New groupage options on South America route

Independent groupage operator CFR Freight has added new export services to cater for the demand for less than container load shipments through the Eastern Cape ports. “We are experiencing strong year-on-year growth and have had to employ more staff to handle the demand,” says Beverley Brennan, Eastern Cape branch manager of CFR Freight. The two new export services are direct to Santos, Brazil and Buenos Aires, Argentina. “Both services are doing well and volumes are promising, despite the current motor industry strikes,” she says. Brennan encourages shippers to make greater use of options into and out of Port Elizabeth and Ngqura as congestion and wind delays impact Durban and Cape Town. South-bound road freight rates are very competitive, and there are shorter sailing times on certain routes compared to Durban, Cape Town or Maputo, she said. “This further enables clearing and forwarding agents to ensure that they can meet their clients’ deadlines. “As a completely neutral consolidator we are able to handle any and all cargo. Working with our clients, the freight forwarders and clearing agents, we are able to empower them to offer their customers the best possible service,” she says. CFR’s Port Elizabeth operation forms a key part of the national range of port offerings available. The new ZACPAK warehouse opened by CFR in Jet Park, Gauteng is ready to provide a cost-effective link between the reef and the Eastern Cape ports, she added. “The opening of the warehouse has definitely strengthened the services we are able to offer. It allows us to handle exports from Gauteng more efficiently,” she said. INSERT & CAPTION Shorter sailing times on certain routes compared to Durban, Cape Town or Maputo. – Beverley Brennan