Speeding up cross-border shipments

Transformation of systems and business processes has contributed significantly to crossborder business growth in the view of Jarred Miltz, a business development team member at IT solutions provider CompuClearing. “The transformation of the old manual systems and business processes at the border posts has facilitated growth,” he told FTW, “but it is not without hurdles.” He said due to infrastructure constraints, low profit margins and corruption, cross-border shipments were typically handled by small to medium businesses that received outsourced work from other international agents. “The Cross Border Road Transport Agency (CBRTA) has established an industry development business unit to provide support to small businesses in the industry at various levels in order to ensure the sustainability and growth of cross-border business,” said Miltz. There is therefore a need for solutions tailored for SMMEs that handle cross-border shipments with fast user interfaces, quick turnaround with customs, infrastructure assistance, and more importantly features that ensure correct clearances in terms of customs rules and regulations. With different companies working together to share information, interfaces are also crucial, said Miltz. “Logistics companies should be able to communicate with ease and streamline their processes to ensure complete efficiency and visibility. Integration with other required solutions adds value.” He said CompuClearing continued to focus on extending its cross-border reach and was always organically growing all systems including its cross-border capabilities, as well as interfaces with the new SA Revenue Service gateway and Asycuda World. “It is all about keeping up to date with the latest industry trends in an effort to meet the fluctuating needs of our customers.” INSERT & CAPTION The transformation of the old manual systems and business processes at the border posts has facilitated growth. – Jarred Miltz