WFN members Upcargo Logistics in Panama shared the recent challenges surrounding moving outsided cargo. Lizy Mendoza told WFN more:
“At Upcargo Logistics Panama, we face numerous challenges every day, particularly when unexpected changes occur. Recently, we encountered a significant disruption in our logistics chain due to a change in the Port of Destination (POD). Originally, the route was set from the Port of Shanghai to the Port of Balboa. However, the flatracks ended up at the Port of Manzanillo, Colon, approximately 80 kilometers away from Balboa. We only learned a day after arrival that the cargo would remain at the Manzanillo terminal.
This change resulted in several challenges:
Increased transportation costs for the client
Extra costs for road adjustments
Additional route studies
Our scope for this shipment included:
Reception at the port
Port survey
Unloading of 2×40’ flatracks and 1×20’ flatrack at the port
Transport using lowboys
Police escort
Route study
Nighttime transport
Customs custody, as this involved moving cargo from a port area to a free trade zone.
We had conducted thorough studies and route evaluations from the Balboa terminal to the delivery point, just 40 kilometers away, with exceptional results. No changes or adjustments to the route were necessary; we simply needed to wait for the cargo and load it onto the transport vehicles.
What we faced with this POD change:
Longer Travel Distance: This increase meant more potential obstacles. During our route study, we identified that we would not pass one of the toll booths on the northern corridor. Our solution was to remove some jerseys that defined the roadway to avoid the toll.
Adjustments with Time Constraints: While we have requested such adjustments in the past, this time was different due to tight delivery schedules. Involving multiple suppliers meant that any delay could result in additional costs, and our primary goal is to minimize these expenses for our clients.
Rapid Permitting: In record time, we obtained the necessary permits and costs to remove the jerseys, secured an assignment from a traffic police unit, and managed operations at the port.
Proactive Measures: Anticipating this situation, we took steps in advance by scheduling port appointments and inspections.
Successful Execution: In the end, we successfully removed the cargo from the terminal without any issues.
We accomplished:
A successful transfer
Minimization of extra costs
A happy client
In our daily operations, we frequently encounter multiple challenges and last-minute changes that push us to find concrete solutions for our clients and strategic partners. Our commitment is to manage logistics in a fair and preventive manner, ensuring that we meet the needs of our clients effectively and efficiently.”
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