Modern fleet helps keep freight costs down

Hauliers can help retailers operating in Namibia and neighbouring countries to control costs by optimising efficiencies within their truck and trailer f leets, says Ryno Badenhorst, FP du Toit Transport business development manager. With the vast bulk of fast moving consumer goods sold in Namibia and neighbouring Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries being imported, the cost of moving the products is a major challenge. “The rapid growth in the consumer market and the opening up of malls in the region puts a lot of pressure on distributors – and their biggest challenge is transport costs. Consumers expect a box of washing powder to cost the same in Katima Mulilo as it does in Windhoek,” he says. FP du Toit is using modern trailer design and truck tractor technology to help reduce the costs of transport. All of the heavy trucks in its f leet are less than three years old, and are continuously replaced with newgeneration vehicles. “We are constantly evaluating our equipment,” he says. FP du Toit has standardised best in class American and European heavy trucks because they offer leading-edge fuel efficiency and are designed to optimise loading efficiencies. Lightweight trailers also increase payloads, so reducing transport costs for retailers. The company is also constantly upgrading its warehouse facilities. “We have moved to bigger premises in Oshakati where there are a number of malls. The challenge is that the malls and shops are small and the shops do not take full loads at a time. “Our facilities need to be geared to deconsolidate and repack for local deliveries,” he says. “FP du Toit Transport continues to grow not only the current operations, but is extending its reach into Africa where new routes are being established, supported by new service offerings,” he adds.