UK online transport marketplace helps couriers find the needed extra work in economic downturn

June 23, 2011 - PRLog -- London, UK - 23/06/2011.The haulage industry is often at the mercy of factors outside of their control. This was apparent during the recession in the UK, beginning in 2008. Couriers who relied on old means of networking and finding new work and customers were hit as the public became more hesitant with any expenditure and looked for savings where ever possible. In addition, fuel prices climbed at ever increasing rate, hitting £1.30 in April, 2011. Shiply was founded in June, 2008 and has been a source of work for transport providers during a less than forgiving climate. By using Shiply (http://www.shiply.com/) to fill on route backloads, couriers are able to place competitive quotes which would normally not be available through conventional means. This in turn has attracted more and more users to list their shipments on Shiply, whether when they require a furniture delivery service for an eBay item or  motorcycle transport up and down the country.

Robert Matthams, Managing Director said: "Shiply provides independent transportation companies with revenue opportunities that are no longer limited to their location, area of specialisation, size of their sales force or marketing capabilities."

Mr Matthams went on to add: "Literally anything from a small box, to cars, boats or even entire household removals can be listed on the site. Transport providers are notified when there are shipments that match their company profile and the tools are in place to assist them in placing bids. They are able to place as many bids on as many shipments as they like free.”
Many transport providers who use Shiply see an increase in their customer base. Utilising backloads means potential customers are no longer confined to a particular area. At any one time there are thousands of eBay items that are being listed as potential shipments on Shiply, Shiply is also partnered with eBay Motors, meaning demand for car transport is substantial.

United Couriers, a car transporter service provider on Shiply shared their experience: “Shiply has helped us a great deal as it has helped to fill our vans when they have been half full and given us extra work when we have not had any work booked in. The economy has hurt our business and Shiply has been a life saver as far as I am concerned.”

European transport providers can also use Shiply as a source of work across Europe. Shiply has been established in Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, opening up thousands more potential deliveries for those equipped to carry it out.