Productivity is the focus as Freighthaul makes its mark in Africa

Amajor player on the N3 corridor,
Freighthaul has dedicated a fleet
of 35-40 vehicles to service the
cross-border market.
According to managing director Paul
Botha, Freighthaul is not a newcomer
to this market and has long-standing
relationships with cross-border
clients. “Traditionally we serviced
them by handling their containers to
Johannesburg only, but the company
has grown significantly and our key
focus is on productivity – getting the
most out of our fleet.”
It was pressure from the South African
market that motivated the decision by
Freighthaul to develop its cross-border
infrastructure and dedicate a fleet to
the market.
“The move was strategic in further
developing our relationship with our
clients and the needs they have,” said
Botha. “Also, South Africa being the
gateway to Africa has always played a
significant role as a logistical solution.
Current trends show that volumes going
up north are on the increase and the
mining sectors north of our borders
are becoming reliable global suppliers.
Therefore we foresee that this market
sector will offer good growth over the
medium term. Naturally it comes with
its own challenges dealing with different
cultures and regulatory requirements.”
While 2009 is not predicted to be the
most financially viable year, Freighthaul
is confident it can grow strategically in
the cross-border market. “Adhering to
our business principles we believe we
can meet the challenges that present
themselves in the process. We will
focus on servicing markets where we
have alliances and that will offer us
sustainable growth,” said Botha. “Our
competitive advantages are the size of
our fleet and our relationships with
the industry as a whole – that is not
only the clients but suppliers alike and
we network to meet the needs of the
client and tailor-make solutions
wherever possible.”
Said Botha: “This year will be a
year of consolidation and ensuring that
we streamline operations to ensure
maximum productivity and effective
service. Given the current market
situation we don’t foresee too many
transport companies seeking out new
ventures – we are at a time and place
where as a business we need to be
very in tune with how the market
is behaving.”