As the first export terminal in the world to be awarded the 360 Quality Code, FPT Durban, a Capespan subsidiary, will commit all supply chain parties to handle cargo in a way that will promote customer satisfaction. The 360 Quality Code is a new set of standards for specialised reefer shipping companies, cold stores and their service providers to ensure the quality of handling reefer cargo.

Said FPT Durban general manager Neville de Klerk, “The accreditation instills fruit handling responsibility by ensuring a good temperature regime, plus less cargo handling.” He explained that this global standard would reduce product damage, as well as ensuring both accountability and a quality end-result. “What’s more, with the 360 Quality accreditation, it’s easy to provide exporters and producers with continual product status feedback. And, should quality issues arise, the gaps can be closed promptly. This indeed further enhances South African fresh produce export standards.”

To obtain the 360 Quality Code means not only excellent product handling, but also equipment has to be first-class. De Klerk said, “By using terminals that maintain the 360 Quality Code standards, shipping lines can guarantee products arriving at their destination in mint condition.”

Dr Dawie Ferreira, CEO Capespan Logistics, said, “Having travelled extensively to export terminals around the world, few of them can compare to the Durban port. The latter definitely deserves the 360 Quality accreditation.”

Launched in June 2005, the 360 Quality Code applies to all perishable and frozen cargoes carried under deck in specialised reefer vessels. The objective is to become the industry standard. With its 20 members, the 360 Quality Association appoints internationally recognised accreditation organisations to conduct the certification. In South Africa, this is handled by the PPECB.