Grindrod : When it comes to moving abnormal and or oversized cargo, we are the experts

Managing these complicated cargo parcels from origin to destination is what we do best. From project cargo and abnormal loads to heavy haulage and cross-border transport, we move, manage, and handle various cargo types, no matter their shape or size.

When planning a logistics operation, we consider every detail, including how all stakeholders are provided with appropriate visibility to track progress and allow for flexible decisions. Elements include but are not limited to identifying "best fit" transportation, road and rail infrastructure, regulatory requirements such as permits, shipping terms, customs guidance (including clarification and management of tariff libraries, custom inspection arrangements, monitoring of different accounts and advising on payment structures), insurance, operational risks, borders, ports, documentation and utilisation of specialised equipment. We manage and liaise with all stakeholders to ensure we comply with all requirements, continuously identifying opportunities to consolidate or create efficiencies and improve information flow.

An example of such an operation was providing a fully integrated logistics solution for various "out of gauge" project cargo parcels used to support the construction of the new airport for King Mswati in Eswatini. The scope of work covered overall responsibility for cargo tracking and management, customs clearance, abnormal transport contracting, crane hire, securing and loading and offloading.

In transporting 100+ tonne specialised airport equipment over several voyages from Antwerp and Rotterdam to King Mswati's Airport in Eswatini via the Port of Durban, the team used a combination of cranes, Mafi trailers and flat racks. The final overland journey of 506 kilometres was completed using multiple axle trailers and specialised cranes to offload the equipment at its final destination after staging equipment in Durban.

The entire door-to-door journey took just a few weeks to execute and was days ahead of its critical schedule before international dignitaries arrived as guests of the King.

Special care was taken with complicated custom clearances and permits for this type of freight. This significant event called for King's armoured escorts and the military leading the way from the border to the site.

For another example of a successful logistics operation involving the transportation of locomotives from Pretoria to Uganda by road and sea, click here.