Inconsistency in axle weight allowances adds challenge for hauliers

Adjustment will be key for companies wanting to remain viable in the cross-border market in coming months, says Gordon Jay of Transworld Road Freight. Launched in 1993 with three depots in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Windhoek, Transworld Road Freight has continued to grow through its ability to adapt and adjust to the times, says Jay. “Cross-border cargo has become very competitive in recent years with many companies having entered the market when things were booming,” says Jay. “Last year’s fuel price saw some of these companies disappearing, but competition remains strong.” With its core business being groupage, Transworld Road Freight is a customs-accredited and registered remover in bond. “I expect 2009 to be a very tough year with the world entering into a recession. I think the fuel price will rise again and so things will be tight,” says Jay. He believes 2009 will be a year to consolidate the company’s position in the market place. “Our main obstacle is still crossing the border posts. Delays are common and during the peak period we had delays all the time. The different methods of weighing axles in Botswana has also caused us some problems,” said Jay. “We cross the weigh bridge at Pioneer gate and they weigh individual axles and let us go through. When we reach Mamuno they weigh axle sets and fine us for being overloaded on one or other axle set. To us this looks as if it is planned, as they hit us with hefty fines and hold our trucks till we have paid. Because of the urgency of moving the freight we are forced to pay without being afforded the opportunity to state our case. Insurance is also becoming unaffordable.” Being able to deal with such issues while still offering a competitively priced service will make all the difference in the coming months. “Of course having a positive cash flow will be a definite advantage.”