TCB Group has added to their portfolio with the introduction of an intermodal groupage service from Benelux and Germany to Ireland.
As part of an ongoing expansion programme and an eye on improving the value of their current import services, TCB Group has added to their portfolio with the introduction of an intermodal groupage service from Benelux and Germany to Ireland.
With collections throughout Germany and the Benelux region every week, consolidating in their Rotterdam hub, TCB Group is able to provide a containerised intermodal service departing every Friday from Rotterdam and delivering into Dublin each Monday and Belfast the following day.
“There has been significant demand from our clients for these services based on some obvious value.” said Darren Green, MD of TCB Group.
“The transit times are comparable to road freight services and we are able to provide rates that are on average 30% less expensive. Add to that the obvious positive impact on carbon footprint, the service makes really strong business sense.”
The key benefits for users includes:
- Scheduled weekly departure with daily collections through Germany and Benelux
- Decreased shipping rates on trailer services and comparable transit times
- Reduced carbon footprint with the main bulk of the carriage by vessel and not road
The Rotterdam Advantage for Irish Importers
Rotterdam’s position as Europe’s largest port makes it the natural consolidation point for Irish-bound freight. Processing over 14 million TEUs annually, the port offers unparalleled connectivity to European manufacturing and distribution centres. For Irish businesses importing from Continental Europe, Rotterdam provides:
- Direct access to the Rhine corridor, reaching deep into Germany and Switzerland
- Extensive rail connections to all major European industrial centres
- Sophisticated consolidation facilities for groupage operations
- Regular ferry services to Dublin and Belfast
- Established customs procedures for UK and Irish trade
Understanding Intermodal Benefits
Intermodal transport—combining road collection, sea freight, and final road delivery—offers compelling advantages over traditional all-road solutions:
Cost Efficiency Sea freight typically costs significantly less per kilometre than road transport, particularly for longer routes. By using road only for collection and final delivery, intermodal services reduce overall transport costs whilst maintaining door-to-door convenience.
Environmental Sustainability Maritime transport produces substantially lower CO2 emissions per tonne-kilometre compared to road freight. For businesses with environmental commitments or carbon reduction targets, intermodal solutions offer measurable sustainability benefits.
Capacity and Reliability Unlike road transport, which faces driver shortages and hours restrictions, maritime services offer consistent capacity and predictable schedules unaffected by road congestion or driving time regulations.
Germany and Benelux: Critical Sources for Irish Business
The economic relationship between Ireland and the Germany/Benelux region continues to strengthen:
German Manufacturing Excellence Germany remains a crucial source for Irish businesses importing:
- Industrial machinery and equipment
- Automotive components and vehicles
- Chemical and pharmaceutical products
- Precision engineering components
- Packaging machinery for food and beverage sector
Benelux Distribution Networks Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg serve as European distribution hubs for:
- Technology and electronics
- FMCG products
- Agricultural supplies and equipment
- Medical devices and healthcare products
- E-commerce fulfilment
The Weekly Service Cycle
Our structured weekly service ensures predictability for supply chain planning:
Monday-Thursday: Collections throughout Germany and Benelux
- Direct collections from supplier premises
- Consolidation at local depots
- Transport to Rotterdam consolidation centre
Thursday: Final consolidation in Rotterdam
- Customs documentation preparation
- Container loading and sealing
- Port handling procedures
Friday: Vessel departure from Rotterdam
- Direct sailing to Dublin
- Avoiding congestion of Dover-Calais route
Monday: Dublin arrival and clearance
- Container discharge
- Customs clearance
- Deconsolidation for delivery
Tuesday: Belfast deliveries
- Onward transport to Northern Ireland
- Final mile delivery coordination
Addressing Supply Chain Challenges
This intermodal service addresses several challenges facing Irish importers:
Brexit Complications By avoiding the UK landbridge, this service sidesteps potential delays and documentation requirements associated with transiting through Britain, providing direct EU-to-EU movement for Republic of Ireland importers.
Driver Shortages The European road transport sector faces chronic driver shortages. Intermodal services reduce reliance on long-distance drivers, using them only for local collection and delivery.
Rising Fuel Costs Maritime transport’s fuel efficiency provides insulation against volatile diesel prices that significantly impact all-road transport costs.
Customs Simplification Single consolidated shipments mean simplified customs procedures compared to multiple individual road freight consignments.
Industries Benefiting from This Service
Manufacturing Sector Irish manufacturers importing components and raw materials from German and Dutch suppliers benefit from predictable weekly deliveries at reduced costs.
Retail and Distribution Retailers importing from European distribution centres use this service for regular stock replenishment without the expense of dedicated transport.
Construction Industry Building materials, fixtures, and equipment from European suppliers arrive cost-effectively for Irish construction projects.
Technology Sector Irish tech companies importing hardware and components benefit from the reliable, scheduled service for inventory planning.
Groupage vs Full Loads: Making the Right Choice
Groupage services excel for businesses that:
- Import regular quantities below full container volumes
- Need predictable weekly deliveries
- Seek to reduce transport costs without compromising service
- Value environmental sustainability
- Prefer simplified documentation and customs procedures
For shipments typically between 1 and 10 pallets, groupage often provides better economics than dedicated transport whilst maintaining comparable transit times.
Comprehensive Import Solutions for Irish Businesses
Our Germany/Benelux to Ireland intermodal service forms part of TCB Group’s complete European logistics network, designed to support Irish businesses with efficient, cost-effective import solutions.
Freight Consolidation
Our Rotterdam consolidation hub exemplifies our groupage expertise. By combining multiple shippers’ goods into single containers, we achieve economies of scale that benefit all customers, reducing costs whilst maintaining service quality.
International Shipping Services
This intermodal service demonstrates our integrated approach to international logistics. Combining road, sea, and local delivery, we provide seamless door-to-door solutions that optimise cost, time, and environmental impact.
Freight Forwarding Services
From collection at German and Benelux suppliers to delivery at Irish premises, our freight forwarding team manages every aspect. We handle documentation, customs clearance, and coordinate the entire intermodal journey.
Warehousing Solutions
Our Dublin and Belfast facilities provide deconsolidation and distribution services for arriving containers. With customs clearance capabilities and professional handling, we ensure smooth onward delivery throughout Ireland.
Freight Consultancy
Unsure whether groupage suits your import needs? Our consultancy team analyses your shipping patterns, comparing all-road, groupage, and full container options to identify optimal solutions for your specific requirements.
Dangerous Goods Services
Even hazardous materials can move via our intermodal service. Our certified team ensures full compliance with IMDG regulations for sea transport and ADR for road legs, managing all classes of dangerous goods safely.
Optimise Your European Imports
With scheduled weekly departures from Rotterdam, competitive rates, and reduced environmental impact, our Germany/Benelux to Ireland service transforms how Irish businesses import from Continental Europe.
For more information on how TCB Group can add value to your supply chain, please contact us here.