Duncan & Toplis

Industrial and Logistics

At Duncan & Toplis, we offer specialist accounting, tax, and advisory services for businesses in the manufacturing, engineering, transport, haulage, and logistics industries. With decades of experience and over 75 clients across these sectors, we understand the operational challenges you face and deliver tailored financial solutions to help your business thrive.

Choose Duncan & Toplis as your trusted partner.

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Sector expertise that drives performance

Our proactive and hands-on approach ensures clients stay ahead of issues that impact their industries - from navigating regulatory changes to maximising financial efficiency. Whether you operate a transport fleet or run a manufacturing plant, our team is here to support your growth with a comprehensive range of services.

Core services we provide

Transport, haulage, and logistics accounting

The transport, haulage, and logistics industry is dynamic and often unpredictable - shaped by changing regulations, fluctuating fuel costs, cross-border challenges, and evolving workforce structures. Our dedicated team understands these complexities and works alongside you to help manage risk, improve operational efficiency, and enhance profitability.

We provide support with:

  • Driver classification and HMRC compliance
    Navigating employment status regulations can be difficult, particularly when working with self-employed or subcontracted drivers. We offer expert guidance to ensure you remain compliant with HMRC rules, reducing the risk of fines or backdated liabilities.
  • Fleet and asset management
    Effective cost control and asset utilisation are vital. We assist with restructuring initiatives and advise on financing strategies for fleet upgrades, enabling you to maintain competitiveness while managing your capital investments efficiently.
  • Real-time regulatory guidance
    From customs changes post-Brexit to evolving environmental and emissions regulations, we keep you informed and help you respond with agility. Our compliance support gives you confidence in your operations across domestic and international supply chains.
  • Cash flow and financial planning
    Seasonal demand, delayed payments, and fluctuating costs can disrupt cash flow. We help you plan ahead, manage reserves, and forecast accurately to ensure business continuity and resilience.
  • International logistics and expansion support
    As members of Kreston Global, we support your cross-border ambitions - from overseas subsidiary setup to VAT, customs duties, and international tax implications. Whether you're exporting goods or expanding transport routes, we’re your global partner.
  • Strategic business planning
    Looking to expand, merge, or restructure? We provide support with mergers and acquisitions, long-term tax planning, and succession strategies to ensure your business is built for sustainable growth.

Manufacturing and engineering accounting

Manufacturing and engineering businesses face intense pressure to innovate, remain cost-efficient, and manage talent shortages - all while navigating technical regulations and global competition. At Duncan & Toplis, we offer tailored financial strategies to support stability, productivity, and progress in your operations.

We provide support with:

  • Research and development tax credits
    Innovation is the lifeblood of engineering and manufacturing. We help you identify qualifying R&D activities and maximise your claims under HMRC’s incentive schemes - delivering valuable cash flow relief or tax reductions.
  • Annual Investment Allowance (AIA)
    Capital investment in machinery, equipment, and commercial vehicles is essential for growth. We ensure you take full advantage of AIA, allowing you to write off up to £1 million in qualifying investments -  significantly reducing your tax liability.
  • Skills shortage and succession planning
    With skilled workers in high demand, succession planning and talent retention are critical. We offer strategic advice to help you prepare for leadership transitions, plan workforce development, and create future-ready structures that ensure long-term business success.
  • International trade and expansion
    If your business is importing raw materials, exporting finished products, or expanding operations abroad, we provide expert guidance on foreign tax regulations, import/export duties, and establishing overseas operations - backed by our Kreston Global network.
  • Specialist tax and financial support
    From corporation tax compliance to bespoke financial modelling, our manufacturing and engineering accountants work closely with your team to ensure you're making the most of tax reliefs, grant opportunities, and growth potential.

Why Duncan & Toplis?

With sector-specific insight, a proactive approach, and access to international expertise via Kreston Global, Duncan & Toplis is uniquely positioned to deliver forward-thinking financial services to engineering, manufacturing, transport, and logistics businesses.

We’re not just accountants - we’re strategic partners invested in your success.

Let’s work together to move your business forward.

Contact us today to speak with one of our specialist advisers.

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