Starting the clock on the COVID-19 Lockdown
The lead up to the National Lockdown had a slightly rocky foot processes and procedures of during this unprecedented time still being finalised by government and businesses. However, the dust seems to have settled and authorities are clearer to what documents and processes are required for Essential Services to continue operating during this time.
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Government released a link where businesses that provide goods and services are able to register and operate during the lockdown, along with the categories of the listed exemptions as set out by our President. Global Logistics Alliance and subsequent service providers are registered and have received our certificates. Please note that in order for Global Logistics Alliance to move essential cargo, we will need a copy of you CIPC certificate and letter of “Authorised goods in transit” with your company’s letterhead.
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If you have not yet registered as an Essential Services Provider, the link can be found as follows: https://lnkd.in/dRq2EqQ. Please note that the portal is very slow and that the company registration number search function is not always operational, due to a very overloaded site. The application will be a simple declaration requiring minimal registration details, type of business/trade involved in, what trading name if any is used an d whether it meets the requirements contained in the essential services list, the contact details of the person applying as well as the number of employees that will be working during the lockdown period. It is vital that information is loaded correctly and meet the requirements set out.
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We have a link to the list of Essential Goods and Services below. Please note that any company can apply and certification does not mean all companies that receive this are essential services. The cargo and goods still need to comply with the listed products of essential services or need to be essential to one of the listed essential services. IE. Spare parts for machines that produce one or more of the essential services, ingredients, packaging, etc. for one or more products listed as essential services.
Below is a breakdown for some of the Lockdown processes taking place in the supply chain:
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Customs clearance – SARS has made provisions to continue operating and providing services to clients during the Lockdown period. They are urging clients to make use of the online and telephonic channels available to minimise visiting their offices. They will also only operate on an ‘appointment only’ basis, while complying to the social distancing and hygiene requirements. False applications to the CIPC will be taken as
a fraudulent application and will render applicants liable to criminal prosecution and sanction.
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Seafreight – We have been advised that for Seafreight operations, Transnet have identified essential staff that will perform an essential service and will remain open during the Lockdown. The port authority implemented processes such as screening port users and checking documents to ensure users are compliant and will be required to possess the Essential Services Permit together with the Port Access/ID Card before access is granted. Transnet has also issued a cautionary Notice of Force Majeure due to the Lockdown and suspended all non-essential activities to minimise the negative impact.
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Durban Pier 2 will only work a maximum of two vessels at a time for the 21-day lockdown period.
At Ngqura Container Terminal, upon completion of the 3 vessels currently in, the next vessel will be berthed on the single berth available.
At Port Elizabeth Container Terminal will be working a single berth operation.
At Cape Town Container Terminal there are three vessels berthed, once completed the next vessel will be berthed on the single berth available. TPT will plan each vessel in conjunction with the vessel operator directly ,the shipping line will be required to list all essential cargo with the port authority. Export stacks will be allowed for essential goods and reefer containers and will be aligned with standard vessel berthing.
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We encourage clients to please opt for electronic documents as some shipping lines are also working remotely, and electronic releases will assist with fluid processing of shipments.
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Airfreight – The airports are still operational but are receiving very limited flights as all passenger travel, domestic and international, is prohibited. This affects the availability of flights and subsequent space for cargo available with several cancelled bookings and hikes in rates. There are still many freighter flights operating, but the available space is becoming increasingly sparse. Cargo from high risk countries/areas will need to be sanitised and drivers collecting cargo will also be required to provide appropriate documents and carry hand sanitiser with a minimum 70% alcohol content. Unfortunately due to the volatile market, rates and service will be confirmed once cargo has been handed and booked with the airline and maybe subject to change.
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Road freight – All transporters must ensure they are carrying essential cargo and drivers are required to have appropriate documents and permits on hand to present to authorities. The authorities are checking vehicles at random and will turn back, or in serious cases arrest, those without correct documentation.
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Global Logistics Alliance has have taken precautionary steps to ensure our staff are not at risk to infection. Our staff are available remotely and will provide logistics support via email and phone. We also encourage you to contact your sales representative for Skype meetings to discuss planning and your logistics needs. The downtime is a great opportunity to reflect on the year thus far and re-asses supply chain routes.
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We are closely monitoring the situation and will keep you all updated of the developments. If you have any further questions on the Lockdown processes, requirements or anything else. Please don’t hesitate to contact your operator for more info.
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As the number of infected increases and pass the one thousand mark, and with the unfortunate first fatalities in SA, we hope that you and your loved ones remain safe during this time.
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We also thank you for your continued support.
