The Port of Dover Cargo has achieved a major industry milestone in food quality standards by becoming certificated to the prestigious BRCGS Global Standard Storage and Distribution for  Category 01, Chilled and Frozen Food in the Temperature Controlled Storage Standard.

The BRCGS Global Standard is an internationally recognised benchmark that assures customers and stakeholders of rigorous compliance with food safety and quality management practices. The certification further strengthens the Port of Dover’s position as a leading gateway for perishable and temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring the highest standards are maintained in the supply chain for importers.

“We are incredibly proud to achieve this esteemed certification,” said Alison Hall, Head of Business Development at Port of Dover Cargo. “It reflects our unwavering dedication to providing our customers with world-class facilities and services that meet the highest industry standards. It also reinforces our role as a crucial hub for temperature-controlled logistics, supporting global trade entering the UK via Dover and ensuring food security and food quality.”

Oliver Hynes, Product Director – Food and Packaging at UK Food Cert, said, “We are delighted to be certifying Port of Dover Cargo against the BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard, Category 01.

As the leading provider of BRCGS certification in the UK, we understand the effort and commitment it takes our customers to achieve and maintain their BRCGS certification, and we are excited to see the positive impact this certification will bring to Port of Dover Cargo.”

The certification comes as the Port of Dover continues to invest in infrastructure and technology to enhance its cargo-handling capabilities. The Temperature-Controlled Storage and Distribution Centre plays a critical role in preserving the freshness and quality of perishable goods. Being awarded BRCGS certification, in addition to existing accreditations* provides an added layer of assurance to businesses relying on the Port’s facilities for the secure and efficient handling of their products.

This milestone further cements the Port of Dover Cargo’s reputation for excellence in cargo handling, setting a new standard for UK ports and reaffirming its commitment to supporting the needs of the global supply chain.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Existing certifications for the Port of Dover Cargo include:

• Organics
• AEO Accredited
• 360 Quality
• HACCP Approved
• BCP – (UK Board Force/Port Health & DEFRA examination facility onsite) approved for High-Risk non-animal origin produce

Strategic Location & Specialist terminal handling Reefer container and Breakbulk shipments

• The Port of Dover Cargo offers a flexible multi-chamber cold storage warehouse spanning 9,639m², with 5,500 pallet locations and temperature control ranging from +1°C to 15°C.
• Handling around 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually, the port ensures seamless operations and efficiency. Its two deep-water berths (WD4 & WD5) can accommodate vessels up to 300m LOA with a draft of up to 10m.
• Strategically positioned on the Short Strait, the port offers quick speed to berth and minimal route deviation.
• Located less than an hour from London and just 45 minutes from the Dartford crossing, the port benefits from excellent road access via major UK highways, including the M20/A20 and M2/A2.
• The upcoming Lower Thames Crossing will further enhance connectivity to the Midlands and the North.

Environmental & Sustainability Commitments

• Since 2007, the Port of Dover has reduced its carbon footprint by an impressive 95.4%, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. By adding Dover as a stop on certain European shipping routes, businesses can save up to 98.5% in Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) costs.
• The port is dedicated to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, incorporating the electrification of its landside fleet and the adoption of renewable energy sources. Solar-powered facilities support sustainable port operations, while the introduction of green corridors optimises supply chain planning with eco-friendly shipping routes.
• Demonstrating its efficiency, the port saves approximately 15 tonnes of CO2 per shipment compared to Tilbury, ensuring both environmental responsibility and economic advantages for its partners.

Value-Added Services

• The Port of Dover Cargo offers a suite of value-added services designed to streamline trade and enhance operational efficiency.
• With on-site DEFRA and UK Border Force inspection facilities, businesses benefit from fast and efficient customs clearance.
• The HACCP-approved terminal ensures the safe handling of food and perishable goods, backed by ISO-certified processes that uphold operational and environmental excellence.
• Comprehensive food safety and hygiene protocols safeguard perishable cargo integrity; while bunkering and refuelling services provide essential vessel support. Additionally, the port offers specialised services such as labelling, packaging, and quality checking for diverse cargo requirements.
• Its customs clearance services facilitate smooth trade compliance for both international and European shipments, further reinforcing the Port of Dover’s role as a premier trade gateway. on-site, ensuring fast customs clearance