Ocean Freight Operations
Course Overview
This three-day programme provides comprehensive coverage of ocean freight operations with a specific focus on African seaports including Durban, Cape Town, Ngqura, Maputo, Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, and Walvis Bay. Participants will gain practical skills in managing both full container load (FCL) and less than container load (LCL) shipments.
The course covers the complete ocean freight lifecycle from shipping line selection and space booking through to cargo release and delivery. Special attention is given to the unique challenges of African port operations including congestion management, documentation requirements, and the regulatory environment governing maritime trade.
Participants will work with real shipping line tariffs, understand freight rate structures, and learn how to manage costs effectively while maintaining service levels in the African ocean freight market.
Who Should Attend
- Ocean freight coordinators and shipping clerks
- Import and export managers handling seafreight operations
- Freight forwarders specialising in ocean freight services
- Logistics managers overseeing maritime supply chains
- Supply chain professionals working with African trade routes
Learning Outcomes
- Manage the complete FCL and LCL shipment lifecycle from booking to delivery
- Understand shipping line operations, vessel scheduling, and African port networks
- Calculate and manage ocean freight costs including surcharges, demurrage, and detention
- Prepare and process ocean freight documentation including bills of lading correctly
- Navigate African port operations including congestion management and cargo release
Course Modules
Ocean Freight Fundamentals
Shipping industry overview, vessel types, container specifications, shipping line operations, and the African port network and trade lanes.
FCL Operations Management
Container booking, equipment management, stuffing and stripping, gate-in procedures, and vessel loading operations at African terminals.
LCL & Consolidation
LCL cargo procedures, consolidation planning, warehouse operations, cargo groupage, and deconsolidation at destination.
Cost Management & Documentation
Freight rate structures, surcharge management, bill of lading types, and cost control strategies for African ocean freight.
Course Details
Upcoming Intakes
Prices are displayed for convenience. Final billing may be processed in South African Rand unless otherwise agreed.
