Consumer goods and FMCG logistics

Replenishment and promotional inventory

For recurring shipments, explain the expected frequency and volume as well as the next delivery requirement. The transport plan can then be assessed as a stock flow rather than a series of unrelated consignments. Changes in supplier readiness or promotional timing should be part of that discussion.

Containerised goods and planned inventory can be considered for ocean freight. Air freight may suit an urgent replenishment or promotional requirement, while road freight supports suitable regional and cross-border movements. Air, ocean and road freight are available across all three offices. Rail is available through the Netherlands and China, not Germany.

Shipments containing several stock-keeping units need clear product and quantity information. Supplier collection, consolidation and any storage can be assessed where available and agreed. A mixed load still needs review at product level if individual items have special handling requirements.

Separate food from non-food FMCG

Food products are supported through China, not through the Netherlands or Germany offices. The wider consumer goods offering does not override that restriction. If a shipment contains food, identify it in the enquiry so that the appropriate office can assess the cargo.

For perishable or temperature-sensitive food, use the food and perishables guidance. Product acceptance, shelf life and required conditions need review before transport is agreed. Non-food FMCG can also have handling requirements, so a packaged retail format alone does not establish suitability.

High-value, temperature-sensitive and regulated goods

High-value goods capability is available in the Netherlands and China and limited in Germany. Declare the nature and value of the cargo and explain any packaging or handling needs before booking.

Temperature-controlled logistics and dangerous-goods logistics are available for suitable products, subject to the particular shipment requirements. Identify any regulated items and provide their classification and relevant transport information. Germany's dangerous-goods restrictions include radioactive cargo and Class 1. Route, carrier and destination restrictions still apply.

Specific temperature conditions and equipment must be agreed for the movement. Cargo insurance can be discussed for suitable goods, with the proposed cover confirmed for the shipment rather than assumed from the product category.

Warehousing and distribution by office

Warehousing is available across all three offices for suitable products. Agree the storage requirement and receiving location alongside the freight plan, including how the goods are expected to move onward.

Distribution is available through the Netherlands and China. It is not a Germany office service. Freight and warehousing support in Germany do not establish a local distribution operation, even where the destination is a retailer or distributor.

This offering covers agreed freight, storage and distribution movements. Direct-to-consumer parcel delivery and fulfilment are not included as standard services described on this page.

Build the shipment plan

1. Define the products, quantities, shipment frequency, origin, destination and required arrival.

2. Compare freight modes against the cargo profile, timing and budget.

3. Review commercial and transport documentation. Import or export customs coordination can be included through the relevant office where agreed.

4. Confirm supplier collection and any suitable consolidation or storage before the international movement. Agree communication at shipment milestones.

5. Arrange delivery to the agreed warehouse, distributor or customer location, with local distribution included only where supported and agreed.