South African Cargo Vulnerability Explodes as Global Shipping Snarls Linger (2024)

South African Cargo Vulnerability Explodes as Global Shipping Snarls Linger (2024)

South African ports, like their global counterparts, are caught in a double whammy of shipping backlogs and surging demand, creating a perfect storm for cargo theft. Trains and containers linger for weeks, ripe pickings for opportunists. Just like East Los Angeles and Memphis in the US, our key logistics hubs near Durban and Cape Town are seeing a worrying spike in rail thefts, especially of high-value and scarce electronics. (BSI, TT Club, TAPA EMEA – Cargo Theft Report 2021)

The record port congestion, averaging a staggering 22 days wait time in 2024, is pushing warehouses to their limits. Drivers, caught in the logjam, are forced to find alternative parking. Secured facilities overflow, pushing cargo to temporary lots and, eventually, unsecured streets. This shift mirrors the worrying diversification of theft techniques seen in the US.

With trucks parked outside secured spots, thieves adapt. Container break-ins, hijackings, and opportunistic pilfering are on the rise. The longer the delays, the higher the risk. As one industry insider puts it, “These delays are a buffet for criminals.”

Across the broader Latin American region, the picture is different. Port congestion in Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Peru, and Panama has actually led to reduced exports and consequently, less cargo traffic. This hasn’t stopped thieves, however, who are targeting the remaining shipments with increased brazenness.

Here’s what South Africa can do:

• Invest in port infrastructure and efficiency: Clearing the backlog will reduce container dwell times and make cargo less vulnerable.
• Enhance security measures: Secure parking facilities, improved CCTV coverage, and trained security personnel can deter thieves.
• Collaboration is key: Logistics companies, police, and port authorities need to work together to share information and track stolen goods.
• Driver support: Providing designated, secure parking areas for truck drivers waiting for deliveries can minimize theft risks.

While the congestion challenge seems daunting, proactive measures can mitigate the risk. Here’s how we can fight back:

• Fortress Parking: Invest in secure parking facilities for trucks and trailers, patrolled by vigilant guards and equipped with high-tech CCTV. Think virtual-fencing, AI Intrusion detection , double fence/electrified fence combo’s, motion sensors, and real-time monitoring – make those parking lots impregnable fortresses.
• Eye in the Sky: Expand CCTV coverage around ports, train yards, and vulnerable storage locations. Let those cameras be the omnipresent eyes that never sleep, deterring thieves and aiding investigations.
• Security Savvy Personnel: Train security personnel in cargo theft prevention tactics. Give them the tools and knowledge to spot suspicious activity and act swiftly.

Tech to the Rescue: Onboard Guardians and Tiny Trackers:

But what if your cargo ventures beyond secured perimeters? That’s where technology becomes your knight in shining armor. Consider two cutting-edge solutions:

• Comprehensive Onboard Surveillance: Invest in robust onboard CCTV systems that monitor your trucks 24/7. Think live feeds, recording capabilities, and even night vision – let these virtual watchdogs keep a constant eye on your precious cargo.
• Tiny Trackers, Big Advantages: Deploy mini GPS trackers within your containers or attached directly to valuable goods. These miniature guardians will tell you exactly where your cargo is, in real-time, allowing for swift intervention in case of any suspicious movement.

The global shipping snarls show no signs of immediate loosening. By taking proactive measures, South Africa can protect its crucial cargo lifeline and keep thieves at bay.

Contact gensixtech.co.za , for planning and deployment of the above solutions.