‘Actively helping customers to find ways of reducing costs’

Transport consolidators have to be smarter than ever if they want to survive profitably in today’s recessionary climate, says Arnold Reddy, MD of Reddy Cargo Services. “In simple language, business is not what it was a year ago. Since the global economic downturn, consolidators are operating in survival mode and must adapt to the changing conditions to survive,” Reddy said. Last year, road transport companies like Reddy Cargo Services, with its fleet of 50 long-haul trucks, had to contend with a 60% rise in running costs. This year the global recession has added to last year’s woes by slashing volumes. The only consistent factor throughout the roller coaster ride is the importance of the customer and exceptional customer service. A fact that is more relevant now than ever. “Customers are very well aware of the demand for their business – they hold all the aces and are playing it smartly, forcing the proactive transporter into offering more than just logistic and consolidation services.” says Reddy. “Our ‘Customer First’ philosophy, which has always been a founding pillar of Reddy Cargo Services,” says Reddy, “has enabled us to actively assist customers in finding ways to reduce transport costs. This proactive customer first policy is a must in keeping current clients and obtaining new business in these tough times. I guess one could say that we have now added transport consultation to our logistics and consolidation services.” One way, of reducing costs, says Reddy, is to ensure that cargo arrives swiftly and timeously, avoiding additional charges. “As Reddy Cargo Services does a lot of in-country, breakbulk, container, short-hauls (within the Johannesburg area), long hauls for example to Durban and Port Elizabeth and over border work, we have always been mindful of the additional costs associated with late delivery and are proactive in avoiding these delays – saving our customers both time and money.”