Speeding up transit time for CT-based shippers

Eliminating delays for cargo destined for Cape Town remains the core intent of World Groupage Services (WGS). Cape Town-based groupage operator specialising in the Far East, WGS is always looking to develop new routes to ensure cargo reaches Cape Town faster. “On the Far East routes Cape Town is not a first port of call for most shipping lines,” said managing director, Claude Nuttall. “With most vessels first calling Durban and then Port Elizabeth, Cape-based importers often face long transit times that impact their operating costs. Our goal has always been to try to improve these transit times and avoid cargo intended for Cape Town first having to stop at other ports in the country.” According to Nuttall, significant effort goes into finding ways of bringing cargo directly to Cape Town. “It allows for a more efficient supply chain and is also, ultimately, more costeffective for our clients.” According to Mandy Gibson, WGS sales and marketing manager, innovation has been key to ensuring cargo is moved directly to Cape Town. “Cape Town cargo can often be delayed for lengthy periods of time depending on what is happening at the Port of Durban or at other ports. For us it is about developing innovative services that benefit our customers and ensure their imported cargo is being delivered in the most efficient way possible at the most competitive rates,” she said. “We are constantly adding to our bouquet of services to ensure that we stay ahead and allow our clients the competitive advantage that gives them.” Offering a weekly service from Hong Kong and several Chinese ports, they have also added direct services from Taiwan and South East Asia via Singapore. “In line with our objective of offering direct services and improved transit times, we also offer Cape Town customers the option of a direct sailing from Nhava Sheva/Mumbai to Cape Town,” said Gibson. CAPTION Mandy Gibson and Claude Nuttall … direct services and improved transit times.