Author:focus-on-transport

Specialised, Agile Shipping Ensures On-Time Vehicle Delivery and Boosts Economic Growth January 31, 2023 The automotive sector is based on precision delivery. This means logistics companies must be agile, reliable, and willing to step up even at short notice, writes TAAREK HINEDI, vice president of FedEx’s Express Middle East and Africa operations. Businesses see logistics as a critical component of manufacturing operations. With traditional logistics slowly becoming outdated, it’s vital for businesses to constantly evolve and find new ways to […]

Ensure sobriety in the transport sector February 1, 2023 While it is each employer’s own choice to decide whether their workplace policies will involve drug and alcohol testing, as well as how and when these tests will be carried out, it is recommended that these policies be carefully revised and brought up to date – especially in the transport sector. Companies must do everything within their means to ensure a sober workforce is behind the wheel on South Africa’s roads. […]

How to measure tyre tread depth February 1, 2023 Much confusion exists regarding the correct manner in which to measure tyre tread depth. This is, however, prescriptively described by South African law. Although some sections of the law are somewhat ambiguous when read in isolation, when one considers all the normative references in the National Road Traffic Act and the applicable standards – such as the SABS 1550 and SABS 047 – one is able to understand the correct procedure. […]

Does the 21-day grace period apply to truck licences? February 3, 2023 The 21-day grace period after a motor vehicle licence expires applies to heavy motor vehicles exceeding 3 500 kg gross vehicle mass (GVM)/gross combination mass (GCM) too, says Kevin van der Merwe, executive manager: certification and operations, at the Road Freight Association (RFA). In recent months, the Association has on numerous occasions been contacted by operator members for assistance and clarity on the grace period applicable when a […]

To park or not to park February 6, 2023 Where can and cannot a truck park? Kevin van der Merwe, executive manager: certification & operations at the Road Freight Association (RFA), explains. As conveyors of goods on a public road, operators have experienced that traffic officers and other law enforcement officers derive some level of satisfaction from fining drivers and vehicles for various “parking” transgressions that occur while collecting goods from consignors and delivering them to consignees. We will look […]

RTMS unravelled February 6, 2023 What is the RTMS (Road Transport Management System) and how does it benefit your organisation and the industry? RTMS is an industry-led, government-supported, voluntary, self-regulation scheme that is based on the SANS 1395-1, being a national standard, published by the South African Bureau of Standards. At its essence, the standard – if implemented correctly – will provide a guideline for organisations to implement internal processes that are compliant with the Road Traffic Regulations Act and which […]

Scania charges ahead! February 2, 2023   Scania Southern Africa is leading the charge towards electric vehicles in an industry-first trial together with the Shoprite Group. The launch in South Africa of Scania’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) promises to open the door to the electrified transport landscape for many progressive customers. Electric trucks hold the potential to reinvigorate South Africa’s transport industry. Not only do they provide a solution to the damage fossil fuels are inflicting on the environment, but […]