Specialist expertise generates big savings in shipping costs

Tourism industry provides lucrative niche for Cape Crating THE TOURISM industry has generated a wealth of opportunity for Cape Town-based Cape Crating which is currently involved in the packing and crating of furniture and building materials for new lodges and resorts in Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. “Projects like this often take up to two years to complete with containers being packed on a weekly basis to feed resorts from start to finish,” says MD Sean Abbott. The company handles every variety of cargo, from industrial plant and machinery to oil well supplies, mining equipment, exhibits for exhibitions, cars, motorbikes and yachts. Its specialist expertise lies in the loading of containers and flat racks, says Abbot. “Although our core business is crating, specialised container loading and projects for industrial equipment make up a large part of the balance of our work. “Regardless of the type of industry for which the machinery has been manufactured, we will advise our clients during the design and manufacturing stage on the most economical and practical means of preparing the cargo for export.” During the consultative phase the company offers advice on minor alterations to equipment. “Big savings on the shipping costs can be achieved by bringing out-of-gauge and overweight cargo in line with standard shipping practices,” says Abbott. The cargo is lashed and secured into the containers on site under supervision. All its dunnage and crating complies with ISPM-15 regulations.