Heavy lifts unbanned at Richards Bay ... for now

The recent decision by Transnet Port Terminals to impose a ‘ban’ on heavy lift cargo at the Port of Richards Bay appears to have resolved itself – but it’s circumstances rather than industry lobbying that would seem to have motivated the change. An announcement by TPT on May 12 that all project and heavy lift cargo was to be delivered to Maydon Wharf at the Durban port with immediate effect and that this cargo would only be accepted at Richards Bay on a case-by-case basis raised industry alarm. Leading the charge to have the ban removed was Carl Webb of Project Logistics Management and the SA Association of Freight Forwarders’ heavy lift specialist. He told FTW last week that there had been no response from TPT and that the May 12 communique had not been withdrawn. But, he said, a drop in bulk volumes through Richards Bay appeared to have forced the issue. Webb’s interpretation is that since bulk doesn’t need as much equipment and is cheaper to operate, this was the preferred option for Richards Bay port operations. “But when there was a drop in bulk volumes and the port found its business limited, the decision was taken to once again accept breakbulk cargo.” Webb is concerned that once bulk volumes pick up, the restriction will once again be enforced. And in terms of moving abnormal loads to Maydon Wharf, according to Webb the only terminal with the depth to handle breakbulk cargo is Maydon Wharf 12 which will be closed for upgrades for the next 20 months. So it appears that the status quo will continue ... for now.