We're about to close the chapter on 2022. For many sectors, this is a date to be quickly forgotten. Certainly for the transport and logistics sector. Successive crises have considerably reduced profit margins, if not completely depleted them. This has led to a number of bankruptcies in the Belgian transport sector. According to Statbel, the number of bankruptcies has risen by over 50% since the beginning of 2022. Smaller players in particular have had to throw in the towel. Further proof that joining forces and forming partnerships is the best solution in times of crisis.
Brexit, Corona, shortages of raw materials, global supply problems, high fuel prices, the energy crisis, the search for suitable personnel, inflation which has not yet peaked, and soon wage indexation. Many challenges have weighed and still weigh like thick dark clouds on the transport sector. For many small companies, all these problems, one after the other or coinciding, have fatal consequences. Making a profit has long been out of the question. Little by little, keeping one's head above water no longer works either. After a frantic struggle, closing the accounts is unfortunately the only option.
What's more, it doesn't look like the skies will clear completely for the sector in 2023. Wage indexation is fast approaching. The Belgian Road Transport and Logistics Institute (ITLB) expects vehicle purchase prices and maintenance costs to rise sharply in 2023. Truck depreciation costs will rise by 25%. Those considering financing will have to pay 16% more. In addition, insurance will become 9% more expensive.
The solution is to tackle the problems together. The bigger you are, the better you can tackle costs, and the wider your customer base can grow. To create partnerships, TransDirect offers its services. We help to eliminate cost factors. Whether it's administrative, financial, legal or commercial costs.
