MSC Logistics to invest in more trucks

Statistics have shown that there has recently been a dramatic increase in longdistance road haulage of containers on the Durban/ Gauteng route, according to Moira Ambler, business development manager of MSC Logistics. During the period 2009-2011, she told FTW, volumes increased by 46% on imports and 126% on exports. At the same time, the company noted that it was experiencing enormous difficulty with both Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) and the caboteurs in re-positioning empty containers from Gauteng to Durban for export shipment. As a result of this, in the first quarter of 2012, MSC Logistics purchased seven International trucks to compete in this lucrative market. At a cost of R1 million each, the vehicles are fully equipped with two-way radios, tracking devices, fire extinguishers, and are hazchem certified. “Four months down the line,” said Ambler, “following the fine-tuning of the operation, and in order to offer MSC and our clients increased service levels, a decision has been made to purchase a further three International trucks together with trailers. “We believe that our previous experience operating trucks on the Port Elizabeth-East London route has been beneficial in successfully meeting the challenges of this Gauteng/ Durban route.”