Random permit changes push up operators' costs

The constantly changing requirements for abnormal permits remain one of the biggest obstacles to overcome when it comes to successful project logistics. “The requirements are not the same from province to province and country to country. The result is that one always has increased costs that cannot be foreseen,” said Carl Webb of Project Logistics Management (PLM). “Not only does one have to get the required permits to move abnormal loads, but all vehicles in excess of 125 tons gross mass now have to be escorted by traffic officers which can be a logistical nightmare to arrange. You also need to advertise the load details in the local press prior to departure.” According to Webb, to obtain permits for loads in excess of 20m in length, geometric clearances have to be obtained and photos of these loads are required prior to any permits being issued. “These requirements were imposed on the industry without prior notification or consultation, and have resulted in additional costs of up to R 65 000 per load being incurred,” he said. “Bearing in mind that the majority of the loads affected are destined for the Medupi and Kusile Power Station projects at present, these costs will escalate already-inflated build costs, which will have to ultimately be borne by the South African consumer.” According to Webb, the fact that changes to abnormal permit requirements are not discussed or advertised makes it impossible for transporters to allow for the new requirements when quoting on transport as they just don’t know about them until they are applied. “It means that in many cases one cannot change a quote and the extra costs result in losses to an industry that is already under pressure due to ever-rising costs.” Webb said that escorts for abnormal loads were also becoming problematic, as there was often a shortage of available traffic officers. “It can take four weeks to travel under RTI escorts from Durban to Gauteng due to a shortage of manpower. This can be compared with the first recorded abnormal load travelling from Durban to the Reef, a 10-ton boiler loaded on a wagon with 4 span of oxen, which also took four weeks to reach its destination,” he said. “It seems we have not progressed very far in the transport industry, although at least the challenges were known factors. back then.” CAPTION Carl Webb ... Abnormal permit requirements vary from province to province and country to country.