'Forwarder's friend' thrives on meeting emergency deadlines

Specialising in the buy-out of companies' existing fleets Regan Moodley . . . for shipping lines the cross haul of empty boxes from the various depots is a big market SHIPPING AND General Transport has built its reputation as the forwarder's outsourcing friend, and its road transport arm is doing much to reinforce this title. The company operates a fleet of 60 vehicles in the domestic market covering imports and exports and offering a comprehensive range of services. A major focus is the collection of LCL (less than container load) cargoes from licensed depots for delivery to clients, and here its strategic location 5km from City Deep is a big advantage. The long-distance national road haulage of FCLs (full container loads) is another growing market as Spoornet's shortage of rolling stock forces exporters to switch to road for the urgent delivery of export boxes to meet stack dates in Durban and Cape Town. The company has twenty vehicles dedicated to this service, says operations director Regan Moodley. "There's nothing we can't do in an emergency. There are cases where we've pulled clients out of a tight spot in a matter of half an hour." Transit time to Durban is overnight while Cape Town takes three days. "But under exceptional circumstances we can cut this to two days at a marginal premium. In cases like this two drivers would be despatched to ensure that there is no infringement of maximum working hours." A courier service is offered to the manufacturing industry involving the collection of finished products as well as cartage. While the company has not yet ventured overborder, Moodley does not rule out the possibility at a future date. In all its road transport business Shipping & General is however committed to its long-standing philosophy, says Moodley. "A clear, open, honest and upfront channel of communication with our clients. "We specialise in the buy-out of companies' existing fleets, operating them on their behalf," he added. "We have found several clearing agents keen to move out of the transport operating sector in order to stick to their core business. It's worked exceptionally well with the likes of Safcor Panalpina and we're always on the lookout for similar opportunities. "We consider various options, and if it's viable we take over the vehicles and drivers. We have the fundamentals to make it happen." A recent addition to its portfolio has been a cartage service for the airfreight industry, while for shipping lines, the cross haul of empty boxes from the various depots is a big market. Cabotage has also recently been added to this service range. Specialised rig and crane truck deliveries are also offered, providing an outsourced option for companies that don't have their own forklifts. Shipping & General is fully licensed and geared to carry dangerous cargo. On-going training ensures compliance with any new laws and regulations. The company has a bond removal code and is registered with customs as an approved supplier. In terms of security, Moodley believes that the records speak for themselves. "Our drivers are highly incentivised and productivity is one of the criteria on which performance appraisals are based, so it's in their interests to keep productivity high and to ensure the security of cargo in their care."