Security solutions demand innovation from agents

Safcor Panalpina to open 10 000-m² de-group facility ALAN PEAT THE IDEA of airfreight into Gauteng has evolved in recent years, according to Guy Hancock, GM imports Gauteng of Safcor Panalpina, with agents now having to work smarter to meet the demands of the market. The urgent need of the moment is for sheer speed – but governed by sharper security. “The dynamics of importing into Gauteng by airfreight is more than just loading a parcel at origin and delivering it in Gauteng,” Hancock said. Larger shipments needing multiple deliveries and heightened security by all the parties involved – allied with the need for speed – are all challenges that today’s airfreight agents must be able to cope with. “We’ve certainly found that the market is growing with greater logistics complexity,” Hancock told FTW. “We have a market with more-and-more shipments, many of these larger in volume rather than lots of smaller consignments. This presents us with house waybills demanding multiple deliveries – and the need to do them safely and securely.” Looking at security, the Airport Company of SA (Acsa) is now placing more responsibility on the airlines, handling agents and agents – claiming that their function is to provide an airport within a secure perimeter. “Security at OR Tambo Airport is a major focus,” Hancock said, “but is more so for us as service providers. “Clients expect us to reduce the risk to their cargo, and want us to do it cost effectively, encouraging us to get smarter and more innovative. “We have to put security measures into place, and at the same time ensure that dwell-time is as short as possible. The turn-around time for cargo is critical, and we must move it as soon as possible after the aircraft’s wheels touchdown.” Safcor also has its own freighter service. This has five aircraft, with a cargo capacity of about 100-tons per flight, delivering airfreight five times a week from Luxembourg in Europe. Safcor Panalpina, in line with market demands, has made a large investment to ensure the security of this offering. As another part of its “working smarter” philosophy, the company is also opening up a 10 000m2 de-group facility on Acsa ground adjacent to the runway at OR Tambo. “This will enhance the security and efficiency of receiving and distributing cargo,” said Hancock.