FMCG Distribution
High volume FMCG contracts rely on reliable replenishment, disciplined delivery windows and operators that keep stock moving without creating extra procurement work. CTS runs a private, free procurement process that matches your requirement with a small shortlist of checked transport and logistics providers.
- Independent process. CTS matches and checks operators instead of selling its own fleet capacity.
- Comparable proposals. One transport requirements helps you compare like for like responses.
- Commercial clarity. Agree responsibilities, reporting and continuity before appointment.
Independent procurement for ongoing FMCG distribution contracts
An FMCG brand, wholesaler or retailer manages high stock turn, tight supermarket and regional distribution centre delivery windows, cages, returnable equipment and the cost of missed slots or short deliveries. FMCG distribution is an ongoing contract service, not a one off booking. It is built around reliable replenishment, continuity and agreed service levels. CTS helps buyers compare suitable operators across the sector distribution services market through a single procurement brief.
Fast moving consumer goods distribution covers regular movement of ambient products and, where required, chilled goods into regional distribution centres, supermarkets and convenience stores. Planning typically covers route schedules, vehicle suitability, drivers' hours, cage control, returns, delivery compliance, KPIs, service credits, mobilisation and contingency planning.
Consumer goods distribution is used by manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, retailers and brand owners with recurring volumes across one or more regions. Buyers with broader retail fulfilment requirements may also find our retail distribution service relevant where store delivery profiles overlap with grocery, convenience and wider retail distribution.
CTS is independent and asset neutral. It owns no trucks or warehouses. A single brief is matched to a small shortlist of suitable UK transport companies whose capability fits the traffic, geography and contract profile. Before an operator receives a brief, CTS checks operator licence (O licence) status, financial standing, insurance and relevant accreditations, including BRCGS where appropriate. Buyers can review the official goods vehicle operator licensing guidance. CTS introduces and checks operators. It does not rank, endorse or guarantee them. Final due diligence and contract liability remain with the shipper and the appointed operator. The guide on what to specify in a transport request helps produce a clear procurement brief.
The cost of FMCG replenishment depends on the operational brief. Key factors include drop density, route mileage, vehicle and crew requirements, delivery windows, waiting time, volume consistency, fuel, returns, failed deliveries and whether the work is dedicated or shared. On grocery contracts, retailer booking-in compliance, on time in full performance and any service credits or penalties can shape the true cost of the contract as much as the haulage rate itself. Clear operational information usually leads to more consistent proposals and fewer assumptions.
What an FMCG distribution contract covers
Use this as the checklist for any proposal you receive.
| Area | What the operator provides | What to agree up front |
|---|---|---|
| Contract planning | Regular collection and delivery schedules | KPIs, mobilisation, service credits and reporting |
| Ambient FMCG | General consumer goods movements | Delivery windows, cages and returns |
| Chilled FMCG | Temperature controlled distribution where required | Temperature range, monitoring and handover |
| Regional replenishment | Distribution to RDCs, supermarkets and convenience stores | Delivery profile, booking process and continuity |
| Shared or dedicated transport | Capacity matched to contract needs | Volumes, seasonality and review periods |
Get transport quotes for this work
Tell us what you need moving and CTS can help you get 3 competitive quotes from suitable UK transport companies. Free to request, no obligation.
What a checked operator brings
The parts of the operation you hand over, and the control you keep.
Support recurring FMCG flows rather than one off movements.
Match operators with suitable temperature capability where required.
Providers are checked before receiving a procurement brief.
Operator licence, insurance and relevant accreditations are reviewed.
Agree cages, empties and returnable equipment from the outset.
Plan for booked delivery windows and distribution centre requirements.
Keep control of supplier selection without narrowing your options
CTS gives buyers a structured way to compare suitable operators while keeping procurement focused on the operational detail that matters in long term FMCG contracts.
- Independent process. CTS matches and checks operators instead of selling its own fleet capacity.
- Comparable proposals. One transport requirements helps you compare like for like responses.
- Commercial clarity. Agree responsibilities, reporting and continuity before appointment.
How it works
One enquiry. Three transport quotes. No obligation.
Describe products, locations, delivery profile, volumes, temperature requirements and contract expectations.
CTS identifies suitable operators and completes key compliance checks before sharing the brief.
Review responses, operating approach, pricing structure and mobilisation plans side by side.
Choose your preferred operator, complete due diligence and agree implementation for the ongoing contract.
Common questions
Scope, checks, cost and how the matching works.
What affects the cost of FMCG distribution?
Is CTS neutral or does it operate its own transport fleet?
What checks are carried out before an operator receives my brief?
Can chilled and ambient FMCG be handled?
What FMCG contract challenges should the brief cover?
Compare suitable UK transport companies for your next FMCG contract
CTS is free to shippers with no obligation to appoint. Your brief is shared only with matched, suitable UK transport companies so you can compare suitable proposals before making a decision.
Run transport? Join the network- Suitable UK transport companies
- Compare proposals side by side
- No cost, no obligation