'Well-trained staff a critical asset'

When it comes to handling heavy industrial cargo, well-trained staff is a critical asset, says Byron Nieuwstad, managing director of Storage Solutions. “Finding the resources to continue training staff is imperative in the warehousing industry,” says Nieuwstad. “There is no room for error. Warehousing is not just forklift-friendly cargo that is seemingly easy to do.” Nieuwstad and his team operate an industrial warehousing facility of some 11 000 sqm on Johannesburg’s East Rand. “We are always looking at improving our riggers and our staff in order to give customers peace of mind while we’re handling their cargo,” he said. “That is why there is always a focus on training and skills development. In 2013 this will also be our focus as we look at further training of staff.” Having identified a demand, he says the company is planning to expand into the bonded warehousing sector within the next few months. It also offers an in-transit holding facility for crossborder operators and customers. “Standing time costs money, so we offer a holding facility where we can offload the cargo and so eliminate costly delays while waiting for border documents,” he explained. CAPTION Byron Nieuwstad … ‘Bonded facility on the cards.’