organised by Agility GRMS in aid of BLESMA on the 12 September 2012 at South Cerney Golf Course, Nr Cirencester. For further information or to register (individual or 4-ball), please contact Mick Cornish at [email protected]

It’s now more than one year since BAR affiliate Agility GRMS won an impressive contract to manage the worldwide moves for the Ministry of Defence. Agility and its suppliers are now generously giving back to the armed forces personnel they move by raising funds for BLESMA, the British Limbless Ex Service Men’s Association, which is the national charity for limbless serving and ex-service men and women and their dependants.

Contact Agility GRMS Head Office:

Agility GRMS, 66-68 St. Mary’s Butts, Reading, Berkshire RG1 2LG U.K.

Tel: +44 (0) 844 282 1465 Fax: +44 (0)844 282 1468

Photo: (from left to right):Paul Fox Fox Moving and Storage, Steve Fanning Britannia, Stuart Knights Doree Bonner, Simon Kirby Agility GRMS, Simon Osborne Momentous, Tania Munro (BLESMA), Chris Marshall Bishops Move, Anne Bradley Agility GRMS, Richard Crowther EuroUSA, Ian Nicholson White and Co, Pat Carter Armishaws.


Industry News

58

People News Employment

When the customer is not always right… Basil Fry’s Removals Claims Services has put together some useful pointers for removers to be aware of to prevent fraudulent claims by customers.

Whilst a remover may have suspicions that a claim made by their customer is fraudulent, obtaining clear and

irrefutable documentary proof of the fraudulent device is much harder, and understandably, any insurer would be extremely cautious before agreeing to decline a claim on the grounds of fraud.

There can often be signs at an early stage, even before the removal has been completed, that you need to be on your guard as to the intentions of the customer. You may become suspicious, for example, where:• questions are asked of the removal crew on the move day regarding the claims process and time taken;• as soon as the delivery vehicle arrives and the unpack begins, the customer discovers some small, unseen damage to items which on casual inspection would appear to be in otherwise good condition.

Where a remover’s suspicions are raised at an

early stage, any pre-move damage discovered by the crew should be recorded in writing and brought to the attention of the customer. The use of cameras by some removers to record pre-existing damage provides an absolute record of the damage/condition of the items.

When the claims handler/adjuster is alerted to the remover’s concerns, close questioning of the customer regarding circumstances and details of the items of claim can reveal inconsistent answers which can subsequently be drawn to the customer’s attention in any formal response to the claim. At this point, the amount of the claim is sometimes reduced or an item is miraculously found or removed from the claim.

Clear evidence of any loss will usually settle any claim. For insurance companies, evasive answers to reasonable questions, requests for proof of ownership or the value of an item can all raise concerns. This is sometimes accompanied by a constant barrage of calls,

emails and demands for immediate settlement.The key things to remember are to have a

detailed, written inventory, and where you feel the customer’s behaviour towards damage is not reasonable, where appropriate, raise these concerns with the customer, and note your reasons and concerns in writing.For more information, contact David Pite, Director of Basil Fry & Co and Manager of Removal Claims Service at [email protected] or on Tel: 01372 385970.

BAR Training ServicesTraining from the Removals Experts

To book, call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

BARTS Commercial Estimating courseDeveloped based on BAR Member feedback, the course

will improve the skills and knowledge of Estimators

within the Commercial Moving Industry. It covers:

• The Unit System • Calculating Volume

• Materials Required • Sequential Packing

• Questions to Ask the Client • Internal Relocations

• Site Viewing Methods • Commercial Quotations

• Risk Assessment • Premises Protection

• Practical Survey of Commercial Building Just £199 + VAT p/p for BAR Members

BRAND NEW for 2012!Course Dates 2012 (BAR HQ, Watford)

13 March, 25 May, 15 August

Feedback from BAR Members:

‘A very useful course. Clearly presented by a Trainer

who obviously has a wealth of valuable experience’

‘A great course. I would advise any commercial

estimator or relocation specialist to attend’


Industry News

59

People News

One of the moving industry’s longest serving employees retires this year after 50 years’ uninterrupted service.

Celebrating Roy O’Hara of DT Moving

R oy O’Hara, senior packer and warehouseman at DT Moving, (formerly Davies Turner Worldwide Movers) joined

Davies Turner in 1962 as a 15-year old trainee and has been at the company ever since.

Born in Battersea, London in 1947, Roy joined the Post Room at Davies Turner’s Battersea depot, on Queenstown Rd, just a stone’s throw from his family home. In the days when new employees could only join if an existing family member worked for the company, Roy relied on his cousin, whose employment with Davies Turner meant he could apply for his job. Following a brief period in the post room, Roy spent 3 years’ warehouse training in ‘antiques packing’, something that all Davies Turner packing personnel were obliged to do before they were permitted to work at customer premises. Roy looks back on this period with great fondness. ““Davies Turner and now DT Moving have always had the best packing processes and packing materials. The quality training we all underwent was priceless, meaning we were experts in our craft, and this is something we have tried to pass on to all new starters at DT.”

Moving the royalsDuring the 1970’s and 80’s Roy spent time abroad and was responsible for shipments to and from Europe and the Middle East. During this time he met and worked for some famous people, including Elton John, Rod Stewart and Ginger Rogers. One particular job that sticks in Roy’s mind was for her Royal Highness, the Queen. “In the early 1980’s we collected, packed and delivered a series of paintings and artwork for the Queen and the Queen Mother,” Roy says. “Much of the work was carried out at Buckingham Palace, which was an interesting experience...we didn’t get to see the Queen or the Corgi’s though!”

More recently, Roy’s work has been based in the warehouse at Mitcham, Greater London, where he is responsible for antique packing and export packing. The warehouse-based role means Roy can spend more time with his daughter as well as watching his beloved Chelsea football club on the TV.

DT Moving’s Managing Director Nick Kerr is full of praise for Roy. “To work uninterrupted at the same organisation for 50 years is a remarkable achievement and is testament to

Roy’s character. Apart from being a fantastic packer and a real company man he is a great personality with a wonderful sense of humour. We will miss Roy once he retires.”

Roy’s last few months at DT Moving will be celebrated with a company day at the races and a presentation afternoon to acknowledge his wonderful service to the company.


Industry News

60

Interdean Ukraine has appointed Marina Chornokozha as Branch Manager for Kiev.

Marina’s background is in logistics; having worked in the industry for eleven years.

In 2006, Marina joined Interdean where she has spent three years as Operations Manager and a further three years as Sales Manager.

Marina takes on the management of the Kiev office at an exciting time for Interdean Ukraine, which is the only FIDI accredited international relocation moving company in the Ukraine.

It is with great sadness that Robinsons has to report the death of Jim McKenzie at the age of 62 following

a brave battle with cancer.Jim was known to many after 22 of

years in the industry. He was definitely one of life’s good guys, a true gentleman, respected by all who worked for him and alongside him. He loved the moving industry’s challenges and many would say he could “work miracles” by

getting things done which seemed impossible to others. There is no doubt that Robinsons will be a different place without Jim and everyone around the organisation will miss him a great deal.

Jim made no secret of how proud he was of his family and the thoughts of his friends and colleagues are with his wife Maggie and his two children Alex and Calum. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

It’s with great sadness that we report the death of Richard Russell, a popular member of the removals

community since 1964.Richard had been a member of the

Bishops Move team since 1997 and had

been a well known figure at the BAR for many years. From 1964 to 1981, Richard worked at Pickfords Removals, managing the Lancaster Depot, the Norwich Depot, and then Doncaster. That was followed by short stints at Harrow Green and GB Liners in the late 1980s.

Richard started his own company, Russell’s Removals, in 1991 and purchased Segraves Removals in 1994, controlling a 15 thousand square foot warehouse and a fleet of eleven vehicles. He sold the companies after undergoing a replacement knee operation.

He leaves a widow Ann, and children Steven (41) and Susan (39). In recent years, Richard had enjoyed the company of his three grandchildren Bobby (6) Alfie (4) and Ellie (2).

Interdean names Kiev manager

Jim McKenzie

Richard Russell

People News

Marina Chornokozha as Branch Manager for Kiev

The Chrisovergis family of Celebrity International Movers celebrated the wedding of Christina Chrisovergis and Christos Rouboglou on the gorgeous

island of Paros.Christina’s parents, George and Kathy, who started the

Athens-based moving and relocation company 25 years ago, helped organize the event which took place at sunset at a traditional whitewashed church and was followed by a picturesque reception at a local beach restaurant.

Wedding bells for Greek Associate

OBITUARIES

Red Recruit opens in Canada

The Canadian office of Red Recruit is now open for business. Jacqueline Jones is heading up the new Toronto office, which specialises in

recruitment for the removals industry across Canada and the US. Jacqueline has substantial experience in both removals and sales and has excellent awareness of the market place.




BAR News

BAR Memberships March 2012

Any Member wishing to make any comment regarding an application should do so in writing to BAR Head Office within 21 days of receipt of this notification. Details of membership applications in process may also be found on the BAR website: www.bar.co.uk

Memberships

BAR Training Services

I wondered if our Members were aware that if they are running a vehicle of gross weight 3.5 tons and it is fitted up to take a trailer which is used for Hire and Reward, then it is highly likely that they should apply for the vehicle to be added to their Operators Licence as the combined weight of the vehicle is over 3.5 tons? This obviously also applies to Self Store companies and ties in with legislation announced by VOSA in early December 2011.

Roger Bishop, Joint ChairmanBishop’s Move

I have been involved in the removals and storage industry for most of my life. The opportunity arose to sell the business which I did back in 2003 after grafting hard for 27 years. I was 47 years old at the time and the years are just flying in. I am busy writing two books at the moment, one my autobiography and the other called A History of Moving In and Around Falkirk and Stirling. I am also putting together a website called James Sharp Furniture Van Photos.

If any R&S readers would like to forward photos of their furniture vans to be shown on the site I would be very pleased to do so. The site is totally non-profit making, simply a hobby. For more information see www.jamessharpfurniturevanphotos.webspace.virginmedia.com or www.facebook.com (James Sharp Furniture Van Photos).

James Sharp

Vehicle weights Furniture vans

Letters

Application:BAR has received the following application for:

National & European Group

Merit Office Installations LtdUnit B, Goldstar CentreNeptune CloseRochesterKentME2 4LTTel: 01634 726601Web: www.meritofficeinstallations.com

Resignation:BAR is sorry to lose the membership of the following companies whilst thanking them for their support:


Pritchard BrosMemb No: P033

Terminations:Liquidation:


HBC South Yorkshire Ltd and ATNs Housley Removals & Storage and Ball & Waite RemovalsMemb No: H078

PP Removals LtdMemb No: P050

Wentworth International Movers LtdMemb No: A059


We draw Member’s attention to the announcement made in the February 2012 issue of R&S which stated that Deminter International, Tunisia (Memb No. D312) was terminated. We are pleased to confirm that this notice was incorrect, and their membership as an International Associate has continued without interruption.



Northern AreaContact: Alan Hoggin0191 [email protected]

North West AreaContact: Annette Harris0161 [email protected] 22 - VOSAMay 23

Northern Ireland Area Contact: Dominic Murray02890 [email protected]

Scotland Area Contact: Georgina Berry0151 [email protected] 13 - Hilcroft Hotel

Southern AreaContact: Peter Doman01372 [email protected] 6 - Romsey Golf Club

South Wales AreaContact: Andrew Robbins01792 [email protected]

South Western AreaContact: Sue Christophers01637 [email protected] 20 - Exeter Race Course

Sussex AreaContact: Miranda Hyder01342 [email protected]


Diary Dates

Diary Dates

BOARD, COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2012

Board of DirectorsApril 4 - 10.00am-15.00pm

National CouncilJune 12 2012

Overseas Group CouncilJune 13 2012

CMG CouncilJune 14 2012

BAR EVENTS 2012

BAR Young MoversMarch 16 - Woburn Safari Park

BAR Annual ConferenceMay 17-19 - Beaumont Estate, Windsor

BAR Conference Golf DayMay 17 - Marriot Lingfield Park Country Club, Surrey

BAR AREA MEETINGS 2012

East Anglia AreaContact: Andrew Pearson01362 [email protected]

East Met AreaContact: Paul Freeman0800 [email protected]

East Midlands AreaContact: Andy Wade01476 [email protected]

Kent AreaContact: Tom Bourne01797 [email protected]

New Met AreaContact: Julie Thompson01932 [email protected] 13Novotel Hotel, West Drayton

Do you have any diary dates?E-mail them to: [email protected]

To view diary dates/events, please log into ‘MyBAR’ and click on the Calendar/Events

and BAR Calendar tabs where you can view full details including time, date, location and

agendas (when available).

To view area minutes, please log into ‘MyBAR’ and click on the BAR Areas tab and

then one of the 16 areas listed. Minutes from past 2012 area meetings can be viewed and

downloaded (where available).

Western AreaContact: Ria Russell01278 [email protected] 13 - Brent Knoll, East BrentMay 8 - Brent Knoll, East Brent

West Midlands AreaContact: Sarah Pargeter01384 [email protected] 19 - Gainsborough Hotel, Kidderminster

Yorkshire AreaContact: Graham Puddephatt0845 [email protected] 15 - York Golf Club, StrensallApril 19 - Boothferry Golf Club


BAR News

Free Legal & FinancialAdvice Lines for BAR Members

Financial Support Advice LineTel: 0207 630 6665

email: [email protected]

Please tear off and keep this card

For legal advice see reverse

The “Credit Crunch”, rising fuel prices, rising inflation, and more specifically the down turn in thehousing market and reductions in new mortgages and re-mortgages, are impacting us all.

As an Association we aim to support member companies in every way possible. To that end we have set up two freeadvice lines using partners with whom BAR have long established business relationships. One is an expansion of an existing service, the other being a brand new service.

The advice lines will be available to Directors/Partners/Owners of member companies and will work as follows:

• Please give your BAR membership number, company name and your contact details.

• Briefly describe your issue/question to the advice line operator.

• Your call will be logged and checked by a partner to ensure proper follow up has taken place.

• The call will be passed through to the most suitable contact person.

• If you use the email facility, please provide the same information as above so that the email can be correctly dealt with.

• If it is possible to resolve the matter over the phone within a reasonable time then the advice will be free.

• If the specialist thinks that the matter needs a ‘face-to-face’ meeting then this will be suggested. This meeting can be at your premises, the adviser’s offices or a neutral convenient location. This meeting will also be free.

• Should the matter be complex requiring significant time, resource or research then the adviser will provide a full written proposal and quotation. This proposal will be at a discounted rate. No charges will be made until such proposal is received and agreed.

You should note that this service is an additional and exclusive free service to members who, in the currenteconomic climate, may need immediate independent financial or legal advice.

More complex matters may be chargeable by our partners in this venture, but no charges will be made until all costs and services have been clarified and agreed by all parties.

To help us to monitor these services please send any comments, queries, suggestions to:[email protected]

Addressing the Needs of our Members...

&inassociation

with

BAR Advice Line 2pp Ad 11/6/10 16:17 Page 1

MEMBERSHIPINITIATIVE

Legal Support Advice LineTel: 01254 828300



Main contacts will be:


Advice Lines

Financial Support Advice Line

Legal Support Advice Line

Advice lines will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday (excluding public holidays)


For financial advice see reverse

Kathleen Parker – Partner:With Wellers for eighteen years and specialises inproviding strategic advice to her SME clients.Her work includes business reviews, tax planningand delivering advice for sustainable growth.

Norma Stewart – Partner:Has a broad range of commercial experience andworks with her clients as an integral part of theirbusiness, helping them handle compliance issues aswell as identifying fresh opportunities for growth.

Michael Webb – Manager:Michael knows the value of long lasting clientrelationships; has the technical ability and expertiseto respond rapidly to changes in legislation andprovide relevant and timely advice to his clients.

Timir Palit – Tax Manager:With more than thirty years experience covering awide range of corporate and personal tax issues,he has the skills to provide practical expertise andtailored solutions for his clients.

James Backhouse - Director:Regulatory and compliance matters and advice onO licence issues.

Jonathan Backhouse – Director:Company and commercial matters, includingrestructuring and business organisation.

Stephen Meyerhoff – Solicitor:Provides employment law advice as well ascommercial advice on contractual disputesincluding advising on terms of trading.

Barry Prior – Consultant:Specialises in goods in transit and liens.

0207 630 6665 email: [email protected]

01254 828300 email: [email protected]


&inassociation

with


Trade Services


Channel Islands

Isle of Man

Ireland

Scotland/Europe

Scotland and Islands

Austria

Italy

Promote your services to over 4,000 UK based removers

from just £33 per month

SHETLAND ISLESIAN F REID

Removals & StorageUnits 5&6, Lower Blackhill Ind. Estate, Lerwick, ZE1 ODG

Regular nationwide serviceTel: 01595 696268 • Fax: 01595 693515

Email: [email protected]

EASYMOVES

YOUR MOVE IN SAFE HANDS

Weekly Service between Ireland and UK & UK and Ireland Part Load Specilaists with Competitive rates and fastest times available

Tel:00353 9066 23457 or Freephone UK on 0800 3284984 or Ireland on 1850 35 75 75 Email:[email protected] No:E309


Legal Support Advice LineTel: 01254 828300





Advice Lines

Financial Support Advice Line

Legal Support Advice Line

Advice lines will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday (excluding public holidays)


For financial advice see reverse

Kathleen Parker – Partner:With Wellers for eighteen years and specialises inproviding strategic advice to her SME clients.Her work includes business reviews, tax planningand delivering advice for sustainable growth.

Norma Stewart – Partner:Has a broad range of commercial experience andworks with her clients as an integral part of theirbusiness, helping them handle compliance issues aswell as identifying fresh opportunities for growth.

Michael Webb – Manager:Michael knows the value of long lasting clientrelationships; has the technical ability and expertiseto respond rapidly to changes in legislation andprovide relevant and timely advice to his clients.

Timir Palit – Tax Manager:With more than thirty years experience covering awide range of corporate and personal tax issues,he has the skills to provide practical expertise andtailored solutions for his clients.

James Backhouse - Director:Regulatory and compliance matters and advice onO licence issues.

Jonathan Backhouse – Director:Company and commercial matters, includingrestructuring and business organisation.

Stephen Meyerhoff – Solicitor:Provides employment law advice as well ascommercial advice on contractual disputesincluding advising on terms of trading.

Barry Prior – Consultant:Specialises in goods in transit and liens.

0207 630 6665 email: [email protected]

01254 828300 email: [email protected]


&inassociation

with


Trade Services


Italy

• Regular runs to all areas • Full or part loads • Receiving depot 10mins from M25 J5 ...or we collect• All deliveries and collections carried out by our own crewsPhone Paul for advice and genuine delivery/collection [email protected]

TRADE ROUTES

TO ITALYFRANCE-AND OF

COURSE 01732 358900 ‘WHEN SERVICE MATTERS’EN ROUTE

France

Germany and Austria

Weekly Groupage Service Full origin and destination services available.

German speaking staff

WH HUMPHREY & SON LTD

Contact Darrel or JustinTel: 0208 144 0734 • Fax: 0844 770 7111Email: [email protected]

Switzerland

Germany

Space to Hire

Space to Hire

This space is available from just

£66 per month


£66 per month

Trade Services


Spain

UK Office: 01843 585055, [email protected] Office: 0034 971 693566, [email protected] website: www.william-worldwide-webb.com

Weekly Scheduled Service, Containerised Storage DepotsHolder of Spanish Transport Licence

for our Tranship vehiclesUnrivaled Infrastructure in Mallorca, Menorca & Ibiza Excellent Rates, Payment in Euros or GBP accepted

Purely The Balearics, No Bull! WEEKLY

REGULAR

MALLORCAMENORCAMAINLAND

SPAINFRANCE

IBIZAPORTUGAL

CYPRUSNORWAY

Memb No: W001

TEL: 01202 576514FAX: 01202 574011

[email protected] www.whitesmovingandstorage.com

France - Spain - Portugal - ItalyWeekly Service for the Trade. Call now for best rates

Depots in Preston, Chester, Alicante, Malaga

PRESTON 01772 651570Email: [email protected] Web: www.moversint.co.uk

Worldwide


£33 per month

Cyprus and Malta

GREECEby Road

&ITALYENROUTE

• 7day transit time

• Twice-monthly departures

• BritishCrews & ProfessionalService

• Highlyrecommended in Greece

00441733311561 | [email protected]

www.nomad-international.com

Greece

Cyprus

BOOK A DISPLAY ADVERT 1/4 Page from just

£270+VAT

1/2 Page from just £435+VAT

Full Page from just £710+VAT

call Sandra Zealand on:

0117 957 5400or email: [email protected]

PER ISSUE

PER ISSUE

PER ISSUE

Trade Services


IF IT’S ALLCHINESE TO YOU...

TRADE Part or Full LoadsBeijing, Hong Kong, ShanghaiDeliveries throughout P.R.C

Call: 0845 [email protected]

China

South Africa

United Arab Emirates

Caribbean

Scandinavia

Regular TradeServices toUNITED ARABEMIRATESDubai, Sharjahand Abu DhabiFull & part loads

Contact Justine or Stuart on

01432 377477fax: 01432 279894


OVERSEASREMOVER

AdvancePayment

Guaranteed

Memb No: GO13

Israel

India

Worldwide

Space to Hire


£33 per month

Space to Hire


£33 per month

Space to Hire


£33 per month

Space to Hire


£33 per month

Trade Services


LOCAL MOVING • WORLDWIDE SHIPPINGWEEKLY EUROPEAN SERVICE

Recommended by the worlds finest piano manufacturers,auctioneers, music colleges & academies.

A family run business, Est. in 1968.

THE PIANOSPECIALISTS

Mem. No G005

100 BOLLO LANE, CHISWICK, LONDON W4 5LXTel: +44 (0) 20 8994 9733 Fax: +44 (0) 20 8995 0855Email: [email protected] www.gandrremovals.co.uk

G&R Advert 60x60mm:Layout 1 20/10/08 16

NO NEED TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE FOR YOUR TRAININGOPERATIVE TRAINING THAT COMES TO YOUR FRONT DOORPACKING • MANUAL HANDLING • EXPORT WRAPPINGVEHICLE LOADING • CONTAINER LOADING

REMOVAL SPECIFIC HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING ON SITEHEALTH & SAFETY POLICIES • HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT • ACCIDENT CONTROL • FIRST AIDRISK ASSESSMENT • HSE COMPLIANCE

Call BARTS on 01923 699484 or email [email protected]

Trade StoragePiano SpecialistsTraining

Trailer Hire Warehouse Containers Space to Hire


£33 per month

Space to Hire


£33 per month

Training from the Removals Experts

To book Call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

Introduction to EstimatingIdeal for staff who are new to the role. This 1 day course focuses on teaching students the unit system, methods of estimating, risk assessment, the role of the Estimator and selling services to the customer

• Quantity Assessment • The Role of the Estimator• Health & Safety • Contract Conditions • Communication Techniques • Removals Insurance


BRANDNEW

for 2012!

Course Dates 201205 March 08 May

Course to be held at BAR, Watford

BAR Training Services

Classifieds


West Midlands Removals and Container Storage Business for Sale

• Operating UK domestic & international moves.

• 100 Storage containers with steady monthly income.

• Option to remain in existing rented warehouse premises.

• Ideal alternative opportunity to relocate and incorporate into

existing business with spare storage capacity.

Are You Looking To Sell?We are looking to buy good quality household moving

and storage companies in London and the home counties.Please call 07933 123 123 in full confidence

for a quick decision.

Sales Manager for BCL London

BCL are looking for an ambitious sales manager for their London

operation. Based in East London, the role will be managing

accounts we already hold and developing new business.

In the first instance, forward your CV in confidence to

[email protected], or if you prefer a chat,

call Malcolm on 07803 025934

Centrepoint, Marshall Stevens Way, Trafford Park M17 1PP

For Sale

Opportunities

For Sale

Situations Vacant

Vehicles For Sale

TRAILERS FOR SALE

3 Tri-Axle Drawbar Trailers ages from

1995 to 2005 • Air Suspension

• Raise/Lower Function

• 2 With Front Lift Axles

• Removal Bodies with Side Doors both sides Tie Rails

[email protected]

or call Kevin on 07764271105

Registration plate R3MVL (removal) Offers over £1,500+vat Contact John on 01637 873753 Email: [email protected]

Removals, Storage & Shipping Business for Sale (West London based) Fantastic opportunity to acquire a well established business.Specializes in Domestic, Overseas & car shipping world wideExcellent staff, 6 vehicles, good storage revenue, turnover in excess of £850k/pa Sale due to moving abroad. Contact: 079 0934 8328

250 cubic foot wooden containers for sale Very good condition £70.00 each Tel: 07799616934

Web Banner Offer

Advertise in 5 or more issues of Removals & Storage magazine (display advertising) and get a

free static banner on the BAR website with a direct link to your own website.

Call Sandra on 0117 957 5400 for details

Contact: ACTIVE BUSINESS SALES 0845 459 1560

VANS FOR SALEVehicles For Sale

Contact: Matt Purdie on 07770 583 407

2002 12 tonne GVW 4 Container van. Marsden bodied 1750 cu ft 4 container body.

Immaculate condition, Full years MOT. Choice of 2.

PRICE: £12,500 each

Make the mostof your BAR membership

For more information visit: www.bar.co.ukor contact: [email protected]

Instant recognition• Use of the BAR brand • OFT approved Code of Practice• FREE use of the BAR model Terms & Conditions

Award Winning Website www.bar.co.uk• Unique sales lead generator • Member’s search directory • Real-time online estimating & enquiry system • Member’s area with free broadcasts and noticeboard facilities

Networking Events• Annual flagship conference and exhibition

• Business seminars

• Area meetings

• Young Movers

FREE Professional Support& Advice• FREE legal advice line

• FREE financial advice line

• FREE informal conciliation service and low-cost arbitration scheme

FREE Products and Services• FREE Marketing & promotional materials downloadable from bar.co.uk members area

• FREE monthly issue of Removals & Storage (R&S) magazine

• FREE Award winning membership pack

Subsidised Products and Services• Comprehensive range of products, services and marketing materials from BAR Services at exclusive member rates

• Subsidised industry specific training

• Discounted advertising in R&S magazine

• Exclusive rates for industry specific Quality Standards

Exclusive Promotional Opportunities• Industry recognised annual awards: - Domestic Mover of the Year (DMotY) - Commercial Mover of the Year (CMotY)

Full member representation• BAR Board of Directors, including three directly elected members

• BAR Executive Committee

• Local representation through 16 BAR areas

• BAR Functional Group Councils and Special Interest Groups

PLUS• Access to full range of business partners: - Affiliates - International Associates - Professional Advisers Panel - Corporate Alliances - Furniture recycling - Confederation of British Industry (CBI) - Trade Association Forum (TAF)

• Easy Payment Terms: - Membership Subscriptions - Training Courses

• FEDEMAC membership including free European information on www.fedemac.eu

• Range of lobbying activities

• The Removers Benevolent Association (RBA) charity for the removals industry

• New Members Induction Incentive Scheme

RS March 2012

Documents

Transcript of RS March 2012