As Rivermaas sees it, the strength of the network makes the difference in the rapidly changing shipping sector. Vertom Shipmanagement is one of our network partners. They are responsible for the cargo, we are responsible for the cargo ships. The cooperation with Vertom gives commercial management new meaning in shipping.
“It is important for us that we offer our customers good ships to transport their cargoes with. Rivermaas provides an excellent addition to the fleet of about seventy ships that are currently freighted by us. That’s not only because of the ships and the tonnage, but also because of the knowledge, experience and service offered by Rivermaas,” says Dave Venstra, operator of Vertom.
“Of course we are highly dependent on all kinds of factors, such as oil prices. But our network lets us ensure a proper flow of loading orders, based on various contacts. We also stand out clearly in making sure that ships are unloaded rapidly and go to the port of loading quickly after unloading. There they receive cargo again, after which they’ll sail off quickly.”
“If costs have to be incurred, for instance for cleaning the ship or for overtime, which may occur now and then, we have to discuss it with Rivermaas, of course. And if the ship literally gets into stormy waters, then the owner of the cargo would like to know that too. It’s because we cooperate well with Rivermaas that we can find solutions that benefit all parties and that we can communicate quickly with all parties involved,” explains Venstra.
“Of course, if you’re transporting a bulk cargo of scrap metal, other requirements apply than for a cargo of rice. The hold must be very clean for rice. It is in principle the responsibility of the shipping company, but ultimately our name will be at stake too. Two-way trust is therefore important,” says Venstra as he sketches out the daily challenge in the operation.
The fact that one of the offices of Rivermaas is in a Vertom building in Rhoon helps, of course. “We can simply pop across into each other’s offices, and if you know each other well, you’re more likely to come up with ideas and solutions that make the difference. It’s reassuring for Rivermaas that we make sure there are cargoes for the ships. And it’s reassuring for us to know that the cargoes are in good hands with Rivermaas.”
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