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Port Operations and Terminal Handling for Importers

Congestion, demurrage and unexpected charges at regional ports quietly erode the margins of African importers who do not understand how terminals work. This course demystifies port and terminal operations from vessel arrival to cargo release. Delegates learn to plan around port processes, control demurrage and storage costs and work effectively with clearing agents.

What you will be able to do

  • Describe the flow of cargo through a port from arrival to release.
  • Explain the roles of shipping lines, terminals, agents and authorities.
  • Plan container clearance to minimise demurrage and storage charges.
  • Interpret port charges and challenge incorrect billing.
  • Coordinate effectively with clearing agents and transporters.
  • Anticipate and manage congestion and clearance delays.

Course outline

  1. 01Cargo Flow Through the Port
  2. 02Roles of Port Stakeholders
  3. 03Container Clearance Planning
  4. 04Demurrage, Storage and Port Charges
  5. 05Working with Clearing Agents
  6. 06Managing Congestion and Delays
  7. 07Cost Control at the Port

Who should attend

Aimed at import managers, logistics coordinators, buyers and clearing staff who move goods through seaports and inland terminals.

Dates, venues and fees

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendar
17 to 18 Aug 2026Accra2US$1,100
24 to 25 Aug 2026Lusaka2US$1,100
31 Aug to 1 Sep 2026Kigali2US$1,100
7 to 8 Sep 2026Nairobi2US$1,100
14 to 15 Sep 2026Durban2R10,000
21 to 22 Sep 2026Johannesburg2R10,000
5 to 6 Oct 2026Mauritius2US$1,100
12 to 13 Oct 2026Dubai2US$1,100
19 to 20 Oct 2026Lagos2US$1,100
26 to 27 Oct 2026Harare2US$1,100
2 to 3 Nov 2026Kampala2US$1,100
9 to 10 Nov 2026Dar es Salaam2US$1,100
16 to 17 Nov 2026Pretoria2R10,000
23 to 24 Nov 2026Cape Town2R10,000
7 to 8 Dec 2026Online2US$900
14 to 15 Dec 2026Mozambique2US$1,100
21 to 22 Dec 2026Cairo2US$1,100

Fees are per delegate. South African venues are priced in rand; other locations and online in US dollars. Fees exclude 15% VAT where applicable. Group bookings of three or more delegates from the same organisation qualify for a reduced rate; contact us for a quotation.

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