Transport Contractor

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Transport Contractors keep the wheels of the economy and society rolling. They transport goods and people at a fee. These Transport Contractors can operate on an international scale. A good example is haulage companies that transport merchandise from South African harbours and factories across Africa. Taxi Operators can also be seen as Transport Contractors. The same apply to small companies and individuals that operate one or more vehicles to transport smaller loads of merchandise to shops in the rural areas. These operators may also transport garden refuse or building material to and from building sites.

To operate as a Transport Contractor one has to own a reliable, properly licensed roadworthy vehicle as well as personnel to handle the loading and off-loading of cargo. The operator is normally responsible for driving the vehicle but sometimes employs suitable qualified drivers. The Transport Contractor needs to have a proper knowledge of the transport business because over quoting can easily see him or her dropping out of this competitive business. Under quoting can be equally dangerous. The Transport Contractor has to make provision for unforeseen expenses such as breakage. He or she must also insure the vehicle against accidents, theft and hijacking.