Value-added service for Zimbabwean artists

Harare-based Trax International is adding value to the logistics chain which links Zimbabwean artists to their international customers through the artist's nominated freight forwarder. In order to expedite shipping, the Zimbabwe partner of CFR freight supports the “small freight forwarder,” whose services only extend to clearing and forwarding. “We can do the packing and crating on our premises if the nominated freight forwarder does not have the right facilities,” says Dirk Nel, director of Trax International. Artworks are photographed, checked for defects, packed for shipping and shipped through the CFR consolidation services in South Africa. If requested Nel will then issue confirmation to the artist’s agent, who will in turn advise their foreign client that the artwork is in good condition, is what was ordered and is packed and ready for dispatch. Risk is taken out of the transaction for both the purchaser and the artist by the service. “It ensures the artist is paid on time by his buyer,” says Nel. Trax remains neutral in the relationship between the artist and his or her shipping agent. “When artists approach us we give them a list of the agents we work with. They will have to work through one of these agents if they wish to utilise any of our services,” he says. INSERT & CAPTION Risk is taken out of the transaction for both the purchaser and the artist. – Dirk Nel