Gauging the customer’s needs from the start is critical

PREMIUM SERVICE is in demand for shippers who find the cost worth it for security, reliability and quality. After a quarter century in business, Shipping and General Transport of Germiston continues to grow “from strength to strength” by offering premium service, according to managing director Regan Moodley. “We are conservative about our affairs. We don’t do cut-throat rate slashing. We never compromise on our standards. Our customers want to give their cargo to a service provider that will allow them to go to bed at night peacefully, with no worries,” said Moodley. Premium service prices are consistent whatever the market, be it Johannesburg or Durban. “In Durban there are so many trucking companies that rates can be 50% less than in Johannesburg. I hand-pick my clients at coastal ports. If I move a container 10 kilometres in Johannesburg, I must do it at the same cost in Durban. I’d rather have ten premium-rate quality firms than 1000 smaller customers who have to be served at a discount,” said Moodley. With premium service comes specialised solutions and personalised attention. “Visiting customers is all important at the outset. I go through the gate and see what type of business they have. It’s very customised. I find out which of our services they need: packing, abnormal load handling, reefer transport for perishables or hazardous materials. We are licensed with customs and have a bond of R200 000,” Moodley added.