Bulk discounts cut rates from US

Good deals on inland haulage too RAY SMUTS UNITED MARITIME Logistics, through its representation of Direct Container Line (USA), still lays claim not only to a most effective service but also to good deals from a cost-cutting perspective. Claude Nuttall, Cape Town-based director for UML, says given the strong rand – some economists predict it will be trading at the R6.44 level by year-end - makes sourcing products from the US a most attractive proposition for importers. He asserts the US generally produces goods of a very high quality, often specialised items not available in other countries, and this is where UML has an important role to play. “DCL is able to offer high discounts off inland rates in the US through special contracts with major trucking companies, coupled to which it also enjoys some of the best ocean freight rates in the market through specially structured contracts with shipping lines operating weekly from New York.” In terms of IT development, DCL is highly advanced and all documentation is easily processed, enabling it to arrive well in advance of the vessel’s arrival, thereby avoiding unnecessary storage and overstay charges. Says Nuttall: "DCL is also very much committed to the welfare of its clients’ cargo and will continue to develop systems to make shipping from the US easier and more economical.”