Business Details
Your Trusted Freight & Logistics Partner in Ipswich
Charter Link is a UK-based supply chain management company with over four decades of experience in customs clearance and logistics. We operate ETSF and bonded warehousing facilities, offering tailored unpacking and storage solutions. Our expertise extends to comprehensive container devanning, direct customs clearance to all UK ports, and a modern transport fleet for domestic and international distribution. With 50,000 sq ft of warehousing near Felixstowe, the UK's premier container port, we combine strategic location advantages with state-of-the-art equipment for specialist cargo handling. Our team of professionals provides 24-hour CCTV security, full tracking facilities, and a commitment to efficient, client-focused service.As a leading user of CDS, the UK's single customs platform, we ensure seamless compliance with regulatory requirements. Our global network of partners enables total transportation management, while our investment in heavy lift equipment and hazardous cargo capabilities supports diverse client needs. With offices in both northern and southern England, we deliver timely solutions for break-bulk consignments, vehicle loading, and time-sensitive shipments. Our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted partner in the logistics industry.
Services
Warehousing
Transport
Sea Freight
Customs Clearance
Specialist Cargo
Air Freight
Container Haulage
Break Bulk Handling
Vehicle Transport
Hazardous Cargo
Highlights and features
- We offer comprehensive container devan experience with specialist unloading equipment
- Our direct customs clearance capabilities cover all UK ports through CDS integration
- We operate a modern fleet including 44-tonne articulated vehicles and curtain-sided sprinters
- Our 50,000 sq ft Felixstowe-based warehouse features 24-hour CCTV and ETSF compliance
- We provide specialist handling for hazardous cargo with on-site DGSA certification
Associations and certifications
- ETSF (Enhanced Transit Shed Facility)
What people say
Very friendly and cooperative
Efficient shipment clearance
Competitive rates
Helpful timings
Extra time allowed
Services
Warehousing
Our 50,000 sq ft Felixstowe warehouse offers ETSF-compliant bonded storage with 24-hour CCTV security. We provide racked and open storage for general cargo, Amazon-compliant pick-and-pack services, and specialist handling for sensitive shipments. Our facility features container devanning equipment and customs-linked clearance systems.
Customs Clearance
As a leading CDS platform user, we handle full customs entries and documentation for UK imports. Our services include bond management, ETSF processing, and licence assistance. We offer duty deferment solutions and VGM declarations for containerised cargo through direct port connections.
Specialist Cargo
We handle hazardous materials, vehicles, and oversized cargo with purpose-built equipment. Our services include steel product handling, JCB transportation, and break-bulk consignment management. We maintain DGSA certification for hazardous goods and operate container-specific forklifts for safe loading.
Sea Freight
We provide FCL/LCL container services through major shipping lines with global depot coverage. Our NVOCC status enables competitive rate negotiation and space assurance during peak periods. We manage full door-to-door logistics including terminal handling and cross-trade shipments.
Transport
Our fleet includes 44-tonne articulated trucks, flatbeds, and sprinters for UK/European distribution. We offer groupage solutions, temperature-controlled transport, and tail-lift vehicles for specialist deliveries. Real-time telematics tracking ensures shipment visibility across our modern vehicle fleet.
People
Martin Ellingham
Managing Director
With over 20 years in logistics leadership, Martin oversees Charter Link's strategic direction. He brings extensive customs compliance expertise and has expanded the company's Felixstowe operations to become a key port logistics provider.
Glen Cooke
UK Operations Director
Glen manages daily logistics operations with particular focus on customs clearance procedures. His team handles over 1,000 container devannings monthly, ensuring efficient cargo processing through Charter Link's ETSF-certified facilities.
Kati Zsoldos
International Director
Kati coordinates global shipping routes and maintains partnerships across 30+ countries. She specialises in complex cross-trade logistics, ensuring seamless international cargo movement through Charter Link's worldwide agent network.
Helen Ferguson
Import/Export Logistics
As ETSF-certified specialist, Helen manages bonded warehouse operations and customs documentation. With 15 years' experience, she ensures compliance with HMRC regulations while optimising duty deferment opportunities for clients.
David Beaumont
Administrative Officer
David supports logistics operations with documentation management and client coordination. He plays a key role in maintaining Charter Link's ISO-compliant administrative systems, ensuring smooth communication between departments.
Questions
What logistics services does Charterlink offer?
We provide warehousing, sea freight, customs clearance, specialist cargo handling, and transport solutions across the UK, Europe, and globally.
How does Charterlink handle customs procedures?
As a leading CDS user, we manage full customs entries, bond operations, and documentation compliance through direct port connections and HMRC-certified systems.
Can Charterlink handle hazardous materials?
Yes, we're fully HAZ-certified with specialist equipment and on-site DGSA support for safe handling of dangerous goods.
What makes Charterlink different from other logistics companies?
Our combination of Felixstowe port proximity, ETSF-certified facilities, and 40+ years' customs experience enables faster, more cost-effective solutions.
Do you offer 24/7 cargo tracking?
Our telematics systems provide real-time tracking during transit, though warehouse operations follow standard business hours.
Reviews (5)
Vinay Thaker
Jan 26, 2022
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Staff are very keen to mislead then cheat customers. We were left with a large bill of 3500 to pay when one of their staff members made a mistake. Katie / Katy the manager is rude, unhelpful and they do not care. I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND, THEY CAN BARELY OWN UP TO THEIR OWN MISTAKES AND LET ALONE RUN A FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS BUSINESS. Please note, we did not even get an apology from the staff member for the mistake and they are probably doing this to other customers.
Kate Grindley
Nov 26, 2021
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Great service during unprecedented times. Our goods were delivered on time and in perfect condition. Would highly recommend.
Mumonhan SinghChoudhary
Nov 22, 2021
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Very Happy with Martin and his team in devaning a container and sending the goods up to us, will be using his team again. Recommend 5*
Bbclassics
Jul 05, 2020
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Terrible company, absolute con artists trying to charge 3K storage for one pallet. Making profits for someone elses mis fortune. AVOID!
E. Promotion
Dec 29, 2019
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Very friendly and cooperative people. Mr Cooke helped us by clearing the shipment and allowed extra time to sort out the items. Their rates and timings are quite helpful as well in compare to other big companies.
