MACS shortens voyages and offers more frequencies to Europe
RAY SMUTS
Maritime Carrier Shipping (MACS) has
achieved good results with imports and exports at
Durban’s multi-purpose terminal, but congestion
at the Durban Container Terminal has become
"lamentable", both on the sea and inland leg, says
Markus Popken
The shifting of certain breakbulk cargoes to
Richards Bay has however been a help, he added.
The Richards Bay option was first mooted a
year back in an interview with MACS MD, Felix
Scheder-Bieschin, when he expressed concern
at the inability of SA Port Operations (Sapo) to
handle the requisite volumes of cargo.
In its latest report-back, MACS says
Mozambique is being served more proficiently,
thanks to improved feeder possibilities partly
achieved by the acquisition of the heavy lift and
project carrier, MV Cheyenne, inaugurating the
MACS East Africa service (MEAS).
This allows MACS vessels to shorten voyages
and therefore increase sailing frequencies to
Europe.
The seven MACS-owned vessels on the
Europe service have improved frequency to
approximately nine days, while the Galborg
service to the US has been boosted by two
further vessel acquisitions.
“MACS’ 26-year presence in the South
African market has produced knowledgeable and
dedicated staff with experienced captains looking
after the port operations,” he added.
“Customer-orientated management allows
speedy resolution of negotiations, supported by
the 125-year experience of the line’s agent, King
& Sons.”
