Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Trusted Freight Forwarding Partner in Stowmarket
Maritime Cargo Services has been delivering exceptional freight-forwarding solutions since 1992, combining over three decades of industry expertise with a commitment to competitive pricing. As an independent, family-owned business, we prioritise flexibility and client-centric service, specialising in the logistical demands of frozen, fresh, and ambient cargo. Our ISO14001 accreditation underscores our dedication to environmental responsibility, including initiatives like slow-steaming and combined rail-road transport. With a nationwide UK and Ireland haulage network, 24/7 container tracking, and a team of seasoned professionals, we build long-term partnerships grounded in reliability and transparency.Our mission to outperform competitors while reducing environmental impact has earned us a reputation for on-time, on-budget deliveries. Clients trust our expertise in customs clearance, sea freight, and international house removals, supported by robust EDI links with UK ports and a deferment account service for start-ups. We maintain rigorous quality standards through continuous monitoring and a hands-on management approach, ensuring every client receives tailored solutions and unwavering support.
Services
Sea Freight
Customs Clearance
House Removals
Container Management
Freight Management System
Haulage Services
Cargo Insurance
Logistics Solutions
Environmental Shipping
International Transport
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in global freight forwarding.
- Our ISO14001 accreditation demonstrates environmental responsibility.
- We provide 24/7 container tracking for real-time shipment visibility.
- Competitive haulage rates with a nationwide UK and Ireland network.
- Our team includes logistics experts with cross-industry experience.
Associations and certifications
- ISO14001
What people say
24/7 tracking system
Simplified importing
Reliable service
Cost-effective solutions
Expert advice
Services
Sea Freight
We offer comprehensive sea freight services for importers and exporters, including dry van, reefer, and flat rack containers. Our agreements with major shipping lines ensure cost-effective global routes, while our MOATS system provides real-time shipment visibility. Daily updates on loading, transit, and arrival dates help clients plan efficiently.
Customs Clearance
Our dedicated customs team ensures smooth clearance through UK ports like Felixstowe and Southampton, often completing procedures within an hour of vessel arrival. We handle EDI submissions, deferment accounts, and European customs requirements, minimising delays and compliance risks for clients.
House Removals
We provide cost-effective international house removals using commercial freight rates, offering DIY container solutions and secure transportation. Our all-inclusive service includes expert packing advice, competitive pricing, and end-to-end support for clients relocating or purchasing second homes abroad.
Container Management
Our 24/7 online tracking system monitors container locations, reducing stress and enabling confident pre-planning. Combined with on-time delivery guarantees and demurrage alerts, this service minimises lost slots and warehouse downtime for time-sensitive shipments.
Environmental Shipping
We prioritise eco-friendly solutions like slow-steaming (30% fewer emissions) and combined rail-road transport. As ISO14001 accredited operators, we actively reduce environmental impact while maintaining cost-efficiency and service quality for sustainable supply chain management.
People
Rob Shelley
Partner
Rob Shelley founded Maritime Cargo Services in 1992 after gaining commercial shipping experience with industry leaders. He oversees daily operations, finances, and business development, maintaining a hands-on approach to client relationships and service quality.
Emily Shelley
Partner
Emily Shelley, a logistics graduate from City University, joined MCS in 2007 to drive expansion. She focuses on strategic development, team management, and ensuring competitive terms for clients while maintaining the company's growth trajectory.
Questions
What freight services do you offer?
We provide sea freight, customs clearance, international house removals, container management, and cargo insurance solutions for global shipments.
How do you ensure environmentally responsible shipping?
We use slow-steaming to reduce emissions by 30% and combine rail-road transport for UK deliveries. Our ISO14001 accreditation confirms our commitment to sustainability.
Can you handle time-sensitive cargo?
Yes, our 24/7 tracking system and on-time delivery record ensure minimal demurrage fees and warehouse downtime for urgent shipments.
Do you support new importers?
We offer free deferment accounts and guidance on customs procedures to help start-ups establish operations smoothly and cost-effectively.
How do you maintain service quality?
We combine experienced staff, EDI links with major ports, and continuous monitoring of delivery performance to guarantee reliability.
