Reefer form set to streamline logistics

The Durban Reefer Container Operations forum (DRCOF) was officially launched in Durban recently in an effort to streamline the export of reefer containers. An initiative of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa, the forum serves as a centralised communication mechanism for those involved in the citrus export industry and was established following a recommendation by Transnet Port Terminals (TPT). The forum will bring all the stakeholders around one table on a regular basis to discuss operational challenges of exporting citrus containers and will also identify ways and means of streamlining the operations in order to minimise bottlenecks and congestion. According to a spokesman for TPT, the organisation has committed to improving equipment such as increasing reefer plug points at the Durban port and reconstructing the reefer intake yards. Efforts are also being made to reduce the impact of wind on port operations. Also represented on the forum are the PPECB, shipping lines, cold stores, logistics agents, container depots and transporters.