CILT and RFG demystify rail freight

June 2011 saw the first of a new series of training courses designed to help those who wish to obtain a better understanding of how rail freight operates.

The courses, titled Demystifying rail freight: become an informed user of rail freight services, are jointly organised by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Rail Freight Group (RFG).

The CPD accredited courses, targeted at freight transport buyers interested in the prospect of moving some of their freight to rail, explode some of the myths surrounding the sector and give a true picture of the opportunities available.

Organisations represented at the first course, held in central London, included retailers, food and paper manufacturers, third party logistics providers, consultants and academics.

The course was very well received by delegates who said they were impressed by the rail freight offer of flexible and bespoke solutions on a wide range of routes; and the very real prospects of reducing carbon footprint in comparison with using just road freight operations.  The course proved successful in providing a good understanding of rail freight for beginners unfamiliar with the mode.

Rail Freight Group Chairman, Tony Berkeley said: “We have identified a clear need to better inform transport buyers of the benefits of the sector.  We want to help customers cut through the incredible complexity that seems inherent to the rail freight sector and try to help people understand rail freight much better, together with the cost and environmental benefits it can offer.”

Dorothea Carvalho, Director of Professional Development at CILT said: “I share the feeling with many that the benefits of rail freight need to be made much clearer.  One of the key aims of this programme has been, and will be, to inform people of the opportunities for moving their goods by rail.  In addition we will also explain some of the jargon that so often creeps into discussions and hinders understanding.”

The next course in this series will be held later this year, details will be available on the websites of both CILT (www.ciltuk.org.uk) and RFG (www.rfg.org.uk).

For further information contact Tony Berkeley via e-mail: tony@rfg.org.uk or telephone: 07710 431542, alternatively contact CILT on 01536 740100

Published: 24/06/2011