Technical and local knowledge is key

With its growing economy and rising middle class, South Africa offers major opportunities when it comes to project cargo. According to a spokesman for DHL Industrial Projects, the need for energy, infrastructure and industrial complexes will see projects increase in the country. “Also, with the rich mineral resources there is much scope and opportunity in the mining sector,” he said. DHL, largely known for its courier services, incorporates four different business units, with industrial projects being part of its global forwarding division. DHL Industrial Projects has extensive experience in the mining, oil and gas and power/renewable sectors, he said, working closely with engineering, procurement and construction companies. According to the spokesman, the company recently moved a 350-ton wax reactor, including accessories, from Korea to Sasolburg in South Africa. “Almost all of the aspects of this and most other project cargo moves, fall outside “regular” container lines’ business and require experience. Firstly, the vessels that can take these breakbulk goods are specialised and usually have cranes to help lift the heavy load on board. The route from port to destination needs to be thoroughly investigated to make sure that the large/heavy goods clear all passages. There may be a need to reinforce parts of the roads and bridges or to build part of a road to access remote locations in order to guarantee the safe and secure transportation of the goods,” he said. “These services are all key to project success and include route surveys, feasibility studies and technical drawings,” said the spokesman. Successful project logistics relies largely on both technical and local knowledge about ports, infrastructure, equipment, roads and regulation. “Having been involved in the projects sector since the late sixties, the company has managed to garner the necessary expertise and skills in the sector. “As we operate across the globe we have implemented a zero tolerance compliance policy and adhere strictly to health, security and environmental standards. It is all about minimising the impact on the people involved, the equipment moved and the locations in which we operate.”