Freight handling companies adeptly manage the loading, unloading, and movement of goods across various modes of transportation. In doing so, they ensure the smooth flow of cargo from A to B. These professionals are considered the backbone of the supply chain. Explore our article below or learn more about our Freight Forwarding Company here.
What is the meaning of “Freight Handling”?
Freight handling is the process of overseeing and managing the cost-effective delivery of goods. This also includes the loading and unloading of cargo. This process is used to describe: loading cargo shipments at their origin, transporting cargo, and unloading the cargo at its final destination. Freight handling can be carried out at a local, regional, or international scale. It also includes additional activities such as inventory management to ensure safe transport to its destination.
What Do Freight Handling Companies Do?
At the core of freight handling is the crucial task of managing the physical aspects of cargo movement. Freight handlers are responsible for a range of duties. From loading and unloading shipments to sorting and organising goods within storage facilities. Their expertise extends to operating machinery such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor belts to facilitate the smooth transfer of cargo. Additionally, freight handlers play a vital role in ensuring compliance with safety regulations and handling procedures to mitigate the risk of damage or loss during transit.
Beyond the physical aspects, freight handling involves teams with strong organisational skills, liaising with various stakeholders, including drivers, warehouse managers, and shipping companies, to streamline operations and resolve any issues that may arise during the transportation process. The freight handler process keeps the wheels of global trade turning, ensuring that goods reach their destinations efficiently and on time.
Essential Skills for Freight Handlers
Freight handling requires a combination of technical skills and personal attributes:
- Technical Know-How: Know how to operate machinery such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and other cargo-handling equipment.
- Attention to Detail: The ability to accurately sort & label goods, so that proper documentation is in order.
- Physical Stamina: Capability to handle physically demanding tasks, and working in varied weather conditions.
- Organisational Skills: Efficiently managing inventory with clear communications and coordination of team members and stakeholders.
- Safety Conscious: Adhering to safety protocols to prevent any mishaps and damage during cargo handling.
From loading and unloading shipments to coordinating logistics operations, freight handlers are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, driving the wheels of international trade.
Equipment Used in Freight Handling
Freight handlers use a range of equipment in their process of ensuring efficient freight handling logistics & management, such as forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyor belts and cargo strapping tools.
Driving Efficiency and Reliability
As a leading logistics provider in South Africa, we understand the importance of skilled freight handlers. That’s how OneLogix ensures the seamless flow of goods across our extensive network. Our dedicated team of freight handlers plays a fundamental role in this process, leveraging their expertise to streamline operations and guarantee the timely delivery of shipments.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
At OneLogix Cargo Solutions, our staff undergoes comprehensive freight handling industry training, learning how to minimise the risk of damage or loss during transit. By adhering to best practices and implementing stringent quality control measures, we provide our clients with peace of mind. You will know that your shipments are in capable hands.
Freight Handling Learnership
For those interested in pursuing a career in freight handling, learnerships offer valuable training and hands-on experience. At OneLogix Cargo Solutions, we provide a Driver Learnership that equips individuals with the skills needed for a professional driving career in the logistics industry. This program, based at the MPower Training Center in Boksburg, offers comprehensive training in equipment usage, safety procedures, and logistics operations. The Driver Learnership is exclusively for Code 14 license holders who meet specific criteria:
- You are between the ages of 25-29 (not turning 30 in the current year)
- South African Citizen
- Have a Grade 12 (with Maths and English)
- Have a Code 14 license with valid PRDP
- Be physically and mentally healthy
- Have not completed or dropped out of a professional driver’s certificate
- Have a Clear Crim and case Check
- Have a valid Passport
To apply for this learnership opportunity, click here.
Freight handling is not merely a job, but a key component of the global economy. It connects businesses and consumers across continents and drives prosperity through efficient trade.
Whether loading cargo onto trucks, managing inventory within warehouses, or coordinating logistics operations, our team of freight handlers is committed to delivering freight handling. But better!
