Independent NVOCC and depot
operator CFR Freight has recorded
steady growth in cross-border
volumes – with air, sea and road
freight on an upward trajectory over
the past few months, according to
CEO Peter Schmidt-Löffler.
This, along with increasing
demand for ZacPak’s unpacking/
cross docking services, has placed
the region high on CFR’s agenda.
“Through our networks we receive
transhipments and cross-trade
shipments from all over the globe
destined for southern Africa,” he told
FTW. “These are
often unpacked
in Durban for
onward transport
on a breakbulk or
full load basis to
reduce logistics
costs – and in
some instances
travel time. CFR
has adapted and
expanded its
service offering
to cater for this type of cargo.”
But he warned that Durban
could lose its premier hub status due
to high costs and poor service.
“Dar es Salaam, Beira and Walvis
Bay are posing an increasing threat
to Durban’s gateway status. And
with direct trade between Europe
and Africa on the rise, this could
also affect volumes.”
For cargo moving by road, border
post delays remain one of the biggest
obstacles, according to Schmidt-
Löffler.
“The Southern African
Development Community (SADC)
and Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho
and Swaziland
(BLNS) and
their customs
authorities
should be looking
at simplifying
intra-regional
trade. Preclearance
and
possibly GPSdriven
seals or
gadgets that are
pre-loaded with
information – with the data being
linked to the authorities – would
definitely eliminate or at least reduce
delays at the borders.”
He said the company was
currently working on “unique”
solutions to be introduced later
this year that would result in more
regular and reliable services.”
Dar es Salaam, Beira and
Walvis Bay are posing
an increasing threat to
Durban’s gateway status.
– Peter Schmidt-Löffler
