Reflecting its commitment to continuous improvement, Imperial Cargo, member company of Imperial Logistics, recently attained ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 accreditation, as well as RTMS (Road Traffic Management System) accreditation for its Cape Town and Port Elizabeth fleets. The company expects to have its full fleet RTMS accredited by the end of this year, reports managing director Christo Theron.

“These accreditations form part of our strategy to add value in the service offering to our customers, and reflect our vision to be a responsible and respected service provider of choice in the southern African logistics industry,” he comments.

RTMS is an industry led, voluntary self regulation scheme that encourages consignees, consignors and transport operators to implement a vehicle management system that preserves road infrastructure, improves road safety and increases the productivity of the logistics value chain. “This system recognises sustainable, high standards in driver behavior and fleet maintenance. It measures loyalty and dedication to customers and staff - as well as national legislation compliance - through load control, driver wellness and vehicle fitness,” Theron elaborates. “All these factors impact the way in which we, as a logistics service provider behave on the road.”

Outlining the principles of ISO 14001 accreditation, he explains that it specifies the criteria for an environmental management system for small to large organisations. “This accreditation reflects an organisation’s commitment to three key environmental management goals - namely legal compliance, pollution prevention and continuous improvement. Imperial Cargo chose to pursue the ISO 14001 as it assists the company to improve its business, reduce environmental risks and minimise our operation’s impact on the environment. It clearly supports the Environmental Sustainability Policy of Imperial Logistics.”

ISO 9001 is based on eight quality management principles, including customer focus, leadership and continual improvement. Theron reveals Imperial Cargo’s motivation for pursuing this accreditation: “We needed a system to manage quality within the company; to reinforce our commitment to well maintained assets and vehicles that complement our brand. We now have proper policies in place for every aspect of our business, which enhances service to our customers and which creates an environment where our employees feel proud to be part of the company.”

Theron says these accreditations add value to the service that Imperial Cargo offers customers - many of which have longstanding partnerships with the company. “We have forged many longterm relationships with clients – some spanning more than two decades, but we will never rest on our laurels,” he stresses. “We are constantly striving to improve our service, and exceed our clients’ expectations.”