CUTTING COSTS
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• For regular crossings always try to negotiate a deal with the ferry company because substantial savings can be made.
• Loyalty to one company can result in extra savings but this is countered by the fact that you have no failsafe; if that company is hit by industrial action or a ship has to be taken out of service then you could be stuck. It may be best to have a deal with one company for around two-thirds of your business plus another one or two for backup.
• Prices usually increase at the beginning of the year. Negotiate a deal in good time so that you are not caught out and so that you have the opportunity to pass the increase on to your customer.
• Remember that even If you fill up on cheap European diesel it will rapidly be used up. Therefore consider taking a longer sea route which arrives cbser to your destination in the UK.
• Consider buying ferry tickets on the Continent for regular trips because they tend to be cheaper.
• Off-peak crossings are cheapen Most ferry companies provide good accommodation for drivers including a cabin and a free meal, so consider looking at crossings that run in anti-social hours.
• Unaccompanied trailers are cheaper because they take up less space although this Is, to a certain extent, offset by the fact that the ferry company has the cost of taking them en and off the ship, if the client agrees to his cargo being unaccompanied, and if arrangements can be made for traction on the other side, savings can be made.
• Shop around. The ferry industry is still very competitive so look for a service which suits your needs at a price you can afford.
Useful contacts:
Stena Line www.stenaline.c.om.
Norse Merchant Ferries. www.norsemerchant.com.
Eurotunnel www.eurotunnel.com.
Harbour Shipping. 01304 211919.