TFR helps streamline logistics for CT citrus industry

Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is set to increase the capacity of its highly successful reefer fruit train that runs during the citrus high season between Tzaneen and Cape Town. With two reefer trains currently operational in the TFR fleet – one servicing Durban and the other Cape Town – the decision was taken to up capacity for the 2014 season by increasing the train lengths to 50 wagons allowing it to accommodate 48 x 12m operating reefers per train – up from the 38 of the 2013 season. According to Wiseman Zazi Madinane, TFR’s executive manager intermodal business unit, the reefer trains have become increasingly popular with shippers as they supply an unbroken cold chain to the fruit industry reducing not only the transit times but also the handling of fruit – crucial elements in the perishable supply chain. First introduced in 1998, the fruit trains completed their 14th season in 2013. And while the immediate capacity increase involves adding wagons to the trains, Madinane said TFR was exploring the idea of introducing additional reefer train sets to the fleet to further increase capacity and flexibility for fruit exporters. The trains run between May and September and are used essentially by Dole, Capespan, Zest and Unifrutti. According to Madinane, the current requirement is for one train to operate on the Tzaneen- Durban route (with a transit time of between 32 – 38 hours) and the 2nd to operate on the Tzaneen- Cape Town run (transit time between 44–60 hours). “This however will follow the pattern of the volumes booked,” he said. The reefer trains are an example of a successful joint enterprise between TFR and the private sector as TFR only provides the train service from point to point with technicians and security, the rail sidings at both ends, and the handling equipment to load and off load the wagons and to stack the reefer equipment. The cargo owners or their logistics companies have to get the empty/full containers to and from the train sidings or terminals and pack houses or container depots. “Anyone with cargo can open a TFR rail account and contract directly with TFR, but has to arrange the logistics both ends themselves,” said a TFR spokesman. Citrus forms the bulk of the shipments on the reefer trains. Exporters have said that to absorb costs it is essential that as many shippers as possible team up to use the service to Cape Town – especially as it is more expensive than the train to Durban. This cost is not only due to the extra distance that has to be covered but because on the Cape Town route there are more operational challenges including more locomotive changes – all of which add to cost. Shippers believe they will derive significant positioning advantages by using the Cape Town train as it allows for a viable alternative to the congested Durban port. INSERT & CAPTION The reefer trains are an example of a successful joint enterprise between TFR and the private sector. – Wiseman Madinane