Keeping Irish Dairy Moving to France, Belgium & Netherlands

Ireland is renowned for its high-quality dairy products, supplying fresh milk, butter, cheese, and cream to markets across Europe. France, Belgium, and the Netherlands are among the key destinations for Irish dairy exports, with demand remaining strong throughout the year. However, as winter brings cold temperatures, challenging weather, and increased logistical demands, ensuring that Irish dairy reaches European markets quickly and in perfect condition requires efficient, temperature-controlled transport solutions.

At HANNON Transport, we specialise in reliable, temperature-controlled logistics, ensuring that Ireland’s dairy industry continues to thrive—even during the toughest winter months.

Why Irish Dairy Is in High Demand

Ireland’s dairy sector is one of the most successful in Europe, with over 90% of Irish dairy production exported to international markets. Countries such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands rely on Irish butter, cheese, and dairy ingredients for both retail and food production industries.

Irish Dairy Export Trends (2024 Forecast):

• France remains the largest EU market for Irish dairy, importing approximately €700 million worth of dairy products annually.
• Belgium and the Netherlands are key transit hubs, with much of Ireland’s dairy continuing to wider European markets.
• Irish butter and cheese exports have grown by 5% in 2024, with winter demand remaining strong despite economic pressures.

The rise in consumer preference for natural and grass-fed dairy has further boosted demand for Irish dairy across Europe

Winter Challenges in Dairy Transport

Transporting fresh and chilled dairy products across Europe in winter requires careful planning and precise temperature control. The cold months present unique challenges, including:

Maintaining the Cold Chain in Extreme Weather

While winter’s naturally lower temperatures help keep dairy products cool, fluctuating weather conditions can pose risks. Sudden freezes, snow, and ice can disrupt transport schedules, while extreme cold can cause product freezing—compromising quality.

Our Solution:

• State-of-the-art refrigerated trailers keep products at optimal temperatures between 0°C and 4°C for fresh dairy and -18°C for frozen goods.
• Advanced monitoring systems track temperature levels in real-time to prevent fluctuations.
• Regular route planning adjustments help avoid extreme weather disruptions.

Managing Supply Chain Disruptions in Winter

Winter often brings logistical bottlenecks, with delays due to holiday traffic, ferry disruptions, and road closures. With Christmas and New Year demand surging, maintaining a smooth supply chain is critical.

Our Solution:

• Daily transport routes to France, Belgium & the Netherlands, ensuring continuous movement.
• Flexible scheduling options to adjust for delays and optimise efficiency.
• Priority customs clearance services, preventing unnecessary hold-ups at borders.

Ensuring Product Integrity Over Long Distances

Dairy products are highly perishable, requiring fast and efficient transit to preserve freshness and quality. Extended transit times can lead to spoilage, costly waste, and supply chain disruptions.

Our Solution:

• Fast, direct transport routes to major dairy distribution hubs in Europe.
• End-to-end cold chain logistics, ensuring dairy remains fresh from processing to delivery.
• Specialist handling and secure loading techniques to minimise movement and maintain product integrity.

Key Transport Routes: Ireland to France, Belgium & the Netherlands

Ireland’s strategic trade connections with Europe ensure that dairy products can reach markets in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands efficiently.

Primary Transport Routes:

Ireland to France

1. • Direct ferry crossings to Cherbourg & Dunkirk.
   • Overland transport to dairy hubs such as Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux.

Ireland to Belgium

1. • Transit via France or direct routes to Zeebrugge and Antwerp.
   • Key distribution points in Brussels and Bruges.

Ireland to the Netherlands

1. • Via ferry or road routes through Belgium to Rotterdam and Amsterdam.
   • The Netherlands serves as a major re-export hub for Irish dairy across Europe.

How HANNON Transport Keeps Irish Dairy Moving in Winter

At HANNON Transport, we understand that dairy producers need a reliable logistics partner to ensure their products arrive fresh, on time, and ready for sale.

What We Offer:

• Temperature-Controlled Logistics – Maintaining precise temperatures for fresh and frozen dairy.
• Daily Transport Services – Frequent departures ensure consistent supply.
• Real-Time Monitoring – Advanced tracking for temperature and transit updates.
• Flexible Logistics Solutions – Full-load and groupage options available.
• Customs Clearance Expertise – Ensuring smooth cross-border movement post-Brexit.

Supporting Irish Dairy Exports All Year Round

Winter presents unique challenges for dairy transport, but with the right logistics network, temperature-controlled transport, and flexible scheduling, Irish dairy producers can continue supplying France, Belgium, and the Netherlands without disruption.

At HANNON Transport, we are committed to delivering Irish dairy safely, efficiently, and at peak freshness—no matter the season.