Cargo handling specialist set to enter box arena

IN A move that diversifies its portfolio beyond consolidated cargo monitoring and asset protection, Gauteng-based G4S Special Cargo Handling is set to launch a container monitoring service. The company currently offers vehicle escorts linked to real-time tracking for consolidated cargo movements. It will now extend this service into the lucrative container market. “The decision follows recent observations and findings that our clients operating in this field often experience numerous problems with regard to security,” says Andre Du Venage of G4SSCH. The operations manager feels the shift to servicing the security needs of the containerised market requires attention to procedure, often a systematic operation that irons out the security risks to prevent breaks in the supply chain. “It will be an extension of our core, with the support of our new parent G4S Security,” adds Du Venage. Special Cargo Handling was acquired by G4S in June this year. “The additional security muscle resulted in our clients recording a near immediate reduction in incidents of theft and pilferage of cargo at OR Tambo International,” said Du Venage. Ortia continues to be a problem, but the company is moving to ensure that all cargo is safely and securely handled wherever they are involved by extending the level and areas of involvement. “We are looking forward to expanding the G4S Special Cargo Handling business to all harbours and airports across the country, with definite expansion into Africa in the latter part of 2008/9,” Du Venage said.