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Experts estimate that digital connectivity will reach a data volume of 400 trillion gigabytes as early as 2030. Whether or not that happens, one thing’s for sure: data collection and processing are increasingly determining and changing the way we live and work. And one other thing is true: handling data responsibly makes life easier and offers many opportunities. Especially in logistics.

Overcoming Africa’s logistics challenges: Dachser South Africa's approach to customs 

Trade is the lifeblood of any economy, and the smooth operation of customs and trade procedures is critical. However, logistics companies moving goods across the African continent face a unique set of challenges. These include inadequate road and rail networks, poor infrastructure, excessive official and unofficial roadblocks, significant border delays and complex customs and excise. A lack of coordination among multiple government agencies often results in inefficiencies and bottlenecks that hinder the smooth flow of goods across borders.

The establishment of a single market has introduced new distribution systems for customs and excise revenue, which has necessitated adjustments from logistics companies. The secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement launched an interim trading arrangement with eight qualifying countries (Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Rwanda, Tanzania and Tunisia) to test the agreement’s provisions while negotiations are ongoing. Although trading under the AfCFTA started in January 2021, commercially significant trade has yet to happen, primarily due to the delayed Phase 1 negotiations on trade in goods and services such as the negotiations on Rules of Origin (RoO).

Regional integration arrangements further complicate matters. For example, the coexistence of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) poses specific challenges. Intensive documentation requirements, samples for laboratory analysis, complex tariff classification, and valuation delays are some other hurdles that affect trade facilitation.

In this challenging environment, logistics companies play a pivotal role. DACHSER South Africa has been successfully navigating these complexities for over forty years, providing comprehensive logistics and customs management solutions that ensure the smooth movement of goods.  “Our commitment is to provide our clients with a holistic and seamless solution and we see ourselves as an extension of their businesses.  This means that we take care of all aspects of the transportation, including customs, storing, handling and the safe delivery of goods from origin to destination.” 

To deal with customs challenges, DACHSER focuses on compliance, transparency, and adaptability, says DACHSER Managing Director Detlev Duve. "Compliance with local and international customs regulations is essential, requiring a detailed understanding of these laws and regulations. Transparency in operations helps build trust with authorities and clients, while adaptability allows logistics companies to adjust to changing regulations and market conditions."

In order to avoid significant time delays and unforeseen cost implications, Duve says it’s vital that companies involved in international trade understand and comply with changing regulations and requirements. However, getting to grips with regulatory environments be challenging for companies and divert resources away from core business priorities, making a trusted logistics partner an essential part of doing business.

Duve says DACHSER's teams are well-versed in customs regulations and procedures. “We ensure compliance with customs requirements, including correct classification and documentation, which can save customers considerable time. Understanding Incoterms and maintaining a good working relationship with local customs authorities are key components of our approach. We further consider where costs can be saved or passage expedited. For example, certain processes could entitle an importer or exporter to claim back a percentage of duties paid to customs.” 

Customs developments have also created some opportunities for logistics companies and clients to streamline their operations.  For example, in South Africa, the government has introduced measures such as accredited client statuses for those registered for customs and excise activities.

Global logistics operations like DACHSER are also able to fully leverage technology to improve their customs handling processes. “Our digital tools assist in accurately calculating duties, tracking shipments, and ensuring documentation is correctly filed, reducing the risk of errors and delays,” says Duve.

DACHSER South Africa also offers value-added solutions for clients such as bonded storage, which allows cargo to be stored for up to two years, improving cash flow for importers. The company further provides an option for clients when a portion of imported goods will be directly exported, sparing them from having to pay duty and VAT twice. “If the client does not need to clear the entire shipment, DACHSER South Africa will clear the goods directly into our bond store and no duty or VAT will be paid until the cargo is moved out,” Duve explains. “If a portion of the stock needed to go to an African country, we would move this out with a bonded truck to that country, where the cargo would be cleared.” 

While the customs landscape in South Africa and Africa presents formidable challenges, logistics companies like DACHSER South Africa have found ways to navigate these complexities and deliver excellent service to their customers. Now more than ever, the value derived from using an experienced logistics provider in Africa can lead to significant cost savings.

Flexibility and consolidation are key to navigating Africa’s evolving logistics challenges

With logistics across Africa facing mounting complexities in 2025, businesses are under increasing pressure to overcome a range of challenges. From congested ports in South Africa to the difficulties of managing risks in high-volume shipping lanes like the Cape of Good Hope or securing airfreight capacity, companies must find innovative and reliable logistics solutions to remain competitive.

“The current logistics landscape demands flexibility, control, and efficiency,” says Detlev Duve, Managing Director at DACHSER South Africa. “We're finding solutions to address the challenges head-on, enabling our customers to operate with confidence.”

African businesses are grappling with several pressing issues in the logistics sector, says Duve. "Cape Town’s worsening port congestion, which can lead to vessel anchorage delays of up to 10 days, is disrupting timetables and pushing up costs. The rerouting of vessels around the Cape of Good Hope adds significant shipping time, up to 10 days. Increasing demand in airfreight as shippers switch to the skies is straining available capacity. Further complicating the picture, geopolitical tensions near critical trade corridors such as the Red Sea are creating ongoing risks for maritime traffic."

Compounding these challenges are rising freight rates, driven by a shift in capacity as larger vessels are repurposed for more lucrative global trade lanes, leaving smaller ships to service Africa. "For shippers, these market dynamics translate to tighter margins, reduced operational efficiencies, and heightened uncertainty," says Duve. "A close, transparent partnership with your logistics provider is critical."

DACHSER South Africa is stepping up to empower businesses across the region with tailored services, advanced technology, and strategic partnerships, providing solutions rooted in experience and expertise.

Visibility with advanced track and trace

In a market prone to unpredictability, remaining informed is essential. Within its integrated DACHSER platform the logistics provider has deployed an enhanced track-and-trace system offering visibility into shipments. This innovation allows businesses to monitor their goods’ movement with accuracy and make informed logistical decisions. “Being in control of your shipment status is critical in today’s environment, and our track-and-trace tools ensure that our customers are always one step ahead,” explains Duve.

Diversified shipping options, balancing transit time and costs

Duve says it's vital to quickly analyse costs and lead times across different ports and carriers to find the most suitable arrangements for specific business needs. "We're working with clients to balance transit time and costs, evaluating trade-offs between faster delivery and higher shipping expenses to determine cost-efficient solutions."

Consolidation strategy to combat rising freight costs

To counter rising freight rates caused by limited capacity on certain routes, DACHSER has enhanced its global LCL services, which consolidate multiple small shipments into one larger consignment. This approach allows businesses to optimise their logistics budgets. DACHSER has also expanded its own consolidations specifically designed to manage time-sensitive cargo.
 

“At DACHSER, we manage block bookings for key trade routes and time-sensitive shipments, ensuring our customers receive cost-effective yet reliable service,” underscores Duve. By refining its already extensive consolidation network, DACHSER is extending access to more affordable shipping solutions without compromising on delivery timelines.

Supporting airfreight needs with block space agreements

The story of airfreight in 2025 centres on demand outpacing capacity, especially as online retail continues its steady growth. To fill this gap, DACHSER leverages its strategic block space agreements with air carriers. These agreements secure much-needed capacity for businesses reliant on airfreight, while DACHSER’s consolidation of shipments reduces overall costs.

“With our airfreight consolidation services backed by efficient block booking systems, our customers can move critical consignments without delay—even amidst volatile market conditions,” Duve explains.

Streamlining customs with AEO expertise

Navigating customs procedures is often a bottleneck in the African logistics chain. By securing top-tier Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) approval from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), DACHSER provides its customers expedited customs clearance and access to a dedicated SARS channel to resolve issues swiftly.
 

“We’re proud to be an approved AEO service provider. This not only streamlines border control processes for our customers but also guarantees reliability in unpredictable conditions,” adds Duve.

Sustaining an efficient supply chain requires constant adaptation and collaboration. By equipping businesses in Africa with robust digital tools, streamlined customs practices and scalable consolidation options, DACHSER effectively addresses both the immediate and long-term challenges in logistics.
 

“We are strategic partners invested in helping our customers build resilient supply chains,” says Duve. “From enhanced visibility to cost-saving strategies, DACHSER delivers solutions that adapt and evolve in sync with Africa’s dynamic markets.”
 

It is time to take proactive steps towards reliable logistics. Reach out to DACHSER today for comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs.

(ENDS)

About DACHSER:

DACHSER, a family-owned company headquartered in Kempten, Germany, provides transport logistics, warehousing, and customized services in two business fields: DACHSER Air & Sea Logistics and DACHSER Road Logistics. The latter is divided into two business lines, DACHSER European Logistics and DACHSER Food Logistics. Comprehensive contract logistics services and industry-specific solutions round out the company’s offerings. A seamless shipping network—both in Europe and overseas—and fully integrated IT systems provide for intelligent logistics solutions worldwide.

Thanks to some 37,300 employees at 433 locations all over the globe, DACHSER generated consolidated net revenue of approximately EUR 8.0 billion in 2024. The same year, the logistics provider handled a total of 82.3 million shipments weighing 44.1 million metric tons. Country organisations represent DACHSER in 43 countries. For more information about DACHSER, please visit dachser.com

Navigating complex waters: How specialised services simplify customs and insurance for businesses

Businesses trading internationally face an increasingly complex web of customs regulations and insurance requirements that can derail operations and drain profits. Changing regulatory requirements, security measures, inadequate insurance coverage, and compliance failures create mounting pressure. Without proper expertise, companies remain vulnerable to delays, penalties, and financial losses.

The right logistics partner with customs and insurance expertise is crucial for international business success, says Detlev Duve, Managing Director of Dachser South Africa. "As businesses face pressure to ensure compliance whilst managing costs, it's essential to partner with a provider that understands the complexities of international trade and can provide customised solutions."

According to Duve, essential factors for navigating customs and insurance successfully include regulatory knowledge, security certifications, insurance guidance, and risk management. "Potential customers should carefully evaluate how their logistics partners address compliance and protection needs. A lack of measures can lead to operational disruptions and financial exposure."

Dachser's approach to customs and insurance covers services including customs data announcements, documentation preparation, and insurance advisory services.

Customs expertise for international trade

International trade requires businesses to deal with customs regulations across multiple countries, each with its own requirements and security protocols. Dachser provides customs clearance services to businesses across all industries.

The company is certified as an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) in several countries. This status provides customs control benefits worldwide – benefits which Dachser passes on to its customers. "Having AEO certification makes customs controls easier and ensures a consistent international supply chain," says Duve. "Our customs-approved security standards not only simplify customs clearance, they are also a seal of approval for global trading partners."

Effective customs clearance requires more than just form-filling – it demands understanding of international trade regulations and security protocols. Dachser's experience with programmes such as C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) positions the company as a trusted partner for businesses requiring reliable customs clearance.

Take the case of businesses exporting to the United States, which must comply with the 10+2 rule under the Importer Security Filing (ISF), where ten defined entries must be transmitted electronically to US Customs at least 24 hours before the ship leaves the port of departure. "We have been working as a registered filer on behalf of clients since 2009," says Duve. "Incorrect, late or missing filings can result in fines between $2,500 and $5,000, making professional handling necessary."

Electronic customs procedures ensure fast and safe handling whilst reducing processing times. Dachser's customs specialists possess deep regulatory knowledge gained through decades of international experience. "We carefully navigate consignments through local and international customs rules and coordinate the entire customs clearance process with local authorities," explains Duve.

As a global business, Dachser has an extensive network and can handle complex customs requirements across borders whilst maintaining the personal touch through local expertise. "Our team of customs specialists understands the details of international trade regulations and uses this knowledge to deliver customised solutions that meet our clients' compliance needs."

Insurance expertise and risk management

When it comes to insurance, shipping to unfamiliar destinations that do not have well-organised infrastructure can add to the risk factor. While damage and loss is rare, it can be very expensive, making insurance costs money well spent, says Duve. Service delivery is at the heart of Dachser's insurance operations. Dachser is registered as an FSP in South Africa and clients benefit from insurance guidance that addresses potential coverage gaps.

"Not understanding insurance implications is a major risk for businesses," says Duve. "Our expert team advises clients on managing risks and filling insurance gaps, often assisting with documentation to ensure smooth clearance and delivery whilst protecting against financial exposure."

For example, when it comes to protecting valuable shipments, it's vital to understand the difference between liability coverage and cargo insurance during transit, explains Duve. "Many businesses confuse freight insurance with cargo insurance, assuming their shipments are covered for full value with freight insurance," says Duve. "This misunderstanding can be a costly error, as freight insurance compensation is calculated on weight basis – meaning the same amount would be paid for one kilogram of platinum as for one kilogram of paper. Cargo insurance, which can be taken to cover the full value of a shipment while it is in transit, protects the customer.”

As a logistics specialist in Africa, DACHSER South Africa is responsible for coordinating almost every aspect of customers shipments. “It makes sense for us to handle cargo insurance too as a value-added service,” says Duve. “We negotiate contracts, pay the premiums and submit claims on behalf of our customers, managing correspondence until a settlement is reached.”

Harnessing global networks

With  433 locations in 43 countries, Dachser's global network provides customs and insurance expertise across key markets. This global reach helps when dealing with international trade regulations and security requirements. Dachser's decades of international experience ensures timely clearances, appropriate coverage, and avoidance of costly penalties and exposure.

"As an international logistics provider, it's essential to maintain excellent relationships with customs authorities and possess deep knowledge of trade regulations and insurance principles," says Duve. "When challenges arise, our expertise and network ensure we are in the best position to assist and keep clients protected and compliant. We strive to be a logistics partner that truly understands the details of customs compliance and insurance protection, committed to safeguarding our clients' interests," Duve concludes.

(ENDS)

About DACHSER:

Dachser, a family-owned company headquartered in Kempten, Germany, provides transport logistics, warehousing, and customized services in two business fields: Dachser Air & Sea Logistics and Dachser Road Logistics. The latter consists of two business lines: Dachser European Logistics and Dachser Food Logistics. Comprehensive contract logistics services and industry-specific solutions round out the company’s range. A seamless shipping network—both in Europe and overseas—and fully integrated IT systems ensure intelligent logistics solutions worldwide. Thanks to some 37,300 employees at 433 locations all over the globe, Dachser generated consolidated net revenue of approximately EUR 8 billion in 2024. The same year, the logistics provider handled a total of 83.2 million shipments with a tonnage of 44.1 million metric tons. Country organizations represent Dachser in 43 countries. For more information about Dachser, please visit dachser.com