Innovative Solutions by Afriguide Logistics: Shipping Massive Machinery to Madagascar
June 6, 2024
Afriguide Logistics, representing South Africa in the Project Logistics Alliance, recently completed a project involving the shipment of four CAT 745 articulated dump trucks from South Africa to Madagascar. Typically, RoRo shipment would be ideal for these mobile units, but with no such service currently available in the region, Flat Rack (FR) shipment was the only option.
(Picture Credit: Afriguide Logistics)
The cargo began its journey in Durban. Afriguide Logistics’ team was highly experienced in shipping articulated dump trucks on Flat Racks. However, the CAT 745 was at the maximum size limit for a 40’ FR, especially with the headboards up. The length barely accommodated the vehicle, and the width, particularly the distance between the rear wheels, posed a challenge due to insufficient purchase between the tires and the Flat Rack deck. To address this, Afriguide Logistics used dunnage in the form of “mine boxes” to support the truck at both ends of the chassis, eliminating the risk of slack in the lashings caused by potential tire deflation. Extensive lashing with chains and binders was also essential. The cargo was successfully delivered to the Port d'Ehoala in Madagascar.
(Picture Credit: Afriguide Logistics)
The recent demise of BBK Liner services and disruptions in RoRo liner schedules due to the Red Sea crisis and congestion in Australia made securing ocean transport for out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo more difficult. As a result, Afriguide Logistics frequently resorts to using Flat Racks as the only viable option for transporting OOG cargo. While Flat Racks are effective for many items that don't fit in standard containers, some cargo dimensions and handling requirements test the limits of what is feasible for FR shipment. Through this recent project, Afriguide Logistics demonstrated the team’s professionalism, reliability, and commitment to finding solutions for challenging shipments.
