The chemical industry is one of the most successful and competitive industries, supplying virtually all other sectors with crucial intermediate and end products. This supply is only made possible by high production standards, comprehensive infrastructure, and tailored logistics with a clear focus on reliability, quality, and safety.
Chemistry and progress form an exceedingly stable bond. The idea of using chemistry to change something for the better is even in the etymology of the word “chemistry”. The ancient Greek word derived from chēmeía, meaning “the transformation of metal,” or alloying. Over the millennia, science has undergone its own kind of transformation. Whereas early alchemists were primarily interested in producing gold, later scientists turned to examine the properties of the elements and compounds, an activity providing much deeper insights.
From clothing fibres to detergents, fertilisers, paints, plastics, and adhesives: chemistry shapes every aspect of our life and work like no other industry. With its diverse processing and manufacturing activities, the chemical sector is one of the most competitive and successful industries in Europe. According to the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic), the chemical industry in Europe, which employs over 1.1 million people, and generated EUR 543 billion in sales in 2019 is more than a key driver of prosperity. As the second-largest producer after China, it also plays a fundamental role in driving innovation within other industries. Indeed, it invests more than EUR 10 billion (2019 figure) annually in research and development.
According to Statista.com, the 3,600 plus UK chemical companies employed over 152,000 people and generated an annual revenue of EUR62.8 billion in 2019. In trading terms, last year, the value of chemical exports from the country reached USD62.7 billion, nearly in balance with imports at USD64.4 billion.
Clearly, the movement of chemical goods plays a significant role in the national economy.
All signs point to continuing growth
Chemical research centres, factories, and logistics chains are interwoven across the continent, constantly coming up with new ideas and innovative materials for products that contributes to our hygiene, safety, comfort, and enjoyment in a whole variety of different ways. “All signs point to continuing growth in the chemical industry, largely driven by ongoing innovation and diversification in materials and components in the manufacturing and construction sectors as well as in consumer goods,” says Michael Kriegel, Department Head DACHSER Chem Logistics. “Logistics solutions tailored to the specific needs of the chemical industry give UK companies certainty that they can plan on having secure access to European and global markets at all times.”
A bespoke industry solution
DACHSER has built up decades of experience, as well as a tightly-knit transport and warehouse network for packaged chemical products. “Our DACHSER Chem Logistics global industry solution, which we launched in 2007, combines the standardised network services of one of Europe’s largest groupage logistics providers, with specific, tailored chemical logistics expertise,” Kriegel explains. “Put in chemistry terms, DACHSER want to create the perfect compound solution for their customers.”
In 2020, DACHSER Chem Logistics handled around 4 million shipments weighing 3.4 million metric tonnes, including 1.25 million dangerous goods shipments weighing 457,000 metric tonnes. With its global land, air, and sea freight transport network, the logistics service provider embodies process reliability with its defined procedures, reliable transit times, and the capacity it offers. Furthermore, its quality and safety standards far exceed the legal requirements; DACHSER has been a trusted partner of the VCI for forwarding services by road, air, and sea since 2009.
Access to all worldwide sales and procurement markets
DACHSER has its own transport network with daily services to and from the UK, connecting with locations throughout Europe, the CIS states, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East—with uniform logistics standards governing all operations. Through its direct transports, platforms, and hub solutions, DACHSER minimises the handling of sensitive chemical goods, which categorically enhances both safety and process quality when dealing with chemical products.
DACHSER can put together an attractive, comprehensive package for chemical customers. A specially designed integrated logistics solution was created, in collaboration with DACHSER Contract Logistics, safely storing chemical products within warehouses. For its part, DACHSER Air & Sea Logistics can provide a one-stop-shop with fast and flexible access to all worldwide sales and procurement markets.
Holistic, industry-specific logistics concepts are an essential pillar of the DACHSER Chem Logistics strategy for success. All transports are handled in the network using efficient, IT-based route planning and uniform standards. The entargo product family has the right solution for every transport requirement. The experts at DACHSER also advise customers within the chemical industry on storage, site optimisation, and industry-specific warehousing and stock withdrawal strategies.
Efficient systems and high-quality data
IT underpins the efficiency of the European and global logistics network. Thanks to standardised, globally connected systems, efficient processes and high-quality data at all times are assured. DACHSER plays a pivotal role with its integrated core transport and warehouse management systems: the EDI Centre as a central communication platform, the eLogistics web portal, and the ActiveReport supply chain management tool. Data security for these systems is certified according to ISO 27001.
Safety first
Safety is always the top priority at DACHSER. This is reflected in the automated application of all global dangerous goods regulations, the consistent availability and use of load-securing equipment, mandatory vehicle and loading inspections in addition to DGR checks (following the dangerous goods regulations for air transport). Further examples are; the provision of rescue equipment and personal protective clothing and equipment, plus consulting on packaging and loading specifically for dangerous goods.
People make a difference
The correct handling of dangerous goods calls for highly trained specialists along the entire logistics chain. Mandatory standards applicable to everyone involved are also a must. To this end, in its central dangerous goods management system for Road Logistics and Air & Sea Logistics, DACHSER has established standardised, internal regulations with defined transport exclusions and risk assessments. DACHSER has more than 250 regional dangerous goods safety advisors, who conduct regular internal and external training for over 15,800 employees worldwide each year. The aim is to ensure in-house expertise in handling dangerous substances thanks to specially trained employees and industry experts.
A clear reflection of this is that DACHSER’s 24 European locations received positive SQAS (Safety & Quality Assessment for Sustainability) evaluations for their performance based on Cefic’s “Transport Service” and “Warehouse” assessment questionnaires. The SQAS assessment provides a statement of facts attesting to the performance of safety, health, environmental, and quality management systems. With this proactive quality monitoring by neutral assessors, customers can be assured of the highest performance standards continuously.
DACHSER is constantly creating a reaction to prompt changes, a philosophy that is fully in line with the essence of chemistry. It’s not always comfortable, but as the great physicist and chemist Marie Curie was well aware: “One never notices what has been done, one can only see what remains to be done.” On the other hand, that is precisely how you prepare for the future.
dachser.co.uk
