Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Trusted Logistics Partner in Portsmouth
Freight Transport has been a trusted name in logistics since 1988, specialising in wine and drinks transportation while offering comprehensive freight solutions across Europe and the UK. Our family-run ethos ensures a personal touch, with three generations actively involved in operations, including our Managing Director Mike Battye, Transport Director Adam Battye, and Administration Director Gemma Battye. We maintain full control over logistics through our own fleet of 45 vehicles, dedicated customs department, and 30,000 sq ft Portsmouth warehouse, ensuring reliability and security at every stage. As an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) since 2020, we meet international standards for supply chain security and customs compliance. Our expertise spans imports, exports, customs clearance, UK distribution, and warehousing, serving clients from small wine shops to major supermarkets.With temperature-controlled transport options and 24/7 security at our Portsmouth facility, we guarantee safe handling of valuable and delicate goods. Our team's decades of experience in both transport and customs procedures enables seamless door-to-door logistics from cellar to seller. We pride ourselves on maintaining a 100% customer satisfaction record through transparent communication and tailored solutions. Our strategic location just 10 minutes from Portsmouth International Port provides optimal access for UK and European distribution. Through continuous investment in driver training, modern vehicles, and digital tracking systems, we ensure timely deliveries and real-time shipment visibility for all consignments.
Services
Imports
Exports
Customs Clearance
UK Distribution
Warehousing
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- Family-run business with three generations of logistics expertise
- Own fleet of 45 vehicles and dedicated customs department
- Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) certified since 2020
- 35+ years specialist experience in wine and drinks logistics
- 24/7 security at Portsmouth warehouse facility
Associations and certifications
- Authorised Economic Operator
Services
Imports
Specialist wine and drinks import services from Europe to the UK using our own fleet and temperature-controlled transport options. We manage full loads and groupage shipments with timed collections and deliveries. Our AEO-certified customs department ensures smooth clearance through Portsmouth port.
Exports
Comprehensive UK export solutions to European markets with nationwide cargo collection and temperature-controlled transport options. Our customs experts handle all documentation while our fleet and subcontractors ensure timely delivery across continental Europe.
Customs Clearance
Full customs brokerage services for imports and exports with AEO-certified processing. Our in-house team handles duty deferment, excise movements, and all required documentation at UK and European ports.
UK Distribution
Nationwide distribution network covering full and part loads with tail-lift vehicles, HGVs, and vans. We deliver to bonded warehouses, central London locations, and commercial premises across the UK using our own fleet and approved subcontractors.
Warehousing
Secure Portsmouth-based warehousing with 30,000 sq ft of storage space and 24/7 security. We offer short and long-term storage solutions for temperature-sensitive goods and general freight with real-time inventory management.
People
Mike Battye
Managing Director
Founder with over 30 years' experience in logistics, established Freight Transport in 1988. Previously worked in customs clearance and transport at Freight Clearance Limited before launching the business.
Adam Battye
Transport Director
Started at 16 in warehouse operations, progressed to Transport Director. Brings 15 years' operational experience managing fleet and logistics, with deep industry knowledge gained through hands-on roles.
Gemma Battye
Administration Director
Joined in 2015 after university, progressed from admin clerk to Administration Director. Manages administrative operations with focus on post-shipment processes and customer documentation.
Barry Goshawk
Customs Manager
Leads customs department with team of trained agents. Oversees in-house clearance operations and maintains relationships with EU customs partners to ensure efficient cross-border processing.
Russell Stephen
Warehouse Manager
Experienced warehouse leader with 15 years at Freight Transport. Manages 30,000 sq ft facility operations, ensuring safe handling of all incoming and outgoing shipments with proper licensing and training.
Questions
What are the average turnaround times on wine imports?
Collections from France typically take 1 week for collection and 2 weeks for delivery. Spain and Italy collections usually take 1 week for collection and 3 weeks for delivery.
What countries do Freight Transport collect from?
While our fleet primarily operates in France, we handle freight solutions across all European countries.
Do we need our own deferment account to pay duty and import VAT?
No, we hold an HMRC deferment account that customers can use with approval.
Are Freight Transport an Authorised Economic Operator?
Yes, we have held AEO status since 2020, demonstrating our secure supply chain operations.
Can Freight Transport handle customs formalities?
Yes, our in-house customs department handles all import and export clearance requirements.
What kind of exports can Freight Transport handle?
We handle all types of UK exports to Europe, including temperature-controlled options for perishable goods.
