Introduction:

This case study delves into the successful logistics project managed by Access World Projects division for the transportation of electrical power generating equipment from China to Hwange, Zimbabwe. The project involved strategic decision-making, meticulous planning, and close collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of heavy and oversized cargo. Access World’s expertise in handling this complex intercontinental and multi-country consignment showcases their prowess in executing challenging logistics projects.

Project Overview:

  • Cargo Origin: China
  • Port of Discharge (POD): Richards Bay, South Africa
  • Final Destination: Hwange, Zimbabwe
  • Total Volume: 2660 FT
  • Scope of Work: Transit and Import Customs Clearance, Road Transportation, Route Survey, and Route Modifications
  • Distance Traveled: 1800 km
  • Heaviest Loads: 2 x 255 MT Transformers, 2 x 201 MT Stators, and 1 x 171-ton Drum (22.25 meters in length)

Challenges and Solutions:

Navigating International Customs Clearance: Access World’s team efficiently managed transit and import customs clearances in South Africa and Zimbabwe, ensuring a hassle-free movement of the cargo through international borders.

Road Transportation of Oversized Loads: The transportation of heavy and oversized equipment required careful planning. Access World engaged specialized trailers and vehicles to safely transport the cargo from Richards Bay to Hwange, adhering to axle requirements and load regulations.

Route Survey and Modifications: A comprehensive route survey was conducted to identify potential obstacles. Necessary route modifications and repairs to a 10 km entry road were executed to accommodate the safe transit of the heavy loads.

Beitbridge Crossing: The successful crossing of two 255-ton transformers over Beitbridge marked a significant achievement. Access World’s team ensured compliance with bridge regulations and movement restrictions during the festive period, streamlining the movement process.

Selection of Richards Bay Port: The strategic choice of Richards Bay as the port of discharge yielded several advantages:

  • Proximity to Zimbabwe: Richards Bay offered closer proximity to the final destination, Hwange, Zimbabwe, reducing the overall transportation distance and time.
  • Less Congestion and Easier Access: Compared to other ports, such as Durban, Richards Bay boasted less congested traffic flow, allowing smoother movement of heavy lift and oversized cargo.
  • Facilitating Specialised Vehicle Deployment: The timing of the vessel’s arrival was carefully planned to avoid road embargoes during the festive period, enabling the deployment of specialized vehicles for direct discharge.
  • Project Execution and Collaboration: Access World effectively managed the logistics project with a diverse team across different locations:
    • International Coordination: The project involved staff members in China, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, working cohesively to ensure seamless execution.
    • Expertise of Teams: The behind-the-scenes team in Durban and the hands-on team at Richards Bay’s wharf collaborated to oversee vessel discharge, customs clearance, and road transportation.

Results and Achievements:

The electrical power generating equipment was successfully transported from China to Hwange, Zimbabwe, via the port of Richards Bay, South Africa, without any hindrance.

The project was completed within the stipulated timeframe and budget, showcasing Access World’s commitment to efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The safe crossing of the heaviest loads over Beitbridge set a notable record for the shipment and highlighted Access World’s expertise in handling oversized cargo.

Conclusion:

Access World’s exemplary management of the Hwange Thermal Power Station logistics project demonstrated their prowess in handling intricate intercontinental shipments. Through meticulous planning, strategic port selection, and effective collaboration with various stakeholders, Access World ensured the smooth transportation of heavy and oversized equipment to its final destination in Zimbabwe. This case study underscores Access World’s ability to overcome logistical challenges and deliver successful results, making them a reliable partner for complex logistics projects in the power generation industry.