Simarco Celebrates a Milestone Partnership with ebm-papst UK

We are proud to be celebrating our longstanding relationship with ebm-papst UK, supporting the safe and reliable delivery of their market-leading products to customers across the UK.

Built on trust, collaboration and shared values, our partnership continues to go from strength to strength.

ebm-papst UK Managing Director, Jamie Slowgrove said, “We recently celebrated our 50th anniversary in the UK market, a milestone which would not be possible without valued partners such as Simarco International Ltd beside us. The reliability and professionalism they consistently deliver for us aligns perfectly with our own business values. I would like to thank Trevor Scott, Simarco International Ltd Managing Director and Gary Thurlow , Head of UK Transport and their team for their continued support.”

At Simarco International Ltd, we pride ourselves in working closely with our customers to deliver flexible, reliable logistics solutions, from UK distribution and transport through to warehousing, freight and wider supply chain support, always tailored to meet individual customer needs.

Managing Director Trevor Scott said, “We are delighted to formalise our longstanding partnership with ebm-papst UK. This contract reflects the strength of our relationship, built on trust, collaboration and shared values. We are proud to support ebm-papst UK in delivering their market leading products reliably and safely to their customers across the UK, and we look forward to continuing our work together for many years to come.”

A big thank you to everyone involved on both sides. Partnerships like this don’t happen without great people behind the scenes.

Behind the Screens: The Real Day‑to‑Day Challenges of Freight Forwarders in 2026

Freight forwarding is often portrayed as a backend part of global trade, invisible screens, automated tracking, and cargo in motion. But in 2026, the industry is still very human at its core. Behind every shipment status update, customs code, and routing decision are teams contending with market volatility, ever‑evolving regulations, technology pressures, and customer expectations. At Simarco International, we experience these dynamics firsthand and like many freight forwarders in the industry, we are adapting daily to challenges that spreadsheets and dashboards can’t fully capture.

Managing Director, Trevor Scott says, “From the outside it looks automated, but behind every update is a person making judgement calls in real time. Automation supports speed and accuracy, but it’s human judgement that manages risk, handles exceptions, and delivers the service our customers rely on.”

Market Pressures and Margin Squeeze in a Post‑Pandemic World

Freight forwarding in 2026 is operating under sustained economic headwinds. Recent industry analysis shows that 92% of forwarders expect margin pressure to intensify this year due to softening freight rates and ongoing geopolitical disruptions, risks that stem both from external market forces and internal operational inefficiencies.

For operations teams, this is not just a chart or trend line, it’s real work.

A Simarco Senior European Operator says, “Some days it feels like we’re managing expectations more than movements. Every shipment can become a puzzle of rate changes, carrier shifts, and compliance checks before we even talk about transit.”

This sentiment aligns with conversations freight professionals are having online, many of whom report that responding to client enquiries and managing rate upheavals dominate their days.

Digital Transformation: Opportunity and a New Source of Stress

Technology, especially AI and automation, holds promise for freight forwarding in 2026. Predictive analytics, real‑time tracking, automated documentation, and integrated platforms are transforming how shipments are managed.

Yet digital transformation brings its own challenges.

Forwarders are adopting systems faster than ever, but not always with the support needed to safeguard them. Increased network connectivity and data usage expose companies to cyber risks if security is not kept pace with automation. Simarco’s IT Team spend meaningful time not only enhancing tools but protecting them.

Commercial Operations Director, Mark Wraight said, “Technology should make freight forwarding more human, not less. The best digital tools won’t replace the relationships we must continue to build with our clients, suppliers, and wider partner networks. They remove the unwanted noise in the business and give our teams more time to focus on high value work; solving problems, responding faster, and making better decisions that still rely on staff experience and judgement.

What people don’t always see is the work behind the scenes that keeps everything resilient and reliable. Every tool that promises speed and visibility also needs constant attention. There are silent heroes keeping data secure, making sure licensing is right, and ensuring integrations between systems are robust, supported, and genuinely usable for the people relying on them every day.

Digital transformation is not just buying software, it’s building and maintaining staff trust in it.”

Regulatory Compliance and Customs Complexity

One of the most challenging aspects of freight forwarding has always been regulatory compliance, and 2026 is no different. Trade agreements, customs protocols, tariffs, and environmental reporting rules continue to shift in real time. Even small changes can have big consequences for shipments moving through Europe, Asia, or beyond.

Customs compliance is not just paperwork; it’s an operational necessity that affects timelines and delivery commitments. At Simarco, our dedicated customs specialists monitor changes and update clients daily to avoid costly delays, keeping operations smooth even when regulations change overnight.

The Sustainability Imperative

Sustainability is no longer optional for freight forwarders; it’s an expectation from clients and a business imperative. Forwarders are now expected to provide emissions data, optimise routes for fuel efficiency, and support sustainability initiatives throughout the supply chain.

Human Challenges: Workload and Workforce Shifts

Even with the growth of digital tools, freight forwarding remains a deeply human-driven industry. Each day calls for problem-solving, adaptability, and close collaboration, qualities that are reflected in the active, solution-oriented conversations shared among freight professionals. Much of the work involves staying on top of operational details, from responding to status updates to maintaining rates and tracking line changes, all of which keep supply chains moving smoothly.

At the same time, the industry is becoming more aware of the importance of supporting its people. Conversations around workload, documentation, and resourcing are driving meaningful discussions about how to improve sustainability and long-term career satisfaction across operations and customs roles.

Workforce dynamics are also evolving in encouraging ways. Our teams bring together a growing diversity of skill sets, combining technology expertise with deep logistics experience. This balance enables modern freight forwarding to navigate increasing complexity while continuing to value practical knowledge and human judgment.

Network Disruptions and External Shocks

Freight forwarders don’t live in a vacuum. Geopolitical tensions, trade wars, and unexpected route changes continue to disrupt planning.

One recent example beyond 2025 shows how trade disputes led to cancelled sailings and regional supply chain stress, a reminder that global events can reshape cargo flows at a moment’s notice.

At Simarco, contingency planning has become as essential as day‑to‑day operations. Teams model alternative routes, adjust cargo consolidations, and keep clients informed well before disruptions escalate.

Conclusion: Freight Forwarding in 2026 Is Human First

In 2026, freight forwarding may be digitalised, automated, and data‑driven, yet at its core it is still powered by real people solving real problems every day. Margin pressures, compliance complexity, client expectations, disruptive events, workforce stresses, and technology integration form the backdrop of forwarders’ daily work.

Managing Director, Trevor Scott said, “Technology helps us move freight, but people build relationships. That’s what keeps global trade functioning. Systems can streamline processes, but trust, communication, and experience are what hold supply chains together when challenges arise”.

Simarco International Supports Student Careers at Maltings Academy Year 11 Mock Interview Day

Our People Operations Lead, Karen Jayne Harris, was kindly invited to return to Maltings Academy, Witham, to take part in their Year 11 Mock Interview Day.

The initiative was designed to give students a real-life interview experience, helping them prepare for their next steps after school, whether that’s college, further education, an apprenticeship, or entering the world of work. The day also covered CV and cover letter preparation, along with practical interview techniques.

Leaving school and stepping into the workforce is a significant milestone, and it’s always a pleasure to support students by helping provide the confidence and foundations they need to take that next step.

People Operations Lead, Karen Jayne Harris said, “It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Year 11 Mock Interview Day at Maltings Academy in Witham and meeting the students. They were extremely polite, courteous, and approached the day with a high level of maturity and professionalism.

On behalf of Simarco International Ltd, it was a privilege to play a small part in helping them prepare for their first steps into the world of work or college, and from chatting with them, I’m sure they have very bright futures ahead in whatever paths they choose.

As always, the day was exceptionally well organised, with some delicious refreshments to keep us going throughout the day – Thank you for such a warm welcome to your school!”

At Simarco International Ltd, we take pride in recruiting, developing, and mentoring talent through our apprenticeship schemes. We offer a wide range of opportunities across the business, including Warehousing, Customer Service, Human Resources, and IT Infrastructure, to name just a few.

To find out more about our apprenticeship programmes, visit: https://lnkd.in/emdQ-KSJ

Simarco Supports Essex County Council’s Device Donation Appeal with Laptop Contributions

Proud to Support Essex County Council’s Device Donation Appeal!

We’re thrilled to share that we have recently donated a number of electrical items, including laptops, to Essex County Council to help support children across local schools.

Mark Wraight, our Commercial Operations Director said, “When we heard about the ECC’s Device Donation Appeal, we were delighted to support this initiative. By donating laptops, we’re helping children in Essex schools stay connected, engage fully with their studies, access online resources, and develop essential digital skills, ensuring no child is left behind because of a lack of equipment.

At Simarco International Ltd, we believe in supporting the communities where we live and work. This initiative not only gives every child the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, but it also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and to our social and environmental responsibilities.”

Team Simarco is proud to play a small part in helping young learners thrive, and we hope our contribution makes a meaningful difference in their educational journey.

France’s VAT Shake-Up: The 2026 Rule Change that will reshape UK–EU exports

At the end of 2025, a quiet but powerful shift will take place in European trade. For thousands of UK exporters, many of whom we at Simarco support daily, France, long a favoured gateway into the EU, is about to change the rules of the game.

From 1 January 2026, the French government will end limited tax representation for non-EU businesses under its Regime 42 customs procedure. The change may sound technical, but as we’ve seen in similar VAT reforms, the operational impact will be anything but small.

For UK businesses currently shipping DDP Regime 42 (Delivered Duty Paid) into Europe via France, this means one thing: it’s time to rethink your VAT and logistics setup.

What’s Changing and Why it Matters?

For years, UK exporters have been able to appoint a French “limited tax representative” (a local partner with a French VAT number) to manage their EU import clearances under Regime 42. This system allowed goods to be imported into France, cleared through customs, and then shipped across the EU without the exporter registering for French VAT, or the EU buyer being the Importer of Record.

It was a win-win arrangement:

• Exporters could offer DDP terms and manage duties and taxes on behalf of their customers.
• EU buyers enjoyed a seamless experience, free from the burden of customs formalities.

From 2026, that bridge disappears. France will no longer allow non-EU businesses to rely on a representative’s VAT number to import goods under Regime 42. Instead, UK exporters will face two main choices if they wish to continue shipping DDP style.

Option 1: Take Control – Register for French VAT

The first path is to register for French VAT and become the Importer of Record (IoR). This option gives exporters full control over customs, VAT, and EU-bound logistics.

With your own VAT registration, you can:

• Import goods directly into France under your company’s name.
• Distribute those goods freely across the EU.
• Hold stock in France for faster redistribution.
• Sell directly to both B2B and B2C customers without involving buyers in import procedures.

While this route involves administrative responsibilities, VAT filings, compliance checks, and setup costs, the benefits are significant for high-volume exporters.

At Simarco, we help clients implement this end-to-end approach, from VAT registration and fiscal representation to bonded warehousing and EU distribution. Our integrated logistics network allows exporters to manage customs, storage, and delivery processes seamlessly through a single provider.

Option 2: Pass the Baton – The Buyer as Importer

For smaller exporters, or those serving a few key EU customers, a second option may prove more practical: shifting import responsibility to the EU buyer.

Under this “buyer-as-importer” model:

• The UK exporter arranges transport and works with a French customs broker.
• The EU buyer becomes the Importer of Record (IoR), granting Power of Attorney (PoA) to the exporter’s broker for clearance.
• Simarco’s fiscal partners use a global VAT number to ensure VAT is deferred to the buyer’s home country, maintaining neutrality.

This model can preserve much of the old DDP experience but requires a willing and VAT-registered buyer comfortable with import liability. For strong, long-term trading relationships, it’s a workable and compliant solution. However, for exporters juggling dozens of EU buyers, it might be a tougher sell.

Choosing the Right Path

Your decision depends largely on scale and frequency:

Export Profile	Recommended Option	Key Benefits
High-volume, multi-EU customer exports	Register for French VAT	Control, consistency, faster EU distribution
Low-volume, limited EU customers	Buyer as Importer	Lower admin burden, avoids VAT registration

Whatever your route, plan early!

• Begin reviewing DDP/DAP terms with EU customers.
• Assess whether VAT registration is commercially viable.
• Start the registration process early — VAT setup can take several weeks, and a surge in late-2025 applications is likely.

Transition Support from Simarco

Our Customs and VAT Specialists are already supporting UK exporters through this transition, offering tailored solutions based on shipment frequency, product type, and buyer setup.

We manage the entire process, from fiscal representation and VAT filings to freight forwarding and EU distribution, ensuring your compliance and continuity under the new regime.

We’re also collaborating with our fiscal partners to offer discounted registration fees for early adopters and hands-on guidance throughout the process.

What’s Next?

France’s decision to end limited tax representation forms part of a broader EU push for VAT transparency and harmonisation. Other member states are likely to follow in the coming years.

For UK exporters, this isn’t just a rule change, it’s a strategic turning point. Companies that act now will gain smoother access to EU markets, stronger compliance credentials, and greater control over their logistics and client relationships.

Mark Wraight, Commercial Operations Director at Simarco, puts it simply: “From 2026, UK exporters can no longer rely on a French partner’s VAT number to move goods duty-paid into the EU. You’ll need to decide whether to:

1. Register for French VAT and take full control of your EU trade; or
2. Shift import responsibility to your EU buyers with their consent.

Whichever route you choose, the message is clear – review your setup and act now. The sooner you plan, the smoother your transition when France’s VAT reform takes effect.”

Simarco Expands Fleet with New Volvo FH500 Aero Trucks for Greater Efficiency and Driver Comfort

We’re thrilled to share that we’ve recently added two brand-new Volvo FH500 Aero 6×2 GTXL trucks to our ever-growing fleet!

These state-of-the-art and luxury vehicles take driver comfort to the next level, making life on the road that little bit more comfortable.

A huge thank you to Volvo Group and MC Truck and Bus Ltd for their continued partnership and support in helping us keep our fleet modern, efficient, and driver focused.

We’re committed to investing in the best technology and comfort for our team and customers, ensuring we stay ahead in both performance and sustainability. Here’s to more miles, more efficiency, and happy drivers!

Driving Change: How sustainability and last-mile innovation are shaping the future of freight

The freight and logistics industry is at a crossroads. With global net-zero targets looming, tightening environmental regulations, and shifting customer expectations, companies must rethink how they move goods, especially in the fast-paced, high-demand world of last-mile delivery.

At the heart of this transformation are two critical drivers: decarbonisation and last-mile innovation. The question isn’t whether to adapt, but how fast and how well.

Why Can’t Decarbonisation Wait?

The UK government, alongside others worldwide, has set ambitious targets to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The transport sector alone accounts for nearly a quarter of the country’s emissions, making it a prime focus for change. To meet these targets, regulators are cracking down on high-emission vehicles, especially in cities.

Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) are expanding across major urban centres, imposing strict charges or outright bans on older diesel and petrol trucks. For freight companies, this means accelerating fleet upgrades from electric vans to hydrogen-fuelled trucks; this is no longer a choice, but a necessity.

At Simarco, we’re always looking for ways to make our operations cleaner and more sustainable. That’s why we’ve been trialling alternative fuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and Biomethane, both of which offer significant reductions in carbon emissions compared to traditional diesel. These trials are an important step in our journey towards a greener future, helping us understand how these fuels can work across our diverse fleet and logistics network.

Customers Demand More and Greener

Today’s customers expect more than just timely deliveries they want their goods moved responsibly. Sustainable supply chains are becoming a non-negotiable factor for many businesses, especially those in sectors like pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and aerospace.

Our AEO-accredited status adds an extra layer of assurance for clients who need compliance, security, and sustainability, ensuring shipments not only arrive faster and safer but with a reduced environmental impact.

The Last-Mile Challenge: Speed vs Sustainability

The rise of ecommerce has transformed delivery expectations. Same-day and next-day deliveries have become standard, with customers demanding flexibility and real-time updates. But this surge puts immense pressure on fleets, especially in congested urban areas where pollution regulations bite hardest.

To address this, logistics providers are innovating fast:

• Micro-fulfilment centres: bring goods closer to customers, reducing travel distances.

• Electric vans and cargo bikes: replace diesel vehicles for urban drop-offs.

• Smart route optimisation: software cuts unnecessary miles and idle time.

• Consolidation hubs: reduce multiple delivery attempts.

Here at Simarco we ensure our electric vehicles are used for all final mile courier deliveries reducing our carbon footprint even further.

Beyond Transport: Greening the Entire Supply Chain

Sustainability isn’t just about the vehicles on the road. It’s about the entire operation. From energy-efficient warehouses to solar-powered facilities, companies are seeking ways to shrink their carbon footprint across every touchpoint.

We are continuously investing in our greener infrastructure, including the installation of motion sensor LED lighting in our Stoke and Witham distribution warehouses which include daylight and occupancy sensors which automatically adjust to the correct brightness. Our Stoke depot also includes rooftop solar panels offsetting our grid electricity usage and the implementation of a rainwater harvesting system which collects roof runoff for toilet flushing or landscape irrigation.

Moreover, our logistics teams work closely with clients to implement sustainable packaging solutions. Such as the removal of all plastic when packing orders, helping to recycle and reuse materials wherever possible, reducing waste and closing the loop on circular supply chains.

In addition, Simarco is committed to reducing waste across every stage of our operations. We’ve introduced recycling and waste segregation initiatives with a zero waste to landfill program and shredding our cardboard for package filler. All of these initiatives are helping build a logistics model where nothing goes to waste.

Looking Ahead: Leadership Through Action

Decarbonisation and last-mile innovation are reshaping logistics and companies that act decisively will lead the pack. Simarco’s approach blends compliance with creativity, regulatory readiness with customer-centric solutions.

By pioneering electric fleets, adopting smart delivery tech, and embedding sustainability into our core services, Simarco not only future proofs our operations but offers clients the confidence that their goods are moving securely, efficiently, and responsibly.

For businesses navigating the complex landscape of international freight, choosing a partner who understands both the challenges and opportunities of sustainability is crucial. Simarco stands ready to lead the way.

Managing Director, Trevor Scott, said “At Simarco we believe that sustainability and innovation are not optional, they are fundamental to how we deliver value. Our approach is built around our three pillars of People, Planet and Prosperity; enabling us to help protect the environment, uplift our communities and generate long-term stakeholder value.

From investing in alternative fuels like HVO, installing solar power, rainwater harvesting and LED lighting in our depots, we are embedding sustainability into every part of our logistics chain.

I am proud that we are proactively transforming how goods move, how our facilities operate and how we partner with like-minded clients and partners to pursue greener, smarter delivery solutions. In today’s world, decarbonisation and last-mile innovation are no longer a ‘nice to have’, they define the leaders of tomorrow’s logistics’ industry”.

Expanding Our Ocean Freight Services from Ipswich

We’re excited to share that our service offering has grown with the opening of a new office in Ipswich, ideally located near the Port of Felixstowe, the UK’s busiest container port.

Our experienced Felixstowe team operating from this strategic location, will continue to deliver dependable and efficient Ocean Freight solutions. From Ocean imports and exports to Customs clearance, container haulage, and fully bonded/ ETSF Warehousing for devanning containers.

This expansion strengthens our presence in the region and enhances the support we provide to businesses across the UK and beyond, all as part of the wider Simarco International network.

Kinga Smashes Potters ’Arf Marathon and Supports Local Children’s Charity

A big congratulations to our amazing European Operations Administrator, Kinga, who smashed the Potters ’Arf Marathon last week!

Not only did she take on one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most challenging routes, with its famous hills and incredible community spirit, but she also raised funds for a cause close to her heart The Peter Pan Centre for Children with Special Needs

A shoutout also goes to Sheila from our Reception Team, who volunteered her time to support the event on behalf of The Peter Pan Centre for Children with Special Needs. Her help behind the scenes made a real impact, and we’re so proud of both of them for getting involved in such a meaningful way.

The Potters ’Arf is a beloved local event known for its tough course, enthusiastic supporters, and strong community vibes. And Kinga absolutely nailed it!

We’re so proud to have people like Kinga and Sheila on our team, determined, passionate, and always thinking of others. Well done!

Simarco Bets on the East: How UK Logistics is Finding New Growth in Romania

When most people picture European trade, their minds jump instinctively to the familiar corridors of the EU core: Germany’s autobahns, France’s highways, the Dutch and Belgian ports that have long been the arteries of commerce. But increasingly, that picture is incomplete. A quieter shift is unfolding to the east, and companies like us are putting ourselves at the forefront.

For ourselves, the new battleground is in corridors that were once overlooked such as, UK–Romania. These routes long considered niche or ‘special projects,’ are starting to show the kind of volume and reliability that can change the logistics map of Europe.

From overlooked to essential

The pivot is no accident. In July, DP World completed a round of upgrades at Romania’s Port of Constanța, installing new scanning and yard automation technologies. The impact has been immediate: average transit times in the region have been cut almost in half.

At the same time, trade between Britain and Romania is growing faster than many expected. UK government figures released in August put bilateral trade at £9.9 billion in the year to Q1 2025, with exports from the UK to Romania up 11.3 percent. That’s no longer fringe business, it’s enough volume to demand regular services.

Romania itself is helping fuel the trend. Early August saw the first stretch of the new Aleșd–Hungarian border rail line enter service, a small but symbolic piece of a much larger infrastructure puzzle. Add to that fresh EU funding for rail and cross-border projects announced in July, and the region’s east–west links look set to strengthen even further.

Simarco’s move

Against this backdrop, we are pushing to make ‘beyond-core’ corridors feel mainstream. We are committed to regular UK–Romania groupage departures, giving exporters predictable services rather than ad-hoc arrangements.

But speed is only part of the story. What really matters for shippers is confidence. You can promise transit times, but unless you have local partners clearing customs, moving goods inland, and solving problems quickly, it doesn’t stick. That’s where we have invested.

Those investments include a strong partner network in Romania, as well as improved digital tracking systems that offer more transparency on shipments. For customers, especially SMEs exporting to new markets, the combination of predictable schedules and better visibility makes the difference between experimenting with a new trade lane and making it a regular part of their supply chain.

Over the last four years, we have also extended our partnerships across Europe, giving clients a one-stop solution for their shipping requirements, including emerging markets beyond the European Union. This strategy not only strengthens our network but also increases our ability to capture market share in new territories.

Beyond Romania: A wider European footprint

Our push east does not stop at Romania. We also offer:

• Norway: Weekly groupage departure from Stoke to Oslo.
• Hungary: Weekly direct departures in partnership with our Budapest-based partner.
• Romania: Weekly direct departures with our Timisoara-based partner.
• Bulgaria: Service available via our Hungary hub.
• Serbia: Twice-weekly direct departures to Belgrade, used as a gateway into the Balkan countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.
• Switzerland: Twice weekly export and import groupage trailers between the UK and Switzerland

This wider network means our customers are not restricted to Western Europe’s traditional corridors. Instead, they gain seamless access to high-growth regions that are becoming central to the continent’s logistics future.

A wider trend in the Black Sea

Simarco is not alone in seeing the opportunity. Ro-ro and short-sea operators reported stronger August volumes through the Black Sea, suggesting that what was once a workaround is fast becoming a stable corridor. Industry coverage also highlights a surge in shipping activity in the region, even as operators work to manage security risks.

That momentum is important: forwarders can only offer reliable weekly services when they can count on carriers, ports, and inland networks to back them up. With the pieces falling into place, the east–southeast lanes are finally reaching that critical mass.

What it means for business

For manufacturers and exporters, the implications are tangible. Instead of defaulting to Western Europe’s congested corridors, UK companies with customers in Bucharest, Cluj, or Timișoara can look east with confidence. Faster transit, more stable pricing, and stronger infrastructure mean these routes are no longer the exception but an increasingly smart choice.

The bigger story is that logistics players like us are helping to normalise this shift. By marrying infrastructure gains with on-the-ground partnerships and dependable schedules, we are turning ‘underused’ corridors into Europe’s next growth lanes.