GROUPAGE OPERATOR Direct Container Line, has opened offices in three major US centres, namely Miami, Atlanta and Houston, a move which promises benefits for local shippers. DCL South Africa's regional manager, Mark van Zijl, told FTW that there had been growth in cargo from the South, South Eastern and Gulf areas of the USA and the local office could now communicate directly with sales and operational people in these regions, rather than through the Los Angeles and Chicago offices. He added that DCL had recently moved to SACD for its unpacking and release functions.
In another effort to streamline its services, and in response to delays at Customs at Johannesburg International Airport, DCL has upgraded its software to speed up the dissemination of information required for customs clearance procedures. We have managed to avoid expensive demurrage and storage bills by enabling clearing agents to get documentation in earlier, said Van Zijl.
