UPN opens new markets with launch of Micro Pallet service

UPN, a leading pallet network operator, has launched a new level of service for the UK market, to help bridge the gap between parcel and palletised freight sectors.

The new Micro Pallet service is available from more than 60 national UPN depots from the 1st May 2007, and will open up a number of new market opportunities for UPN and its members.

Martyn Chapman, Chairman at UPN, explains:
“Over recent years, we have seen solid growth in the traditional palletised freight sector, and more customers now realise the value that a network can deliver to both members and customers. Growth in online trading and the use of systems like eBay has opened the doors to a potentially huge market for smaller consignments of palletised freight. These heavy multi-part consignments have been identified as “profit stealers” by the parcel industry where suppliers tend to price themselves out of the market by imposing premium pricing to drive customers away. The UPN solution is the Micro Pallet concept and it delivers a much more cost effective solution. This effectively bridges a gap in the market and we think demand will grow quickly.”

The new service from UPN allows customers to ship pallets of up to 150 kilos anywhere in the UK on a next day or timed service for around 25 per cent less than the cost of a full sized pallet. Users of the new service can ship their freight on standard 1.2m by 0.8m pallets, with a height of up to 0.6 metres.

Customers will be provided with the same high quality service provided by the UPN network. Earlier in 2007, UPN also announced the implementation of a real time signature capture system, using the latest hand held XDA technology. This is provided as standard with the micro pallet service, giving users access to the kinds of service levels that used to be the preserve of the parcel market. They will be able to move into new markets, with improved customer service levels and considerable reductions in the cost of logistics.

About UPN
UPN was established in 2001 by Martyn Chapman as a provider of high quality next-day delivery services for smaller consignments of palletised freight. The company now operates a national network of over 60 UK depots, all focussed on delivering the highest quality service available. UPN operates a purpose built hub in Leicestershire and has access to over 5,000 vehicles and two million square feet of flexible warehousing across its UK network, together with a range of European logistics services. It is recognised as a technology leader because of its development of real time and web based IT solutions. Further information is available at
www.u-p-n.co.uk.