The successful shipping of machines and parts in agricultural logistics depends on a diversified forwarding and clearing strategy for the local and regional market, Riana Nel of livestock pelleting machine manufacturer Agricon says.
According to the general manager for the brand, the company exports to 27 countries, including Thailand, New Zealand, Australia and several cross-border clients in the likes of Zambia, the Congo and Tanzania.
Established 32 years ago by two brothers, Agricon has more than once been named “South Africa’s Entrepreneur of the Year” and puts its success down to maintaining trustworthy business continuity with its clients.
“We are passionate about our machines and provide all the parts necessary to keep them running. We provide spares from our warehouse in Bloemfontein, import spares from China where necessary, and have a team of dedicated technicians that provide on-site support for our clients.
“Our after-sales service is very important to us. It’s what keeps our clients happy,” Nel told Freight News at Nampo Harvest Day 2025 in Bothaville.
However, as is often the case, the devil lurks in the logistical detail.
That’s why Agricon relies on trusted transporters and customs clearing agents to ensure their value chain of supplies and machines is on point.
“We don’t have one specific freight service provider to cater for our needs because our logistical needs have been adopted on a country-by-country basis. In South Africa, we make use of DN Freight, who handle domestic transport and our containerised bulk shipments.”
Nel added that Bigfoot helped them with express parcel dispatches into Botswana, and DHL did the same for similar-sized shipments to destinations like Germany, a major offset country for Agricon.
“Having the right logistics partner helps us to maintain a good name in the market,” she said.
“It buys peace of mind.”
- Visit Freight News’ sister publications, Farm.co.za and AgrifoodSA, at the Zest Weg Hall, stand 5, at Nampo Harvest Day 2025 in Bothaville.
