Logistics companies are missing a major opportunity to reduce their overheads and increase revenues, according to research carried out by mobile communications specialist Business Mobile.
The national survey, by the network of Orange, reveals that fleet operators are wasting an average of almost £2,000 per annum by not being on the mobile tariff or tariffs most appropriate for their usage pattern. For larger logistics companies, the losses could run into tens of thousands of pounds.
Byron Gambold, at Business Mobile company The Phone Box Skewen, says: “Using our tariff analysis software, we look at the usage patterns of our mobile phone customers. Significant savings are made on the majority of the phones used by fleet operators, simply by reviewing their tariffs and changing to more appropriate ones. Many of our customers in the haulage industry didn’t even consider this an option, basically because their networks or their previous mobile phone suppliers have never offered it. They regarded mobile phones as a buy-and-forget purchase – and wasted money as a result.”
Discussions with logistics companies highlighted some areas where phone users are losing out. Thousands of pounds are being lost due to private calls being made on company phones.
Andrew Griffiths, development director for Gazeley, says: “The creation of our substantial joint venture with MetLife gives us the opportunity to roll out over two million sq ft of speculatively-built warehouse units at strategic UK locations. This development programme further extends our offer to manufacturers, retailers and third-party logistic operators who require state-of-the-art facilities immediately available, in key locations that will facilitate their ongoing expansion plans and new business contracts.”
