Davies Turner: Leading the way in freight forwarding, sustainability, and global logistics

In this issue of Industrial Solutions, we are pleased to feature Davies Turner as our Logistics Company of the Year.

Davies Turner is a long-established and highly regarded freight forwarding and logistics company based in the UK. Founded in 1870, it has built a legacy of excellence, making it one of the country’s oldest independent freight forwarders. As one of Europe’s pioneering economic operators, Davies Turner has grown into a global leader, continually adapting to meet the demands of a fast-evolving market.

A family-owned business, Davies Turner operates 23 branches across the UK, many with extensive warehousing facilities, with its headquarters in Coleshill serving as the central hub. Recently, the company opened a state-of-the-art multi-user fulfilment centre and logistics hub in Atherstone, Warwickshire. Spanning four levels, each offering 35,000sq. ft, the facility provides 20,000 pallet locations. The company’s regional presence is further strengthened by its Rotherham site in South Yorkshire, staffed with experienced professionals and led by Branch Manager Andrew Ford.

Davies Turner is renowned for handling challenging and out-of-gauge shipments that other forwarders may struggle with, from vehicles and machinery of all sizes to small rail engines. The company excels in managing cargo requiring special licences or bespoke solutions, offering unmatched expertise for unusual shipping needs.

Uniquely, Davies Turner operates the only dedicated weekly rail import service from mainland China to the UK. Departing weekly from Xian, the service accommodates both groupage and full-load shipments. With ocean freight slower and air freight costly, rail provides a reliable and cost-effective alternative, delivering goods in 19–23 days from terminal to terminal at around 70% of the cost of air freight.

Aligned with the UK’s 2050 Net Zero targets, Davies Turner is committed to sustainable logistics, promoting rail as a greener transport option. A 40-ft container carrying 20 tons of cargo generates just 4% of the CO2 emissions compared with air freight. To reinforce its environmental commitment, the company has partnered with Pledge to track and report all carbon emissions, giving clients clear insight and the ability to address their supply chain impact and Scope 3 targets.

This dedication to sustainable, efficient logistics underscores Davies Turner’s leadership in the industry. Trusted by UK and international businesses alike, the company provides tailored solutions across all freight and logistics needs. The opening of the £40 million Atherstone hub marks a major milestone, reflecting an exciting period of growth and innovation for Davies Turner.

For all Air, Sea, Rail and Road freight quotations and further information, please see the details below:
T 01709 529709
rotherhamsales@daviesturner.co.uk
www.daviesturner.com/specialist/rotherham-specialists