Smart supply chain solutions for driven businesses in Staffordshire and beyond

Supply chain headaches are for yesterday. Join hundreds of smart businesses making the switch to reliable, fuss-free pallet transport.

We're a family-run transport company that's been around for three generations.

Our award-winning team knows every trick in the book when it comes to keeping your supply chain running like clockwork. That’s why so many businesses across Staffordshire trust us to get the job done. 

Looking for a logistics partner you can count on? One that’s got clever tracking and real, helpful customer support? You’re in the right place!

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Moving Distribution Forward

What we do

With 70 years of experience under our belt, we know a thing or two about keeping your supply chain in check. From warehousing to transport, we’ve got the services you need to tackle any logistics challenge that comes your way. Whatever the load, whatever the road.

Truckloads (FTL)

Reliable and cost-effective pallet transport for full truckloads across the UK and Ireland. No fuss, no hassle - just your goods where they need to be, on time and within budget.

Send a Load

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Part Loads (LTL)

Quick and reliable transport for smaller loads across the UK. With our cost-effective grouping of loads, you save money while we get your goods moving, fast and hassle-free.

Get a Quote

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Pallet Network

Next-day UK delivery and economy services to over 29 European countries, including inbound freight to Amazon. Whether urgent or no rush, we’ve got your pallets covered.

See How It Works

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Warehousing & Storage

An end-to-end warehousing solution and BRCGS 'AA' accredited pallet storage.

Get Started

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You can count on us for a customer service experience that’s genuinely personal. Real people, ready to help whenever you need it.

Our team knows the transport industry inside out. With plenty of hands-on experience, we’re here to make your life easier, ensuring smooth deliveries that meet your needs and keep your customers smiling.

Super-fast Resolutions

Record response and resolution times.

Account Managers

Online, email and telephone support from 6am-10pm.

On-the-go Tracking

SMS updates, photo PODs and app tracking.

Performance Reporting

Monthly KPI reporting and regular SLA monitoring.

Track your goods with with total peace of mind

From start to finish, you’ll have full visibility of your consignments with real-time SMS updates, 2-hour delivery windows and photo proof of delivery. 

And when you're on the move, our mobile app lets you keep tabs on your deliveries with just a few taps.

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Latest news and updates

Stay in the loop with all the goings on at Browns HQ!

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Industry

Discussing the challenging road ahead: David Brown Jnr meets with Bank of England

Last week, I had the privilege of meeting with Andrew Bailey , the Governor of the Bank of England , to discuss the significant challenges facing the road transport sector over the next five years. I was joined by Richard Smith, Managing Director of the Road Haulage Association (RHA) , Alex Knowles, Managing Director at Knowles Logistics , and Michael Cundy, Managing Director of Suttons Tankers. We had open and honest discussions about the haulage industry, focusing on the challenges faced by both individual operators and the sector as a whole. These conversations highlighted the significant role our industry plays in supporting the UK economy and its impact on the cost of goods and services nationwide. Andrew was not only receptive to our concerns but also genuinely surprised by some of the headwinds we encounter, particularly the rising costs and market pressures that affect our day-to-day operations. As many of my colleagues know, running a transport company is becoming increasingly expensive. In recent years, record numbers of hauliers have, unfortunately, been forced out of business due to high operating costs and reduced volumes. These issues are compounded by contracts that fail to keep pace with escalating fuel and energy prices and the competitive disadvantages we face within the European market. We emphasised the urgent need for government intervention to reduce the pressure on our sector. Fuel costs alone account for a significant portion of operating expenses (around 31-36% for the average fleet). With the added burden of rising vehicle and maintenance costs, any potential increase in fuel duty would be a devastating blow to many businesses. Several measures were also proposed that the government could adopt to support our industry and deliver wider economic benefits. One key recommendation was the introduction of an essential user rebate, reducing the cost of fuel for commercial vehicles by 15 pence per litre. This would provide much-needed relief to hauliers and bring UK fuel duty levels more in line with those across Europe. As a member of the RHA and a business leader who witnesses these industry struggles first-hand, I was grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this discussion and ensure our sector's concerns are considered in future government decision-making. Something that is essential if we are to secure a stable future for the UK’s road transport industry. David Brown Jnr Managing Director, Browns Distribution

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Company

Summer Bank Holiday Schedule

With the Summer Bank Holiday weekend just around the corner, we've put together our schedule so you can plan ahead. Our office will be closed from Saturday through to Monday. If you have any questions before the break, please contact us. From all the team at Browns, we'd like to wish you a relaxing weekend. Date Office Earliest Delivery Friday 23 August Open Next day - Tues 27 Aug Economy - Weds 28/Thurs 29 Aug Saturday 24 August Closed Sunday 25 August Closed Monday 26 August Closed Tuesday 27 August Open Normal operation resumed

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IndustryInsight

Understanding Logistics Models: A brief guide to 1, 2, 3, and 4PL!

In the world of logistics, terminology can often be confusing. Even those in the industry occasionally need a moment to recall the meaning of an acronym. Terms like 3PL, and 4PL are frequently used, but what do they mean, and how do they differ? Understanding these logistics models is crucial for businesses looking to optimise their supply chain operations. Below, we’ve broken down each model, from 1 to 4, to clarify their meanings, benefits and the type of businesses you’ll typically see making use of them! 1PL (First-Party Logistics) First-Party Logistics refers to a business managing its own logistics and supply chain operations, without outsourcing. This includes handling transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and distribution internally. Typically, this model is only suitable for small businesses with simple logistics needs and sufficient resources to manage operations in-house. Pros Cons Full control over the supply chain. Direct oversight of processes and operations. Potential cost savings by eliminating middlemen. High capital investment in infrastructure and technology. Limited scalability and flexibility. Higher risk of inefficiency and errors without specialised expertise. 2PL (Second-Party Logistics) Second-Party Logistics involves outsourcing transportation and logistics functions to external providers. These providers are typically asset-based carriers such as freight forwarders. The 2PL model is Ideal for businesses looking to outsource transportation while retaining control over other logistics functions. Pros Cons Access to specialised transportation services. Potential cost savings on transportation. Flexibility in choosing different carriers for specific needs. Limited control over the logistics process. Coordination challenges with multiple carriers. Potential communication gaps leading to inefficiencies. 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) Third-Party Logistics refers to outsourcing a broader range of logistics services to external providers. 3PL companies offer comprehensive solutions, including transportation, warehousing, inventory management, order fulfilment, and even returns processing. Admin: Browns is a great example of a typical 3PL provider. We can handle every part of a supply chain operation including transport, warehousing and fulfilment. Check out more here. The 3PL model is best for businesses seeking a comprehensive logistics solution to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs. Pros Cons Comprehensive logistics solutions from a single provider. Access to advanced technology and expertise. Scalability and flexibility to meet changing business needs. Enhanced efficiency and reduced operational costs. More time and energy to focus on core business. Dependency on the 3PL provider for critical operations. Potential challenges in maintaining consistent service quality. Possible higher costs compared to handling logistics in-house. 4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics) Fourth-Party Logistics involves outsourcing the management of the entire supply chain to a single provider. A 4PL acts as an integrator, coordinating and managing multiple 3PLs and other logistics functions to provide end-to-end supply chain solutions. Admin: At Browns, we have great relationships with some of the UK’s largest 4PL providers, which sees us working hand-in-hand with other hauliers to store and move goods across the country. The 4PL model can be intricate, and is perfect for large enterprises with complex supply chains requiring end-to-end management and strategic optimisation. Pros Cons Holistic supply chain management and optimisation. Strategic focus on improving the overall supply chain performance. Single point of contact for all logistics and supply chain needs. Enhanced visibility and control over the entire supply chain. Higher costs due to comprehensive service offerings. Increased dependency on the 4PL provider. Potential challenges in aligning business goals and strategies. And there you have it! Understanding the differences between logistics models is essential for businesses looking to improve their supply chain. Each model has its own benefits and challenges, and choosing the right one, as well as the right partner, can greatly affect a business' efficiency, costs, and overall success. Looking to outsource your supply chain operations? Our team is just a phone call or message away.

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Browns' online digital signature, POD availability, and driver location facilities have become important features in our customer service. Enabling quicker query response times, they improve our customer service and time efficiency, which in today's competitive markets is vital for custom retention.

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Logistics Director
Altrad Belle
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