Analytical attention to detail is non-negotiable

Safmarine’s project division registers ‘exponential’ growth JOY ORLEK WHEN IT comes to project cargo, getting it right first time is non-negotiable, and buy-in from every link in the logistics chain is critical. Shipping lines are often presented with rate requests based on weight and volume specifications. Further investigation may reveal that heavy lift pieces are involved. “Without detailed specifications the line cannot quote,” says Safmarine’s Antwerp-based multi-purpose vessel (MPV) executive Albert Pegg. “If we need to rig the cargo, for example, it can take up to 6 or 7 hours before we load it on board - and in some countries that’s a full shift.” While Safmarine is involved purely on the sea leg, sharing its expertise with its logistics partners is part and parcel of the service. “We recently had a request from a shipper wanting to send locomotives to Libreville,” Pegg told FTW. “We know that if we put that locomotive on the quay it would collapse, which is why shippers should ensure that they work with professionals who have the equipment and expertise to make things work. In a lot of instances there’s too much focus on price instead of service.” It’s also not only about planning but being proactive and finding solutions to often challenging problems. “A lot of oil ports have draught and length of vessel restrictions, not all destinations have the necessary gear, and on top of that you don’t always have experienced dockers to handle heavylifts. “Shippers are often not even aware of how to crate certain big pieces which is where our expertise is crucial.” The MPV division represents 10% of Safmarine’s portfolio, and growth is exponential, says Pegg. Since he took over the projects division four years ago, he has seen cargo volumes treble. “In 2000 we were plying the West Africa trade with two vessels. We now have three on the route and a fourth one coming up. “The oil and gas industries are helping to unlock the continent’s vast potential by boosting trade with Africa,” says Pegg. “The development of this sector relies on companies like Safmarine which can provide an innovative, flexible and niche shipping service that meets the needs of breakbulk and project cargo shippers.”