Independent forwarders are needed by both shippers and freight companies in order to keep logistics costs down by providing loads both in and out, according to forwarding companies interviewed by FTW. “There is always too much cargo or too many trucks in the system. Forwarders help stabilise the market,” one of the forwarders who preferred to remain anonymous told FTW. He was responding to complaints by truckers from Namibia who told FTW that they had vehicles standing for a week or more waiting for loads out of the Copperbelt. A number of mines and other shippers have tried to cut costs by dealing directly with trucking companies. However, truckers confirmed to FTW that there was no commitment to help fill the vehicles to avoid an empty leg. Good forwarders will work in partnership with truckers to obtain loads which keep the vehicles moving. Shippers benefit because they have vehicles when and where they need them, and savings in operating costs can be passed on. Forwarders also advise on the most costeffective routes. At the moment Dar es Salaam is on average US$30 a ton cheaper than Durban. But the situation is fluid and it may not be the least-cost option in a month or two’s time, according to one forwarder. INSERT At the moment Dar es Salaam is on average US$30 a ton cheaper than Durban
