It’s all about advance planning

THE NICHE field of project cargo is being hit by a dearth of expertise as aging specialists retire to leave gaps that few are readily equipped to fill. “This job calls on the extremes within the skills spectrum of the clearing and forwarding industry,” says Sandro Godinho, division manager for project cargo at Safcor Panalpina. “The problem is that most of the experienced experts in this sector are retiring and those that follow are not benefiting from this experience and wealth of knowledge.” Godinho feels a ‘back-to-the-floor’ approach is needed where the mechanics of the entire move are analysed and the problems overcome. “Flexibility and empathy will move the cargo,” he said. “This, and planning.” On a recent 500 freight-tonne project, Godinho said planning took up to 60% of the team’s time and effort. “If all the preparations are made well in advance, then the execution takes care of itself. Planning also allows one to anticipate problems and be ready with solutions when they crop up.” The company’s project cargo division has since 2006 been very busy servicing the many mining projects and power generation projects into Africa. “Logistics across the borders is always a problem with a deteriorating infrastructure ill-equipped to meet the demands of the heavier loads,” Godinho said. “The loads themselves, apart from increasing in frequency, are getting heavier, which is only accelerating the break-up of the road surface.” Locally there is a lot of work leading up to 2010. The construction and manufacturing momentum thereafter is going to have a major impact on the economy. “It’s not just about the World Cup, but the incoming investment will drive many more projects in SA, and as long as the rand plays its part, we will be in for a really good spell for years after.”