r&s february 2013

February 2013 Removals & Storage 1

Features

www.bar.co.uk

Removals & StorageThe Magazine of the British Association of Removers

Inside this Issue

Industry News BAR News

>> Government proposes HGV testing changes

>> Fines for HSE breaches

>> Saluting James Falkner>> BAR backs Get Britain Building campaign

>> Last call for DMotY 2013

>> Vintage and state of the art Vehicle Exhibition

Features

>> Why Maidmans set up a document shredding service

>> Demount trucks take to the road

Breaking News

First Data aids GB Liners to improve payment processing

February 2013 // Issue 463 // £4

On the coverHow First Data Merchant Solutions helped GB Liners improve payment processing, costs, capabilities and security by transforming the way they take card payments. Page 47

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Features

Removals & Storage February 2013


Features

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BAR News


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Industry News

February 2013 Removals & Storage

News from Watford

Update on arrangements for the Trading Standards Institute to take over as sponsor of the BAR Code of Practice, election of a new Directly Elected Director and outsourcing dispute resolution.

On the cover: First Data’s chip and pin solution.5

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Contents

Annual investment allowance soars If you are thinking of purchasing assets for your business, it is worth noting that the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) – which offers tax relief at 100% on qualifying expenditure in the year of purchase – has increased ten-fold to £250,000.

Contents

Industry News

Just a snippet...• Annual investment allowance soars • New fi nes for HSE breaches• Government consults on HGV testing• ITV makes stars of Britannia Lanes• Starline installs Google offi ce tour app

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BAR News

Launch of the BAR Move Planner, nominate a BAR Directly Elected Director and fi nd out about BAR’s online resources for marketing storage services.

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• The R&S Interview: Ian Smith, Maguire Training• New Member: Surrey Hills Removals• Employment Tribunal rules: three strikes and you’re out?• Why Maidmans set up document shredding services • How to deliver redundancy news

Features47

Young Movers

After estimating training, a chance to network over chocolate tasting.

Young Mover Profi le

Barry Howitt, one of Scotland’s fi nest!

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BAR Services24

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People News57

Diary Dates 58

QSS Update

Overseas Group News Self Storage Special Interest Group News

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Commercial Moving Group News27 Training News44

European News36

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Saluting James FalknerBAR’s Company Secretary James Falkner is retiring after three and a half years in the position. A former infantry offi cer as well as a prolifi c military historian, James always kept his head about him even when those around him came close to losing theirs!

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Demount trucks take to the roads In today’s removals market the name of the game is getting as much out of your vehicles and equipment as is possible. For this reason, Demount trucks may be a compelling proposition for removals companies.

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BAR News


News from Watford

Arrangements for the Trading Standards Institute to take over from the Office of Fair Trading as sponsor of the BAR Code of Practice have progressed well so that the new regime will be in place, ready for 1st April. At a practical day to day level, other than necessary re-branding, Members should not notice a great deal of change in the operation of the Code for the time being. Discussions regarding the new ’brand’ have not progressed that far yet, but we have been assured that the new brand will be in place in good time. In the meanwhile, the trial period of the new annual inspection regime is underway, and feedback received so far from Members has been pretty positive. One or two glitches have been identified, understandably, and these are in the process of being ironed out.

There is a perception, inevitable perhaps, amongst some customers that we unduly favour our Members when attempting to resolve complaints. Well, some complaints do defy the imagination, but many are genuine and the trial of the new ‘outsourced’ conciliation service, using the services of the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR), is underway for those complaints that we have been unable to

resolve with a couple of simple telephone calls. As mentioned in last month’s ‘News’, this innovative new approach has the immediate advantage of being seen by the consumer to be absolutely impartial. Once the trial is concluded, and its effectiveness assessed, we will decide whether or not to make the change permanent.

The Election round, a key part of the democratic process for the Association, is fast approaching, and well-known Member Brian Maidman, who has valiantly served as a Directly Elected Director on the BAR Board since 2009, is standing down in May. wA replacement will be sought for this important post, providing a direct link between the membership and the Board, and ensuring as far as possible that the views and concerns of Members are fully represented. So, watch out for the notice calling for volunteers which will come out during February, and give some thought to whether you might be able to stand. Elections for fresh faces on functional group councils (Commercial and Overseas), BAR(S), and QSS, will be held over the same period.

And finally, as the saying goes, this is the last occasion when as Company Secretary I have the privilege of sharing a few thoughts, news and views, with the Association. I must thank everyone, Members and staff, for all their support and friendship over the past three and a half years, a time which, despite occasional challenges, I have very much enjoyed. I wish you all the very best of good fortune for the future.

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Contact Details:

Editorial Contributions on all aspects of the removals and storage industry are welcome, together with photographs if appropriate.

Please contact the Managing Editor, Louise Gale on:Tel: 020 3235 1806Email: [email protected]

Advertising For all enquiries and bookings, please contact Steve Pearce on:Tel: 0117 957 5400Email: [email protected] or [email protected]: The booking deadline for all display advertisements for the March 2013 issue of R&S is 11 February.

Subscriptions Removals & Storage is subscribed to by members of the British Association of Removers in the UK and Overseas. Current annual subscription is £48.00 in the UK and £72.00 overseas. Additional subscriptions are available from BAR.

Registered as a magazine © The British Association of Removers 2013. ISSN 0034-4265

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be scanned, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in part or whole in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the British Association of Removers.

Opinions expressed in Removals & Storage are not necessarily those of the publisher, British Association of Removers.The description of a product or service in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the publisher.The publisher does not accept any responsibility for any claims by advertisers.The articles in this publication are for general information only and are not intended to be advice to any specific person.Readers are recommended to seek professional advice before taking or refraining from taking any action on the basis of the contents of any article in this publication.

The British Association of Removers

Tel: 01923 699 480 Fax: 01923 699 481 Email: [email protected]

Tangent House, 62 Exchange Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD18 OTG

President: Ian StuddDirector General: Stephen VickersCompany Secretary: James Falkner (retires 7th February 2013) / Paul Swindon (takes up position 8 February 2013)

Removals & Storage is designed on behalf of The British Association of Removers by:Rubicon Marketing Ltd. Tel: 0117 957 5400Email: [email protected]

Removals & Storage is written and edited for the British Association of Removers by Analytica MediaTel: 0203 235 1800 Email: [email protected]

Copy and advertising deadlines 2013 for future issues of R&S magazineArticle submission: 2nd of the month preceding publication

Booking of display Adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of classified Adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Booking of trade Adverts: 10th of the month preceding publication

Artwork for Adverts: 15th of the month preceding publication

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Industry News


Irish applaud fuel rebate Good news for Irish hauliers who will be enjoying a fuel rebate from July 2013! Irish Finance Minister Michael Noonan announced the decision to introduce an Essential User Rebate in his budget at the end of 2012 to assist the competitiveness of the haulage industry. As from 1 July 2013, all hauliers with vehicles over 7.5 tonnes will be eligible for a rebate on diesel, which could be as high as 0.075 euros per litre. “Virtually all businesses in Ireland rely on cost effective transport for their inputs and their outputs. This transport is provided by hauliers, the majority of whom are small businesses.” He added: “This initiative will be strictly policed so as to ensure that the beneficiaries are fully tax compliant.” The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) welcomed the decision which followed nine months of engagement with the Department of Finance, via the IRHA Working Group.

The next stage of the process will be to resume negotiations with the Department of Finance to establish the precise level of the rebate, and to assist with the administration process which will be put in place to apply the mechanism.

HGV numbers dip Latest data from the Department for Transport (DfT) links the prevailing economic situation with a noticeable influence on trends in the number of licensed vehicles, especially commercial vehicles. The numbers of licensed heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the UK decreased by 1.1% over the year to end Quarter 3 2012. The numbers of licensed HGVs have generally been on a downward trend since the economic downturn began in 2008/09, and the rate of increase in other types of vehicles has slowed. The Road Haulage Association said the statistics showed the resilience of the road haulage industry. RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning said “This figure, although down on that for 2010, clearly reflects the increase in efficiency within the industry, the resilience of firms suffering economic difficulty and the fortitude of its workforce. Together these have not only enabled industry to keep the wheels of the economy turning, but are now working hard to increase and improve the UK’s economic future by keeping the supply chain moving.” In total, there were 34.7m vehicles licensed for use on the roads in Great Britain on 30 September 2012. Of these vehicles, 28.8m were cars. The all vehicle figure represents a 0.7% increase on the Q3 2011 figure.

For all BAR Members thinking of purchasing assets for your business, it is well worth noting that the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) increased ten-fold to a record level of £250,000 at the start of the year.

AIA is a kind of capital allowance, which offers tax relief at 100% on qualifying expenditure in the year of purchase.

The increase was announced in the 2012 Autumn Statement and aims to encourage reinvestment of profits. According to Wellers Accountants, it should bring 99% of all business investments in Britain in line for tax relief. Almost any business entity can claim – the only business structures that are not eligible for the AIA are mixed partnerships (these are partnerships that comprise of both individuals and companies) and trustees.

There are also assets such as cars that don’t qualify for the allowance, Wellers says.

According to Wellers, a flat rate of 18% applies to all expenditure beyond the £250,000 in the tax year. The increase will be for two years so businesses should

look to start planning their investments now.Stuart Crook of Wellers Accountants says “it is also

worth noting that if a company is making a capital purchase before 31 March 2013 during the current tax year, the actual allowance would be 9/12 at £25,000 and 3/12 at £250,000. This equates to £81,250 of capital expenditure which would qualify for 100% tax deduction.

We are awaiting confirmation on the wording of the legislation as in strict terms you would be advised to pay for at least £75,000 of these items on or after 1 January 2013 to gain the maximum benefit. Any excess would qualify for writing down allowances at 18% per annum which is a long time to wait for tax relief on capital purchase.

Investments made after 1 January 2013 will be subject to the full £250,000 allowance depending upon the year end of the business. This change, linked with some of the other incentives for purchasing assets, makes it even more crucial that professional advice is sought when planning budgets.”

Annual investment allowance soars Chancellor George Osborne has announced a massive rise in annual investment allowances.

Do you have any news to share with R&S readers?Send to: [email protected]

Industry News

8 Removals & Storage February 2013

New fees for HSE offenders The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has raised concerns that a new fines system for breaches of health and safety rules does not provide sufficient clarity on what constitutes a material breach.

Since October 2012, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been operating a new cost recovery scheme, Fee for Intervention (FFI). Under The Health and Safety (Fees) Regulations 2012, those who break health and safety laws are liable for recovery of HSE’s related costs, including inspection, investigation and taking enforcement action.

According to the HSE, FFI provides a further incentive for businesses to manage health and safety effectively and to operate within the law. The fee payable by dutyholders found to be in material breach of the law is £124 per hour. Before FFI was introduced, this was paid for from the public purse. Geoffrey Podger, HSE’s Chief Executive, said “the most basic safety mistakes in the workplace can devastate lives and result in real costs to industry. It is right that those who fail to meet their legal obligations should pay HSE’s costs rather than the public purse having to do so.”

Material breachThe total amount to be recovered is based on the amount of time it takes HSE to identify and conclude its regulatory action, in relation to the material breach (including associated office work), multiplied by the relevant hourly rate. This will include part hours. A material breach is when, in the opinion of the HSE inspector, there is or has been a contravention of health and safety law that requires them to issue notice in writing of that opinion to the dutyholder. Written notification from an HSE inspector may be by a notification of contravention, an improvement or prohibition notice, or a prosecution.

Businesses that comply with their legal obligations will continue to pay nothing, the HSE says. Dutyholders who are compliant with the law, or where a breach is not material, will not be charged FFI for any work that HSE does with them.

Alex Jackman of the FPB said “Of course we need effective laws governing health and safety in the workplace – and for these laws to be policed – but a situation where breaches are being diagnosed in anything other than a standardised way is not acceptable.” He warned that this move could lead to “wildly different interpretations among inspectors as to what constitutes a breach in the first place. We need clarification without delay.”

Detailed guidance for businesses is available on HSE’s website: www.hse.gov.uk.

Government proposes HGV testing changes The Government has opened a consultation on the Department for Transport’s Motoring Services Strategy and its reform proposals for its four motoring services executive agencies: the Driving Standards Agency (DSA), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

Domestic Mover of the Year 2013

Deadline for entries is 18 February 2013

Application forms can be downloaded from www.bar.co.uk/dmoty2013.aspx

or contact BAR on 01923 699483

One of the DfT’s proposals is to transform HGV testing by expanding joint ventures and collaboration with private sector providers, and reducing the number of government-owned test stations. The DfT said that underpinning the safe and smooth-running of the road network are a number of requirements for owning, operating and driving a vehicle. These include licences for drivers and HGV, driving tests and instructor standards, MOT tests, the safety of trucks, and approvals for vehicle designs and components. In 2011, the DfT’s agencies tested 407,500 HGVs, and oversaw 28m MOT tests, to check that vehicles

were safe and roadworthy. They also checked 148,000 vehicles at the roadside for compliance with safety standards. The DfT said that VOSA has an overall satisfaction rating of 90% and 88% satisfaction with both its testing process and enforcement procedures. The Department aims to deliver the vast majority of HGV tests at authorised testing facilities which are owned and run by customers rather than VOSA. This means there will be as few government-owned test stations as possible, the DfT said – a proposal that has already raised some concern among the road transport industry. The consultation will run until 7 March 2013.

WINNER

DOMESTICMOVER OFTHE YEAR

2013-14

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Industry News


According to Transport for London’s (TfL) new draft Business Plan, around 80% of journeys each day in the capital are made using roads and the Mayor’s investment will look to target congestion as well as manage the competing demands between different types of road user.

In 2014, the Mayor’s Roads Task Force will set out the priorities for investment in London’s road network for all road users. Safety will be a key element of the work, which includes a programme of action to improve junctions that were first designed many decades ago as well as introducing new technology at

traffic signals and pedestrian crossings. London’s Transport Commissioner, Peter Hendy CBE

(pictured above), said: “The stunning success of the London 2012 Games demonstrated what can be done through investment, innovation, operational delivery and a focus on an integrated experience for our customers and users. With London’s population forecast to grow by one million people in the next 20 years, it is essential that we continue to invest in making our network more reliable and that we enable the London and UK economy to grow and prosper in the years ahead.”

London to double road spendingThe Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has unveiled a target of doubling planned spending on London’s roads over the next 10 years rising from a planned £1.9bn to £3.8bn.

ITS goes live in Scotland Cutting edge motorway management technology has gone live on the M90 in Fife – an early benefit of the Forth Replacement Crossing Project.

The Intelligent Transport System (ITS) has been introduced in Scotland for the first time to create a dedicated bus lane and also variable mandatory speed limits to be used during periods of congestion to smooth traffic flow, cut jams and make journey times more reliable.

ITS is already operational in England and uses sensors built into the road to detect when congestion is likely and when the mandatory speed limit should be lowered to keep the road moving. It is proven to increase the efficiency and capacity of roads by improving traffic flow and reducing congestion, in turn helping journey time reliability and reducing emissions. Evidence indicates that systems which reduce vehicle queues can reduce accidents resulting in injury by up to 13%.

Drivers in Scotland will notice new overhead gantries, 17 in total, which include variable message signs and lane signals, and new road markings and fixed signs. All the signs and messages used will be familiar to drivers and do not require any specialist skills or knowledge.

During periods of congestion, the mandatory speed limit will be lowered by displaying it within red rings on the gantries, in order to keep traffic moving.

The other main feature is the use of the hard shoulder as a dedicated bus lane. This will allow buses to bypass any congestion which may occur on the main carriageway, although buses will be limited to 40mph. Road users can always use the hard shoulder in an emergency and buses will be diverted to the normal traffic lanes.

Port freight traffic fallsThe Department for Transport has reported that in the four quarters ending Q3 2012, total port traffic (tonnage) was 497m tonnes. This is a 2% decline compared to the four quarters ending Q3 2011

(509m tonnes). During Q3 2012, total port traffic (tonnage) was 124m tonnes, a decline of 3% compared with Q3 2011 (127m tonnes).

Industry News


Immigration falls as crackdown bites With statistics from the National Census showing that between 2001 and 2011 more than half of the growth in the population of England and Wales was accounted for by immigration, the Government has been stepping up its attempts to reduce it. Home Secretary Theresa May (pictured below) said that the effects of its policies were already being seen: in the year to March 2011, the Government cut net immigration to Britain by one quarter – that is, by 59,000 people, or the biggest fall in net migration since 2008. Measures introduced by the Government to reduce immigration include capping economic migration, reforming family visas, and clamping down on the widespread abuse of the student route into the country. Home Office visa statistics, which are more recent than the net migration figures, show falls of 4% in work visas, 15% in family visas, and 26% in student visas. However, annual net migration is still at 183,000, significantly in excess of the Government’s target to reduce that number to the tens of thousands by the end of its first term in office. “Uncontrolled mass immigration is damaging to social cohesion, puts pressure on public services and infrastructure, and can lead to job displacement and undercut wages, particularly for the lowest paid,” May said. She claims the latest statistics vindicate the Government’s policies and that the rise in employment over the last year has benefited British workers. However, the national debate about the benefits from using skilled immigrants in specific industry sectors continues. Neil Carberry, CBI Director for Employment and Skills said “it’s vital for Britain to be seen as open for business. Employers need a system which doesn’t just control migration but attracts the skilled workers the economy needs, who would otherwise go to our competitors.” He warned that the Government’s net migration target is unlikely to be met by 2015, despite on-going reforms. “We are concerned that yet more short-term changes to hit this political goal risk holding back growth, deterring investment and damaging universities. Businesses need policy stability,” he said.

New financing for small businessesSmall businesses struggling to access credit are to be given a welcome boost with £110m of new funding.

In anticipation of the new Business Bank, which the Government is setting up to tackle long-standing, structural gaps in the supply of finance for SMEs, the Business Secretary, Vince Cable, has pledged £55m of Government funding – through a scheme called the Business Finance Partnership – to peer to peer lenders and other finance suppliers. Match-funding from the private sector is expected to lever in a minimum of £55m, making at least £110m available to lend to small businesses over the coming years.

The first four successful bidders for the Business Finance Partnership funds are:

• FundingCircle,whichwillreceive£20m.Itisapeer-to-peer lender enabling British people to lend money directly to small businesses in the UK, and offers a fast and efficient way for businesses to borrow finance.

• Zopawillreceive£10mtoofferinloansthroughpeer-to-peer lending. Through its website, investors can lend directly to small businesses.

• BOOST&Co,anewfundmanagementcompanyfocused on lending to growing and innovative small businesses, will receive £20m to set up a fund that will make loans between £1m and £8m to small businesses.

• CreditAssetManagementLimited,asubsidiaryofCity of London Group plc which provides specialist financing to the SME sector, will receive £5m to provide asset finance and professions loans.

Mr Cable said “small and medium-sized businesses need access to a diverse range of finance options, including non-bank lending. These new forms of finance are still small in scale but they should, over time, bring additional choice and greater competition to the lending market.”

The Business Bank is due to be operational by 2014. The Business Secretary has also announced that a network of 1,000 Business Finance Advisors will help small businesses identify the best type of finance to support their needs.

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Industry News


The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is seeking to champion the women leading the way, with categories encompassing those who are drivers, managers, or those identified as the stars of the future in this fast-paced and varied sector. It is partnering the awards with everywoman as title sponsor to demonstrate its commitment to supporting women in the industry.

Research undertaken for everywoman amongst women in middle management roles in logistics indicated a lack of role models and access to influential mentors as key factors holding women back from career advancement. By raising awareness of women who are currently enjoying career satisfaction and success within transport and logistics, others will view it as a sector where they can excel, creating a pipeline of future leaders.

The2013FTAeverywomaninTransport&Logisticsawards categories are:

Rising Star of the Year Award: This will be awarded to the woman aged under 30 who has excelled in her career, making a valuable contribution to her organisation. This award is open to all women working across the industry.Driver of the Year Award: This will be awarded to the woman who is excelling in her role as a driver (this could include but is not limited to HGV, van or motorcycle and can include passenger transport).Director of the Year Award: This will be awarded to the female director who is excelling in her role. This award is open to female directors across all sectors and areas of the industry.The Warehousing Award: This will be awarded to the woman that is excelling in her role within a warehousing environment.Industry Champion Award: This will be awarded to the woman who is an active champion for the industry, playing a vital role in attracting and

retainingwomenintransport&logistics.Innovation & Sustainability Award: Awarded to a woman who has already or is implementing an Innovative Operational Solution, including technologies and processes that are changing the industry in a positive way.Team Leader of the Year Award: Awarded to the woman who is leading a team to excel in a way that contributes greatly to the company’s success.

Female and working in transport & logistics?Entries are being invited for a leading awards programme for women working in transport and logistics in the UK, and BAR is encouraging any female working for a BAR Member to apply.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony, held at the Savoy Hotel in London on 16 May 2013. Nominations close on 11 February 2013 and entries can be made online at www.everywoman.com/tlawards

Industry News


Most to stay in pension schemes

New Government fi gures suggest most people will stay in a pension scheme and start saving for their old age under automatic enrolment. Research from the Department for Work and Pensions’ latest survey on attitudes to pensions and retirement saving shows nearly three quarters (70%) of the 1,949 adults surveyed across Great Britain say they are likely to stay in a pension scheme if they are eligible to be automatically enrolled. The research revealed that many people fi nd pensions too complex. Almost two-thirds (59%) do not feel they know enough about pensions to decide with confi dence how to save for retirement. Two-fi fths (41%) of respondents with a private pension had no knowledge of what their income will be in retirement, and this rose to four-fi fths (79%) for those without a private pension. Minister for Pensions Steve Webb said “Automatic enrolment is helping millions to save for the fi rst time and this survey shows most people will ‘stay in’ when they are offered the chance to save in a pension. The simple fact of being offered a company pension is a clear driver to helping people save.” There is a particular need for young people to think about their pensions and the kind of future they would like to have, according to the survey. A fi fth (19%) of all people with no pension provision gave the excuse that it’s just too early to start. Among young people aged 18 to 24, two-fi fths (39%) said they actively avoid thinking about retirement altogether. Gender is shown as a factor in pension saving. In particular, older women are more likely than men not to have any savings for later life. A high proportion of women (71%) said they found pensions complex and almost a third (28%) admitted they are scared of dealing with them. Fear of not having enough in retirement is the key reason people gave for saving into a pension (32%), followed closely by qualifying to join a company scheme (28%) and starting work (23%).

Aggie McKenzie and Tom Keane (both pictured right) arrived at the company warehouse and went through a whole load of effects with two clients to see what they could fi nd to take to auction etc. During the series, Aggie MacKenzie met the people who were still clinging onto things they never saw or used. In each episode, customers were challenged to sort through their stuff and say goodbye to the things they no longer needed. An antiques expert sought out hidden gems and turned their forgotten collectibles into hard cash at the auction.

Along the way Aggie explored the emotional reasons why people struggle to let go of the past and enlisted the help of a long-suffering partner, friend or relative to help them break the habit. At the end, the hoarders hope to be happier, richer and clutter free!

ITV makes stars of Britannia LanesBritannia Lanes of Somerset took part in a new ITV programme called ‘Storage Hoarders’ which aired over the course of December and January.

Filming Storage Hoarders at Britannia Lanes’ warehouse.


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Industry News



The trailer has undergone substantial strengthening and adaptation at Vancraft’s workshops and now boasts no fewer than eight side doors in addition to the standard rear doors to ease access for loading and unloading. Steve Simpson says: “The rig is a welcome addition to our road-trains on the European services and also creates additional capacity for the increasing number of import deliveries we have throughout the UK.”

The trailer has capacity for up to eight standard storage containers and a maximum capacity of 3250 cubic feet loose loaded. “Within two days of taking delivery of the trailer it was loaded with six consignments and en route for Leeds, Newcastle, Bradford, Harrogate, Durham and Coventry,” says Steve. “Any qualms I may have had about making deliveries with a truck and semi-trailer combination soon disappeared.”

New giant vehicle for Simpsons Dartford-based Simpsons Removals & Storage Ltd have recently added a 38 tonne tractor and trailer to their modern fleet of vehicles.

John Mason supports Children in Need John Mason International joined in with the national Children in Need fundraising day recently and raised over £250.

A combination of activities took place throughout the day including a charity car wash, a sandwich and cake sale, dressing up, a raffle and of course, everyone had their Pudsey ears on!

Hamiltons expands storage capacityHamiltons Removals have embarked on a further major expansion scheme for their Norfolk-based removals operation. The purchase of the freehold of Aldeby Business Park has added a further 100,000 sq. ft. storage space to the company’s portfolio. The 6.5 acre site will enable Hamiltons to further develop their rapidly expanding overseas container and groupage operation. The loading bays have self-levelling rising floors, which will give a walk on loading facility, particularly helpful when loading 20 ft and 40 ft containers. The additional capacity will take the pressure on space off the Harleston Head Office storage depot, giving more space for self-storage. Nicholas Sawyer, Hamiltons’ Operations Director, is overseeing the anticipated 12 month refurbishment scheme. The storage units range in size from 895 sq. ft. to the largest which is 42,000 sq.ft. Most of the larger units have sophisticated heating systems, fire alarms and CCTV surveillance. A security house will be incorporated into the building at the site entrance to enable the whole site to benefit from 24 hours security.

Industry News



Britannia container reaches Honduras for Christmas Readers of R&S will remember the fantastic effort made last year by Britannia Fleet to help St Joseph’s Hospice ship much needed goods to needy children in Honduras.

We are delighted to report that the containers arrived at the hospice in Honduras well in time for Christmas. After an unpacking that lasted for 40 minutes, some 230 toys went out to underprivileged families, bringing smiles to the faces of hundreds of children.

As well as distributing toys, volunteers in Honduras are now furnishing the local hospice with the furniture that Britannia Fleet helped to ship. “It was great to see the photographs of everything arriving in Honduras and the excited look on people’s faces,” Darren French at Britannia Fleet says. “It really made me smile to know that the children will be getting their precious toys for Christmas.”

“While this has obvious marketing applications for retailers, I believe it will be even more significant for service companies such as ours,” Starline Vice President Nate Edwards explains. “It is a very useful application for movers. Most consumers use the web to select a mover. They seldom see the actual business premises. In our industry there are quite a number of impressive websites that are not really bricks and mortar companies. The ability of the consumer to take a virtual visit to the moving company’s local warehouse and office can tell them more about the credibility of a company than a website could ever do.” Nate believes that removal companies in particular will compare well to move brokers. “It’s a great way to introduce and prove the credibility of your moving company to the web surfing public. Rogues and scallywags cannot do their own virtual

tour so Google can ensure that movers thus presented are real movers,” he says. “And it’s not just consumers who win. I think all established service companies, regardless of the industry, will really benefit from this technology.”

Starline installs Google office tour appBAR International Associate, Starline Overseas Moving of Calgary, is one of the first companies out of the gate in Canada with Business View, a new tool from Google that allows companies to set up a virtual tour of the inside of their offices.

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Industry News


A major change in payroll is set to hit UK businesses. Real Time Information (RTI) represents the biggest change in payroll since the introduction of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) in 1944. All companies with up to 5,000 employees will need to start making RTI submissions from April 2013, with larger employers needing to comply by October 2013.

RTI is a new system for reporting tax, NI and other details to HMRC. As an employer you will be responsible for all tax deductions and calculations but instead of submitting this data once a year to HMRC (forms P35 or P14s), you will be required to send the figures at the same time as payment is made to your employees i.e. in ‘real time’.

Why now?HMRC’s objective is that by collecting payroll data in real time, individuals’ tax deductions will be more accurate throughout the year. The intention is also to make the PAYE system easier to operate, thus reducing the burden on employers and providing better tax administration for HMRC. The system is being introduced to support the new Universal Credits where all state benefits are being combined into a single payment. HMRC hope to save at least £7.5bn a year from this new system through reductions in the incidence of errors and benefit fraud. This should then lead to improved tax collection and more accurate spending on benefits.

What information needs to be submitted to HMRC?Data that needs to be submitted when an employee is paid includes:• Employeename• Dateofbirth• Nationalinsurancenumber• Employeeaddressdetails.This information will be required for submission for all employees including temporary and casual workers and employees paid below the national insurance lower earnings limit. The responsibility lies with the employer to not only submit this information but also to ensure the accuracy of all employee data that is sent to HMRC. In the case of late filing or where inaccuracies and anomalies are found, fines will be applied.

How should I prepare for RTI?The first step should be to check that all employee records held on your payroll are both complete and accurate. Most organisations will rely on their employees to obtain this information so it is vital to educate them about this and why they must provide full and accurate information. All information should then be verified before submission using the following sources: Passport document; Driving licence; Birth certificate; HMRC documentation; or Department for Work and Pensions records. In terms of the payroll system, if you outsource it to

a third party or your accountant then you need to ensure that their processes are satisfactory from April 2013. If you have your own accounting software then you need to provide training for all payroll staff. It is expected that by April next year all major software payroll providers will be compliant. Wellers offer clients an online HR and payroll system called Portico which contains all the necessary fields to capture the data you need to submit for RTI. Of note, this system was part of the RTI pilot that was rolled out in October 2012. Please be aware that the RTI demands for compatibility and consistency of employee data plus the increased filing demands will increase our workloads to prepare for RTI and run your payrolls.

Are there any additional requirements?There are additional submissions that employers will be required to make. However, please note that not all the submissions will be necessary for all employers.

The additional requirements relate to Employer Alignment Submission, Full Payment Submission, Employer Payment Summary, NINO Verification Request and Earlier Year Update, all of which Wellers can advise you about.

Which submissions will no longer be used?The following submissions will be scrapped with RTI:• endofyearreturns(P14,P35andP38A)• newemployeeinformation(P45Part3,P46,P46

(Pen) or P46 (Expat))• leaverinformation(P45Part1).

Are you ready for Real Time Information?by Kathleen Parker of Wellers

For more information, see www.wellersaccountants.co.uk or for a free trial of Portico call 020 7630 6665For further details on Employer Alignment go to: www.hmrc.gov.uk/softwaredevelopers/rti/payroll-alignment.pdf

Industry News


More house moves expected in 2013 Economic forecasters expect the housing market to remain slow in 2013, despite initiatives such as Funding for Lending.

House prices and property transaction numbers remained subdued at the end of 2012, as the usual December slowdown added to pressure on the market. Rightmove reported a drop of 3.3% in house prices in December 2012, the largest monthly decrease it has ever reported. However, Rightmove Director and Housing Market Analyst, Miles Shipside, is optimistic for 2013, for a number of reasons. “There is a positive combination of lenders with greater funds to lend and buyers with a five-year itch to move. Many movers have had to put their housing aspirations on hold since the onset of the credit crunch, but increased competition among lenders and the slow but steady increase in affordability of house prices may help some to finally move on.” Transaction levels will remain muted, according to Rightmove, though a marginal uplift is likely due to a slight relaxation in mortgage lending criteria as the Funding for Lending Scheme (FLS) increases the number of successful mortgage applications.

According to Nationwide, house prices fell by 0.1% in December. Overall in 2012 the price of a typical home declined by 1%, reversing the 1% increase recorded in 2011. “With the economic recovery expected to remain fairly weak, the housing market is likely to be characterised by low levels of activity again in 2013, with prices remaining flat or modestly lower over the course of the year,” Nationwide Chief Economist Robert Gardner commented. Property analytics firm Hometrack expects national house prices to fall by 1%

during 2013, and expects transactions to total 912,000 this year. It recorded falls in prices last December of 0.1%, the sixth consecutive month in a row that prices had decreased. The seasonal slowdown saw buyer registrations fall (-4.8%) and property listings drop (-3.1%).

Conversely, Halifax said that 2012 ended with house prices increasing by 1.3% in December. It recorded six

monthly rises and six decreases during 2012. Activity has picked up a little, Halifax said. Home sales improved modestly, from 75,000 in July to 80,000 in November, while sales in the three months to November were 2% higher than in the same period in 2011. For the current year, Housing Economist Martin Ellis said “we expect continuing broad stability in house prices nationally in 2013 with prices likely to end the year at levels close to where they began.”

Source: Rightmove

17

Industry News


Source: Rightmove

18

BAR News


Would you like to become a Directly Elected Director? If you are interested in infl uencing the way BAR works, you may want to nominate someone or put yourself forward for the BAR elections for Directly Elected Directors (DEDs) for the BAR Board, which will take place electronically in April.

DEDs are elected directly by the membership at large and provide a direct channel of communication between the Members and the Board. The three year term of the DEDs lapses in rotation each May, and there will be an election for one position this year.

Towards the end of this month, each Member company will receive a request to nominate representatives for these important posts. Please give this request your full attention, and ensure that any nominations are received by the given deadline. Once all nominations are received, the Company Secretary will hold an electronic ballot of the Membership in March. The results will be announced in early April.

More information about the role of Directly Elected Directors is available on the BAR website at www.bar.co.uk/trade/MyBAR/organisation/BoardofDirectors.aspx

New Met annual meet The New Met Area is holding its annual meeting at the Novotel Hotel, Heathrow on Tuesday 12 March 2013. In addition to a range of interesting speakers, a well-publicised quiz and an expected large turnout from the BAR community, this should be a particularly notable occasion because it is the tenth anniversary of the New Met in its current form. On behalf of the BAR New Met Committee, RobertSyerstoldR&S“Amongotherthingswe will be looking back at what we have achieved, and we will be looking forward to plan changes for the future.” There will be a debate on how to make the most of membership of BAR, and all Members are invited to come to listen, learn and have their say on the way forward for the next 10 years! There will also be detailed guidance on how the new Trading Standards Consumer Code will affect the removals and storage industry. For more information and to register your attendance, email Julie Thompson at [email protected]

The new BAR Move Planner is now live on the BAR website, giving customers all the tools they need to plan a successful move. The introduction of the free planner will help drive customers to the BAR website where they can fi nd a comprehensive check list of things to do when preparing to move, including letter templates for service providers and information about their nearest BAR Member. The planner should generate extra revenue for BAR Members as leads generated through the planner will be sent to Members who have opted in to receive UK leads via the BAR website.

BAR launches Move Planner

Marketing storage servicesBAR’s storage leafl ets inform both domestic customers and business clients about storage services, including the document storage and records management sector. The downloadable marketing document explains that BAR Members provide modern, fl exible and convenient storage facilities. The leafl et describes what the customer will be required to do to prepare for storage, and highlights the professionalism and security provided by BAR Members.

There is a special section on security and access issues, which are always in consumers’ minds. In addition, there is a list of recommended steps, such as labelling all items, turning off any white goods a few days before storage, and cleaning and drying other items. It is very clearly stated that precious items should not be stored!

Document storageA separate document has been produced for the document storage sector.

The leafl et explains that there is increasing pressure on companies to maintain accurate records for longer, while it is diffi cult to justify the continuing investment of in-house document storage solutions.

The document lists the Archiving and Document Storage services that BAR Members provide, and describes the full range of Archive Storage, Records Management, Data Management, Digital Storage and Disaster

Recovery services available. “All information storage systems have the benefi t of releasing

valuable offi ce space and reducing the time companies

have to spend in fi ling and retrieval,” it concludes. “They are effi cient, practical and

will save money for the business. They can all be adapted to suit

changing technologies and scaled in line with business needs.”

Management, Digital Storage and Disaster Recovery services available. “All

information storage systems

valuable offi ce space and reducing the time companies

have to spend in fi ling and retrieval,” it concludes. “They are effi cient, practical and

will save money for the business. They can all be adapted to suit

changing technologies and scaled in line with business needs.”

minds. In addition, there

drying other items. It is very clearly stated

should not be stored!

Getting the most out of the BAR website The BAR website contains an ever growing selection of useful materials for its Members. In the Resources section of the Members’ Area, you can fi nd marketing materials, model forms and general information on how to run your business effectively and in full compliance with the law. The January issue of R&S looked at the range of marketing leafl ets available for the removals side of the industry. In this issue, we look at the resources available online for BAR Members in relation to storage activities.


BAR News

BAR supports Get Britain Building campaign BAR is getting behind the Get Britain Building (GBB) campaign which is calling for the UK to build its way out of recession through creating jobs and growth.

Clearly, there is a very direct link and impact for BAR Members from building new homes and a healthy economy featuring near full employment and the availability of competitive mortgages.

The GBB campaign has calculated that for every £1 invested in construction, 92 pence stays in the UK. Furthermore every 100,000 new homes built contributes 1% GDP.

Mike Leonard, CEO of the Modern Masonry Alliance and founder of Get Britain Building, said “It is fantastic news that BAR is getting behind this campaign.

We hope BAR and its Members will lobby your local MPs and councillors, download and distribute our plan for jobs and growth, feature our logo on your company websites and put our stickers on your vehicles.”

For more information about the campaign, see www.jobsandgrowth.co.uk

Following the recent extensive membership survey the detailed results are now available in the Members area of the BAR website. The membership survey analysis covers all of the questions asked, whereas the Area feedback analysis gives specific Area by Area information. To support this survey, BAR is also making available the BAR Strategic review discussion documents demonstrating the current BAR strategy,

aims and ambitions. All Members are asked to read and provide any comments either through their Areas, Directly Elected Directors or by email to [email protected] by the end of March. All of these documents, together with any comments received will be analysed in detail at the BAR Board meeting on 10 April 2013 and an updated strategy document created and presented at the Conference.

Membership survey: results available

Vintage, state of the art and ‘green’ vehicles The 2013 Vehicle Exhibition and procession will coincide again this year with the BAR Annual Conference and will take place at the world famous museum of the North, the Beamish Museum, County Durham. The Exhibition will be held on Saturday 18 May and gives Members a great chance to showcase their vehicles at a public facing venue.

The vehicle categories will be: •BestHorse/SteamDrawn•BestMechanical–Vintage•BestMechanical–Modern•BestBespoke/Innovative

Vehicles already confirmed for the Exhibition include: an 1890 Victorian Horse Drawn Pantechnicon(FoxMoving&Storage),1929Foden Steam van (Bishop’s Move), 1938 Guy Vixen (Specialised Movers), 1946 Albion Van – ModelFT3L(FoxMoving&Storage),1957Ford Thames Fordson E83W (Specialised Movers), 2012 Mercedes – Benz Actros 1841L

Draw Bar (MoveCorp ) and a 2012 Daf 14 Tonnes (Kilmarnock Removals, part of Matt Purdie&Sons).CadoganTate,DoreeBonner,Michael Gerson, and White and Company have also confirmed they will be exhibiting vehicles. If you have a vehicle that you want to display please contact BAR Commercial Department on 01923 699 483 as soon as you read this article!

20

BAR News


Saluting James FalknerBAR’s Company Secretary James Falkner is retiring after three and a half years in the position. A former infantry officer as well as a prolific military historian, James always kept his head about him even when those about him came close to losing theirs! He will be sorely missed by all BAR Members and by everyone at BAR headquarters in Watford.

James (pictured) left the regular army in 1992 after a long career as an infantry officer and served as Company Secretary of the Road Haulage Association where he was held in high regard.

Chrys Rampley, Manager – Infrastructure, Security and Business Affairs at the RHA, recalls James’ attention to detail and meticulous record keeping. “I appreciated James’ professional unflappable approach in his role as Secretary to the pension trustees when difficult decisions had to be taken.”

In 2009 he took up the position of Company Secretary at BAR. “I had always admired the BAR’s commitment to high standards and got to know the association when I was working for the RHA,” James says.

BAR has certainly kept him busy. As well as all the standard duties involved in the role of Company Secretary and Secretary to the Board of Directors, James was Head of the Regulatory Department (and Consumer Affairs), Company Secretary of QSS and BAR Services and Honorary Secretary to the Removers Benevolent Association and FIDI-UK.

“James is absolutely steeped in the knowledge of the BAR Articles and the Rules of Association, and knows just how they should be interpreted,” BAR President Ian Studd says. “I’ve worked closely with him ever since he was appointed, at Board and Council meetings as well as on all the subcommittees on which we sat. He has always been fully prepared, calm, and completely unflappable. He really has been BAR’s Mr Dependable.”

Ian says James “will be sorely missed. As well as being reliable and efficient, he was very well liked and respected, not only by the Board and the staff at Watford, but by all the Members as well. I’ve never heard a bad word spoken about him.”

Calm problem-solverJames told R&Sthat he believes the secret to his success as BAR Company Secretary was thorough preparation, always maintaining a forward looking diary of events, and above all, using common sense and telling it straight, but politely.

Politeness and preparation have perhaps been James’s defining characteristics as Company Secretary. “Whenever there was a problem, James could answer any question almost immediately, or get back to you the next day without fail,” Matt Purdie (former BAR President 2008-2010) remembers. “No-one ever had any difficulties in their dealings with James.”

“I think it was partly thanks to his army background that he was able to deal with people so politely and efficiently. That also went with a deep understanding about the transport industry in general. There were no short cuts with James!”

During James’s time as company secretary, he was deeply involved with revising the Rules of BAR, the

revision of the Articles of Association of the subsidiary companies, and the revision of the trust deed of the Removers Benevolent Association. In addition to his day-to-day duties, his time at BAR coincided with plenty of unexpected developments at the association, during which James provided invaluable support.

“James was a very calming influence on meetings where a calming influence was needed,” Ian Studd says. “Because of his knowledge of the internal workings and governance of BAR he was always able to keep us on track. It was very important to BAR to have such an authoritative and resourceful person as company secretary.”

“James brought real professionalism and efficiency to the position,” former BAR President (2010-2012) Reg Hackworthy says. “He was one of the most meticulous people I have ever known, with a wry sense of humour. He even quietly told me off once for taking my tie off in the bar at one in the morning at the Conference! Mr President, he said, you have taken your tie off!”

There were some serious matters to discuss during James’ time as Company Secretary and some heated discussions took place in the Board Room, but Reg says he always kept his cool. “He was never flustered, perhaps due to his background as an army officer. He was always helpful and confident, and sure of the facts without being opinionated. He’s also very easy to talk to and a great listener!”

Reg pays particular tribute to James’s skill at taking

minutes, which is often a demanding and sensitive task. “His minutes were always spot on,” he said. “Everything that was said at a meeting could be found there. He was always neutral but managed to see clearly all the points that were made and summarise them succinctly.”

The road aheadJames will now be devoting more of his time to skiing and to continuing his research into military history. He has already published eight books, mainly focusing on the 18th century, in particular on the campaigns and career of the Duke of Marlborough, including the famous battles of Blenheim, Ramillies, Oudenarde and Malplaquet.

He has already been commissioned to write two more books for publication in 2014 and 2015. Anyone who has read one of James’s books will know that he brings to his writing the same passion for detail, for accuracy and for sharing knowledge that BAR came to treasure over the last three and a half years. Everyone at BAR wishes him all the best for his retirement.

James asked R&S to pass on this message to its readers: “I would like to thank everyone in BAR, including both staff and Members, for the easy friendship they showed to me as a stranger when I came here three and a half years ago. It has been a privilege to work for BAR and I will really miss the friendliness of the staff and Members, and the affection in which BAR is held.”


BAR News

The day started with a series of presentations from BAR experts in Domestic, Commercial and Overseas Moving followed by a networking event during which the Young Movers interacted with people they had not met before and collected at least three new business cards each.

The BAR experts who spoke at the event covered all areas of the industry. Speakers included Matt Faizey of M&GTransportwhoprovidedapresentationonhisperspective and experiences of Domestic moving, LouisSpiesofWhite&CompanyonOverseasmovingand Mark Herrington from Pickfords Business Moving on Commercial moving.

The Young Movers were really interested in hearing about the different industry experts’ career paths and how they had got to where they are now with some useful hints and tips. Their particular thanks go to Mark Herrington, whose presentation gave them a real insight into Commercial Moving, the CMG, BS 8522 and his experiences in the industry.

After a buffet lunch with the industry experts, BARTS provided an estimating training taster session named ‘The Art of Estimating’ with Peter Walters, BARTS Field Trainer. Peter’s 3-hour session started with an ice-breaker anecdote on how sometimes things don’t run as smoothly as you may want them to in the removals industry when it comes to estimating. A few of the attendees shared some interesting stories of their own with the group.

Peter showed the Young Movers how to cube up items with a few hints and tips and there was some input from some of the attendees who already had experience. The group was set an exercise to correctly calculate the volume or ‘cube up’ the BAR training room, and a prize (a special edition box of Thorntons Chocolate) was offered to the person who had the closest score.

There were many close results, but in the end it was the competitive streak that won through with experienced estimator Tom Ryan winning by being within only 3 cubes of the correct measurement!

Peter said “I always think it would be nice to see more females involved in the removals industry, so it was good to see that more than half of the Young Movers were indeed female. I really enjoyed meeting and training the Young Movers – it was a lively and enjoyable day and I hope that I’ll return to attend another Young Movers event.”

Chocolate tastingIt was after lunch and a networking break that for many perhaps the real highlight of the day began – chocolate tasting! The Young Movers tasted many different weird and wonderful flavours of chocolate in a game where they tasted all the chocolate and matched it to the flavours listed for them. Not an easy task since the flavours of some of the chocolates were

unusual,tosaytheleast!TheyincludedMandarin&Ginger,Lavender,Chilli&Lime,PumpkinSeeds&Hemp Oil, Tangerine, Sicilian Hazelnut, Double Chilli, CornishSeaSalt,Lemon&PoppySeeds,Lemon&CardamomandCoconut&Raspberry.

Unsurprisingly, the hazelnut and fruit flavoured ones were the most popular on the day and the chilli ones, being something of an acquired taste, were not so popular with the unsuspecting bunch. Adam PalmerofWhite&Co.appearedtonotbemuchofafanofthegingerorchilli&limeflavouredchocolatebut said that apart from those tastes he had fully enjoyed the activity and the day.

Ria Compton of Basil Fry and Co was especially keen when it came to the task of matching the chocolate to its flavours and employing the services of BAR Director of Marketing, Caroline Suard to win the task. Congratulations Ria!

Why chocolate tasting?As Project Managers of the Young Movers special interest group, Tom Ryan of Ryans Removals and I wanted to plan for an event that would create a stronger focus on networking than ever before and provide activities that would be appealing to all young people in the industry.

BAR Young Movers is the first and only BAR special interest group to comprise of more females than males and with this in mind, activities need to be of interest to both genders.

In addition to the intense training session on estimating, the networking activities were far more structured at this event than at previous Young Movers gatherings. With so many new faces at this event, chocolate tasting provided a relaxed and informal way to ensure everyone got to meet each other. Most people enjoy eating chocolate so this was seen as a good

place to start for a fun pastime to engage in that could be easily provided at BAR Headquarters in Watford once the business part of the day had finished.

The inspiration for the chocolate tasting game came with the discovery of some strange flavoured chocolates being consumed by myself together with Chris Waymouth, CEO of QSS at BAR Headquarters!

Chocolate BAR tasting event for Young MoversBefore she left to go travelling for a year, BAR Training Services Manager Loren Webster reported on how BAR Young Movers multi-tasked last year when they brushed up on their estimating skills while learning how to sample fine chocolate.

BARTS Field Trainer Peter Walters presents Tom Ryan his prize for the closest ‘cube up’.

22

BAR News


Barry Howitt – still young after 16 years at one of Scotland’s fi nest! R&S caught up with Barry Howitt, Operations Manager at Richard Healey Removals in Scotland, about his role with the company.Barry Howitt is one of the most experienced members of the Young Movers group; he’s been at Richard Healey Removals in Ayrshire for 16 years now, working his way straight up from school to the position of Operations Manager.

Barry is proud to be working at one of Scotland’s best known family-owned removal companies. As well as being a fi nalist for Domestic Mover of the Year for 2011, Richard Healey Removals was named Top Training Truck Operator 2012 and received the award from the Princess Royal, HRH Princess Anne (seeR&SJanuary2013formoreonthis).

Barry is modest about the part he has played in the company’s growth and in the development of its staff training and professional development plans. But he believes that in recent years the company’s commitment to reliable, high quality service has helped Richard Healey Removals more than hold their own against much larger companies. “The market needs professional movers, now more than ever,” Barry says. “It is very important that we introduce higher standards to the industry, and at Richard Healey Removals I believe we are setting the pace.” Last year, the company retained all of its industry certifi cations (BS EN 14873, BS EN 12522 and BS 8522).

As the representative of Richard Healey Removals for the younger generation, Barry says the Young Mover scheme has provided useful networking opportunities in locations across the country. Over the years, Barry has travelled across much of the UK for Young Movers events. For Barry, the highlight of

events last year was the Dog Racing night at Perry Barr in Birmingham, which he says was unforgettable for all who took part – even if many of us walked away empty-handed! Although he travels widely, Barry spends most of his time at the company premises in Ayrshire, in close proximity to Glasgow Airport and the Central Belt. He says the site is ideally located to serve domestic and corporate customers for all local, national and international removals, storage and shipping. In addition, because of some long-term public sector contract wins, Barry says the company has not only added to its fl eet but has also been able to create new employment positions – so before long, here’s hoping that we will be hearing about some more Young Movers at Richard Healey Removals.

Young Mover Profi le

‘‘It is very important that we introduce higher standards to the industry, and at Richard Healey Removals I believe we are setting the pace.”

Barry Howitt, Operations Manager, Richard Healey

‘‘

The team at Richard Healey


BAR News

24

BAR News


BAR ServicesBAR Services

7 useful facts about BAR ServicesDid you know that......?

- BAR Services currently supply 74% of the BAR Members with their packaging materials.

As the company that was created solely to benefit the Members and is wholly owned by the Members, BAR Services is proud that it is still the preferred supplier of the membership.

- In 2012, a 1% rebate was handed back to the Members who have bought through BAR Services throughout the year.

BAR Services is a not-for-profit organisation and consequently any profit is handed back to the Members in a form of a yearly rebate. Since its inception, BAR Services has handed back over £1.6 million to its BAR customers.

- Promotions are run by BAR Services on a regular basis. Top products are regularly promoted by BAR Services throughout the year

including the BARS flute cartons, white paper and floor protector. These have proven to be a great success so look out for these promotions in your emails.

- BAR Services still supply its customers with cartons in their own print. Throughout 2012, BAR Services has been promoting its new BARS flute in the standard print, however, for Members who still prefer to use their own branded cartons BAR Services still offer this service.

- BAR Services will deliver small quantities of packaging materials direct to your customer’s home. BAR Services realises that from time to time you may need to send your

customer just a few boxes and some packing tape but that they may live over the other side of the country. BAR Services can deliver such small quantities within 48 hours, direct to your customer’s door. It is also a great way for you to make some extra profit.

- BAR Services offer a free of charge affiliate link to its own website. With the help of Open SEO, BAR Services have created a free of charge service that allows you to tap in to its own website. Your customer can buy packing materials through your own website but the order will be received and processed by BAR Services. It saves you time and money taken up by investing in your own e-commerce site with the added benefit of a quarterly commission payment.

- 99% of the products purchased by BAR Services are sourced from UK manufacturers. BAR Services prides itself on its success in sourcing a majority of its good

quality yet competitively priced products from manufacturers based in the UK.

We would like to hear from youOur companies’ sole purpose since its inception in 1977 is to serve the

membership – to supply good quality, innovative packaging products at low

prices. This is achieved by buying jointly on your behalf and passing on the

discount achieved from this bulk purchasing power!

As a member, we should be your preferred supplier but are we? For many of

you the answer will be yes but for those of you that say no then we would

like to know why and what we can do to change that? Your feedback is

important so please ring us on 01342 870087 or you can simply email

[email protected] We look forward to hearing from you.

As the No.1 provider of packaging to the moving professionals, we would like to be your preferred supplier - If we are not, please tell us why.


BAR News

26

BAR News


BAR Training News

The website is taking shape and content is now being finalised.

The website will be reviewed by the Overseas Group Council on Wednesday 6th of February and it is hoped that the website will be launched soon after.

Overseas Group website

Overseas Group News

The Overseas Group (OG) is a dedicated group of companies within the British Association of Removers that specialise in all aspects of overseas relocations.


BAR NewsCMG News

Overseas Group website

The Commercial Moving Group (CMG) is a dedicated group of companies within the British Association of Removers that specialise in all aspects of commercial relocations.

ThinkFM 2013 will take place on Monday 10 June 2013 and aims to offer educational and debate sessions that will help facilities management professionals advance their skills and thinking within their roles, their teams, their business, and in how they lead and manage their facilities effectively.

Stephen Bennett, Strategy Director at BIFM, said “ThinkFM is a flagship conference in the UK facilities management calendar and it has been pleasing to see it grow in 2012 from its inception in 2011.

This year looks set to be the biggest ThinkFM to date, where we are looking to inspire leadership action through topics from attitude to competences, from corporate social responsibility to the FM difference, from the triple bottom line to the c-suite vocabulary. What differentiates ThinkFM is our hub format – enabling us to address so many critical issues in one day.”

To book for ThinkFM, delegates should go to www.bifm.org.uk/bookThinkFM, email [email protected] or call 08701 632 804. Delegate places are being held at 2012 prices. Those who book within the ‘early-bird’ period (closing Friday 22 March 2013) will save on the delegate price.

There should be good business networking opportunities at an upcoming facilities management conference organised by the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) in association with Workplace Law.

Save the Date: BIFM Conference in June

WINNER

COMMERCIALMOVER OFTHE YEAR

2013

The deadline has now closed for applications for the Commercial Mover of the Year (CMotY). During February, the judging panel will be contacting selected clients of the applicants.

Good luck to all!

Commercial Mover of the Year 2013

28

BAR News


CMG News

The Commercial Moving Group (CMG) is a dedicated group of companies within the British Association of Removers that specialise in all aspects of commercial relocations.

Seminar. Following the success of the 2012 CMG event at St. Pierre, Chepstow, the CMG plans to make a bigger and better feature of the Seminar. The aim of the Seminar is to serve as a showcase to the industry and the event will involve many partners and affiliates of the commercial moving industry. Networking. In addition to the stimulating and practical information due to be presented at the Seminar, the programme ensures that company representatives will have the opportunity to talk to Seminar participants. There will also be networking time available before and after the golf, as well as over dinner.

Golf. The format will be an individual and Stableford Competition, using full handicaps (max 24 for men, 30 for ladies). Prizes will be for CMG Members. Prizes will also be awarded for any Non-Members, along with a longest drive prize and a nearest the pin prize. The organising committee reserve the right to amend the rules up to the start of play but within the recognisedCONGU&EGUgolfrules.

Those unable to take part in the golf are invited to take a spa treatment. For those who would like to know a little more about the game of golf, there will be a group lesson to help you break the myths that surround the game!

TheCMGwouldliketothankBasilFry&Companyfortheircontinuedsupport as the major sponsor of this two-day event. Sponsorship of this event by any other companies interested is also welcome!

Please email CMG Deputy Chairman, Kevin Mack of Company Moves, for details about registration for the event: [email protected]

The 2013 CMG Seminar & Golf Day will take place on 31 September - 1 October 2013 and will be held at Wychwood Park, Cheshire.

CMG Golf Day and Seminar 2013


BAR NewsCMG News

CMG Golf Day and Seminar 2013

30

Features



Features

32

BAR News



BAR NewsOverseas Group News

The Overseas Group (OG) is a dedicated group of companies within the British Association of Removers that specialise in all aspects of overseas relocations.

BAR specialist groups strengthen professionalismBS 8564 fo Overseas Group members soon! Members of the Overseas Group will already be aware that as from 1 July (the start of the new membership year) they will be required to hold either FIDI-FAIM, BS 8564, or an equivalent recognised quality standard.The Overseas Group Council has adopted a similar stance to the CMG with BS 8522, in that a relevant certifi cation will become a criterion of membership.

Also mirroring the CMG, it will be acceptable for multi-branch companies to have regional or central certifi cation with those offi ces being responsible for the branches under their control and ensuring that they comply with all aspects of BS 8564. The effectiveness of this control will be monitored by QSS during the annual BAR membership inspections at the branches.

If they do not already hold a qualifying standard (or if in any doubt) Overseas Group members should contact QSS at the earliest opportunity, as the whole

process of gaining certifi cation can take several months. July may sound a long way off, but you are urged not to leave it until the last minute as it may be diffi cult to arrange an audit at short notice!

BS 8522 mini-audits for CMG multi-branch membersWhen the CMG Council adopted its mandatory policy on BS 8522 it was recognised that it would be a signifi cant fi nancial burden for multi-branch companies to hold individual BS 8522 certifi cation at every site.

Therefore, a set of rules was devised which – under certain clearly defi ned circumstances – allows certifi cation to be held only at regional or head offi ces who will then exercise control over their branches, thus ensuring full compliance across the Group. Until now this compliance has never been tested, possibly giving an unfair advantage to such companies compared with single-branch members who must

undergo a full external audit every year. However, it has now been agreed by the CMG

Council that this scheme should be monitored and therefore, with immediate effect, QSS will be conducting mini-audits whilst visiting such branches for their annual BAR inspections, to ensure that they are (a) eligible for this arrangement and (b) operating in compliance with the standard.

The checks will consist of a few straightforward questions and possibly examination of a few records, and the fi ndings will be fed back to the head offi ces of the members concerned, and copied to the CMG Council.

Contact:For further information please contact Chris Waymouth or Melissa Fowler at QSS on 01923 699480, or email [email protected]

QSS Update

BAR Training ServicesTraining from the Removals Experts

To book Call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

Commercial EstimatingA specially designed course for the commercial estimator, expanding the knowledge of Estimating in general. The course focuses on calculating volume, methods for Estimating in the Commercial environment, what to look out for and questions to ask the customer. This course will make estimating large offi ce moves less daunting for the less experienced estimator and includes a practical exercise, where delegates will experience estimating in a ‘real time’ situation.

• Why is volume important • How do we calculate volume • Things to be aware of when estimating furniture • Estimating the amount of packing crates, questions to be asked, method of a site viewing • What should be included in a commercial quotation, practical exercise.

Just £199 + VAT per person

BRANDNEW

for 2013!

Course Dates 201313 MarchCourse to be held at BAR Headquarters, Watford between 10:00am and 16:00pm

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Industry News


European News

According to the report, This is the IRU 2013, growth in transport volume for OECD and EU countries slowed down to 0.9% and 0.8% in the first half of 2012 before finally stagnating in the 3rd and 4th quarters. New vehicle registrations for the first two quarters of 2012 increased for the OECD and EU by 0.9% and 0.7%, before also coming to a standstill in the second half of 2012. The report says that “OECD and EU countries haven’t plunged into a double dip recession just yet, but they do need to draw lessons from how BRIC countries coped with the last crisis in 2008 – by recognising that road transport is an essential non-subsidised production tool, which interconnects all

businesses in all regions, to all world markets, and should therefore be promoted and further facilitated – in order to avoid a new recession and restore sustainable economic growth in 2013.” In Europe, the IRU is calling for an end to the introduction of new taxes, charges and duties on road transport, and for the earmarking of revenues to support investments in road transport and infrastructure initiatives. Michael Nielsen, the IRU’s general delegate to the EU, said that “road transport has long been the driver of growth, jobs and trade in Europe and [in 2013] we will continue to work to ensure that we drive the EU growth agenda.”

IRU calls for end to road taxes in EU The International Road Transport Union has published a new report, which analyses the role of road transport in the economy and proposes solutions to the challenges faced by the sector.

Single driving licence for EU

Fontaine joins FEDEMAC board

Turkey introduces new road toll system

January 2013 saw the introduction of a European driving licence as part of the entry into force of the third EU Driving Licence Directive. The new credit-card style format will replace some 100 paper and plastic models currently in use by more than 300m drivers across the EU.

According to the European Commission, for car drivers and motorcyclists, the new document must be renewed every 10 to 15 years depending on the Member State.

Licences for bus and lorry drivers will be valid for five years and a medical check-up will be necessary for renewal. The new licence includes a photograph of the holder and Member States can include a microchip giving access to information about the card holder. The licence has also been

made almost impossible to falsify. The Commission says that fragmented licensing is an obstacle to road safety as it encourages licence tourism. Potentially reckless drivers, such as those banned due to traffic offences, may try to get a new licence in other countries. “The introduction of a licence recognised in all Member States will also support mobility of responsible drivers and help to strengthen holders’ European identity,” the Commission says. The licence is backed up by a European electronic data exchange system, which will facilitate the management of driving licences by administrations, especially for persons changing residence from one Member State to another. It will also contribute to better detection of driving licence fraud.

Following the return in 2012 of CSD (Chambre Syndicale du Déménagement) – the French removers association – to FEDEMAC, Serge Fontaine, CSD President has now been elected as a new Member of the FEDEMAC board. “The appointment to the Board allows me to reiterate that we have placed ourselves with enthusiasm to contribute to the development of the European projects for movers,” Serge said. “French movers are particularly prepared to work on current and future subjects and I welcome this new step of a closer relationship between CSD and FEDEMAC.”

A new road toll system on Turkish motorways and bridges, named HGS (fast transit system), entered into force on 1 January 2013. From this date onwards, the Turkish Ministry of Transport, Maritime and Communication has indicated that it will not be possible to use KGS cards, and only OGS and HGS cards will be accepted by Turkish road control authorities and the fast transit system (HGS).

Any foreign-plated vehicles need to apply for HGS membership by declaring their vehicle license number along with the driver’s passport.

Drivers can buy fast transit system (HGS) transit cards and can carry out top-up transactions in PTT workplaces (The General Directorate of Post and Telegraph Organization) and from PTT Matics.

Euro VI norms for new vehicles The EU’s Euro VI norm is now in force which means new heavy motor vehicles in EU Member States will have to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by 80% and emissions of particulate matter by 66% compared to 2008 levels. The European Commission believes that the new legislation (which automatically came into effect on 31 December 3012) will have a positive impact on health and the environment, and also on industry as it introduces world-wide harmonised test procedures and standards which should help boost European automotive industry exports. The new norms set out in Euro VI include:• areductionof80%innitrogenoxidesand66%

in particulate matter emissions, as compared to 2008 levels under the previous Euro V norms,

• theintroductionofglobalharmonisedtestprocedures and standards with USA equivalent emission limit values, and

• apositivecostbenefitratio,asprovenbytheimpact assessment.

The first lady of Swedish moving Marlene Malmqvist has become the first female chairman of the Swedish Movers Federation in its history of 66 years. Marlene has been on the board of the SMF for seven years, and since 1973 has been working for the family-owned removals company, which she took over with her brothers in 1995. One of Marlene’s first actions at the SMF has been to publish a marketing plan including a brand new marketing profile. “SMF has over 30 Member companies and covers both a large part of the total moving industry turnover, and the whole country geographically,” Marlene says. “Our aim is to increase the number of Member companies. It is highly regarded to be a Member of SMF.” Just as in other removals associations across Europe, the SMF is strengthening its profile with the general public and with policymakers and is taking the fight to the cowboy operators who are doing so much damage to the reputation of the industry.

“We shall continue our persistent efforts to oppose disreputable moving companies,” she says.

The SMF plans to be more vocal in alerting authorities, politicians and the media about rogue movers. “The majority of SMF Members think that SMF should be more aggressive in its appearance and marketing,” she says.


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BAR News

4pp Conference Advert(Jan 2013 Martyn)

page 3

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BAR News


Self Storage Group

The Self Storage Special Interest Group was established in response to the needs of many Members who now include self storage as an important element in their service offerings. The Group offers a forum for companies to promote and develop their self-storage operations and is designed to encourage best practice in the self-storage industry.

SSSIG Profile: Martell’sMartell’s has been running a self-storage business in East Grinstead since 2003. Edward Kessell, Removals Manager at the company, talks about the rapid growth of the business in the last ten years and explains its strategy for coping with the downturn.In just ten years, the self-storage business of Martell’s has expanded from a standing start to more than 200 rooms spread over approximately 9,000 square feet in the East Grinstead area.

Removals Manager Edward Kessell says that the company has escaped the worst of the downturn and plans to increase its self-storage capacity within the local area in the medium term.

“The retail section has borne the brunt of the recession but continues to show a profit - smaller than before but acceptable,” he says. Edward works closely with Charlie Martell on developing the company’s removals and storage businesses.

“Our storage sections are operating at full strength and up to Christmas we were almost overbooking on removals,” he adds. “Our strategy as always is to give good service to all of our clients, keeping our nerve when clients demand lower prices to compete with other companies who have quoted lower than us but cannot do the work when required.”

“We are also pleased to say that the imposition of VAT on the self storage sector has not had any great effect, only increasing cash flow prior to passing the bounty to the exchequer!”

Origins in retailMartell’s today is almost unrecognisable from the original company that was founded before the war. Like many of today’s historic removals companies, Martell’s beginnings were in local retail, as a bedstead shop first in London’s Elephant and Castle in 1917 and then in Sutton, Surrey in 1929.

The Sutton store sold a mixed variety of furnishing items and following the acquisition of a small van for deliveries removals were added to the portfolio. The removals section steadily developed to include household storage and long distance work.

In 1954 Edward and Ada Martell opened a new Retail Furniture store in East Grinstead, and naturally extended to offering a comprehensive removals service in this new area. Ten years later, with prompting from their son Roger, Martell’s succeeded in acquiring the company’s first purpose built removals depository in Queens Road, East Grinstead.

In 2003, as this depository was converted for retail use, Martell’s acquired two units in an industrial estate in East Grinstead. One of the new units was rapidly refurbished and fitted out as Martell’s first self-store unit.

Planning Permission for rebuilding the other unit as a container store for Fire Safe steel storage containers was then obtained. Once the container store was completed, a section of this unit was fitted out as self-store space which, like the first area designated to self-storage, was rapidly filled.

In 2009, Martell’s acquired another unit in the same industrial estate, with a large ground floor section fitted out for self-storage. In 2011 Martell’s then negotiated the purchase of a fourth unit in the estate, demolished it and had a 10,000 square foot building erected with two mezzanine floors giving a total of 30,000 square feet. Martell’s now uses all of this space to service the business needs of a commercial storage client.

“This has also enabled us to relinquish a lease on a building we previously used for this client,” Edward explains. “As a result, the whole company operates from freehold premises, giving long term stability to Martell’s.”

Online marketing strategyAs well as increasing its self-storage capacity dramatically since 2003, Martell’s has also adapted its marketing strategy in recent years to include a more

prominent online presence. In addition to continued advertising in Yellow Pages, the company has signed an agreement with BAR Affiliate Reach Local for a targeted online advertising campaign.

“Initial results suggest this will work well,” Edward says.

As part of its marketing strategy, Martell’s is also a long-standing BAR member and promotes BAR membership to clients as a mark of quality and service.

That’s particularly important in these times of self drive hire, man-and-van operations and continued increases in regulations and employment law.

“BAR Members and Members of the SSSIG also have the benefit of advice and up to the minute information on the legislative changes,” Edward says. “Members need to do what they do best well and keep taking the medicine.

Being part of the SSSIG in particular lets us keep abreast with relevant legislation and promote our business. BAR membership also helps with providing contract conditions, negotiating with government departments, plus of course promoting friendship and cooperation between the members!”

Contact:

For more information,visit: www.martells.co.ukor tel: 01342 321303


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Training News

BAR Training Services carry out a range of training courses for removals companies. For more information on all courses, please go to www.removalstraining.co.uk

BTEC Award in Practical Estimating

Commercial Estimating

BARTS held a two-day BTEC Award in Practical Estimating at BAR Watford towards the end of 2012. Five delegates took part in the course which started with the various methods to correctly calculate volume or ‘cube up’ before visiting the first domestic property, which is a lived in house and therefore presented a real environment as if they were really ‘cubing up’ a removal. On arriving back to the training room, they processed their notes from the survey before comparing them. Peter Walters, BAR Field Trainer, used these results to see whether they were over or under estimating. The group visited a second property later that day, and found they were all much closer when comparing their cubing with each other and the correct volume.

On day two Peter concentrated on other aspects of the estimating process, for example the duties and role of the estimator, risk assessment, removal planning etc. In the afternoon, the delegates all sat a 45 minute multiple choice examination and a 45 minute practical examination. If successful, they will gain a nationally recognised BTEC qualification in Practical Estimating.

BARTS held a one-day course in Commercial Estimating for delegates from Goodmove Removals and Storage and Britannia Squab Group in early December 2012. They both had experience in Domestic Estimating, but limited experience in Commercial Estimating. They both had a decent knowledge of cubing items, which was evident in the practical exercise of

‘cubing up’ the office area at BAR. They were asked to produce an inspection report and removal plan and produce a quote, highlighting what they could add that would make them stand out from others as a selling point. This could be in a method statement, items requiring special attention, handling or meeting customers’ expectations.

Jacek Zwizchlewski, A1 Border Moves: “After 9 years in the removal industry I got a few new tips which will definitely change my thinking and improve existing business.”

Herve Meyer, AGS Fourwinds Ltd: “This training is appropriate for surveyors and the trainer shared his experience and expertise which is very enriching for us.”

Ben Messmer, Edward Baden Ltd: “I found the course informative and the site viewings were particularly useful to get to grips with voluming.”

Morgan Warren, Alexander’s Removal and Storage Ltd: “This course was very useful in helping me learn to cube furniture more efficiently. Peter is easily approachable with all questions and it helps a lot to be in a relaxed environment where you can ask any question to help with your course.”

Feedback includes:

Robb McKay, Britannia Squab Group: “Very good course for all levels of surveyors, I would highly recommend. Good trainer with a good knowledge of the industry.”

Will Steed, Goodmove Removals & Storage: “Peter proved to be a helpful, engaging and patient instructor. His vast depth of knowledge and personal experience I found particularly useful as my commercial estimating background is very much in its fledgling state.”

Feedback includes:


BAR NewsTraining News

To book Call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

Just £99 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

Selling Skills/Promoting the BAR Code of PracticeThis 1 day course is designed to enhance sales skills and to demonstrate the most effective way of promoting the BAR OFT Code of Practice to win business, covering topics such as:

• The Role of the Salesperson • Marketing• Prospecting & Negotiating • Promoting the OFT Code • Communication & Presentation• Identifying Customer Needs • Closing the Sale

Course Dates 201327 February

BTEC in Removals ManagementThe course can now be completed in 5 days meaning less time away from your place of work!

Upon completion of the later exam, successful students will be presented with a nationally recognised BTEC qualifi cation.

Course Dates 20138-12 March

£1,675 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

NEWLY IMPROVED for 2013!

BTEC Award in Practical EstimatingThis 2 day course is practically based and is designed to teach students the art of estimating as well as face to face sales techniques, covering topics such as:

• Quantity Assessment • The Role of the Estimator• Health & Safety • Contract Conditions • Communication Techniques• Removals Insurance

Course Dates 2013

5-6 March

£545 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

1 Day (7 hours) Driver CPC

Prices start from as little as £49.25 + VAT per driver, delivered on site at your premises

Course Dates 2013For further details contact BAR.

JAUPT APPROVED CENTRE AC00191

*BAR Training Services train you at BAR in Watford, in the BAR areas or at your premises.


BARTS 2013 Training Dates All courses taking place at BAR Watford*

Did you know that BARTS can deliver all training onsite at your premises?

Please visit www.removalstraining.com and see all of the different training sessions, workshops and courses we provide, as well as the Removals Apprenticeship Scheme and Online E-learning.

We can also tailor training programmes to fi t your individual business needs.

Call BARTS on 01923 699484.

NEWLY IMPROVED for 2013!

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BAR News


Training News

BAR Training Services carry out a range of training courses for removals companies. Peter Walters, BARTS Field Trainer, provides a roundup of the courses recently delivered. For full feedback from delegates and for more information on all courses, please go to www.removalstraining.co.uk

Age UK

Manual and Furniture Handling Princess Alice HospicePeter delivered two half-day training courses to two groups of staff from Princess Alice Hospice. The morning session was delivered to their shop staff and covered manual and furniture handling, explaining how incorrect lifting can damage your back. The correct lifting techniques were demonstrated in the practical session and useful tips were given in

handling furniture. The practical side was covered in their warehouse which meant that furniture that often proved problematic could be used to explain and demonstrate the various techniques. The afternoon session was dedicated to their drivers and covered manual handling and vehicle loading, where securing items and loads were demonstrated.

Peter returned to Age UK in Ipswich to deliver a one-day Manual Handling and Furniture Handling course to fi ve new volunteers. Peter showed the attendees techniques and the uses of the web as a lifting aide.

Danielle Best: “Very informative course, nothing was missed out, very useful, especially seeing the lifting done in the warehouse. Peter was very detailed with answers to all questions.”

Steven Stroud: “It’s very easy to feel over confi dent when it comes to manual handling, but BAR Training Services highlighted the techniques and methods which are both safe and effi cient for the experienced and inexperienced alike.”

Feedback includes:

Feedback includes:

“I have worked in sales for the last 5 years. After leaving school, I started in sales on a part-time basis, while attending a dance and performing arts college. I sold magazine subscriptions and worked on behalf of the BBC and IPC Publications. Although I wasn’t aware of it at the time, this was the start of my career in sales and administration. Like anything inside and outside of work, I put all my time and focus into the company I was working for and after 3 years was promoted to Subscriptions Supervisor, leading a team of around 15 employees. At the age of 19 this was a massive opportunity for me to launch my career having been given all the tools and training to be successful in sales. It was a fantastic break for me to be able to put all of my hard work and dedication into training staff members who were in the same position as me 3 years previously.

I relocated from Northampton to Watford in 2012 in the hope of fi nding a similar position in or around London. This was something I had wanted to do from a young age and it seemed like the most appropriate time. I soon found myself a role as an account manager selling promotional merchandise in a very small company. This allowed me to continue with my love of sales but also to be introduced to business development. Not only now was I gaining clients rapidly but also learning how to maintain them, which was just as important.

When the opportunity arose to work for BAR Training Services, I jumped at the chance. The role was everything I was looking for but on a larger scale. This meant I could put all of my knowledge and experience from previously successful positions into a new project and industry.”

Georgia Little, BAR Sales and Administration Executive, introduces herself to BAR Members.

New face at BARTS HQ

‘‘When the opportunity arose to work for BAR Training Services, I jumped at the chance. The role was everything I was looking for but on a larger scale.

‘‘


Features

Age UK

With locations throughout the UK, GB Liners wanted to ensure that personnel in each of its 12 branches could process one-time and recurring credit card payments quickly. However, their system was faced with expensive challenges. Each location had its own rented point-of-sale terminal, there was no centralised reporting process for card transactions and sales ledger accounting relied on paper based returns, which had the potential for error. The multi-terminal PCI DSS compliance process was extensive.

The challengeAll of these factors increased the company’s risk exposure, and the separate reporting for each terminal further complicated an already-frustrating back offi ce reporting and PCI DSS compliance process.

“As a removals company, life is hard at the moment,” says Anna Yates, Director. “We are looking to trim costs and increase effi ciencies wherever we can while providing the secure payment options our customers expect. Our previous provider was not very helpful in providing recommendations to help us save time and money and that created a level of dissatisfaction for us.”

The solutionYates received a call “out of the blue” from a First Data Merchant Solutions representative who offered an analysis on the company’s existing payments programme. He quickly determined that GB Liners could realise signifi cant savings simply by switching from the POS terminals to First Data’s Virtual Terminal solution. A virtual terminal is a web-based payments solution that turns any computer into a Point of Sale device for customer-not-present transactions. It works equally well for both large and small companies and is easy to learn. Not only has Virtual Terminal eliminated the need for GB Liners to rent separate terminals, each with a different account, but it transferred much of the card security responsibility to the Service Provider. GB Liners’ PCI DSS costs dropped dramatically. GB Liners also adopted First Data’s ClientLine reporting solution, which helped to streamline back offi ce accounting processes and facilitated a company-wide reporting structure. For Anna Yates: “First Data checked in at the right time with us and offered several solutions to the challenges that we faced. Partnering with First Data ticked a lot of boxes for us.”

The resultsToday, GB Liners processes all of its transactions through PC and web-based virtual terminals, maintains one reporting structure, has increased back offi ce effi ciency and has reduced costs signifi cantly.

“As the person in charge of IT and all things central, I am constantly looking for solutions to make life easier for our people.

The web-based payment acceptance solution is easier for everyone, everyone is happy to use it, and it saves us money on machine rental and PCI compliance, not to mention time. We also got better transaction rates,” says Yates.

GB Liners no longer manages separate terminals and accounts, its PCI DSS compliance costs have dropped, and the company saves between 1% and 10% on every transaction. Overall, GB Liners is saving 66% since partnering with First Data.

Additionally, VirtualTerminal has helped the company make better fi nancial decisions. “We can see transactions from across the company real-time,” says Yates. “And we’re more effi cient because all of our transaction information is managed in one, central place.”

GB Liners is now planning to accept payments online through First Data, providing even more convenience for customers.

How First Data Merchant Solutions helped GB Liners improve payment processing, costs, capabilities and security by transforming the way they take card payments.

CLIENTGB Liners

CHALLENGEReduce payment processing and POS-terminal costs

SOLUTION• VirtualTerminal payment processing• ClientLine reporting

RESULTS• Savings of up to 10% on payment processing rates• No terminal rental fees• Reduced PCI DSS compliance costs• Improved reporting across the company’s many branchesOverall savings compared to previous transaction processor: 66%

GB Liners is one of the oldest and largest storage and removals companies in Europe, helping people to pack, store and move their homes and businesses across town and across the globe.

BAR MembersFirst Data Merchant Solutions offers reliable and scalable payment solutions alongside personalised service that refl ects our deep experience in the payments industry as well as an understanding of your unique business needs. As a Member of the British Association of Removers, you are eligible for a free payment acceptance program analysis. For more information, contact 0800 652 5808 (Option 1) and quote reference IB6 or email: partner.sales@fi rstdatacorp.co.uk

Savings of 66% overall compared to previous payments provider.‘‘

‘‘

New face at BARTS HQ

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The R&S Interview: Ian Smith, Maguire Training

R&S: What are the main ways for removals and storage companies to successfully motivate their staff?Ian Smith: It’s very easy to get into the ‘pay them more’ syndrome, but beware, research has shown in the past that it only has a short term change in efficiency, productivity and human behaviour.

The most valuable motivators are recognition and achievement. A company can benefit greatly by creating a culture of thanks and praise (not for the sake of it but for genuine efforts by individuals who go the extra mile). It is important that everyone within the company recognises these efforts through rewards and incentives to help increase productivity and also bring some gentle competition to the crews.

Senior leaders should ‘walk the floor’ whenever possible and show a genuine interest in the work of the teams. This shouldn’t be about overseeing the work but by genuinely having concern for both staff and customer and ensuring they work together. How can management know what is happening from the comfort of their desks?

R&S: Is helping their career development more important than rewarding them financially?IS: Research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel &Development(CIPD)hasshownusthatalthough

financial rewards are welcome, they only bring a short term change to human behaviour and people are far more likely to value aspects of the job such as career development, pension benefits, working conditions etc.

In this business there is a broad range of competencies required and training will help to fulfil potential. Other motivational aspects include a clear career path, relationships with their line managers, open communications and a fair and unbiased leadership capability amongst others.

R&S: What do you recommend that removals and storage companies do to invest in their employees’ development?IS: This process should begin at induction level. At this point the company has a good opportunity to educate the employee of the benefits or working for the company and create a supportive working environment. Development should be on-going via a robust appraisal process where employees can feel how they can be helped and encouraged to achieve their potential. By encouraging on-going personal development the company shows commitment to the individuals’ long term employment. This brings the obvious benefits of staff retention, harmonious relationships and job satisfaction.

R&S: What tips do you have for removals and storage companies to make sure they keep their staff motivated?IS: Here are some dos and don’ts:• Don’tpickatthenegatives.• Dobuildacultureofsupportanddevelopment

to each individual.• Dotrytoremembertosaythankyoutoyour staff.• Don’tforgetto‘walkthefloor’fromtimeto

time to ensure you know what is going on at the sharp end.

• Dobuildarecognitionsystemintoyourculture.• Dohaveabusinesswithvalueswhichstaffhave

input to.• Don’tdismisssuggestionsautomaticallyanddo

remember that staff often have great ideas.

As new generations of movers join the removals and storage industry, company owners need to be aware of how they attract, develop and retain a skilled and motivated workforce. Ian Smith, a leading consultant and trainer at Maguire Training will be speaking at the upcoming BAR Annual Conference in Newcastle (16-18 May) on practical ways to build a great team atmosphere in removals and storage companies.

Contact:Training specialists Maguire Training provide e-learning modules at a discounted rate to all BAR Members. To get the discount offer code for these courses, please refer to the Members’ section of the BAR website:www.bar.co.uk/trade/mybar/training/elearning.aspx

Book now for the BAR Annual Conference!www.bar.co.uk/conference2013.aspx


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In today’s removals market the name of the game is getting as much out of your vehicles and equipment as is possible. For this reason, demount trucks may be a compelling proposition for removals companies.

The chief advantage of using a demountable vehicle system is that removal operators are able to load the demounted body of the lorry even when the vehicle is working somewhere else, before the truck then backs onto the body when it is ready and loaded for moving or even storage.

Although lorries with a demount chassis are more expensive than standard trucks, companies can get a lot more out of them – and they last longer and are relatively straightforward to refurbish.

Some notable committed converts to the demount cause include Smeeton Panton, Fleets of Liverpool, Quickmove in Calne, Lanes of Devon, and Lanes of Bridgewater, all of which are part of the Britannia group. The companies have taken different approaches to using demountable vehicles. For example, at Leatherbarrows, David Trenchard and Managing Director Rob Dance attended the German

Association of Movers and Logistics Exhibition MöLo to see examples of European bodywork. They obtained quotations from two exhibitors for demount curtain side units to take wooden storage containers and be suitable for loose furniture loading.

“We bought three demount vehicles from SOMMER and were very satisfied with the result,” David says.” We then visited SOMMER in January 2012 and viewed their works, met their management team and placed an order for two new Scania units, supplied through Scania UK, to be sent to them and to have the bodywork fitted and also for two matching trailers. We also ordered a fourth curtain side body.”

“With classic German efficiency, the trucks arrived on time and went straight into service. They have each done many trips to France, Spain and Portugal and are a proven success”, David says.

“Other Britannia Members have since followed suit with the demount system based upon air ride vehicles and the CT box system which uses European 7.3 metre swap bodies,” he adds.

BenefitsUsing close coupled trailers and designed to EU swap body standards, the ‘pull-through’ system makes it easier for a driver to swap bodies between the unit and trailer on his own. Built-in guides minimise inaccuracy when manoeuvring and help reduce the risk of damage to body legs.

The shorter units without the trailers can get into far more difficult and tight accesses than the traditional removal van with coach-built bodywork, while also allowing a greater payload volume to be carried.

The swap bodies also allow companies to provide a ‘holdover’ service for customers on local moves. This avoids any need to load and deliver in a single day with all the problems of key delays and the opportunities to lay or clean new carpets, change decorations etc. before delivery takes place.

Rob Lane of Britannia Lanes runs five European road trains, three of which are now demount system bodies from DAF with CT 20-foot stretched bodies. Rob says that these have been very valuable for a client who requires a holdover service, as the vehicle can be used to go out again to pick up the next load, saving on the need for double handling.

“They are very good for Spanish runs or in cases of bad access,” Rob adds. “We can swap bodies in 45 minutes, and because they are 20-foot steel containers you can drag them into places where fibreglass bodies wouldn’t take the strain. They are also not wasted during a handover process, as they can pick up another box in the meantime.”

Shared load services Britannia Lanes has even gone one step further by putting doors inside the CT boxes, giving the company more flexibility, as the bodies can also be used for storage. “On a busy day I can easily swap the bodies that are preloaded and the vehicles can

Demount swap-body vehicles are gaining increasing support in the British removals industry, led by the likes of Leatherbarrows and other Britannia members, who are now using a variety of demount options to maximise the utilisation of their assets. R&S Editor Andy Stern spoke to some of their supporters.

Demount trucks take to the road


Features

go and do a local move,” Rob explains. “The trucks can be fully loaded, drop the boxes and do another job.”

As a result, Britannia Lanes now offer a shared load service to clients. “This means that they can come on the Friday before the move, we pick up the load and hold it in the body over the weekend and then put it on a CT rig as a shared load which we deliver on the Wednesday,” Rob explains. “It takes the stress out of a move for customers, and also means they benefi t from a lower price, as it is a shared load service. It’s a really attractive proposition for a lot of people in the market.”

Rob recommends having sets of both vehicles. “People shouldn’t replace all their road trains with CT boxes and demountable bodies but they are defi nitely a valuable option to have,” he told R&S. “You also need

a minimum of four boxes for each demountable truck to make it worthwhile.”

There are disadvantages to demountable trucks compared to conventional rigs. In addition to the steeper initial outlay, they are heavier and hence more expensive on tyres and greater consumers of fuel.

But for the Britannia group of companies at least, the vehicles provide them with a wide range of service options and cost benefi t, and it would seem that demount vehicles are here to stay. We can swap bodies in

45 minutes, and because they are 20-foot steel containers you can drag them into places where fi breglass bodies wouldn’t take the strain. They are also not wasted during a handover process, as they can pick up another box in the meantime.Rob Lane, Britannia Lanes

‘‘

‘‘

R&S would be interested to hear about the experiences of other BAR Members with the demount vehicles. Please send your comments to [email protected]

52

Features


Surrey Hills Removals is very much the new kid on the block, Surrey Hills’ owner and Managing Director Nick Caporn tells R&S, but it has quickly built a strong reputation, loyal customer base and increasing sales – despite the current diffi cult economic climate and sluggish housing market.

Just months after it was formed in November 2010, the company pulled off something of a coup with the takeover of one of the UK’s longest established movers, Manns Removals, the removals operation of the renowned 125 year old ‘Manns of Cranleigh’ department store.

“At fi rst sight this union between young and old may seem a little incongruous,” says Nick. “But in reality there are a great many powerful similarities and synergies between the two which create excellent opportunities for us and our customers.”

No compromise on serviceThe key similarity is a shared target audience and a common approach to service. Surrey Hills Removals has built its business on a no compromise attitude to service. “We are in the business of providing the very best quality service to discerning customers who want a stress-free move” says Nick. “These are people who still demand value for money; however they recognise that the cheapest price is likely to bring the cheapest service, which in turn is likely to bring increased work, hassle and stress for themselves.”

“Quality, care, consideration and going the extra mile delight our customers,” continues Nick, “and result in a large proportion of our work coming through personal recommendation – and that’s what gets me out of bed in the morning!”

Cost Effi ciencyFollowing the takeover of Manns, Surrey Hills now has access to a much wider range of specialist vehicles, which means the right vehicle mix can be used for each job to ensure cost effi ciency; a larger group of full time professional staff, which means jobs are carried out much more quickly, smoothly and effectively; and increased storage capacity of some 10,000 square feet with 24/7 security for its warehouses on the Dunsfold Aerodrome Business Park – just yards from the famous Top Gear studio.

For its part, Surrey Hills has brought new technologies with full tracking of vehicles using GPS, computer-based inventory, invoicing and accounting and better business systems.

An old hand in a new companySurrey Hills Removals may be a fl edgling, but Nick has some three decades of experience, wisdom and knowledge of the removals industry that he has worked in man and boy.

Starting his career as a trainee manager with Pickfords, he worked his way up through a succession ofcompaniesbeforebecomingapartnerinFarrer&Fenwick, a position he held for some 13 years before striking out on his own to form Surrey Hills Removals.

Throughout that time he was always involved with, and supported, BAR. “When I decided to set up my own show I applied to join BAR just as soon as we had enough of a track record and the systems in place to be accepted” says Nick.

“I am absolutely delighted to be a Member again as the Association brings so many benefi ts including, representing our industry, providing training for staff and reassuring customers about the standards of service they can expect from us. Our membership of BAR will certainly add to our success.”

Surrey Hills Removals – scaling the heights! Surrey Hills Removals was founded just 2 years ago, yet this latest recruit to BAR has already shown an appetite for growth and has ambitions to expand further.

We are in the business of providing the very best quality service to discerning customers who want a stress-free move. These are people who still demand value for money, however they recognise that the cheapest price is likely to bring the cheapest service, which in turn is likely to bring increased work, hassle and stress for themselves.

‘‘

‘‘

Contact:

For more information, visit: www.surreyhillsremovals.co.ukor email:[email protected] tel:01483 273041

Nick Caporn, Surrey Hill’s Owner and Managing Director with a Surrey Hills removal lorry


FeaturesOlympics Monitor


To book - Call: 01923 699484 or email: [email protected]

BTEC Award in Practical EstimatingThis 2 day course is practically based and is designed to teach students the art of estimating as well as face to face sales techniques, covering topics such as:

• Quantity assessment made easy • Instructor with 27 years experience in estimating • Best practice - survey to report to quote • Confi dence in sales & estimating. • Understanding the importance of communication £545 + VAT p/p (BAR Member)

Course Dates 20135-6 March

Course to be held at BAR, Watford

NEWLYIMPROVED

for 2013!

54

Features


Three strikes and you’re out? The Employment Appeals Tribunal has ruled that a dismissal is unfair if an employee is dismissed for an incident of misconduct following only a first written warning, skipping a stage in disciplinary proceedings. Transport law solicitors Backhouse Jones take up the story of the case, which involved a driver in the transport industry.In the case of Wincanton Group Plc v Stone, the Employment Appeals Tribunal heard that Mr Stone was employed as driver by Wincanton for a period of about ten years. In 2009, Mr Stone received a first written warning for failing to obey a reasonable work instruction.

Mr Stone unsuccessfully appealed against the warning and maintained that Wincanton had no contractual right to enforce the change in working practices.

In April 2010, while the first written warning was still live, Mr Stone pulled off a loading bay while the light was still on red. Such an offence under the Wincanton disciplinary policy would usually carry a final written warning, but Wincanton decided to dismiss, regarding the earlier warning as the “tipping of the balance” in favour of dismissal.

Mr Stone took his case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) where it was decided that the dismissal

was unfair due to Wincanton aggregating the first written warning with what should have been a final written warning to arrive at dismissal. The Tribunal also held that that there was no similarity of conduct between the two occasions even though Wincanton had been dismissed for “repeated misconduct”.

The EAT overturned the decision of the Tribunal. It found that the Tribunal had erred as it had fallen into the substitution mindset of what it would have done if it were the employer.

The EAT then issued some further guidance on how valid warnings should be used by the Tribunal when deciding on the fairness of a decision to dismiss. It said the Tribunal should take into account that the warning exists, and should also take into account whether there are any factors that may affect the validity of the warning.

The EAT said that the Tribunal should not go behind the reasons for the previous warning. A final

written warning always implies that any further misconduct of whatever nature will be met with dismissal (unless the employment contract specifies otherwise).

The EAT specified that in such cases, a Tribunal can look at an employer’s treatment of other employees for similar matters, when deciding if the dismissal was fair or unfair.

According to Backhouse Jones, in the light of this ruling, employers must look at the decision to dismiss carefully where an incident of misconduct could potentially lead to a skip from a valid first written warning straight to dismissal. The solicitors advise that “most employment contracts do not specify what will be considered a final written warning as in the case of Wincanton and, as such, a Tribunal is likely to look at what treatment other employees have had for similar conduct, if the employer is effectively skipping a stage in the disciplinary sanctions.”


Features

Rising to the identity fraud opportunity

Brian Maidman, Managing Director of Maidman’s, is well known to many in the industry, especially in the BAR community, and was awarded the Domestic Mover of the Year award in 2011. The removals fi rm, through its commercial department, has also established a confi dential shredding service at its warehouse in Bournemouth.

Demand for shredding services is growing across the UK, as identity fraud reaches new highs, affecting organisations and companies as well as individuals. It costs the UK economy an estimated £16bn a year. There were 130,706 confi rmed cases reported to the National Fraud Database by CIFAS, the UK’s fraud prevention service, in the fi rst half of 2012, up 5% on the second half of 2011.

Removals and storage companies are ideally placed in the market to provide the shredding services that businesses need. BAR Members have the contacts, they have the reputation and the accreditations, and they have the warehouse and storage facilities in place for secure shredding and disposal.

Brian says the identity fraud fi gures are sobering. “We know that identity fraud is on the rise and the latest fi gures give us some idea on the scope of the problem. “It’s a real warning about just how seriously companies need to take the disposal of their documentation in a confi dential and secure way. Not doing so can leave a company facing dire consequences.”

“There is a mixture of complacency and laziness about the issue of identity fraud,” says Brian. “Many companies just think they won’t fall victim but they are putting their heads in the sand.”

Setting up a shredding serviceA recent survey undertaken by Ipsos/Mori revealed many fi rms are still not taking basic precautions and others are unaware of the legal requirements on them regarding disposal of data, particularly under the Data Protection Act 1988.

Brian Maidman says Maidman’s provides a thorough and secure shredding service, all

completed in-house with a detailed audit trail. The process has been accredited with British and European standards for the secure destruction of confi dential material.

Each bag of shredded documentation is given a unique serial number tag and the client receives a certifi cate to confi rm it has been destroyed. The entire process, which Brian describes as “seamless” is fi lmed on CCTV and takes place in a secure room.

Everything is completed on site and all staff are CRB checked. Maidman’s also offers archive storage.

Brian says: “It’s quite apparent that many fi rms have absolutely no idea what happens to their documents when they are collected and taken away for disposal. For all they know it might be burnt in a fi eld or thrown into a lock-up or a shed. It’s

surprising just how many companies don’t take the threat seriously because they do not believe that losing private information will have an impact on them.”

Too many businesses are leaving themselves wide open to identity fraud because of a cavalier approach to the disposing of documentation. BAR Members such as Maidman’s Removals & Storage are now leading the way in providing a shredding service to help companies dispose of confi dential documents securely and professionally.

A high number of smaller companies have poor awareness about the legal requirements for storing or keeping confi dential data in their industry. This has to change if we are to mount a serious challenge to the huge problem of fraud. Every business needs clear policies to combat identity fraud.Brian Maidman Managing Director, Maidman’s

‘‘

‘‘

56

Features


‘Envoy’ is the term that Acas uses to describe the person - usually a line manager or HR manager - who delivers bad news in an organisation. It’s a role that can last weeks or months, Acas says, from delivering the initial announcement to providing counselling and offering advice and support to colleagues at risk of losing their jobs.

The new video, Breaking bad news at work - the role of the redundancy envoy, offers employers practical advice to help managers deal with the emotions, tensions and difficult decisions of downsizing.

It includes an interview with Dr Ian Ashman from the Institute for Research into Organisation, Work and Employment at the University of Central Lancashire’s Business School. He studied the experiences of envoys, or tellers as they are also called, across the public and private sectors for Acas.

Dr Ashman said: “The Acas guidance helps employers recognise the role that line managers have in dealing with these sensitive situations. If we look after the managers, the managers will take better care of those on the receiving end of bad news. And if those who lose their jobs are treated with dignity and respect, then those who remain are more likely to feel engaged with the organisation going forward.”

The research by Dr Ashman involved interviews with fifty envoys drawn from nine public sector organisations and eight private sector organisations and included two consultants who had experience of downsizing in small and micro-organisations.

Acas Senior Guidance Editor Adrian Wakeling said “managing the emotions of everyone involved has to be a real priority for the organisation. You can have all the plans, policies and procedures in the world but when it comes to that face to face meeting, what you need most is the kind of emotional intelligence that only comes with the right training or experience.”

According to Acas, research shows that many first-time tellers are often unprepared for the range of emotions they experience and the psychological impact they have on them.

Acas advises:• Providetherighttrainingandmentoringto

help tellers cope with the demands of letting people go.

• Thinkcarefullyaboutwhoshouldbreakthenews and involve them early on in the downsizing - it will make those having to break the bad news more understanding and better communicators.

• Theclosertherelationshipthetellerhaswiththose facing redundancy, the more difficult the process is for them, as they still have to work with those affected for some time to come.

Ideally, Acas says that a teller should have previous experience and at the very least should be supported in how best to deal with the situation, including being given a thorough briefing on why redundancy or redeployment is necessary.

Don’t shoot the messenger! Workplace experts Acas have launched new video guidance to help employees who have to deliver news of redundancies.

Contact:To view the video visit www.acas.org.uk/envoys

Visit: www.acas.org.ukCall the Helpline on 08457 47 47 47Monday-Friday, 8am-8pm and Saturday, 9am-1pm

Other useful Numbers:Customer Service: 08457 38 37 36Publications: 08702 42 90 90


57

Industry News


People News

Ian Tombs joins Movecorp

Ian will cover the West Midlands area as a surveyor dealing with private clients and corporate accounts. Ian started his life in the industry as a porter and has worked his way up holding many positions within the industry. “Having worked in a traditional and respected local moving company for most of my career it has been an exciting and interesting change to work with a very modern and progressive company,” Ian says.

Ian Tombs is the latest arrival at Movecorp, where he will be surveying after spending 14 years at Charles Hind in Lichfi eld.


Services for full details at [email protected] or 01923 699 484

Removals EssentialsBrand new course – Removals Essentials to be priced £985.00 + VAT, this course will be delivered onsite as practical skills training where we will demonstrate the correct methods for manual handling, vehicle loading, wrapping and packing with delegates taking part in all practical excersises, there will be no classroom element.

Course content:- Manual Handling, Health & Safety, Vehicle Loading, Packing (fragile and non fragile), Wrapping, Tail Lifts, Risk Assessment.

Course can be delivered onsite for your convenience, Please contact BAR Training

This is a practical course, with no classroom element

BRANDNEW

for 2013!

58

BAR News


Diary Dates

BOARD, COUNCIL AND

COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2013

Board of Directors

April 10 & 11 2013

Advisory Committee

March 13 2013

National Council

February 5 2013

Overseas Group Council

February 6 2013

CMG Council

February 7 2013

BAR AREA MEETINGS 2013

East Anglia Area

Contact: Andrew Pearson

01362 853777

[email protected]

East Met Area

Contact: Paul Freeman

0800 413335

[email protected]

East Midlands Area

Contact: Andy Wade

01476 579210

[email protected]

March 20 2013

Kent Area

Contact: Tom Bourne

01797 228000

[email protected]

New Met Area

Contact: Julie Thompson

01932 410100

[email protected]

March 12 2013 - AGM

Novotel Hotel, Heathrow

Do you have any Diary Dates?E-mail them to: [email protected]

Diary Dates

To view diary dates/events, please log into ‘MyBAR’ and click on the Calendar/Events and BAR Calendar tabs where you can view full details including time, date, location and agendas (when available).

To view area minutes, please log into ‘MyBAR’ and click on the BAR Areas tab and then one of the 15 areas listed. Minutes from past 2012 area meetings can be viewed and downloaded (where available).

Northern Area

Contact: Alan Hoggin

0191 5491194

[email protected]

North West Area

Contact: Annette Harris

0161 6534455

[email protected]

March 8 2013

Spring Ball and Golf Day

Northern Ireland Area

Contact: Dominic Murray

02890 748588

Dominicmurray@coastways

-storage.com

Scotland Area

Contact: Georgina Berry

01505 502220

[email protected]

Southern Area

Contact: Peter Doman

01372 385985

[email protected]

March 6 2013

South Western Area

Contact: Sue Christophers

01637 872529

[email protected]

Sussex Area

Contact: Miranda Hyder

01342 870087

[email protected]

Western Area

Contact: Ria Russell

01278 447099

[email protected]

West Midlands Area

Contact: Sarah Pargeter

01384 377786

[email protected]

Yorkshire Area

Contact: Graham Puddephatt

0845 6021775

GrahamPuddephatt@reason-

insurance.com

February 21 2013

South Leeds Golf Club

We offer a regular service to Europe

59

Industry News


Memb No. F046

Italian Trade Service

Tel: 01865 349017e: [email protected]

We offer a regular service to Europe

Covering South of France and Austria en-route

• WeeklyServicetoand fromItaly,Austriaand theSouthofFrance• Competitivetraderates• Partandfullloads• Shuttleservice• Trucksaremannedby ourownstaff

60

BAR News



Trade Services

Ireland Channel Islands

France

Scotland/Europe Isle of Man

Scotland and Islands

SHETLAND ISLESIAN F REID

Removals & StorageUnits 5&6, Lower Blackhill Ind. Estate, Lerwick, ZE1 ODG

Regular nationwide serviceTel: 01595 696268 • Fax: 01595 693515

Email: [email protected]

This space is available from just £33 a month

When booked as a mono unit for a series of 12 issues.

62

Trade Services


Germany Germany and Austria

Switzerland

Italy For Sale

This space is available from just £33 a month

When booked as a mono unit for a series of 12 issues.

This space is available from just

£67 a month

When booked as a mono 2 unit space for a series of 12 issues.


Trade Services

Cyprus and Malta

Greece

GREECEby Road

&ITALYENROUTE

• 7day transit time

• Twice-monthly departures

• BritishCrews & ProfessionalService

• Highlyrecommended in Greece

00441733311561 | [email protected]

www.nomad-international.com

Spain Europe

UK Office: 01843 585055, [email protected] Office: 0034 971 693566, [email protected] website: www.william-worldwide-webb.com

Weekly Scheduled Service, Containerised Storage DepotsHolder of Spanish Transport Licence

for our Tranship vehiclesUnrivaled Infrastructure in Mallorca, Menorca & Ibiza Excellent Rates, Payment in Euros or GBP accepted

Purely The Balearics, No Bull!

WEEKLY

REGULAR

MALLORCAMENORCAMAINLAND

SPAINFRANCE

IBIZAPORTUGAL

CYPRUSNORWAY

Memb No: W001

TEL: 01202 576514FAX: 01202 574011

[email protected] www.whitesmovingandstorage.com


£67 a month

When booked as a mono 2 unit space for a series of 12 issues.

France - Spain - Portugal - ItalyWeekly Service for the Trade. Call now for best rates

Depots in Preston, Chester, Alicante, Malaga

PRESTON 01772 651570Email: [email protected] Web: www.moversint.co.uk


64

Trade Services


United Arab Emirates

SingaporeChina Caribbean

Israel Qatar

Europe

Europe and Scandinavia

Scandinavia


Trade Services

LOCAL MOVING • WORLDWIDE SHIPPINGWEEKLY EUROPEAN SERVICE

Recommended by the worlds finest piano manufacturers,auctioneers, music colleges & academies.

A family run business, Est. in 1968.

THE PIANOSPECIALISTS

Mem. No G005

100 BOLLO LANE, CHISWICK, LONDON W4 5LXTel: +44 (0) 20 8994 9733 Fax: +44 (0) 20 8995 0855Email: [email protected] www.gandrremovals.co.uk

G&R Advert 60x60mm:Layout 1 20/10/08 16

NO NEED TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE FOR YOUR TRAININGOPERATIVE TRAINING THAT COMES TO YOUR FRONT DOORPACKING • MANUAL HANDLING • EXPORT WRAPPINGVEHICLE LOADING • CONTAINER LOADING

REMOVAL SPECIFIC HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING ON SITEHEALTH & SAFETY POLICIES • HEALTH & SAFETY ASSESSMENT • ACCIDENT CONTROL • FIRST AIDRISK ASSESSMENT • HSE COMPLIANCE

Call BARTS on 01923 699484 or email [email protected]

Piano SpecialistsTraining

Space to HireSpecialist Services

Trailer Hire For SaleWarehouse Containers

Worldwide

Worldwide

We offer Trade storage at competitive rates. Undercover Loading & Unloading Flexible hours

£6.00 p/w no handling charge

www.trekremovals.com [email protected]: 0800 1389242 or 01708 552981

Trade Storage


£33 a monthWhen booked as a mono unit

for a series of 12 issues.

66

Classifi eds

Removals & Storage February 2013 Removals & Storage February 2013

Are You Looking To Sell?

We are looking to buy good quality household moving and storage companies in London and the

home counties.

Please call 07933 123 123 in full confi dence for a quick decision.

COMPANY FOR SALEAbbey Removals

and Storage (Perth) Ltd

Central Scotland and gateway to the highlands. Ideal opportunity for

expansion, includes web domain and telephone number of a private

partnership company.

Price on application. Genuine enquiries only.

Tel: 07808 331234

Opportunities


Library Packing and RemovalsBrand new course designed, based on member feedback aimed at training operative foremen, packers and estimators in the methodologies for packing and removing libraries and extensive fi ling systems.

Course content:- Library Classifi cations, Sequential order, Labelling and packing the crate, Methods for packing a library, Using existing shelving, Mobile shelving, Crew organisation, Special collections and Integrating collections. Just £985 + VAT

BRANDNEW

for 2013!

Course DetailsCourses will be on site

at your premises.

Call BARTS to book

your date.

Services for full details at [email protected] or 01923 699 484Course can be delivered onsite for your convenience, please contact BAR Training

WANTED250 CUBIC FOOT WOODEN

STORAGE CONTAINERS IN GOOD CONDITION

CAN COLLECT

CALL Guy Luard on 01206 272780

For information about Classifi ed

Advertising opportunities call

Sandra on:0117 957 5400

e: [email protected]

Web Banner Offer for Display AdvertisingAdvertise in Display for 5 or more issues of Removals & Storage magazine and get a free static banner on the BAR website with a direct link to your own website.

Call Sandra on 0117 957 5400 for details

Web Banner OfferRegular advertisers may be entitled to a free banner on the BAR website.Call Sandra on 0117 957 5400 or email: [email protected] details.


BAR News

Advertising Deadlines

Classifieds

Sell it, Fill it, R&S it!Your R&S is the perfect ‘vehicle’ to advertise your:

- Business- Vehicles- Vacancies- And much more besides!

Call Sandra on 0117 957 5400 for details

Issue Booking Artwork

Deadline Deadline

Mar 13th Feb 18th Feb

Apr 18th Mar 22nd Mar

May 15th Apr 19th Apr

Jun 31st May 5th Jun

Jul 19th Jun 24th Jun

Aug 15th Jul 19th Jul

Sep 16th Aug 22nd Aug

Oct 18th Sep 24th Sep

Nov 17th Oct 23rd Oct

Dec 15th Nov 21st Nov

68

BAR News


r&s february 2013

Documents