Palletforce is celebrating a famous win at the transport industry’s premier awards event after topping the Best Use of Technology category at the Motor Transport Awards.
The UK’s leading freight distribution network beat off stiff competition from finalists Tarmac Trading, Cawley’s Waste Management, and Eddie Stobart Logistics. However, the judges were most impressed by Palletforce’s £1.3 million investment in technology to create a fleet of Super Forklift trucks which deliver benefits across its membership.
Boasting sector-leading innovation, the Super Forklifts are equipped with patented weighing technology, meaning Palletforce is the only network with the capability to weigh every pallet passing through its hub to enable safer loading of vehicles and handling of pallets.
State-of-the-art imaging and scanning technology on each machine has helped improve pallet handling and reduce turnaround times by 20 per cent, while also providing additional tracking information to members.
The reduction in sortation times allow member trunk vehicles to return to depots earlier and improve service levels by getting delivery vehicles on the road sooner.
Michael Conroy, Palletforce chief executive, said: “We are thrilled with this award as it is a result of our continued investment in technology and proof that Palletforce continues to lead innovation, not just within the pallet sector, but the wider industry as a whole. We aim to use our technology expertise to support our expansion in Europe and Asia, and are investigating the use of artificial intelligence to help take our business to the next level.”
Dean Hughes, Palletforce IT director, said: “The award acknowledges our strive to introduce technology to keep Palletforce at the forefront of innovation and deliver operational and commercial benefits to our members. This technology is exclusive to the Palletforce network and has improved operations and ensured consignments are loaded intelligently bearing in mind both safety and fuel efficiency.”
This year’s Motor Transport Awards were held at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on 4 July. Palletforce was also shortlisted in the Apprenticeship of the Year and Business Excellence categories.
