New Santos export service set for launch

Responding to increased export volumes to Brazil, CFR Freight has decided to introduce direct, fortnightly sailings out of Port Elizabeth to the Brazilian port of Santos. The first scheduled sailing is set for the beginning of April. “This direct Santos service will offer clients a faster and cheaper option than moving the cargo via Europe or ex Durban,” said CFR Freight Port Elizabeth branch manager, Beverly Brennan. Having seen an increased demand for direct export services to London Gateway in the United Kingdom and Port Louis, Mauritius, CFR Freight has consolidated volumes for the Port Elizabeth and Cape Town branches. Weekly sailings ex Cape Town to London Gateway and Port Louis have subsequently resumed. “We made the decision to consolidate cargo from the two regions to optimise available container space, therefore ensuring a cost saving to exporters by keeping freight rates and transport costs competitive,” said Brennan. She said that Port Elizabeth would also offer a sailing to London Gateway should there be a volume demand. “We assure exporters that their cargo will move on schedule each week and that integrity of service will be maintained,” Brennan said. She added that consolidating cargo out of Durban – although a viable alternative for all services – did not always meet customer demand. “The high road transport costs can also have a negative impact on exporters’ supply services,” she commented. Brennan noted further that over the past year or so CFR Freight had developed direct import services from Hong Kong and India into Port Elizabeth, which have been very well received by industry. “ In 15 years of serving the Eastern Cape region, we have developed a deep understanding of the market and we will continue to add services according to our clients’ demands,” said Brennan. INSERT & CAPTION This direct Santos service will offer clients a faster and cheaper option. – Beverly Brennan