About
Comprehensive dock services with a professional touch
At New Holland Dock, we combine a complete dockside service with a friendly, professional approach. Our permanent team of stevedores, crane drivers, and forklift operators ensures efficient operations for both ship operators and importers.
In house ships agency
We manage every aspect of vessel arrivals and departures using our own resources — including equipment, storage, and experienced technical staff.
Ship discharge and stevedoring
Our facilities are fully equipped for fast and reliable loading and unloading, minimizing delays and maximizing efficiency.
Handling and storage
We offer flexible handling and storage solutions tailored to customer needs.
On site weighbridge
Accurate weighing facilities are available on-site to support smooth logistics operations.
Stock control
Our dedicated computer-based management system provides complete stock control and visibility.
Open and covered storage
Choose between open or covered warehouse storage, all protected by extensive on-site CCTV security.
Dispatch to final destination
We provide reliable dispatch services, ensuring cargo reaches its final destination quickly and efficiently.
Container de-stuffing
Our team is equipped to safely and efficiently unload containers of all sizes.
ITSSAR accredited training
We are an accredited training provider, offering certified courses to support safe and skilled operations.
Timber treatment facilities
As part of the Howarth Timber Group, New Holland Dock specializes in timber imports and offers both high- and low-pressure timber treatment on-site.
KEY DOCK INFORMATION
Recommended 0.3m under keel clearance below tide estimate.
Vessels longer than 100m require outward tug assistance.
Maximum permitted draft 6.1m subject to tide changes.
No airdraft restriction.
Berthing for vessels up to 6.1 metres draft and 6000 DWAT (NAABSA berth).
New Holland Dock is part of the Howarth Timber Group
Established in 1840, in Leeds under the name Hudson & Co, Howarth Timber has now become a leader in importing timber & timber merchanting.
The acquisition of New Holland Dock “perhaps our greatest step forward”
Situated on the south side of the Humber, New Holland Dock was originally leased from British Rail in 1964. The development of the dock was described by Peter Howarth as ‘perhaps our greatest step forward’.
History of the Humber Ferry
PART 1
History of the Humber Ferry
PART 2
History of the Humber Ferry
PART 3
Industry Challenges in the 1960s and 1970s
The timber industry faced significant disruption during the 1960s and 1970s, as widespread industrial action affected ports across the UK. In 1972, the national dock strike brought the country’s major ports to a standstill for several weeks. Smaller ports operating outside the National Dock Labour Scheme, including New Holland, were also targeted. Many were forced to close under the pressure of large-scale mass picketing, reshaping the landscape of the UK port industry.
Acquisition by Howarth Timber Group
In the early 1980s, the government instructed British Rail to dispose of surplus assets. As part of this initiative, on 1 March 1983, Howarth Timber Group purchased the New Holland Dock site in its entirety. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the dock, securing its long-term future as part of a growing and ambitious timber business.
Leadership Transition: Andrew Howarth
Amidst a challenging timber market in the early 1980s, Peter Howarth made the strategic decision to hand responsibility for New Holland Dock to his eldest son, Andrew. Taking over in 1984, Andrew brought fresh leadership and direction, guiding the business through a period of change and laying the foundations for future growth.
Growth, Investment, and Modernisation
Over the decades that followed, New Holland Dock has benefited from substantial investment in infrastructure, technology, and warehousing. These improvements have significantly increased capacity and enhanced operational capabilities. At the same time, the range of products handled has expanded, enabling the dock to diversify beyond its traditional base. Today, New Holland Dock stands as a modern, efficient, and versatile facility, well-positioned to support continued growth and new opportunities in the timber industry and beyond.