Packing at source eliminates multiple handling
CONTAINERISING CARGO at source can contribute towards export quality, as shown in the recent approach made by Strategic Logistical Alliance (SLA) to Feedland, a company which exports alfa hay cubes - lucerne in pill form - to the East.
The cargo was previously moved in 25kg bags on a super link from Tadcaster, the production centre, to Durban for packing into export containers. But multiple handling of the product adversely affected its quality.
Changes in the existing cargo pathways were made to assist the exporter with better, more efficient movement and quality. But it required a switch from road to rail transportation, and SLA planned the changes.
A 30 ton overhead crane was moved by Spoornet to assist with loading and offloading at Hartswater. PPECB trained the existing inspector at Hartswater to handle export quality control requirements on site. Approval was given by the directorate of plant and quality control to export lucerne in pill form, with an inspection at the plant and seal of containers.
Saftainer assisted with competitive rates covering the placing and on-forwarding of sealed containers to the harbour export holding area.
Then Status Maritime, agents for Kien Hung Line, ensured the availability of the containers as specified by PPECB, and controlled the ocean conveyance to the required destination, utilising their computer integrated system in this respect.
"It was like a symphony," says Juanita Maree, marketing director of SLA. "We all had a goal, to assist exporters and importers in the conveyance of cargo and to add value to the industry by using existing infrastructure more efficiently. We all worked as a team."
