New barge shuttle service provides seamless connection: Onne-Port Harcourt-Onne

Picture caption: The ceremony to mark the inaugural barge call.

A new barge shuttle service now effectively makes Port Harcourt an extension of the West Africa Container Terminal in Onne. Compared to road transfers between Onne and Port Harcourt, it’s cheaper, faster, and more reliable. And with a total of 13 days free storage – offers you additional flexibility in your supply chain.

West Africa Container Terminals and Max Shipping Services of the IBETO group have teamed up to provide this new shuttle service that operates regularly (or on demand for larger requests) between Onne and IBETO Port & Terminal in Port Harcourt, Nigeria’s fifth largest city.

Think of IBETO Port – a secure, fully customs bonded facility – as a conveniently located extension of the West Africa Container Terminal.

Benefits

  • Faster: Average of 3 hours by barge vs 4 by road to Port Harcout
  • Cost Effective: More than NGN 150 cheaper per container compared to road transfers
  • Reduced storage charges: 10 free storage days at WACT in addition to 3 free storage days at IBETO
  • Peace-of-mind: Reduced risk cargo damage or delays due to traffic, accidents or poor road surface
  • Convenience: Less travel time to clear your cargo and close proximity for returning empty containers

Capable of shipping 20 TEUs per barge, the service will operate twice per week, or more frequently depending on demand. For customers with larger quantities, an additional vessel can be brought into service. The barges have full insurance coverage and are fully licensed by the Nigerian Ports Authority. Preliminary pricing has been set at NGN 480,000 for a 20ft container and NGN 693,000 for a 40ft container.

Equipped with modern Container Freight Station facilities, IBETO Port & Terminal can also (de)consolidate your cargo into or out of containers. Imports can be cleared by customs at either WACT or IBETO Port & Terminal, whichever is most convenient for you. Think of the time saved travelling if required to be present for customs clearance. Further time savings can be made by also returning your empty containers to IBETO Port & Terminal.

To make sure your containers all arrive at the same time, the company also offer Import Through Bill of Lading at IBETO Port & Terminal to speed up your logistics.