Navigating modern-day ocean freight — TPi

Global Motion’s Senior Project Manager John Corr shares the challenges facing Ocean Freight and the innovative, sustainable solutions the team are implementing to maintain their record.

Working in freight and logistics, we’ve always had to monitor geopolitical shifts closely, from 9/11 to the Iraq War, each event triggers a ripple effect. But, no past event compares to the widespread and lasting disruption caused by COVID-19. The pandemic reshaped almost every facet of global logistics, forcing us to adapt to unprecedented changes in demand, operational hurdles, and other constraints.

Post-pandemic, the live music industry has thankfully rebounded, but COVID’s legacy remains – a significant increase in supply chain disruptions, and high inflation (touring costs are estimated to have risen by as much as 30%).

The perennial question for us is, “Can we get from a show here on this date to a show there on that date?” Once we’ve confirmed we can, we ask “can we do it economically?” and “can we minimise our environmental impact?” We actively seek ways to shift moves to less fuel-intensive modes of transport, and as a team we’ve reduced the need for aircraft charters by combining road and ocean freight.

Ocean freight generates significantly less CO₂ emissions than air freight – up to 47 times less per ton of cargo transported – we have also found that by utilising alternative ports, we minimise transit times and bring cargo closer to its final destination.

There’s a common misconception that Ocean Freight is less secure than other modes of transport, we apply the same principles to ocean containers as we would when loading tour trucks: ensure the load is balanced and securely strapped.

We’re very hands-on and issue a best practice document for container loading, which minimises equipment risk and ensures compliance with international maritime laws. We’ve also challenged the traditional “return to base” approach by securely storing equipment across regions for extended periods until the tour returns, allowing more flexibility for planning and logistics.

Ocean Freight is notoriously less reliable than air freight, and its dependability has significantly declined since COVID. As a logistics company, we’ve always planned ahead, but this level of unreliablity has prompted a thorough assessment of ocean routes to eliminate any we deem as risky.

From the moment they’re selected, our team tracks suitable routes closely. Vessels are monitored in the weeks leading up to loading and continuously from departure to arrival, allowing for timely interventions. This involves using various tracking tools and insights from shipping experts. For instance, during the Red Sea crisis, we were removing containers within 36 hours before shipping lines fully decided to boycott routes through the Suez Canal and Red Sea.

If the team had waited for clearer information, vessels would have taken longer routes around South Africa, risking stadium show cancellations and potentially disrupting the entire regional tour. Our touring clients rely on us for exactly this blend of forward-thinking and deep industry expertise. For instance, during Ed Sheeran’s tour we encountered issues with an ocean freight service that included multiple stops, so we chartered our own vessel to ensure control over arrival date and consolidating shipments.

There are many variables in our industry, and many things that can and will go wrong, but I can proudly say, Global Motion turns 21 this month, and we’ve never missed a show. We’re a people-led organisation, over the last 12 months, we’ve prioritised investments in developing future talent and education within the freight sector, highlighting the diverse opportunities our industry offers. Global Motion has also committed heavily to educational projects, independently and via the government backed ‘Generation Logistics’ programme. Some of this work includes delivering sessions on STEM in secondary schools, actively promoting interest to freight forwarding as a viable career.

Celebrating over two decades in the industry, we pride ourselves on nurturing talent, promoting industry awareness and investing in innovative solutions. In a rapidly evolving world, Global Motion’s commitment to adaptability, sustainability and education keeps us at the forefront of logistics for the touring sector.

Words: John Corr

Photos: Global Motion

www.globalmotion.com