Italy help at any time

Hi All, looking at doing a few trips to Palermo with flatbed trailers. Goods loading Southampton then down.

Best ferry cost & driving time wise? I think Naples-Palermo which saves 1300km going all the way down (but having trouble looking for the ferry company that goes to Messina anyway to be honest).

Reloads for flats? I do have a contact for marble and tile imports which would suit a flat but any other suggestions would be appreciated. Pitfuls, etc. To be honest its a couple of years since I have sent trucks to Italy, never mind Palermo! So any advice would be welcome. Oh and there is the possibility they could be down in Palermo just before Easter (if that makes it anymore interesting due to driving bans etc on Good Friday??)

Thanks,
Lee