‘Efficient control of paperwork is key’

Given that a definition of perishable cargo is “goods that deteriorate over time and that can be adversely affected by environmental conditions”, efficiency of handling is of vital importance, according to Nachi Mendelow of the CargoWise division of freight system specialists, Compu-Clearing. “When dealing with perishable cargo – such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meat – delays can ultimately ruin the goods being sent,” he told FTW. “It is also imperative to have up-to-date tracking information, to ensure that the goods arrive on time and in good condition.” The accompanying paperwork is also something that has to be efficiently controlled. “The phyto-sanitary certificates, for example – which often need to be issued when sending perishable cargo – must be kept track of,” Mendelow added. “This is vital if you want to ensure there are no delays at the border – which could lead to the goods ripening before they hit shop shelves.” Another of the documents that needs special attention is the perishable Air Waybill (AWB). “It is normally only produced once the cargo is safely packed,” advised Mendelow. “This allows the packers to discard any goods that have been rejected by Port Health Authorities – and to declare the actual quantities on the AWB.” These are all built into the Compu-Clearing product, offering the essential systems to assist an agent in dealing with perishable cargo. “Phyto-sanitary certificate details can be captured against the relevant product code – and automatically notify the user when such a certificate is needed,” said Mendelow. “Also, when printing the AWB, a simple checkbox allows the operator to produce the version for perishables. The system can then be updated to reflect the correct details and freight payable on the shipment.” Another product offering in the Compu-Clearing systems is a direct electronic data interchange (EDI) link with customs. This, according to Mendelow, means that goods can be pre-cleared to increase efficiency. “And, once the bill of entry (BoE) has been produced, it can be sent to customs and cleared in a matter of minutes.” The system also has a “trade and track” facility. “This,” Mendelow added, “offers an advanced – but user-friendly – solution, to assist the agent with tracking the goods from beginning to end. “It also acts as a tool to help the agent to communicate directly with all the parties involved in a shipment to ensure successful delivery.”