ABOUT
Our Story
Built on Integrity.
Since 2003.
Two decades of transatlantic freight expertise, earned through precision, trust, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.
Two decades of transatlantic freight expertise, earned through precision, trust, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.
Crest Shipping was founded in London in 2003 by James Hartwell, a freight professional with 14 years at Kuehne+Nagel, with a singular focus: to provide transatlantic shippers with a freight partner that combined the capability of a global carrier with the personal accountability of a specialist boutique.
Starting with a single US–UK lane and a team of eight, Crest grew steadily through the 2000s, adding ocean freight, road distribution, and warehousing divisions as client demand expanded. By 2010, Crest was operating across all major European gateways.
Today, Crest Shipping employs over 1,400 logistics professionals across 14 countries, serves clients in 160+ markets, and handles over 85,000 shipments per year — while maintaining the named account management model that distinguished us from day one.
James Hartwell establishes Crest Shipping as a transatlantic air freight specialist. First office at Canary Wharf, London.
Weekly FCL sailings launched on US East Coast → UK & North Europe corridors. New York hub opens.
First independent audit confirms ISO 9001 compliance across all divisions. Hamburg European hub established.
Bonded warehousing facilities opened in London, Rotterdam, and New York. HMRC approval secured.
Authorised Economic Operator status awarded in UK and EU. C-TPAT partnership with US Customs activated.
Proprietary shipment tracking platform launched, providing clients with live checkpoint visibility 24/7.
Net-zero carbon commitment formalised. SAF deployed on UK–US air lanes. First Gold Standard offsets purchased.
Experienced freight professionals with decades of combined expertise across ocean, air, road, and logistics finance.
Founded Crest in 2003 following 14 years at Kuehne+Nagel where he managed transatlantic freight operations. MSc Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Cranfield University.
22 years in ocean freight operations, joining Crest in 2007 from Maersk Line. Designed and built Crest's proprietary real-time tracking platform. Oversees all freight operations.
18 years in logistics finance. Chartered Accountant (ICAEW) and CFA charterholder. Joined Crest in 2014 to lead financial transformation and expansion across all operating regions.
Independently audited and certified to the highest international standards across quality, security, and environmental management.
Quality Management System — audited annually by Bureau Veritas across all divisions and operating countries.
Environmental Management System — framework for our CrestGreen 2030 net-zero commitment.
Full IATA cargo agent accreditation covering standard, dangerous goods, and CEIV Pharma life sciences handling.
Authorised Economic Operator (Full) status in both the UK (HMRC) and EU — the gold standard for trusted trader recognition.
Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism — US Customs and Border Protection recognised security partner since 2016.
Full members of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders (FIATA) and the British International Freight Association.
We are always looking for talented freight professionals across operations, sales, customs brokerage, and technology. Crest offers competitive salaries, named account responsibility from day one, and genuine opportunities to grow with a company that values expertise over hierarchy.
Current openings include Ocean & Air Freight Operations (London, New York, Hamburg), Customs Brokerage & Trade Compliance (London, Rotterdam), and Business Development roles across all regions. We also run an annual Graduate Rotational Programme based at London HQ.
To apply or make an enquiry: crestmanagement174@gmail.com or call +44 7832 350418.
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