Transporter provides recipe for cross-border success

In the fiercely competitive cross-border transport market, success is determined by more than just the ability to deliver the service, says Glynn Crowther, exports manager for Transmart. “The first question you need to ask and answer is if there is room in the market for your specific type of service and who exactly needs the service,” said Crowther. “It’s important to understand what is necessary to make that service as cost-effective as possible to all parties – because operating across southern Africa’s borders is notoriously difficult.” A lot rides on having the right vehicles with the right back-up services, the best and most disciplined drivers, as well as clearing agents that embrace the same vision and level of service that you aspire to achieve, says Crowther. “It is only when all of this is in place that one can really tackle the challenges that are sure to arise.” These range from changes in legislation governing the import of goods to the difference in classification of goods from one country to the next, poor road conditions, changes in foreign road traffic regulations, corrupt officials and various other foreign legislative idiosyncrasies that keep transporters on their toes. In Crowther’s view, there are three key factors to ensuring a successful cross-border operation. “Firstly, keep things simple – have only one representative agent for all lines on a manifest on each side of the border to ensure complete control of the cargo; secondly, triple check all the right documentation is in place and all duties and deposits paid; and finally make sure there is constant communication at all levels throughout the process.” CAPTION Operating across southern Africa’s borders is notoriously difficult ... potholed roads and border delays are par for the course.