Durban Port & DGT Operational Congestion

Dear Valued Client

We would like to provide an important operational update regarding the current conditions at Durban port, particularly Durban Gateway Terminal (DGT).

Durban is currently experiencing significant landside congestion, with transport operators experiencing difficulty securing port bookings and delays in accessing and collecting containers. The introduction and ongoing adjustment of new terminal systems and processes are contributing to increased operational complexity and longer turnaround times. While waterside operations remain relatively stable, the pressure on the landside is creating delays that can unfortunately result in containers remaining in the terminal beyond their free-time period, potentially leading to storage and related charges that are outside of our control.

Further disruption is anticipated with the Navis system transition on 15 August, when Transnet will take Navis offline from 17:00 to 20:00 to facilitate DGT's transition from the shared Navis platform to its own independent system. Transnet has advised that activities dependent on Navis will be temporarily unavailable during this period. While this transition is intended to improve DGT's long-term operations, we anticipate some additional disruption as the new system and processes are implemented.

SCT is actively monitoring all shipments and working closely with our transport partners to secure the earliest available appointments, while prioritising containers approaching the end of their free-time period. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these ongoing challenges. Our team will continue to do everything within our control to minimise delays and mitigate additional costs wherever possible. However, where terminal capacity and appointment availability prevent collection within the applicable free-time period, storage and related charges may unfortunately be unavoidable.

Should you have any queries, please reach out to an SCT representative.