Shipment Overview

This shipment involved transporting tobacco processing machinery from South Africa to the UK. The machinery was sourced from an old mill and had been used in tobacco processing operations.

Before shipment, the client requested a site visit to assess the machinery and confirm the best transport solution. Professional crating was recommended for safe handling, and once final dimensions were confirmed, the cargo was shipped using two 40ft flat rack containers.

After crating, our hauliers collected the crates, loaded the cargo onto the containers, and ensured the machinery was lashed and secured for the ocean voyage.

Because the machinery was second-hand, our customs team worked with the shipper to secure the required export permit from the relevant South African authority.

Challenges Faced

The key challenge was coordinating the shipper, transport providers, crating team, and other service providers to keep the shipment on schedule.

Solutions Delivered

• Shipment quoting and planning
• Detailed site visit and cargo assessment
• Professional crating, lashing and securing of the cargo
• Tarping and weather protection
• Road transport to the port
• Customs processing
• Facilitation of the required export permit
• Ongoing coordination and streamlined communication between all parties

Results

Through careful planning and coordination, we met the required deadlines and delivered the shipment in line with the client's expectations. The project demonstrated our ability to manage complex out-of-gauge cargo, multiple service providers, and regulatory requirements from origin through to export.

Shipment Overview

Tradestream delivered an end-to-end DAP logistics solution for an oversized 30-ton CO2 storage tank, coordinating the breakbulk movement from China through Durban Port to final delivery in Olifantsfontein, Gauteng.

Result at a glance

The cargo was successfully discharged, customs cleared, transported inland, and delivered safely, demonstrating strong execution despite abnormal-load requirements and weather-related port delays.

What did the client need?

Our overseas partner required a reliable DAP import solution for a 30-ton CO2 storage tank shipped as breakbulk from China to South Africa. Tradestream was responsible for managing the shipment from port discharge and customs clearance through to safe final delivery in Olifantsfontein, Gauteng.

What made the shipment challenging?

At more than 16 metres in length, the oversized cargo required detailed transport planning, compliant road permits, and precise coordination between the shipping line, port authorities, transporters, and consignee. Weather-related delays at Durban Port and crane arrangements for final offloading added further operational complexity.

What solution was delivered?

Tradestream coordinated the full logistics chain, including customs clearance, delivery and landing orders, direct discharge from Durban Port, abnormal-load permits, specialised inland transport, and ongoing stakeholder communication. Proactive updates helped keep all parties informed and aligned from origin to delivery.

What results were achieved?

Despite port delays and complex handling requirements, the cargo was safely transported from Durban to Gauteng and delivered as planned. The project highlights Tradestream's expertise in managing complex breakbulk logistics with compliance, communication, and dependable execution at every stage.