Woodland Group, one of the UK’s largest privately owned logistics companies, has launched new rail freight connected services at iPort Rail, Doncaster.

The service begins this month and moves containers between ports of Felixstowe and Southampton with further services to London Gateway and Immingham to follow. By May more than 140 container movements are expected per month. 

The move comes after Woodland Group opened a 195,000 sq ft fulfilment and distribution facility at the 800-acre multimodal logistics hub iPort, developed by pan-European specialist Verdion. The facility, which became operational in March, is located next to the rail terminal. 

iPort Rail has become one of the UK’s fastest growing strategic rail freight interchanges (SRFI) since opening nearly three years ago. The terminal runs eight daily services moving around 2000 containers through the facility each week.

Luke Fermor, Global Fulfilment Manager, Woodland Group, said: “We're conscious of our role in providing solutions that will help our clients optimise their supply chains and reduce their emissions where possible. This strategic partnership with iPort Rail and the new routes we're building together represent our continued drive to engineer supply chain solutions that will make a difference. We're encouraged by the enthusiasm and commitment our customers across the globe show in supporting our carbon conscious efforts and will continue to push to develop initiatives further."

Steve Freeman, Managing Director, iPort Rail, said: “We are really pleased that Woodland Group is taking full advantage of iPort’s multimodal capabilities, particularly its decision to link up warehousing operations with rail. As tackling climate change becomes more of a priority, increasing numbers of businesses are choosing to do this as a greener alternative, without compromising on efficiency and reliability.”