Making a multimodal move

When it comes to moving goods, road versus rail has been a somewhat controversial topic for years now … However, the answer doesn’t lie with one or the other, but rather in a golden mean of collaboration. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) and Barloworld Logistics have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at exploring the multimodal option.

The partnership will facilitate joint development of multimodal logistics services in support of Transnet’s “road to rail” strategy. “We are delighted to engage in this smart partnership with TFR,” says Steve Ford, CEO of Barloworld Logistics. “We see this as an excellent opportunity to offer our clients and the wider South African market access to rail solutions as part of their supply chain strategy and optimisation targets.”

By working together the two companies aim to maximise road and rail logistics capabilities, which will reduce road congestion, greenhouse gases and overall transport costs. Siyabonga Gama, CEO of TFR, concludes: “The MoU makes it possible for TFR and Barloworld Logistics to collaborate in order to benefit the South African economy by resolving previous competitive obstacles.”