Port of Felixstowe bosses have been accused of not listening to the 'cries of' help by small haulage firms hit by delays.

Hutchison Ports, that operates the UK's largest container port, has failed to react to the increase in demand and add further slots, leaving drivers delayed at the docks for hours, according to industry leader UK Haulier that represents haulage firms and drivers.

Slots were reduced when the COVID-19 lockdown came into force in March, as the Vehicle Booking System (VBS) used by hauliers changed to coincide with fewer container vessels arriving at Felixstowe and the subsequent reduction of staff at the docks.

Hutchison Ports are now accused of not increasing the number of slots even though the amount of work has increased, creating chaos for hauliers trying to get their operation back to full capacity.

It has meant drivers have been forced to sit at the port for many hours waiting for an available slot. The knock on effect of an unreliable planning system has left many hauliers struggling to commit to their customers to more than a delivery a day, per truck unit.

UK Hauliers claim Hutchison Ports' failure to respond to demand has driven many hauliers to make large losses every day, leaving some hauliers concerned over their own company's future.

Daniel Haden-Scott, CEO of UK Haulier, said: "We have been personally approached by a worrying number of local hauliers about this issue; as both the port and industry associations have not met the needs and cries for help from the very members and customers which they represent.

"It's worrying, to say the least. Especially since the port has received so much praise during the pandemic. The fact that no one has been listening, or acting on these cries for help, only makes us more concerned for the smaller companies which rely on such systems to operate effectively and profitably."

Hutchison Ports have been approached for comment, but have so far failed to respond.

Nub News recently revealed how Hutchison Ports were offering dockers paid £10,000 each to quit their jobs. Port workers will not be receiving their bonus this year, while new flexible shift patterns have been introduced following an agreement between the port owners and the union Unite.