Tshwane logistics hub : an integration of freight transport infrastructure

[摘要] One of the results of globalisation is that supply chains are getting longer, in bothtime and distance. For example, the local bookstore around the corner nowcompetes with the bookstore in the USA. Logistics ties together geographicallydistant sources and markets. The implications of this are that there is a greater needfor efficiency in specifically transportation and distribution networks. The integrationof transport infrastructure into a logistics hub is seen as an enabler of distribution ona global basis.A solution to overcome the above complications is the development of logistics hubsas a means to simplify supply chain processes. Logistics hubs are generally definedas integrated centres for transhipment, storage, collection and distribution of goods(Jorgenson, 2007). Universally logistics hubs have intermodal or multi-modalsolutions to abridge transportation difficulties and creating seamless movement ofgoods and in doing so optimising general operations. Freight shipments now havethe ability to be consolidated at a central point and distributed from that point to itsfinal destination. This creates added value for freight products. Customers nowreceive products at the right time, at the right place and in the right quantity, but withthe benefit of paying less as a result of economies of scale created by the valueadded at the logistics hub.Logistics hubs are very well established internationally and many examples existwhere these have been successfully built and implemented. This does not suggestthat there is one specific recipe to success. Each region has its own demands whichneed to be satisfied. There are however numerous common characteristics whichwere identified during the course of the study. It is important for South Africa tointegrate existing transport infrastructure to optimise logistics in the country and indoing so, ascertaining itself as a regional logistics hub.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University