Automotive logistics solutions

Discover innovative ways to overcome automotive disruptions with our integrated logistics, making your supply chain more flexible and agile.

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DFDS automotive industry q1 2018

Driving your business forward with premium automotive logistics solutions

The automotive industry is evolving, with sustainability and connectivity at its core. Having a knowledgeable team of industry experts with extensive experience in the automotive sector is essential for navigating processes, identifying trends, and achieving new production milestones. With advanced digital tools and proactive, integrated solutions, we can guide you toward a future of lasting success in your automotive supply chain.

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Electrification of logistics solutions

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation as more manufacturers and customers move from traditional petrol-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). This shift is reshaping the future of the industry.

How can DFDS support your EV battery logistics?

DFDS provides specialised logistics services for EV batteries. We manage firewall tests, quality and performance assessments, quarantine stock, and handle product returns and disposal. Our expertise ensures that your EV operations run smoothly, allowing you to focus on driving innovation.

DFDS automotive, Flandria Seaways

Empty containers management

Packaging materials like crates, cages, pallets, and boxes are essential for transporting products from suppliers to production lines. These materials are not only reusable but recyclable, making efficient management a priority.

How can DFDS support your empty container management?

DFDS offers comprehensive empty container management services to streamline logistics and support a sustainable supply chain. Our automotive logistics solutions cover all aspects of handling and transportation to maximise efficiency, including:

  • Loading, positioning, and unloading of containers

  • Detailed record-keeping for precise tracking

  • Customs clearance coordination for temporary import/export in international transport

  • Integration with domestic Milk Run operations for seamless delivery

  • End-to-end tracking and management of empty containers

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Streamlining your inbound automotive logistics

Managing inbound logistics for automotive parts and materials can be challenging, but we make it easy. Our solutions ensure your supplies arrive on time, keeping your production line running smoothly without delays. Our tailored services include:

  • Collection and delivery of automotive parts to your facility

  • Cross-country deliveries for faster shipping

  • Packaging design, re-packing, and quality control

  • Customs handling for easier cross-border logistics

  • Stock management near your assembly line for quick access

  • Order storage and organisation to keep everything on schedule

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Simplifying your outbound automotive logistics

Getting your vehicles or parts to customers is a crucial step in the process. At DFDS, we simplify and streamline outbound automotive logistics, allowing you to focus on producing outstanding products. Our services include:

  • Transportation of finished vehicles

  • Dealer & customer deliveries

  • Aftermarket parts distribution

  • Order fulfilment & packaging

  • Reverse logistics for returns

  • Customs clearance & documentation

  • Multi-modal transport solutions

  • Last-mile delivery services

  • Real-time shipment tracking

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Automotive logistics solutions for the aftermarket

Count on us for end-to-end automotive logistics solutions, with a focus on efficiency, precision, and sustainability. Our value-added services for the automotive industry support smooth operations through these core offerings:

  • Inbound logistics

  • Warehousing & distribution

  • Transportation of finished vehicles

  • Spare parts logistics

  • Customs operations & compliance

  • Just-in-time (JIT) delivery

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Equipment designed for your needs

  • We offer tailor-made automotive transport solutions for tractors, trucks, buses, chassis, and construction equipment.

  • Benefit from our asset-based 3PL solutions, including dedicated vessels, trains, trailers, terminals, containers, and swap bodies.

  • Our modern vessels are equipped with hanging car decks.

  • Our trailer fleets feature anti-slash curtains for enhanced cargo protection.

  • All our box trailers are equipped with digital on-board tracking for added security (TAPA certified).

  • Our pre-delivery inspection (PDI) facilities ensure your automotive cargo leaves the terminal in top condition.

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Supply chain control and visibility

  • A dedicated DFDS Control Tower can manage the entire process, end-to-end.

  • Your automotive cargo is fully traceable in real time.

  • We offer integrated solutions to improve data management efficiency.

  • Monitor automotive stock and movements using the online Warehouse Management System (WMS), Empirica.

  • Advanced tracking enables independent tracking of both units and trailers, with live temperature monitoring and historical records available for audits.

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Contact your local DFDS office.

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FAQs about the automotive industry

Automotive logistics is defined as the careful planning and execution of a difficult car transportation process. Auto logistics providers cover all modes of transportation, such as sea, road and rail. Unlike other automotive logistics companies, DFDS has the best in class service with less 0.3% damage rate.

The automotive supply chain includes all inbound and outbound goods, services, and parts that are relevant to your company's operations.

The biggest challenge for the automotive supply chain is visibility. Concern about visibility is 81% in the automotive sector, compared to 70% across other industries.

Automotive suppliers are companies that produce goods that are used in the production phase of automobiles or become part of automobiles, supplying these either directly or indirectly to an automobile manufacturer (also known as an OEM).

Our logistics solutions cover the UK, Europe, and global markets, supported by central distribution centres for efficient distribution. We manage components and goods with tailored transport solutions, utilising a fleet of vehicles. Our comprehensive warehouse services ensure secure storage and seamless supply chain management across all regions.