Written by: Huib Claassen, Operations Manager at Claassen Logistics
We’re often asked how we—as a relatively small carrier in a world of giants—have managed to build up a substantial international transport network of freight forwarders, carriers, and shippers. And to be perfectly honest? It’s hard to explain in just one sentence. A network like this grows when you simply do your job well every day. Step by step, with clear agreements, and above all by demonstrating that partners can rely on you.
Our foundation: distribution within the Benelux
Claassen Logistics has grown by specializing in the distribution of smaller shipments within the Benelux region. And that remains the foundation of our business. The majority of our shipments consist of 1 to about 5 or 6 pallets. And with shipments of this size, smooth operations are key: short communication lines, close oversight, and no unnecessary detours.
Goods simply need to get from A to B with as little fuss as possible.
Why two warehouses sometimes work better than ten
We operate our own warehouses in Tilburg and Meppel. With just two locations, we’ve found the perfect scale for our organization. This keeps our logistics operations streamlined and allows us to maintain control over distribution. The process of transloading locally involves costs: you need to run line haul routes, have loading and unloading crews available, and a warehouse where all of this can take place. We’re convinced that our model stands out in this regard.
Because we process shipments with as few transshipments as possible, the risk of damage, errors, and delays is also reduced.
Our own drivers make all the difference
Our green trucks are mostly driven by our own Dutch drivers, sometimes supplemented by regular charter drivers. We’ve found that this often makes a big difference in practice.
Our drivers usually operate in specific regions. As a result, they are familiar with many addresses, know how loading and unloading works there, and sometimes even know the people on site. This leads to fewer misunderstandings, faster loading and unloading, and better communication on site.
Speed matters too
Within the Netherlands and Belgium, we usually deliver shipments within 24 hours. At the same time, we ensure that goods picked up on a given day are often at our warehouse that very same evening.
That’s a major advantage. It means our shipments can sometimes be loaded onto a departure that same evening or, at the latest, the next day. This is especially helpful when there are evening departures scheduled that include exactly the shipment we need to send.
Why international partners choose to work with us
Through our Benelux operations, we are regularly approached by freight forwarders and (foreign) transport companies.
These are carriers that operate on specific routes, but whose schedules don’t always accommodate certain shipments. Many carriers bring larger shipments into the Netherlands via LTL or FTL transport. However, such trailers usually also contain smaller shipments that still need to be distributed within the Netherlands or the Benelux region.
It is precisely that last part that doesn’t always fit into their schedule. Driving dozens of kilometers for a single pallet, with multiple stops along the way, quickly makes a trip less profitable. In such cases, they look for a local logistics partner who can handle that type of distribution. And that’s exactly where we come in.
A logistics partner in the Netherlands
For international partners, the value often lies in a combination of speed and control—not only in delivery, but also in the collection and preparation of shipments.
Many foreign carriers and some freight forwarders do not have their own warehouse or staff here and do not always speak the language. Nevertheless, they do receive orders to load or pick up cargo in the Netherlands. In such cases, it’s helpful when things are handled efficiently on the ground.
Goods can be received and unloaded at our warehouse. In many cases, we ship them out the very same day. This keeps the process efficient and the turnaround time short.
Reliable international transport network
We work exclusively with reliable partners who align with our way of doing business. This ensures that shipments remain in good hands, even when crossing borders. Our international transport network consists of various types of clients. Sometimes it’s a shipper who simply wants things handled properly. Other times, it’s a freight forwarder planning shipments across Europe. Or sometimes it’s a carrier who prefers not to handle the local leg of the journey themselves. In all cases, the key is that everything is done correctly and fits within the schedule.
We’re expanding internationally by partnering with trusted partners who operate in the same way and share our values. It’s not complicated—it’s simply a system that works. By getting to know each other, helping each other, and understanding what each of us brings to the table. The great thing is that this works both ways. We help our partners with transportation here, and at their destinations, they do the same for us.
That network isn’t just helpful for “standard” shipments. We can often respond quickly to rush orders or immediate shipments as well. There’s almost always someone who can step in.
And let me tell you, we’ve seen it all. From a rush delivery by van to Athens to unloading a trailer in Sicily right before a holiday. The partners who help us with this know that if the tables were turned, we’d be there for them just as much.
International transport requires greater precision
The mindset has remained the same
We believe in working with reliable partners you can count on. Are you looking for a logistics partner for distribution or international transport? Feel free to give us a call.
