Container specialist acquires Summit Warehouse

THE ACQUISITION 18 months ago of an abnormal fleet has paid handsome dividends for road transport and distribution major Freight Haul. While the company – one of the largest operators on the Durban corridor – specialises in container transport, the breakbulk niche was identified as a lucrative complementary activity, fitting well with the vision of Andrew Khuzwayo, CEO of parent company Guqula Holdings, to become the preferred service provider in the logistics industry. “The abnormal fleet caters for the growing project sector, but in view of its cyclical nature trailers are used to run containerised cargo during lean periods,” says Freight Haul MD Paul Botha.“This naturally creates certain limitations in terms of moving specialised abnormal cargo which we hope to grow into organically in future.” In a separate development that enhances the company’s breakbulk packing and unpacking capability, Freight Haul has acquired Summit Warehouse in Durban. “This was a strategic purchase based on the proximity of the warehouse to our container yard and the harbour,” said Botha. “In the near future the facility will be geared to handling all types of HAZCHEM products which we believe will give us a huge advantage in the market and better utilisation of the fleet and deck space. Botha believes the company’s flexibility and strategic investments provide major benefits in terms of a ‘one-stop solution’. “When any party considers moving cargo they consider all logistical options, and the most cost-effective method wins the race. This provides the transport industry with a host of threats and opportunities – and based on how a company is positioned it either wins or loses the business. “It’s imperative for all players to stay focused, control their expenses and educate the client base about the rising cost of moving cargo – not least the escalating and difficult-to-manage cost of fuel.”