Hands-on involvement ensures minimal claims ratio

If forwarder takes control, he’s responsible for cargo security RECORDING THE lowest claims ratio in the freight industry demands a combination of interventions at every stage of the logistics chain. Cargocare CEO Roland Raath believes his company has achieved this distinction through a series of mechanisms - hands-on involvement of the senior executives in the daily flow of cargo, free client training in all aspects of exports and imports, and continuous risk analysis with regard to choice of carriers, routes, packing methods and the like. “All of these factors create high awareness,” says Raath. “The biggest threats are complacency and crime syndicates who utilise systems and technology to access information about products moving around the globe. And this is not unique to SA,” he added. Raath advises clients to make use of all the facilities available - tracking technology inside the shipments as well as real time cargo tracking or status reports from the forwarder. He believes shippers often come unstuck because they lack Incoterm knowledge when purchasing or selling products internationally . And this is often the result of lack of training for shipping or procurement staff. “A policy of cheapest landing cost is also a recipe for disaster,” says Raath. His advice is simple: choose a service provider with credibility, whose ISO quality procedures are in place. “If the forwarder is controlling cargo from door to door, he undertakes full responsibility for the safety and security of the shipment.”