Imperial Logistics‚ Transnet Freight Rail to collaborate

The initiative brings together TFR's experience in long-haul rail transport and Imperial Logistics' road freight logistics‚ distribution and end-to-end value chain management expertise.

"This partnership will facilitate the joint development of multi-modal logistics services in support of Transnet's 'road to rail' strategy‚" Imperial Logistics said.

"It reduce the adverse effect of rail-friendly freight on the national road infrastructure and reduce the cost of logistics for cargo owners throughout southern Africa," Imperial Logistics' chief integration officer Cobus Rossouw said.

Resolving obstacles,

"We are very excited about the structured way in which we can now engage with TFR as a partner to service our customers‚" he said.

The companies say they will use their road and rail logistics capabilities to reduce road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions and to lower transport costs for customers. TFR and Imperial Logistics aim to divert freight currently shipped on road to multi-modal combinations with the promise of more cost effective end-to-end solutions.

TFR and Imperial Logistics plan to put their forces together to target existing volumes within their groups throughout various industries.

"The MoU makes it possible for TFR and Imperial Logistics to collaborate to benefit the South African economy by resolving previous competitive obstacles‚" said TFR's chief executive Siyabonga Gama.

"As fuel costs increase‚ transportation of goods is becoming a major cost component of all supply chains and innovative efficient solutions will be welcomed. TFR and Imperial Logistics have the opportunity to make a difference collectively," he added.