According to government figures, the average UK diesel price reached 200.04p per litre on 12 October following several weeks of increases. Ongoing conflict in the Middle East, disruption to global fuel supplies and pressure on refining capacity have all contributed to the rise.

Although there have been some signs of wholesale prices easing, uncertainty remains over how quickly this will translate into lower costs at the pumps. With diesel representing one of the largest operating expenses for hauliers, sustained increases inevitably have an impact on transport rates.

For many operators, these pressures come on top of rising insurance, maintenance, employment and general operating costs. Road haulage remains a highly competitive industry, often operating on relatively small margins, leaving businesses with limited scope to absorb further increases.

As transport costs continue to rise, businesses are increasingly looking at ways to make their shipments more cost-effective without compromising delivery times.

Birmingham-based Simpex Express is now highlighting the benefits of co-loading as one way businesses can manage rising transport costs while also reducing their environmental impact.

Although dedicated express transport remains a core service, not every urgent shipment requires an entire van.

Managing director Simon Beechener  said: “By combining smaller consignments travelling on compatible routes, Simpex's semi-express co-loading van service makes better use of available van space, offering near-dedicated express transit times at a lower cost than a fully dedicated van.

“Making better use of existing transport capacity can also help reduce unnecessary journeys and the emissions associated with sending separate vans for individual shipments”

Simpex’s semi-express services operate to and from 26 European countries.  The service provides businesses with a practical alternative at a time when managing transport costs and reducing environmental impact are becoming increasingly important.

Visit the website for more information or email hello@simpex.co.uk