Office move speeds up ship turnaround

TERRY HUTSON KING & SONS has opted to go to the coal face by acquiring an office right on Berth 303 at Richards Bay Coal Terminal. According to Mike van Rooyen, King & Sons manager in Richards Bay, having an office on site offers huge advantages to the agents, coal clients and principals. “Being in such close proximity to the vessel, in fact right on the quay, ensures close, immediate contact with the ship and loading procedures, hence minimising delays and speeding up turnaround of the ship for the benefit of all concerned.” He said that the present day cost of a Capesize coal ship is anything up to half a million rand or more per day (USD 85 000 +), which means that even a one hour saving can amount to approximately R 23 000 (USD 3 542). “The investment will prove to be of great value to the owner, charter, exporter, virtually on a ship to ship basis. Minimising port stay and improving vessel turnaround has become paramount in an agent’s focus, especially with today’s costs and shortage of suitable tonnage.”