Samphire Cargo Limited, based in Dover, was formed in March 2001 by long-time friends and working colleagues Paul Harris and Gary Holmes, who together considered the new century was the right time for a business combining their expertise; customs clearance and global forwarding.
See our ServicesThe name ‘Samphire’ was chosen because of its strong connection to the local area. Firstly, it is the plant that grows on the Dover cliffs, historically collected and transported in brine for re-sale in London. More recently Samphire was used in the naming of Samphire Hoe, the man-made nature reserve born from the earth which was taken out when creating the Channel Tunnel. Samphire was therefore chosen as representing ‘a new beginning’ and ‘growth’, connotations which remain relevant following the retirement of both founders in 2019.
The success of the company is now in the safe hands of current Managing Director Gary Smith-Watson who, together with Samphire’s highly experienced team, is focused on building on the strengths of the business and maintaining the high levels of service the company is known for. Critical to its future success will be the ability to negotiate the changes that Brexit brings. Securing AEO Status in mid-2019 and being an Authorised Consignor will both offer streamlined processing and peace of mind for exporters/importers, as will the investment in staff training/retention and up to date I.T. systems which constantly continue moving forward.
With well over a Century’s worth of experience between them, they have all experienced changes within the fields of Customs Clearance, Freight Forwarding and Road Freight and can offer their vast knowledge on all areas of them ensuring your goods and shipments move with ease and seamless fluidity.