About GlobalVan Trade
Our story, our mission, our values
Our Story
GlobalVan Trade Ltd. was founded in 2019 by David Crane, a logistics professional with over fifteen years of experience at some of the world's largest freight operators. Having seen first-hand how small and medium-sized businesses struggled to navigate complex international trade processes, David established GlobalVan Trade with a clear ambition: to give growing businesses access to the same quality of logistics expertise previously available only to large corporates.
We started as a lean UK-based operation, focused on facilitating trade between British importers and suppliers in Southern Europe and North Africa. Within eighteen months, we had extended our service offering to include freight forwarding on key Asia-Pacific corridors, responding to client demand from UK manufacturers sourcing components from China, Vietnam, and South Korea.
The period following Brexit presented both challenges and opportunities. While the regulatory environment became significantly more complex overnight, we invested heavily in customs compliance expertise and were among the first independent freight forwarders to achieve full UK Customs Comprehensive Guarantee status. This allowed us to continue serving our clients without disruption during a period when many competitors faltered.
Today, GlobalVan Trade operates across more than 50 countries, coordinating over 1,200 shipments per year on behalf of clients in manufacturing, retail, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. We remain privately owned, independently managed, and committed to the personal service that has always defined our reputation.
Mission & Values
The principles that guide every shipment we handle.
Our Mission
To simplify international trade for businesses of all sizes — providing expert logistics, customs, and freight services that reduce cost, risk, and complexity at every step of the supply chain.
Our Vision
A world where geographic distance is no longer a barrier to trade. We work to connect markets across borders, enabling our clients to source, sell, and grow internationally with confidence.
Our Values
Integrity — we do what we say we'll do.
Reliability — your cargo is our priority.
Transparency — clear pricing, no hidden fees.
Expertise — deep knowledge, practical advice.
By the Numbers
Six years of growth, built on client trust.