Multi-service distribution centre processes 4.5m kg a month

Processing 4.5 million kilograms of freight is all in a month’s work for the FP du Toit distribution centre in Windhoek – Namibia’s biggest. Run on a multi-disciplinary information system that is fully visible to customers, it processes around 16 000 waybills and consignments a month, says Manie du Toit, commercial manager responsible for ProParcel and Jet.X. The centre serves as a hub for Namibia and integrates the services offered by FP du Toit’s three divisions, which include FP du Toit Transport. According to Du Toit, clients are benefiting from the Jet.X systems. The track and trace system works seamlessly across all three services offered by the company and all delivery documentation is handled electronically in order to keep clients updated in real time of the whereabouts of their cargo through a web interface. Management is moved between Jet.X and ProParcel in order to ensure that there is common understanding of the two related and integrated businesses. Integration also allows the company to react quickly for emergency shipments. For example, mine spares – which were being transported on one of the slower services – can be switched to the priority courier service if there is a breakdown. “Mines can’t wait,” says Du Toit.