Stronger rand bumps up US imports

RAY SMUTS THE RELENTLESSLY strong rand - leading economists predict it will be trading at R6.44/dollar by year’s end - makes sourcing products from the United States a most attractive proposition for importers, says United Maritime Logistics’ Cape Town-based director, Claude Nuttall. “US companies generally produce goods of a very high quality, often specialised items that are not available in other countries, and this is where UML comes in,” he says. The company represents Direct Container Line Inc (USA) which continues to offer Western Cape importers and forwarders the most effective service when shipping from the USA, says Nuttall. “DCL can offer high discounts off inland rates in the US through special contracts with major trucking companies. Coupled to this, it also enjoys some of the best ocean freight rates in the market through specially structured contracts with shipping lines operating weekly from New York. “DCL’s advanced IT development sees all documentation processed through E-DOCK, enabling shipping documentation to arrive well in advance of the vessel docking, thus avoiding unnecessary storage and overstay charges,” he added. “DCL is also very much committed to the welfare of its clients’ cargo and will continue to develop systems to make shipping from the USA easier and more economical.”