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Understanding the Legal Responsibilities of South African Transporters

18 August 2022

Unlike other countries known for their small-scale, more structured transport systems, South Africa is renowned for dealing with large fleets that are far trickier to manage. Businesses are expected to control hundreds of vehicles and often turn to software to streamline operations. These often-complex systems, however, are partly to blame for the mismanagement of products and deliveries. Why? Operators tend to use task-specific programmes that don’t necessarily complement each other.

Lega Responsibilities of Transporters

Say you have a system in place for vehicle maintenance, and another for load deliveries. If one doesn’t talk to the other, you run the risk of scheduling a delivery, but the appropriate vehicle is in the workshop. Without an accurate overview of your supply chain, businesses are likely met with non-compliance problems that will cost them time and money.

Complex systems aside, it is the legal responsibility of any business owner or operator who transports goods, to ensure compliance is met in all tasks and activities. Outsourcing transport services, however, change these legal obligations which is why more and more businesses are turning to third-party providers to handle their supply chain functions.

Transporter
Roadworthy Vehicles

It is the responsibility of the owner of a vehicle(s) to have it tested annually to ensure it is compliant with road safety regulations. A vehicle that passes will be granted a Certificate of Roadworthiness or a Certificate of Fitness (CoR). The process can take up to six weeks, which for some businesses, especially SMMEs, is time they cannot afford to waste. Outsourcing logistics to an external provider like Loadit which already has a fleet of roadworthy vehicles is then often a more efficient way of transporting goods.

Mass Limits

The full responsibility for the compliance regarding axle masses, a vehicle, or a combination of vehicles lies with the carrier. This includes the mass of goods being transported. If the mass of any exceeds the legal limits, the vehicle is overloaded, and the driver or operator can be prosecuted. Reputable providers would have already taken the necessary steps to adhere to legal loading limits. Loadit, for example, uses state-of-the-art scheduling software and a centre of gravity analysis to meet the need of operators wanting to load their vehicles optimally. This ultimately reduces the time and money spent on business compliance.

Trained Drivers

To transport goods for an income on public roads in South Africa, drivers must be trained and in possession of a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP). The operator or business owner should ensure that this is the case. This process can take up to 12 weeks with, of course, a fee attached to the application and issuing of the permit. The Loadit drivers are professionally trained, screened, and all possess PrDPs in accordance with regulations. As a result, businesses needn’t worry about the legal requirements of such and can save time and money that would be spent managing drivers and navigating labour disputes.

Trained Driver
Risk Management

The owners of distribution vehicles are responsible for any disruptions that may occur. These include, but are not limited to, illegal drivers, overloading, accidents, and/or loss or damage of cargo. Such disruptions to a supply chain have costly consequences be it in the form of operational delays, replacement of goods, and other financial implications. Partnering with a professional provider like Loadit can reduce the overall risk of the business and the personal risk of directors. It is important, however, to understand the warranty and conditions of the service provider and determine responsibilities thereafter.

To meet the ever-evolving demands of consumers, distribution companies need to constantly improve their offering, while remaining compliant. Doing so results in a much smoother operation and gives businesses a competitive edge. Outsourcing logistics is, therefore, an effective way to streamline your supply chain while still abiding by the rules.

By choosing Loadit, you reduce the risks associated with having your own delivery vehicles and drivers. Instead, you’re left with a cost-effective and reliable service you pay for only when you need it. Contact us for a solution that suits your unique needs.

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