Intraspeed plans more offices in Africa

Port delays and poor infrastructure add challenge ALAN PEAT IN THE cut-throat industry of clearing and forwarding, it’s communication and professional service that gets you ahead, according to Intraspeed’s sales and marketing manager, Claire Hide. “At the end of the day, we’re all subjected to the same port delays and rely on the same airlines, shipping lines and third parties,” she said. “Strong communication and service is what gives us the leading edge.” From its office and warehouse facilities in Johannesburg, this international freight forwarding company has a specific focus on Africa – with a network of branches throughout the continent. It also opened a branch in Durban in January and hopes to open branches in Lusaka, Mwanza and Accra in the not too distant future, according to Hide, who said that this extensive agent network within Africa allowed the company to offer delivery and clearance to previously inaccessible destinations. In project cargo, Intraspeed tends to handle freight projects for major South African companies - and international companies with a strong SA presence. “We are focused on future developments in construction, roadworks, telecommunications and hotel sectors,” she told FTW, “and are currently handling projects in Nigeria, Zambia, DRC, Uganda and Rwanda within these industry segments.” Port Congestion One of the problems which it has had to overcome has been port congestion and delays in Mombasa, as well as the lack of heavy-lift equipment for over-size breakbulk cargo. “But,” said Hide, “through our hands-on experience in Central African countries, we ensure the execution of quality of service through constant and comprehensive communication with not only the client base, but as importantly, all the branches, depots and agents in the service chain. “Frequent visits to remote locations and clients on the continent guarantee that our clients’ requirements are well understood and properly executed.” Added to its project management, Intraspeed’s suite of services includes sea and air freight import and export, export and import clearances, warehousing, over-border transport, and groupage services.