Freightlink Europe traces its roots back to 1995 when Kevin O’Brien started the company from humble beginnings. Alongside joint Managing Director Lesley O’Brien, who joined the business in 2008, they have steadily grown the firm, establishing themselves as a quality operator, providing general haulage services across the UK. Their fleet includes Sprinter vans, 7.5, 18-tonne, and 26-tonne rigid vehicles, as well as artic trucks. As they celebrate their 29th year in business in 2024, Freightlink Europe continues to innovate and stay ahead in the industry, always with a focus on quality and compliance.
In 2021, the company implemented a Transport Management System (TMS) to streamline operations and alleviate administrative burdens. Operations Manager Tom Peterson shared insights into this transition, highlighting the impact of integrating transport software into their operations. Nearly five years later, we catch up with Managing Director Lesley O’Brien, a respected figure in the industry. She reflects on her initial thoughts regarding Transport Software, its transformative effect on the business, and how it has contributed to Freightlink Europe’s success.
HaulTech: It took a while to introduce a Transport System at Freightlink Europe. Why is that?
Lesley: Prior to joining the Freightlink Europe family business, much of my experience came from working in a large multinational transport company that used software as second nature to run transport operations. I knew how smoothly processes ran and how a system could automate the transfer of data not only between departments but also group companies and customers.
When I joined Freightlink Europe, we very much relied upon Excel spreadsheets and our own internal systems, which worked perfectly well but were time-consuming, clunky, and prone to errors. Small vehicle operators are the backbone of our industry. For many, the idea of adopting digital systems can be perceived as an insurmountable hurdle. The reality is that in the world of the paperless office, pen and paper are almost becoming obsolete. In today’s digital age, we communicate via emails, text messages, and apps and manage our finances through online banking. The transport industry is no exception to this trend. If we need to attract a younger generation, we need to embrace technology.
HaulTech: Was there a culture shock when introducing a system?
Lesley: Yes, as with anything, change is scary, and for many of the team members at Freightlink Europe, it created anxiety. But we have a young ambitious team who quickly adapted to the change in processes and technology. If I were to take the system away and return to pen and paper, I am sure the staff would hate it. The transport management system is now second nature, as we now embrace telematics, cameras, and of course, the direct vision standard.
HaulTech: As the Managing Director of the firm, how does having a system impact you?
Lesley: For me, the main benefit is the reporting, the ability of the team to provide reports and an interface with our accounts package. Sign on glass is another advantage, and the ability to quickly and effortlessly provide clients with PODs, or to link PODs to jobs and attach them to invoices, saves both cost and time.
HaulTech: What were the main things you searched for in a Transport System?
Lesley: Ease of use and a strong partnership; customer service and communication are always paramount to Freightlink Europe. No different from investing in the best truck on the market, but if the backup is not there if it breaks down, it is no good to us.
There are many systems out there; we receive emails almost daily. Most systems do similar, if not offering the same thing. Customer support and training are major deciding factors. We felt that this would be provided by HaulTech, and, happily, we have not been let down. There is always a person on the other end of the phone to support the team if they need it. You could definitely say that HaulTech is a people’s company.
HaulTech: Would you recommend HaulTech as a Transport Software provider?
Lesley: Of course, the system works great, and the customer service is golden. Whilst Clare Chidlow is clearly at the helm, she always makes time to keep in touch, takes a keen interest in her clients, and clearly has her eye on the now, with a vision for the future.
HaulTech: Do you see Transport Software becoming a necessity in the industry?
Lesley: Transport software is a necessity now. Thankfully, a new generation of transport workers have grown up with technology. Pen and paper are almost unheard of.
I’m laughed at when I pull out a pad and paper to take notes and of course create my never-ending lists.
