'LCL can be a costly exercise'

The global trend to smaller inventories continues to impact positively on the consolidation industry as shippers move smaller volumes more often. According to Mike Walwyn, this is the case in South Africa as well. While it’s beneficial if you are moving less cargo to consolidate rather than wait until you can fill a single container, it can be a costly exercise, he warned. “It can cost considerably more. It is therefore advisable to consider the supply chain involved when making the decision.” With export volumes down, consolidated cargo has been feeling the pinch of late, he said. “Imports continue to show increases, but it is imperative that we increase export volumes.”