The HGV driver shortage and fuel shortages as well as significant volume increases have had a detrimental effect on many depots within the UK delivery networks. This has caused a backlog of consignments which depots are working hard to clear but delivery and response times are not as expected.
UCS are working hard to manage the delays but due to the volume this is affecting our ability to gain information and ensure instructions are acted upon quickly.
Delivery networks are drafting additional drivers and organising works on the weekend to manage and reduce the backlog, but this is expected to take some time.
We expect these delays to possibly be compounded by the impending peak season due 1st November. This period will see a huge spike in consignments due to seasonal sales and we request you consider this when making bookings for consignments.
Please do warn receivers of possible delays and do send consignments with as much advance notice as possible. Delays are not guaranteed but it is very difficult to give advance warning for specific areas, so we wish you to be aware of the current situation.
If you have very urgent consignments, please consider the options and notify Operations team who can guide you to the best options and associated costs
As always UCS utilise market leading companies for services as we believe they are better equipped to manage any eventuality
Best Regards
Richard Mansell