Shippers still prefer end-to-end solutions

Cost pressures are intensifying for importers and exporters as global political instability, ongoing port delays and customs interventions continue to add expense and uncertainty to supply chains. While no major regulatory changes have emerged in the past year, operational constraints at South Africa’s ports and borders remain a significant factor influencing clearing and forwarding performance, according to Clifford Evans, customs liaison manager at Berry & Donaldson. “All our land borders remain congested, with long delays and additional costs,” he said. “The air and sea ports of entry are also under pressure, with many government agencies unable to cope with high volumes of cargo.” A lot of hope had been placed in the Border Management Authority (BMA), Evans said, but despite ongoing efforts, the organisation has yet to deliver meaningful improvements to systems or processes. “Adding to this challenge is the time taken to finalise customs documentary and physical inspections,” he told Freight News. Evans said there had, however, been fewer physical inspections in recent months, including consignments selected for scanning. “Clothing and textiles remain a focus area for customs authorities.” He added that importers and exporters continued to underestimate the impact of weather-related disruptions at South Africa’s sea ports, particularly in relation to equipment availability. “Weather can significantly delay cargo. For example, not everyone is aware that certain equipment may shut down automatically when wind speeds reach defined thresholds,” he said. Customs continues to apply stricter enforcement around incorrect or incomplete documentation, another major source of avoidable delays. “Customs has imposed very specific requirements for a commercial invoice to be deemed valid,” Evans said. “Clearing instructions now require far more detailed information, such as advance payment notification numbers. Incorrect documentation not only causes delays, but penalties may also be imposed.” The move to paperless processes continues to make a difference, but tracking systems remain imperative. “It is vital for clearing agents to keep up with new technology,” said Evans. “The trend, in general, is that most shippers still prefer to use end- to-end solutions, relying on a single service provider to handle all their logistics requirements. Even specialist services, such as abnormal cargo, are typically managed by one agent, who then outsources where necessary.” Looking ahead, Evans said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was expected to become more of a focus area. “Taking the current situation around Agoa into consideration, it is imperative that the tariff lines and rules of origin for the AfCFTA are finalised as soon as possible.” LV February 2026