UML makes its mark in project cargo market

Synonymous until now with the movement of groupage cargo from the US to South Africa, United Maritime Logistics has now entered the breakbulk and project cargo arena. And it’s a move that makes logical sense, says director Corinne French. “We have the expertise and know-how on the US route – and provide the ideal outsourced option for project specialists for whom the route is less familiar.” The company’s first venture into the project field followed an approach by Micor Shipping in November last year. With UML acting as the NVOCC for Micor, shuttle cars and scoops for deep cast mines and a massive 849 cubic metre crane weighing 177 tons were imported from the US – and all was accomplished without a hitch, says French. An added bonus for UML is the project expertise of holding company Direct Container Line/Vanguard Logistics which carries huge volumes of project cargo globally, with a dedicated project division based in Chicago, says French. “By tapping into their expertise, we believe we add significant value for local customers.” UML has been importing project cargo on a regular basis since last year and is set to develop this market in partnership with local project specialists.