South African Ports Break Records with 101,295 Containers Handled in a Week
Ports along South Africa’s coastline handled 101,295 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) last week—surpassing the weekly target for all container terminals by 15%.
Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) announced on Monday that this marks the highest weekly container throughput since the 2017/2018 financial year, when 101,871 TEUs were moved, a record that still stands.
This performance reflects steady gains achieved under Transnet’s Recovery Plan. TPT credited its ongoing success to several operational improvements that have enhanced efficiency and reliability across the port system.
“TPT has consistently exceeded its targets for vessel arrival, berthing, and departure, in line with shipping agreements. There have been no vessel backlogs or delays at any port terminals nationwide,” the operator said.
Key factors contributing to this performance include:
Real-time performance tracking
A new incentive scheme for operational staff
Accelerated equipment replacement programs
The introduction of a fourth shift across all terminals
“The delivery of critical cargo-handling equipment—such as straddle carriers, rubber-tyred gantry cranes, haulers, reach stackers, and empty container handlers—has significantly supported both volume growth and productivity,” TPT stated.
TPT also highlighted improved customer collaboration, integrated planning, and the adoption of best practices.
With support from National Treasury, the operator has expedited its equipment procurement strategy. In instances where delivery lead times were long, customer partnerships have helped prioritize TPT’s orders.
Additional equipment is scheduled to arrive at the Cape Town and Durban terminals before the end of the calendar year, bolstering infrastructure ahead of the peak retail season in October.
Currently in the midst of citrus mid-season, TPT is gearing up for a strong seasonal finish.
The operator manages over four million containers annually across its key terminals: Durban Container Terminals Pier 1 and Pier 2, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Ngqura.
