Export packing a critical element

Cutting corners when packing freight for export is false economy, says Willie Nel, managing director of the ZacPak group. “Export packing of freight – LCL or FCL – must be of the highest standard,” he says. “These goods travel across the globe, are handled multiple times and subjected to adverse conditions. Poor packing results in damage which is ultimately more costly for the customer.” Nel believes a far more holistic approach is necessary when it comes to the movement of cargo. “We have to move away from the approach where a service provider is only as good as the last shipment handled.” He believes customers should partner with “trusted authorities” who don’t just follow standard operating procedures but add value. “Warehousing is not just putting a building with a roof down where freight is handled,” he said. “It is a crucial element in the supply chain and there needs to be a culture of accountability – where you do things right the first time round because this is the only way to address costs in the long run.” Training staff is central to this, says Nel. At ZacPak, a customs approved unpack depot with facilities in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg and a wholly owned subsidiary of CFR Freight, staff are trained not only in the areas in which they are active, but rather in all areas requiring handling of freight. “This ranges from hazardous cargo handling to legislation around packing,” he says. “Having highly skilled and motivated people with a focus on achievement creates a culture of accountability.” INSERT & CAPTION Customers should partner with “trusted authorities” who don’t just follow standard operating procedures but add value. – Willie Nel CAPTION ZacPak's Johannesburg warehousing facility.