It was a conversation with his parents’ gardener that transformed Grade 11 learner Lampie van der Nest from school boy to importer. “He was telling me about the conditions in the area where he lives and how there was no hot water,” explained Van der Nest. “It occurred to me that there was a massive opportunity to make a difference in this community by providing them with something as simple as hot water. I started to research solutions and came across a few.” It was quickly evident to the young man that the answer lay in solar geysers, with the most competitive supplier in China. But, as is the case with most teenagers, this was not a complication for Van der Nest as he decided he would simply import them. “I definitely did not realise the complexity of what I was getting into,” he now says. “Had I known I would have gathered more expert advice around importing procedures, regulations and common pitfalls. There are also quite a few hidden costs and risks involved in the end-to-end process. My expectations and planning would have been more in line if I was better prepared in this regard.” But the complicated procedures that needed his constant attention for the import of his ten sets of solar heaters was somewhat eased after 4PL.Com heard of his plight. According to Claudia Heinz, GM 4PL.COM Clearing and Forwarding, they were intrigued after hearing about the young man’s plans, but also encouraged by his enthusiasm and determination to take on something so challenging and complex. “We were amazed to see a school boy arrange a full import,” said Heinz. “By the time we came on board he had arranged everything with the supplier in China – all the way to the goods landing in South Africa. A lot of people are put off doing imports due to the complexities and risks. It was great to see that someone at Lampie’s age would set aside all those adversities and just get going on a project to benefit someone other than himself.” According to Van der Nest, his father – who had had dealings with 4PL.Com in the past – advised him to get professional help when the process became too complex. “It felt like there were unexpected costs that were arising all the time that I had not planned or budgeted for. It was also very challenging communicating with the Chinese due to the language and time differences, and I realised I needed help.” 4PL.COM finally helped Van der Nest arrange the shipment to be cleared in South Africa, handling and assisting with all the portside formalities. “We had the cargo delivered to his home in Irene,” said Heinz. “We also invited him to our offices after the cargo had been delivered to show him where his risks were on his current import method, how to better mitigate his risks going forward by using the correct terms of sale, insurance, suppliers – and also showed him the hidden costs with regard to port side, shipping and agency charges.” For Van der Nest it has been a life-changing experience. “I have learned quite a few valuable lessons during this first importing experience. It became apparent very quickly to me that there are quite a few interesting avenues in this industry to pursue and that I think I would enjoy doing.” He has also learnt the valuable lesson on which all importers agree: never underestimate the value of expert advice when bringing goods into the country. “I now understand why I need a clearing agent and the immense value there is in having them.” INSERT It felt like there were unexpected costs that were arising all the time that I had not planned or budgeted for. – Lampie van der Nest CAPTION Liesl Liebenberg of 4PL.com who personally assisted with the shipment, and teenager Lampie van der Nest who tried his hand at importing.
