Pre-clearance jacks up Beit Bridge border efficiency

PRE-CLEARANCES have reduced clearance times for northbound traffic through Beit Bridge, although production delays due to power outages in Zimbabwe have resulted in major discrepancies in turnaround times. “The border efficiency for northbound traffic has definitely improved with Zimra permitting the pre-clearance of documentation prior to arrival of vehicles at the border,” explains Tony Bouwer, Musina depot manager of Professional Consolidators. Both importers and exporters have been encouraged to ensure that all duties are in place and that all necessary documentation and clearing instructions are submitted to the border timeously to avoid clearance delays. Currently vehicles are inspected, examined and offloaded by Sars and then again by Zimra. This duplication of work by customs and agents incurs costs and delays that ultimately trickle down to the customer. “A common customs union or even a one-stop border at BBR (Beit Bridge) will be a definite advantage,” says Bouwer. Beit Bridge is a 24 hour border post that is open 365 days a year. Bouwer feels clearing agents need to take their responsibilities seriously to reduce delays for all using the border. Transporters should also educate their drivers on border procedures, and it is up to the drivers themselves to ensure they are present throughout the clearing process. “Often vehicles are cleared and drivers are AWOL, leaving vehicles unattended and blocking the parking area or access roads.” Professional Consolidators is looking to focus its energies on the booming Zambian market by expanding its consolidation and express cargo service into the region. “We will then be able to concentrate on southbound movements to improve turnaround on the route,” says Pieter Buys, marketing manager for the company.