Firm control of documentation is the key

ALAN PEAT THE TRICK for getting cargo into other countries in Africa is doing your homework, and knowing how to deal with each individual bureaucracy, according to Mike Benney, marketing director of FH Bertling. “There are lots of areas where you can get caught, and heavily fined,” he told FTW, “so your documentation must be spot-on.” The company has gone through its learning curve, Benney added, but still examines any new areas in-depth – tapping into its own knowledge or picking the brains of the local agents. On shipments that might prove extra-tough, Benney suggested that a company representative on the spot is the best solution to keeping the traffic flowing properly. Bertling are project cargo specialists, with little in the way of standard cross-border traffic. “The only way you can keep on top of it is to be very hands-on,” said Benney. “You’ve got to have firm control of the documentation requirements if you want a smooth transit over the borders.” Bertling’s speciality is project cargo for the mining houses, and Benney was glad to be able to tell FTW that - with the good gold price, and low mining costs in Africa – there is motivation for local mining companies to open mines in the region.