Increased freight handling capability for Southampton

The new yard, created in a deal between Southampton Container Terminal operator DP World and Williams Shipping, is twice the size of the existing yard which is outside the port. It’s predicted that the short move and expansion of operations could at least double the amount of cargo passing through.

“We have been running cargo operations for decades, but this side of our work has grown significantly in recent years,” said Jonathan Williams, managing director of the Cargo Division of Williams Shipping.

“The increased capacity that this creates in port haulage operations will be a significant benefit to freight forwarding companies and shipping lines that have often been forced onto a waiting list for their chance to move their goods.”

Freight forwarding

Williams Shipping’s 22 truck fleet is a familiar sight on the UK’s roads – hauling from 44 tonnes up to 150 tonnes gross and seven brand new DAF trucks are being added to the fleet this year in a further significant financial investment in the business.

Much of the haulage work the Williams team is fulfilling is awkwardly-shaped industrial goods that would not easily fit inside a shipping container.

Recent examples include very heavy and wide cable reels that needed heavy haulage, a significant number of large, industrial batteries and a Rolls Royce aircraft engine.

“Moving into this new yard alongside the Container Terminal is a very significant milestone for Williams Shipping and especially our Cargo Division. We see this leading to significant growth for both us and DP World over the coming years as a direct result of this move,” added Mr  Williams.

The existing Williams Shipping Millbrook cargo yard will continue to be used for additional open air and long-term equipment storage.