Ecnomies of scale provide preferential rates

Given the many physical and administrative challenges of delivering freight on time in Mozambique and surrounding countries, it pays shippers to use freight forwarders and logistics service providers that can offer a full and integrated endto- end service, says Damco Mozambique managing director Agnaldo Laice. Supply chain predictability (and visibility) can only be assured by companies that have extensive global and African networks and resources at their disposal, says Laice. “They have to be both independent and flexible,” he says. Today, shippers are increasingly looking for a single “one-stop shop” and a fixed “flat rate” fee, as well as track and trace capabilities throughout the logistics chain, he says. “Working as an independent business unit, Damco is the logistics division of the AP Moller-Maersk Group, and prides itself on being a truly integrated end-to-end transportation and logistics solutions provider offering ocean, air, landside, and valueadded services that best suit its customers’ supply chain needs,” he adds. In Mozambique, Damco operates out of offices in Maputo, Beira and Nacala. It specialises in multi-modal transportation – both locally and in-transit through the neighbouring countries, he says. It is involved in all types of freight, including containerised cargo, breakbulk and project cargo across a diverse range of industries including retail, mining and aid and relief. To the north, Damco is also involved in providing logistics support to the companies prospecting in the area, which is the heart of Mozambique’s oil and gas industry. “As a global freight forwarder, Damco is able to leverage economies of scale to obtain preferential rates with shipping lines and road transporters,” he says, “helping our customers to reduce operating costs and meet market requirements.” CAPTION Agnaldo Laice … integrated end-to-end service.