Effective logistics, import/export and manufacturing consulting services require detailed industry knowledge and experience, but can add significant value to these industries by providing expert advice on various technical elements in their value chains, says automotive and logistics consultancy BCE Consulting cofounder Brian Verwey.

Correct advice and management of tariff codes and incentive applications improve the success and impact of initiatives for companies, like the Department of Trade and Industry’s incentives for the Automotive Production and Development Programme, duty refunds, and tax and customs processes.

“BCE has nine years of experience in advising and managing various industrial and tax processes for our focus industries. We typically spend a few days with senior personnel in a company to determine their processes and products, and delves down to the transactional level of their operations. We then compile a report detailing our observations and our recommendations.”

Smaller companies can also benefit from using a consulting service, as mistakes can cost more, while lost opportunities are also more significant, he adds.

“These consulting services aim to improve the noncore aspects affecting a business, which is where we add value. Most companies are very good in their core operations, but not as strong in their noncore elements. However, effective management, review and administration of noncore elements can improve business operations and increase revenue and decrease unforeseen risks,” notes Verwey.

The automotive and manufacturing industries are under significant pressure, but can reduce margin pressures and undue costs if they regularly interrogate their transactions to the latest requirements and incentives.

“Specialist logistics companies compete effectively by understanding their clients’ needs in detail and providing a valuable service for them. Similarly, manufacturers must also be aware of all the potential incentives they could access, as well as the nuances of import/export transactions, tax, duties and tariffs to ensure they gain the maximum value from their exports.”

Verwey says tariff codes, in particular, are not updated or interrogated regularly and an incorrect initial tariff code or a change in a tariff code could have an adverse financial impact on a company’s bottom line, and are often undiscovered by management.

Further, the Customs Control Act has a material impact on importers and exporters, and BCE Consulting is educating its clients and partners about the upcoming changes to the Act to ensure that their processes change accordingly without impacting on operations.

“Typically, once we have provided a client with our detailed recommendations, the client tends to remain a long-term customer. We have been able to improve compliance at all the clients we have consulted to. Specialist advice, with thorough knowledge of the industries and client operations, provides good value to clients’ businesses,” he concludes.