Why the UK Landbridge Remains the Optimal Route for Irish Food Exports to Europe

Despite the introduction of additional post-Brexit checks, the UK Landbridge remains the preferred and most efficient route for Irish food exporters delivering to northern European markets.

At HANNON Transport, we work closely with food producers, fresh produce exporters, and supply chain professionals across Ireland. With over 30 years’ experience and daily departures via the Landbridge, we know what works — and why. In recognition of our excellence in export logistics, we were proud to be named Logistics & Supply Chain Company of the Year 2024 by the Irish Exporters Association.

Fresh Produce Demands Speed, Predictability and Shelf Life

Whether you’re shipping perishable fresh produce or ambient food ingredients, getting product to market fast and in peak condition is non-negotiable. In a low-margin industry, extended transit times or delays can make the difference between thriving and merely surviving.

The UK Landbridge offers:

• Shorter Transit Times – Quicker than direct sea routes, often shaving off half a day or more
• Greater Frequency – Multiple daily departures from Ireland and via the UK to Europe
• Rapid Recovery from Disruption – Faster bounce-back during weather or capacity issues

Why Direct Sea Routes Often Fall Short

While direct boat services have improved, they remain unsuitable for most Irish food exports to northern Europe. The transit times are simply too slow to meet the quality and shelf-life expectations required by fresh produce supply chains and food retailers across Belgium, the Netherlands and nearby markets.

They also continue to pose challenges:

• Limited Schedules – Less frequent departures, often requiring rigid planning
• Weather Vulnerability – Greater exposure to sea conditions and sailing cancellations
• Slow Recovery Times – If something goes wrong, delays cascade through the chain
• Tighter RDC Windows – Difficulty hitting retail distribution centre slots without flexibility

In contrast, the Landbridge supports the dynamic logistics planning needed to meet strict shelf-life targets and fluctuating demand.

Built for Fresh Food Supply Chains

The Landbridge isn’t just a route — it’s a proven, integrated solution, with seamless onward ferry access to northern European ports including Calais, Zeebrugge, Hoek van Holland, Rotterdam, Dunkirk, and more. This network of options ensures our customers benefit from high-frequency crossings and flexible scheduling across the region:

• Channel Tunnel Efficiency – Le Shuttle runs every 10–15 minutes with 35 min crossing
• In-House Customs Expertise – We manage every clearance step internally
• Full Visibility – Track & Trace across every leg of the journey
• Multi-temp Options – Dual-temp trailers allow ambient + chilled in the same load

We offer a flexible mix of groupage and full load services — ideal for everything from seasonal listings to regular replenishment.

The HANNON Advantage

• Own fleet, facilities & people throughout – Full control, no subcontractors
• Experienced teams in Northern Ireland & Dublin – Proactive and responsive
• Award-winning service – Irish Exporters Association Logistics & Supply Chain Company of the Year 2024

Whether you’re a grower, processor, or supply chain lead, our Landbridge-based solutions are built to support your needs.

Want to find out more?
Talk to our team about how HANNON can help you deliver Irish food products across Europe — fresh, fast and reliably.