Behind-the-Scenes at The Port of Dover: YFN's Exclusive Tour with Motis FSA
Wednesday 25th September 2024
On a damp, drizzly September day in Dover, Motis FSA welcomed members of BIFA’s Young Forwarder Network (YFN) for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of The Port of Dover, including a closer look at the Motis Dover FSA operations.
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Leading the tour was Tim Dixon, General Manager of Motis Dover FSA, who was joined by Penny Knight from Border Force—a key partner working closely with Motis on site. After initial introductions, Tim shared an insightful overview of the Port of Dover's history, highlighting how both the industry and Motis FSA have evolved over the years. He touched on important issues such as driver welfare, vehicle safety, and the security of goods, and emphasised the vital role Dover plays as an international gateway for trade and passengers.
Dover handles over 2.6 million lorries annually and berths approximately 17,500 ships each year—more freight than all other UK ports combined—handling £144 billion of trade or 33% of the UK’s trade in goods. Ref:
"It’s always great to welcome the next generation into the industry."
As the group was guided around the bustling site, they witnessed firsthand the operations in action—trucks entering the area, drivers presenting their documents, and inventory linked customs clearances being processed. A particularly memorable moment came when the group observed a vehicle examination conducted by Border Force with support from Motis staff.
After a lively Q&A session, guests enjoyed lunch at the on-site café, offering them the full 'Motis experience'!
Tim remarked, "It’s always great to welcome the next generation into the industry. Having seen Dover grow and evolve over the years, one thing is clear, experience in the roles and close collaboration with all parties is the key to successful operations. For young people to start their journey in freight early on helps build strong networks and expertise for the future."
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About BIFA & the Young Forwarder Network (YFN)
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is the leading trade association for UK-registered companies engaged in the international movement of freight across all modes of transport—air, road, rail, and sea—as well as customs brokerage. As a not-for-profit organization, BIFA is funded by its members, for its members, with a full-time Secretariat managing the association’s affairs.
With a membership of over 1,600 organizations, BIFA represents freight forwarders offering a wide range of logistics services. BIFA members are involved in the movement of goods to and from the UK by air, road, sea, and rail, with some members also providing customs clearance and cross-border services.
BIFA’s Young Forwarder Network (YFN) is dedicated to supporting the next generation of logistics professionals. Through exclusive events, knowledge sharing, and industry visits, YFN members have the opportunity to enhance their careers, learn from industry experts, and gain valuable hands-on experience. The YFN is committed to promoting logistics and freight forwarding as an exciting career choice and encourages members to inspire young people within their local communities. Regular in-person and online events help foster connections and build expertise within the industry.
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This tour was just one of many ways that the YFN is fostering professional development, highlighting the importance of real-world experience and industry collaboration for the future of logistics.
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