Gloria Sewor

By Gloria Sewor

Let’s be honest—labeling doesn’t usually make headlines in logistics conversations. It’s often tucked away in the corner, quietly humming along while everyone focuses on containers, trucks, tariffs, and timelines.

But the truth is, if your labeling system is sloppy, everything else—no matter how sophisticated—starts to fall apart.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, here in Ghana, we’ve seen just how much labeling (or the lack of it) can affect speed, accuracy, and overall flow in warehousing and freight operations. It’s one of those things that seems small—until you’re dealing with a misrouted container or can’t match an invoice to a pallet because two cartons had missing tags.

So, let’s talk about labeling systems—not the buzzword kind, but the practical, real-world stuff that helps businesses stay sane.

It’s More Than Just a Sticker

Labeling isn’t about sticking a piece of paper on a box. It’s about creating clarity—in an environment that’s often chaotic, fast-moving, and packed with risk.

Think of a warehouse processing inbound goods from three different countries, each with its own supplier codes, packaging formats, and documentation styles. Without a consistent, well-thought-out labeling system, even experienced handlers will struggle.

We once handled a multi-country import where five suppliers were delivering identical components for a single project. Only one supplier followed a clear labeling protocol—item codes, quantity, batch number, destination. The others? Random scribbles. That job took three times longer to reconcile than it should have.

That’s when it really hit us: labeling doesn’t just make things easier—it saves time, prevents error, and protects your bottom line.

How Labels Influence Flow

Let’s unpack that word—flow.

In logistics, flow means movement without interruption. It’s what every supply chain manager dreams of. But even something as simple as a misread label can break that rhythm.

Here’s how:

Inbound delays: Missing or unreadable labels force teams to stop and investigate.

Storage issues: Incorrect labeling causes wrong placement, leading to lost time during retrieval.

Shipping errors: Wrong product, wrong customer—simply because the label didn’t match the manifest.

Returns and disputes: Clients will question discrepancies—and often, the error began with the label.

So, when labeling is tight, flow improves. And when it’s sloppy, well… everything slows down.

Building a Labeling System That Works

You don’t need a million-dollar software system to get labeling right. What you need is clarity, consistency, and training.

Here are a few practices we follow:

Standardize label formats across vendors, warehouses, and transport teams.

Include essential fields—like SKU, quantity, unit of measure, batch number, and final destination.

Use barcodes or QR codes when possible, especially for items moving across multiple touchpoints.

Place labels in consistent spots on packaging. It avoids the all-too-common “spin-the-box” routine.

Train everyone—from warehouse loaders to delivery drivers—to understand label formats and flag anomalies.

It’s basic stuff. But when applied consistently, the results are anything but basic.

A Label Is a Communication Tool

Here’s another way to think of it: a label is a message.

It tells the warehouse what to store. It tells customs what’s inside. It tells the dispatcher where it’s going. It even tells the customer what they’ve received.

So if that message is unclear—or missing—it’s like playing logistics telephone with a bad connection. Misunderstandings multiply. That’s why labeling systems aren’t just operational—they’re strategic.

Ghana’s Growing Trade Network Needs Stronger Labeling

As Ghana continues to grow as a logistics hub in West Africa, the complexity of its freight landscape is increasing. Cross-border e-commerce, agricultural exports, donor-funded projects—all of them require faster throughput and greater accuracy.

Labeling, in this context, isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a must.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve started working with clients to integrate smarter labeling protocols into their supply chains. Not high-tech for the sake of it—just solid systems that work. In one case, switching to scannable labels cut their picking errors in half. That’s not just a stat. That’s money saved. That’s customer trust earned.

Sharing Ideas on a Global Stage

It’s because of solutions like these—small but powerful—that we’re proud to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

This event isn’t just about prestige. It’s a gathering of people asking big questions: How can logistics become smarter? How do we create opportunity in a volatile trade environment? What details—like labeling—deserve more attention?

We’re excited to join that conversation. Because we believe even something as humble as a label can shape the future of logistics.

Final Thought

There are no shortcuts in logistics. But there are quiet helpers.

Labeling is one of them. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t dazzle. But when it’s done right, everything moves better—faster, cleaner, and with fewer mistakes.

By Gloria Sewor

Time-sensitive cargo is like a ticking clock. You feel it in your gut.

Whether it’s fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, machinery for a project deadline, or temperature-controlled goods—delays at customs aren’t just inconvenient. They’re dangerous. They can cost sales, compromise quality, or throw entire schedules into disarray.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based here in Ghana, we’ve worked with a variety of clients handling time-sensitive shipments. And while every shipment has its own challenges, we’ve learned that customs management is often the pressure point. That’s where time is gained—or lost.

So here are a few hard-earned tips from our side. No magic bullets, just small insights that make a big difference.

1. Submit Documents Before the Cargo Lands

You’d be surprised how often importers still wait until the vessel arrives before starting clearance.

But Ghana’s customs system—via ICUMS—supports pre-arrival processing. That means you can submit all documents, make declarations, and even complete parts of the clearance before the cargo hits the port.

We had a medical supplies client who used to face week-long clearance times. After we helped them shift to a pre-clearance approach, we got that down to under 48 hours in most cases. That saved inventory, reputation, and cost.

So, if your cargo is time-critical: pre-arrival is non-negotiable.

2. Know Your HS Codes Inside Out

Misclassification is one of the most common causes of delay.

One wrong code—even if unintentional—can trigger red flags, inspections, or even seizure. For time-sensitive goods, every minute counts. You want those goods routed through the green or yellow channel, not red.

Double-checking the HS codes with your freight forwarder (or the right customs consultant) before submission is a small task that can save hours—sometimes days.

3. Work with a Broker Who Has Real Experience with Urgent Goods

Not all customs brokers are the same.

Time-sensitive cargo needs a broker who knows how to fast-track submissions, who has relationships with port and customs officials, and who can act quickly when something unexpected pops up.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve built internal escalation pathways specifically for urgent freight. It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about staying alert and keeping momentum.

We once cleared a food shipment meant for a retail launch within 36 hours, start to finish. That only happened because the broker understood the urgency and stayed on-site until release.

4. Have Backups Ready (Even for Documents)

In customs, it’s not unusual for systems to go down. Or for a document to be inexplicably unreadable. Or missing a signature. Or… well, you get the idea.

For time-sensitive cargo, we always advise clients to:

Keep digital and hard copies of all documents

Have alternate contact points for issuing authorities

Maintain a ‘clearance checklist’ and update it regularly

You don’t want to be chasing a copy of your bill of lading while your goods sit in a container yard on a Friday afternoon.

5. Pay Duties and Levies Promptly

This seems obvious—but delays often occur after customs release, simply because payments weren’t made in time.

Customs won't move until all duties, taxes, and handling fees are paid. So even if you get everything else right, a lag on the payment front can undo all that progress.

Automate where you can. Assign payment roles clearly. And if possible, pre-fund your clearing agent if you fully trust them—it avoids bottlenecks.

6. Use a Freight Partner with Real-Time Tracking

Once the goods are cleared, the clock’s still ticking. Especially for perishable or high-value goods.

A freight forwarding partner that provides real-time tracking and updates ensures you’re not guessing whether your cargo is en route, held at gate, or stuck at a checkpoint. It reduces uncertainty and helps you manage customer expectations better.

This visibility is part of how we build trust with our clients. It doesn’t speed up customs directly—but it reduces panic. And that matters.

A Note on Recognition

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, from Ghana, is humbled to be nominated for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London.

It’s more than an award ceremony—it’s a place where logistics professionals, business leaders, and innovators gather to rethink the way global trade works. To share solutions, build partnerships, and co-create in a world that’s constantly shifting.

We’re proud to contribute. And we hope to bring some of these customs insights into that global dialogue.

Final Thought

Time-sensitive cargo doesn’t forgive errors.

But with the right preparation, partnerships, and mindset, customs clearance doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, when it’s done right, it can be… surprisingly smooth.

By Gloria Sewor

There’s a unique kind of pressure that comes with moving cargo for exhibitions or large-scale events.

Unlike routine imports or exports, these aren’t just shipments—they’re deadlines carved in stone. There’s no room for delay. No fallback date. If the goods don’t arrive on time, the opportunity evaporates. And in logistics, that kind of risk turns everything up a notch.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based here in Ghana, we’ve managed logistics for a number of exhibitions, government-hosted trade fairs, and product showcase events. And I’ll be honest—no matter how experienced the team is, there’s always that heightened energy when coordinating these kinds of moves.

Because it’s not just about delivery. It’s about precision, visibility, and flawless timing.

It Starts with Understanding the Bigger Picture

One thing we’ve learned? You can’t treat event logistics like normal freight jobs. The planning has to start earlier. Much earlier.

Exhibitions, especially international ones, have layers:

Venue regulations

Customs clearance tied to fixed event windows

Temporary import procedures

Installation timelines and security checks

We once supported a local technology startup sending a demo booth to a conference in Côte d'Ivoire. Their setup was simple—but getting it there on time meant navigating not only cross-border transport but also event-specific entry slots at the venue, customs bond paperwork, and coordination with the on-site logistics team in Abidjan.

And it wasn’t even a huge exhibit. Just a handful of equipment crates and materials. But the logistics? That part was complex.

Customs Clearance for Temporary Imports

This is where many exhibitors stumble.

If the items you're shipping are meant to return home after the event, you don’t always pay the same duties and taxes as you would for a full import. But you still need to follow a strict process—often involving temporary admission permits or bonded guarantees.

It’s a mouthful. And honestly, it can feel overly bureaucratic.

But when you get it wrong, the delays can be brutal. Or worse—your goods could be held beyond the event dates. That’s why we always recommend working with logistics partners who have prior experience handling trade shows and expos.

We’ve helped several Ghanaian SMEs exhibit in international pavilions by managing this exact process—from documentation to on-the-ground coordination. It’s not glamorous work. But it’s what makes the event presence possible.

Timing is Everything (Really, Everything)

With exhibition logistics, the timeline isn't flexible. Unlike retail shipments, you can’t negotiate a delivery window. It has to land, pass clearance, get delivered, and be installed by a hard deadline.

Take one misstep—say, a missed document upload or a delayed pre-clearance—and everything slips. We saw this happen to a company (not ours, thankfully) that shipped promo stands for an international auto show. Their cargo arrived on time… but got flagged at customs for incomplete temporary import documents.

The result? The stands didn’t make it to the floor. And the brand missed their launch window.

That story has stuck with us ever since. It's a reminder that in this space, logistics isn’t in the background—it’s front and center.

Onsite Logistics: The Forgotten Layer

Getting the goods to the venue is only half the journey.

Once inside, there’s often another logistical layer:

Coordinating with the event setup team

Ensuring lift equipment is available (especially for large exhibits)

Managing last-minute changes

Assisting with repackaging and re-export at the end

For one regional agri-trade expo in Accra, we provided end-to-end support for several exhibitors—from arrival to booth setup, and later, dismantling and outbound shipment. We didn’t just move cargo. We stayed on-site, liaised with event coordinators, and solved real-time issues.

It reminded us how important presence is. Not just delivery, but hands-on assistance when it matters most.

Why We Care About These Projects

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, projects like these push us to think more creatively, plan more deeply, and anticipate better.

They’re not high-volume like consumer imports or heavy freight. But they carry weight in another way—they represent businesses at their most visible moments. A trade show is a chance to be seen, to pitch new products, to expand globally.

And logistics is the silent force that either enables or sabotages that.

That’s why we take these jobs personally.

A Moment of Global Recognition

This November, we’re honored that PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, from Ghana, has been nominated for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London.

It’s not just about winning. It’s about gathering with industry leaders, policy shapers, and business innovators to explore how global trade can become smarter, faster, and more equitable.

These awards aren’t just recognition—they’re a forum. A space for dialogue, new partnerships, and shared challenges. We’re proud to contribute, to listen, and to bring our experience to a global conversation.

Final Thought

Exhibition logistics may not be glamorous, but it’s essential.

When done right, no one notices. The booth is ready, the lights work, the products are in place. But when something fails—everyone notices.

That’s the paradox of good logistics: invisibility is the goal.

By Gloria Sewor

There’s something different about being in a room full of people who understand your world.

Not just the challenges—those are easy to list—but the nuance. The tiny victories, the daily friction, the way a well-executed clearance can feel like a triumph. That’s what trade shows and logistics events offer. Not just platforms, but shared language. Connection.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, these gatherings have become part of how we grow. Not just in visibility, but in understanding where the logistics world is headed. They expose us to new technologies, regulatory shifts, emerging trade lanes, and frankly—new ways of thinking. We come back sharper every time.

So, I thought I’d share a few of the events that have had the most impact on us. The ones we either attend regularly, speak at, or keep close tabs on—because they matter.

1. Multimodal West Africa – Lagos, Nigeria

Held annually in Lagos, this event has grown into one of the region’s most important logistics and transport expos. It brings together freight forwarders, transport professionals, port operators, and trade officials from across West Africa.

What we love most is the cross-border focus. Ghanaian businesses don’t operate in isolation—we move goods across ECOWAS corridors daily. So, this platform gives us a chance to meet our counterparts, align on process challenges, and explore joint ventures.

2. FIATA World Congress

Organized by the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations, this event moves around the world—but its relevance is constant.

We attended when it was held in Africa and continue to engage virtually when needed. The insights from global freight leaders are profound—topics like sustainability, automation, and legal harmonization that affect even the smallest forwarders.

Plus, it gives us a peek at how global players see Africa’s evolving role in trade—a perspective that helps us reposition our services at PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED accordingly.

3. Africa Supply Chain in Action (ASCA)

A newer but rapidly rising pan-African conference, ASCA focuses more on strategy than hardware. Here, it’s less about containers and more about thought leadership.

This is where discussions happen about trade facilitation, digital corridors, women in logistics, and the future of regional warehousing.

As someone who believes strongly in mentoring young professionals (and advocating for more diverse leadership in logistics), I find ASCA especially valuable. It’s not loud. But it’s thoughtful.

4. Transport Evolution Africa – Durban, South Africa

Yes, it’s a long trip. But it’s worth it.

This trade show is focused on infrastructure—rail, roads, ports. And since logistics depends on all three, we attend to stay informed about continental trends.

It’s also where policy meets practice. Ministers, private companies, and development banks all share the same space. And once you understand what’s being planned in southern corridors, you begin to rethink how northern routes—like Tema to Bamako—might evolve in parallel.

5. Go Global Awards – London, UK (2025)

This one is particularly special.

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED is honored to be a nominee at the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London on November 18–19, 2025.

But it’s not just about accolades. The Go Global Awards aren’t a ceremony—they’re a global gathering of minds. CEOs, trade advisors, government reps, and entrepreneurs all sit at the same table. Conversations span investment, innovation, partnerships, and navigating the unknowns of a world still adjusting post-pandemic.

We’re incredibly proud to represent Ghana at this forum—and more importantly, to listen, learn, and share our journey alongside global peers.

Why These Events Matter

Attending these events isn’t just about networking or trend-spotting. It’s about broadening your lens.

When you're deeply focused on daily operations—clearing shipments, routing trucks, managing warehouse shifts—it’s easy to lose sight of the larger picture. Trade shows snap us out of that bubble. They challenge assumptions.

More than once, we’ve walked away from a panel discussion or vendor demo with a new idea that changed how we do business. Maybe not drastically. But meaningfully.

Final Thought

Not every event needs to be big. Sometimes the most valuable insights come from a quiet booth conversation. Or a panel you didn’t plan to attend. Or meeting someone who’s solving the exact same challenge you thought was unique.

And maybe that’s what I’ve come to value most about these gatherings. They remind us that logistics is a global conversation, even when we’re focused locally.

By Gloria Sewor

Let’s be honest—importing goods into Ghana is not always the smoothest ride.

You prepare everything. Documents are in order. The vessel arrives. And somehow… your container is still sitting in port three days later. Or stuck at the gate waiting for clearance. Or worse, caught in a queue that no one seems able to explain.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve helped clients through every variation of this scenario. And over time, we’ve learned that there are small, practical hacks—some obvious, some not—that can save importers hours, even days. Sometimes, they also save you from entirely avoidable headaches.

So, here’s a list. Not official advice, necessarily. More like… things we’ve picked up along the way.

1. Start the Clearance Process Before Arrival

Yes, you can wait until the cargo arrives. But if you do, you’ll likely lose time.

We always recommend pre-clearance—submitting documentation to customs before the ship docks. It’s possible now with Ghana’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), though many importers still don’t take full advantage of it.

In one recent case, we shaved 48 hours off a client’s clearance time just by having their Form M and manifest submitted while the cargo was still at sea.

Simple. But powerful.

2. Build a Relationship with Your Freight Forwarder

This one sounds soft, but it matters.

A good freight forwarder isn’t just a middleman. They’re your frontline partner. The one watching shipment delays, chasing documents, talking to port officials when things stall.

We’ve seen importers slow themselves down by switching agents every shipment, or by keeping relationships transactional. But when your forwarder knows your business, they can anticipate things—like which HS codes get red-flagged, or which warehouse gate tends to be slower at certain times.

One of our long-term clients—a small machinery importer—once told us, “It’s not just what you do. It’s that I don’t have to keep explaining myself every month.”

3. Group Shipments When You Can

Consolidation isn’t always possible. But when it is, it can reduce customs paperwork, lower costs, and minimize processing time.

Instead of importing two containers a week apart, why not combine them into one larger shipment, if your supplier allows it? Fewer documents. One clearance cycle. Less waiting.

Of course, it depends on your product shelf life, cash flow, and storage. But it’s worth discussing.

4. Know Your HS Codes—and Double-Check Them

We’ve seen clearances delayed entirely because of incorrect Harmonized System (HS) codes. Or sometimes, mismatched descriptions that flag inspections.

Learning your main codes and checking how they’ve been used in the past can save time. If you’re unsure, ask your forwarder—or even PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED—to review them before submission.

It’s one of those details that seems small until it causes a full hold-up.

5. Avoid Peak Port Times if You Can

Easier said than done, I know. But certain times of year—like the run-up to December—create congestion at Tema Port.

If you have flexibility with your suppliers, consider scheduling shipments just before or after those windows. Your goods won’t sit waiting in a container stack, and trucking delays will be less intense.

We’ve seen clients build entire planning calendars around this principle, and their consistency shows.

6. Keep a Go-Bag of Essential Docs

Sounds a bit dramatic, but hear me out.

Too often, we see delays because the importer couldn’t produce one specific document quickly—a missing invoice copy, or an outdated insurance cert.

Keep a digital folder, synced to your phone or email, with:

Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

Business registration docs

Valid import license (if applicable)

Past invoices and certificates

Customs codes you frequently use

You’d be surprised how often being the fastest to respond is the thing that moves your cargo first.

7. Talk to Other Importers

This one’s rarely mentioned.

Yes, some importers guard their processes. But others are open. Ask how they manage timelines. What mistakes they’ve made. Who they trust. What tools they use.

There’s wisdom in the community. Especially for SMEs. And sometimes, you learn hacks that never appear in manuals.

8. Lean on Tech—Even If It Feels Uncomfortable

Whether it’s using tracking apps, document automation, or customs e-platforms like ICUMS, embracing the tools now available can dramatically shorten delays.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve digitized our internal workflow so that clients get real-time updates. It removes guesswork and, importantly, it keeps everyone accountable.

Even if you prefer the paper route, try starting with just one small tool—a document tracking system, or cargo alerts via SMS. Small changes add up.

Looking Ahead

This year, our team at PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, is proud to be nominated for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

The awards are more than recognition. They’re a global forum for businesses like ours—logistics providers, freight handlers, trade enablers—to connect, share knowledge, and build smarter systems for tomorrow. We're honored to be part of that dialogue.

Final Thought

Importing will always come with friction. Some delays are unavoidable. But many aren’t.

With a few practical tweaks—better timing, stronger partnerships, clearer documentation—you can take hours (even days) off your shipping process.

By Gloria Sewor

Let’s start with something simple: not all tracking is created equal.

For years, we’ve all used the word “GPS” to mean… well, knowing where something is. And yes, that’s still true. But lately, in the logistics world—especially in road freight—there’s been growing talk about telematics.

Now, some might use the two terms interchangeably. I used to do the same. But once we started upgrading parts of our fleet at PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, it became clear: GPS and telematics aren’t the same thing. They serve different purposes. And for modern logistics, especially in fast-developing markets like ours, knowing the difference actually matters.

So… What is GPS, Really?

Most of us know GPS as the system that shows your location on a map.

In trucking, GPS helps you:

Track where a truck is on its route

Estimate arrival times

Prevent route deviations

Recover vehicles if they go missing

It’s reliable. It works. And for basic fleet oversight, it’s often enough.

But here’s the catch—it only tells you where something is. It doesn’t tell you what’s happening with that thing.

Enter Telematics

Telematics is the bigger picture. Think of it as GPS… with a brain and a memory.

Telematics combines location tracking with vehicle data. That includes:

Fuel consumption

Engine performance

Driver behavior (harsh braking, speeding, idling)

Temperature control (crucial for perishables)

Maintenance alerts

It’s like having a dashboard for every truck, available remotely. You’re not just watching where the truck goes—you’re monitoring how it’s being driven, how the vehicle is performing, and even how the cargo inside is holding up.

A Quick Analogy

If GPS is like a compass telling you where the truck is headed, telematics is more like an airline cockpit—monitoring altitude, engine status, fuel, speed, everything. It gives a complete picture, not just the position on a map.

Real-World Impact: A Story from Our Fleet

We had a refrigerated shipment of poultry en route to Tamale. The GPS showed the truck on time. All good, right?

But our telematics system flagged a gradual rise in cargo temperature. Turns out, the cooling unit had developed a fault—something the driver hadn’t noticed.

Because we caught it early, we rerouted the cargo to a closer cold facility and sent a replacement truck. The poultry stayed safe, and the client never experienced a delay.

Without telematics, that would’ve been a quiet disaster.

Driver Behavior and Road Safety

In Ghana, where road conditions can shift quickly—potholes, unexpected rain, even livestock crossings—driver behavior matters a lot.

Telematics helps us identify:

Excessive speeding in urban areas

Dangerous lane changes

Long idle times that waste fuel

Braking patterns that could wear out parts faster

We don’t use it to penalize drivers. Actually, we use it to support them—offering coaching, bonuses for safe driving, and real feedback. It's helped us build a culture of awareness, not just compliance.

Cost Efficiency: The Hidden Bonus

We also noticed fuel usage dropped by 12% after we began using telematics data to fine-tune routes and driver habits.

And with maintenance alerts sent automatically, we’ve avoided several roadside breakdowns—saving hours in lost time and thousands in towing and emergency repairs.

In logistics, sometimes the best wins aren’t dramatic. They’re the ones that quietly keep things running.

Beyond the Tech: What It Means for Clients

Clients today don’t just want to know where their goods are. They want:

Real-time updates

Proof of safe handling

Delivery confidence

Fewer excuses

When we explain to a client that we monitor vehicle health, cargo temperature, driver behavior, and route integrity, it builds trust. It’s not about tech—it’s about reliability.

A Broader Conversation on Innovation

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED is proud to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted in London by the International Trade Council.

This event isn’t just about who’s performing well. It’s a rare chance to connect with peers from around the world—to learn, share, and explore how businesses are adapting to a world that’s moving faster than ever.

Telematics, for us, isn’t about being flashy. It’s about being ready for what’s next—and doing our part to elevate logistics standards across Ghana and beyond.

Final Thought

So yes, GPS tells you where. But telematics tells you everything else.

And in today’s freight world, especially in regions where variables can change on a dime, that “everything else” can make the difference between a smooth delivery and a very expensive phone call.

By Gloria Sewor

Let’s be honest. Port-side operations can feel like a blur.

Massive cranes, container stacks, impatient truck drivers, ground staff in reflective vests darting between trailers—everything moving, everything noisy. There’s a rhythm to it, yes, but also real risk. Because in logistics, it’s not just about moving goods. It’s about moving them safely.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based right here in Ghana, we treat cargo offloading with the respect it deserves. Not because it looks impressive (it doesn’t, really), but because that’s where some of the most critical mistakes can happen—ones that affect both human lives and client trust.

So what does “safe” offloading actually mean? Let’s unpack that. And perhaps also remind ourselves why it matters more than most people realize.

First, Safety Isn’t Just Physical

When we say safety, most people think of hard hats and steel boots—and yes, those matter. But safety goes beyond PPE.

We look at safety in four layers:

Personnel safety – keeping ground crews and drivers out of harm’s way

Cargo integrity – preventing damage during lifts or transfers

Equipment readiness – making sure gear isn’t the problem

Communication – because confusion is where most mistakes begin

That last one? It's the quiet killer. A missing hand signal. A misunderstood radio call. One assumption made in the middle of a busy offload. And suddenly, cargo is compromised—or worse, someone’s injured.

The Controlled Chaos of Offloading

If you’ve ever stood next to a ship while containers are being offloaded, you’ll know—there’s not much room for error. Cranes are precise but unforgiving. Forklifts have limited visibility. And people… well, people get distracted.

We run operations in Tema, and on some days, the pressure is immense. A ship arrives late. Weather is turning. Everyone wants their goods now.

That’s where systems kick in.

We follow what we call the 3Cs before any offload begins:

Check the manifest and equipment

Communicate roles and procedures clearly

Control the environment (lighting, signals, barriers)

Simple? Maybe. But skipping any one of these? That’s when incidents creep in.

Case Study: A Near Miss That Taught Us Everything

A few years ago, we were offloading medical containers for an NGO shipment at the port. Nothing out of the ordinary—until one of the straps securing a crate slipped mid-lift.

The crate didn’t fall. But it shifted enough to panic the team. For a split second, things could’ve gone very wrong.

Turns out, the strap had been looped in a hurry. The handler was experienced, but tired. We reviewed the footage. It was all preventable.

Since then, we implemented mandatory rest gaps between long offloading shifts. Slower? Slightly. But safer? Absolutely. And clients have never complained.

Because they’d rather wait an extra 30 minutes than lose a million cedis in damaged goods—or worse, be part of a headline.

Equipment Doesn’t Think—So We Have To

We often rely on machines—cranes, forklifts, pallet jacks—to do the heavy lifting. But machines follow input. They don’t think. People do.

That’s why we double-inspect equipment before each job:

Are brake systems responsive?

Are hooks, slings, and latches worn down?

Is the surface stable and dry?

In one instance, a faulty forklift nearly led to a container misalignment. We caught it because a junior staffer—barely three weeks on the job—flagged a weird noise.

We listened. We checked. She was right.

Sometimes, safety is as much about empowering your team to speak up as it is about policies.

Ghana’s Port Environment: Challenges and Solutions

Working in Ghana, we’ve got unique conditions to manage. Weather is unpredictable. Infrastructure isn’t always perfect. And port congestion is very real.

So we adapt.

We create buffer schedules when rain is expected

We work closely with port authorities to stagger offloading windows

We ensure that storm drains and slope angles are factored into cargo staging zones

It’s the kind of thinking that only comes from experience. From being on the ground. From knowing the rhythm of your environment.

Joining the Global Conversation on Safety

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED is proud to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

It’s more than a title. It’s a space where logistics leaders—those who build systems, solve problems, and care deeply about getting things right—come together to rethink how business is done.

We’re honored to be included. And as Ghana’s logistics sector grows, we know we’ll have something valuable to contribute. Especially in how we treat safety—not as an afterthought, but as a starting point.

Final Thought

Cargo offloading isn’t glamorous. It’s not what clients celebrate. But it’s where their goods first touch land—and their trust hangs in the balance.

So every lift, every hand signal, every shift change… it matters.

By Gloria Sewor

We often hear the word “resilience” tossed around in logistics circles. It's become one of those buzzwords—like “sustainable” or “agile”—that people nod along to without really unpacking what it means.

But when you're the one responsible for getting cargo from a supplier in Europe to a warehouse in Accra, through storms, strikes, delays, or port congestion... resilience stops being a concept. It becomes a test.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we've had our share of those tests. Some passed cleanly. Others—well, we learned. And what we’ve come to understand is that resilience isn’t about having backup plans. It’s about building systems that bend without breaking.

So what actually makes a logistics operation resilient? It's a mix of things, and not all of them are easy to measure.

1. Redundancy Without Waste

Let’s start with the obvious—having backups. Alternative routes. Multiple vendors. Secondary ports. Extra warehouse space.

But here’s where it gets tricky: too much redundancy, and you’re bloated. Too little, and you're fragile.

We’ve seen clients rely on a single transport partner for years. Everything was smooth—until that partner had a truck shortage mid-peak season. Shipments sat idle for days.

Now? We build in options. Maybe not fully parallel systems, but at least fallback layers. A second bonded warehouse. A third-party haulier on call. It’s about having choices when the unexpected hits.

2. Teams That Think on Their Feet

You can write the best SOPs in the world—but the moment something breaks, it’s people who solve the problem.

One morning, we had a container of pharmaceutical goods stuck at the port because of a sudden regulatory change. Not our fault, but still our problem. Our customs broker walked straight into the regulator’s office, explained the urgency, and helped draft the clarification memo that unlocked dozens of similar shipments—not just ours.

That’s not in any manual. That’s resilience powered by people.

3. Visibility and Communication

Resilience isn’t only about what you can control—it’s about how quickly you know something’s wrong.

We use tracking tools, yes. But more than that, we emphasize communication. Quick updates when something feels “off.” Photos from the warehouse floor. Temperature logs sent daily for sensitive cargo. It’s not fancy, but it keeps us in the loop. And when something starts to wobble, we catch it early.

We’d rather say “There might be a delay” than “There’s been a delay.” That little difference… it adds up.

4. Understanding the Local Context

This is particularly true in Ghana, where logistics is affected not just by infrastructure, but by weather, regional regulations, even election seasons.

You can’t apply a system designed for Germany and expect it to work flawlessly here. You have to know which roads flood in the rainy season, which border posts slow down mid-month, which regional depot actually has staff on weekends.

This “local resilience”—the kind that comes from experience rather than theory—is one of our greatest strengths at PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED.

5. Learning from Small Failures

Every resilient operation has scars. Missed deadlines. Botched consolidations. Clients who left, or nearly did.

But the trick is what you do after.

We once had a food shipment held at the border due to an overlooked transit permit. It was our responsibility, and it cost the client a week. After that, we rewrote our internal checklist for cross-border shipments—made it more visual, easier to follow, harder to skip steps.

It hasn’t happened again. That’s what resilience looks like—not perfection, but adaptation.

Why This Conversation Matters Globally

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based right here in Ghana, has been nominated for the 2025 Go Global Awards, taking place in London this November.

Now, this isn’t just another ceremony. It’s a gathering of industry leaders, thinkers, and disruptors from across continents. People who’ve built businesses in challenging environments and kept them running through unpredictable conditions.

Being part of this event means being part of a much bigger conversation—about how businesses stay relevant, connected, and resilient in a world that’s changing faster than we can plan for.

We’re proud to be included in that dialogue.

Final Thought

Resilience isn’t flashy. It’s the quiet confidence that says: “We’ve seen worse. We’re ready.”

It doesn’t mean nothing ever goes wrong. It means when it does, you have the clarity, tools, and people to deal with it.

And maybe that’s the real lesson: resilience doesn’t always look like strength. Sometimes, it just looks like persistence. A team that shows up, adapts, and keeps moving forward.

By Gloria Sewor

Medical logistics doesn’t come with a second chance.

Whether it’s vaccines, surgical equipment, or antimalarial drugs, the margin for error is razor-thin. A few degrees off in temperature, an hour too long in customs, or one missed document—any of these can make a shipment unusable. And unlike other cargo, there’s often a human consequence attached.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that transporting pharmaceuticals isn’t about just moving boxes. It’s about precision, timing, and care.

And in Ghana, where the demand for quality healthcare delivery continues to grow, the need for dependable medical logistics is only becoming more urgent.

A Different Kind of Cargo

Medical and pharmaceutical shipments are unlike other freight in several important ways:

Time-sensitive: Some drugs and supplies have expiry windows so tight, even a short delay can lead to rejection.

Temperature-controlled: Cold chain integrity is non-negotiable. A broken cold chain often means wasted inventory.

Highly regulated: Customs clearance for medical goods involves extra paperwork, permits, and often, verification from health authorities.

High-stakes: A delay in a shipment of blood bags or diagnostic kits can derail entire hospital programs or outreach campaigns.

You don’t just plan these shipments. You choreograph them.

The Systems We Put in Place

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, supporting pharmaceutical and medical logistics means being proactive on multiple levels. Here’s how we handle it:

1. Cold Chain Management

We work closely with partners who provide temperature-controlled containers—refrigerated trucks, insulated pallet boxes, and, where needed, gel-packed cartons for last-mile delivery.

We also monitor temperature using data loggers or IoT sensors, allowing us to verify the cold chain remained intact throughout transit. There’s no room for guessing.

2. Rapid Customs Clearance

Pharmaceuticals can’t wait for slow clearance. We pre-process documentation before the shipment even arrives at the port. That includes obtaining the necessary permits from Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and securing exemptions or fast-track approvals when applicable.

For one recent government consignment of pediatric medicines, our customs brokers coordinated with port health officers to ensure real-time clearance. From touchdown to warehouse, it took less than 24 hours.

3. Secure Warehousing

We offer bonded warehouse options with temperature-controlled storage zones—ideal for medicines awaiting distribution or quality inspections.

Our facilities near Kotoka International Airport allow for quick access and safe short-term holding while last-mile delivery is arranged. Especially useful for donor-funded medical shipments entering the country.

4. Trained Handling Staff

Moving medicine is not like moving paper or electronics. Our staff are trained to follow Good Distribution Practice (GDP) standards—wearing gloves when necessary, avoiding unnecessary exposure, and documenting every transfer of custody.

Case Study: Rural Vaccine Distribution

A real-world example: In late 2023, we supported a major vaccination rollout in partnership with a public health NGO. The vaccines needed to move from Accra to six regions, including some of Ghana’s most remote districts.

With limited cold storage in those areas, we had to build a mobile distribution plan—using insulated vans and trained couriers who could deliver doses directly to clinics within set temperature windows.

Delays would’ve compromised the entire batch.

It wasn’t easy. Roads washed out. One freezer truck broke down mid-route. But we adapted, rerouted, and finished delivery within 72 hours. That program reached over 50,000 children.

It’s something I still think about.

Proud to Share Our Story Globally

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, is a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

The event isn’t just a celebration—it’s a global exchange of ideas. Businesses from around the world, sharing innovations, solving shared challenges, and forging partnerships across borders. For us, it's a chance to learn from others and also to showcase how African logistics companies are stepping up—not just commercially, but in areas like healthcare and community well-being.

We’re honored to be part of it.

Final Thought

Medical logistics isn’t glamorous. It’s quiet, precise, and full of pressure.

But when you get it right, lives are improved—or even saved. That’s why we treat every shipment of medicine, every crate of supplies, as something far more than freight. It’s responsibility. It’s trust.

By Gloria Sewor

Let’s be honest—no one gets excited about customs paperwork.

It’s one of those things everyone knows is important, but no one really wants to deal with. And yet, buried inside that pile of forms, codes, and signatures are some of the biggest risks a business can face in global trade.

Get it right, and your shipment moves like clockwork. Get it wrong, and you’re staring at delays, penalties, inspections—or worse, seizure.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve seen both sides. The flawless clears. And the ones that could’ve been avoided, if just one detail had been caught earlier. That’s why, over the years, we’ve developed an approach to customs clearance that isn’t just about speed. It’s about risk management.

Because logistics is more than movement. It’s decision-making under uncertainty.

Where the Risk Really Lives

Most people think risk in logistics is about damaged cargo or missed delivery dates. But a surprising amount of risk hides in the paperwork:

Misclassified goods (wrong HS codes)

Incomplete or inconsistent invoices

Missing permits or licenses

Incorrect declared values

Poorly described packaging

Non-alignment with the latest regulations

Sometimes, these are honest mistakes. A client may not know that a simple misstep—like putting “cosmetics” instead of “plant-based skin cream with essential oils”—can trigger a customs query. Other times, it’s outdated templates or reused documents from past shipments that don’t reflect new rules.

We once helped a small tech importer who’d misclassified a shipment of smart meters. Customs flagged it for “telecommunication equipment,” which requires a permit from a different agency. That small mismatch cost him a two-week delay and storage fees. It could’ve been worse.

The Invisible Costs of Clearance Errors

People assume delays are the worst outcome. But the real damage often comes later:

Demurrage charges pile up

Storage costs eat into margins

Customer trust erodes after missed timelines

And in extreme cases, compliance violations can harm your business record

Risk management in customs isn’t about being paranoid. It’s about being prepared.

Building a Risk-Smart Documentation Process

Here’s how we approach it at PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED:

Pre-Check Every Document Before submission, every form, invoice, and code goes through a compliance review. Sometimes we catch small typos; other times, we flag big mismatches.

Stay Updated on Regulation Changes Ghana’s customs system (ICUMS) evolves. So do regional agreements and international standards. We subscribe to updates, yes—but more importantly, we test assumptions with real-time examples.

Ask Clients the Right Questions Not every exporter knows the exact HS code of their product. That’s okay. Our job is to translate the product into the correct customs language, without under- or over-declaring.

Cross-Verify with Logistics Data Cargo weight, volume, type, and declared value should all align logically. If something looks off, it usually is.

Create a Paper Trail Every declaration, payment, inspection report—archived. You never know when you’ll need to demonstrate what was done and when.

Human Error Still Happens

Even with systems in place, mistakes can happen. A last-minute invoice update that doesn’t make it to the clearance file. A shipment split into two lots without updating the manifest. It's not about perfection. It’s about catching the mistake before it snowballs.

That’s why having an experienced customs team matters. We don’t just submit documents. We interpret them, question them, and yes—sometimes challenge them.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

With trade volumes growing, customs systems in Ghana and across West Africa are becoming more digitized—and more strict. Automation speeds up processes, but it also flags inconsistencies faster. That’s good, in the long run. But it raises the bar for compliance.

We’ve worked with clients who were used to “getting away” with vague declarations. That world is disappearing. Risk management is now the cost of entry, not an optional extra.

Proud to Be Part of a Larger Conversation

This year, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, is proud to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

For us, the nomination isn’t about prestige—it’s about perspective. The event brings together the world’s most adaptive companies, and it reminds us that smart trade isn’t just about bold moves. It’s about the quiet things too—like how you manage your documentation. How you protect your clients. How you adapt to systems that change overnight.

We’re proud to bring that mindset to the table.

Final Thought

Risk in customs doesn’t always look like risk. It often hides in routine. In things that seem too small to worry about.

But here’s the truth: your entire supply chain can be held up by one missing line item. One unchecked box.

And that’s why we care. Because good logistics isn’t just about trucks and ships. It’s about paperwork done right.

 By Gloria Sewor

To most people, logistics is invisible—until something goes wrong.

You place an order, and it arrives. Or it doesn’t. But between those two points exists a surprisingly detailed map, one with checkpoints, reroutes, quiet pauses, and last-minute sprints. It’s not always linear. Not always predictable. But it’s there.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we often walk clients through this journey—especially first-time importers or exporters. And while no two shipments are exactly alike, the steps tend to follow a pattern. A kind of rhythm. I thought it might be helpful to lay it out plainly, from that first inquiry all the way to final delivery.

Because when you understand the freight map, you’re not just a passenger in the process. You’re part of it.

Step 1: The Client Reaches Out

It all begins with a question. Sometimes it’s direct: “Can you help us ship cocoa powder from Ghana to Turkey?” Other times, it’s more exploratory: “We’re not sure what’s needed to import solar panels—can you guide us?”

At this stage, clarity is key. We ask the basics:

What are the goods?

Where are they now?

Where are they going?

Are they time-sensitive?

Do they require special handling?

It’s not just about rates. It’s about understanding the full context. A shipment of pharmaceuticals is a different world from a container of hardwood. And moving goods from Tema to Lagos isn’t the same as airfreighting to Dubai.

Step 2: Route Planning and Mode Selection

Next comes route planning. Do we go by air, sea, or road? Is this best handled with full container load (FCL) or less-than-container load (LCL)? Is bonded warehousing needed?

We look at transit time, budget, reliability, and risk. There’s often a tradeoff. Faster might be costlier. Cheaper might mean slower. We explain the options—sometimes down to the fine print—and help the client decide.

I remember a local exporter shipping moringa powder to Canada. Airfreight was prohibitively expensive for the volume. We opted for sea freight with a two-week buffer, just in case. It arrived on time, under budget, and everyone exhaled a little.

Step 3: Documentation and Compliance

Now things get serious. This step is where many delays are born—or prevented.

We gather:

Commercial invoice

Packing list

Bill of Lading (or Air Waybill)

Customs declarations

Permits, if needed (especially for regulated goods)

Certificates of origin or conformity

In Ghana, we also navigate the ICUMS system (our Integrated Customs Management System), ensuring everything aligns properly before the cargo even arrives at the port.

And if goods are donor-funded, or part of a special exemption, the documentation gets even more layered. It’s tedious, yes—but essential.

Step 4: Cargo Handling and Pickup

Now, the physical journey begins.

We arrange trucking from the client’s warehouse—or receive goods at our designated depot. Depending on the mode of transport, the cargo is packaged, labeled, palletized, or containerized.

And here, safety is non-negotiable. Damaged goods don’t just create cost. They damage reputations. For sensitive items—electronics, perishables, machinery—we follow strict handling protocols.

For one government-backed energy project, we moved solar inverters from Accra to rural Northern Ghana. Each item was worth thousands of dollars, and any drop, bump, or mishandling could render them useless. We used foam-cushioned crates and GPS-tracked trucks. Slow, but safe.

Step 5: Port or Airport Clearance

At the port or airport, we begin clearance procedures. Timing is everything here. A delay of even 24 hours can trigger demurrage fees or missed connections.

Our team liaises with customs, verifies cargo status, settles duties (or ensures exemptions are honored), and arranges release.

One thing clients often underestimate? Customs can flag a shipment even when everything’s correct. Random inspections happen. So we build in buffer days, just in case. It’s not about pessimism—it’s about realism.

Step 6: Final Delivery

Once cleared, it’s time to move.

If the goods are destined for an Accra warehouse, final delivery might be same-day. But inland destinations—like Tamale, Wa, or even neighboring countries—require careful route planning. Roads, weather, fuel, and weight restrictions all play a role.

And then… the delivery happens. It might be a truck rolling into a warehouse at 3:00 a.m. Or a driver handing off a signed POD (Proof of Delivery) in the rain outside a construction site.

Either way, it’s a small moment that represents a long journey.

A Recognition of Our Work

This November, PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED will be in London for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council. We’ve been nominated—and while that’s an honor, what’s more meaningful is what the event represents.

It’s a convergence of the world’s most adaptive, forward-thinking businesses. A space for ideas. Collaboration. Peer learning. And as a logistics provider from Ghana, we’re proud to be part of that. Because every day, we help our clients build bridges—not just across regions, but across possibility.

Final Thoughts

The freight journey isn’t just about moving goods. It’s about moving trust. From inquiry to delivery, there are dozens of decisions, variables, and quiet choices made behind the scenes.

And when it all works—when the timeline is met, when the cargo arrives safely—it’s easy to forget how much work went into it. That’s okay. That’s kind of the point.

By Gloria Sewor

When most people think about delays in freight, their minds jump straight to customs clearance or port congestion. And yes, those matter—hugely. But there’s another factor, one that operates silently and steadily in the background, often underestimated: the roads themselves.

Ghana’s road infrastructure plays a central role in how goods move from ports to warehouses, factories to retail shelves, and border points to rural hubs. And if you’ve ever tried to move cargo from Tema to Tamale during the rainy season, you’ll know exactly what I mean.

Freight doesn’t just need to arrive. It needs to arrive on time, intact, and without bleeding your logistics budget dry in the process. That last part? It's where road conditions can quietly make or break a shipment.

It’s Not Just About Potholes

People hear “bad roads” and think potholes. But the challenge is more layered than that. We’re talking about:

Unpaved or poorly maintained secondary routes

Seasonal flooding that cuts off key highways

Weight restrictions on certain bridges

Unmarked detours due to ongoing roadworks

Now, these issues don’t exist everywhere all the time. Some corridors are fantastic—well-maintained, expanding, and getting more efficient. But others, especially those leading to landlocked regions or connecting to neighboring countries, are… complicated. Predictability is often the first casualty.

We had a shipment once—a container of pharmaceuticals bound for Wa. Everything was on track from Tema Port. But 120 km from the destination, heavy rains made part of the route impassable for the truck's axle weight. A five-hour delay turned into two days. And with medical supplies, time sensitivity isn’t a luxury—it’s non-negotiable.

The Cost of Unpredictability

Delays caused by road issues don’t just hurt delivery schedules. They ripple across entire supply chains:

Perishable goods risk spoilage

Retailers lose revenue due to stockouts

Factories pause production while waiting for parts

Transporters incur extra fuel and driver time costs

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve developed routing strategies that account for these variables. Sometimes the “shortest” route on paper isn’t the fastest—or the safest. We use real-time driver feedback, weather forecasts, and even community updates to plan around potential road hazards.

Still, there are moments—especially during the peak of the rainy season—where even the best plans require last-minute pivots. That flexibility has to be built into the system. It’s not a bug. It’s the nature of road-based freight in our part of the world.

Investment Is Happening—But It Takes Time

To be fair, road infrastructure in Ghana has seen improvements in recent years. The expansion of key trade corridors like the Accra–Kumasi road and parts of the Eastern Corridor Road are great examples.

Government projects supported by regional trade initiatives and infrastructure partners are ongoing. These improvements aren’t just cosmetic—they reduce transit times, vehicle wear and tear, and ultimately make goods cheaper for everyone involved.

But infrastructure is slow-moving. A new road announced today might not impact your logistics operation for three or four years. So while it’s encouraging, businesses still have to operate within the current realities.

A Practical Example: The Aflao Border Route

Let’s take the Aflao border post as an example—a key point for goods heading between Ghana and Togo. While the border post itself has improved in terms of customs and clearance efficiency, the surrounding roads can be patchy. During busy periods, congestion isn't always caused by traffic alone—it’s a result of vehicles navigating tricky road segments slowly, cautiously, sometimes even dangerously.

We had a rice shipment moving through that corridor. Halfway through, a section of the road near Akatsi gave way after heavy rains. Our team rerouted via Ho—a longer path, yes, but one that ensured timely delivery. It was a scramble, but it worked.

The Human Element

What’s often forgotten is that drivers are navigating these conditions—sometimes overnight, sometimes without rest areas. Bad roads aren’t just a mechanical issue; they affect driver fatigue, morale, and safety.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’ve started staggering dispatch times and rotating driver teams to reduce pressure. It doesn’t solve the road itself, but it helps our people operate better within those conditions. And it matters.

Recognition That Reflects the Bigger Picture

As I write this, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come as a logistics provider in Ghana. PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED is honoured to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council in London this November.

This isn’t just a moment for our company—it’s an opportunity to connect with global minds addressing complex trade realities. Because logistics isn’t static. The challenges we face in Ghana—like road infrastructure—are mirrored across other parts of Africa and beyond. Events like this create a space to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and imagine smarter ways to move goods in a world that’s always shifting.

We’re proud to be part of that conversation.

Final Thoughts

Roads connect more than places—they connect economies, ideas, and lives. In Ghana, the condition of those roads can quietly determine whether your shipment arrives on time or not at all.

There’s progress, yes. But in the meantime, freight companies, shippers, and importers must plan for the terrain as it is—not as we wish it to be.

By Gloria Sewor

We’re in the age of paperless trade. What once required stacks of forms, carbon copies, couriered bills of lading, and manual ledger entries is now being processed, signed, and submitted online—often with just a few clicks.

Digital freight documentation is no longer the future. It’s very much the present. But as we make the shift, something else becomes more urgent than ever: data security.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, based in Ghana, we've seen firsthand how digital freight systems are improving efficiency—clearing cargo faster, reducing costs, even lowering the chances of human error. But they also come with new risks. Ones you can’t always see until something goes wrong.

What Exactly Is Digital Freight Documentation?

To keep things simple—digital freight documentation refers to any shipping, customs, or commercial paperwork shared, stored, or signed electronically. That might include:

Electronic Bills of Lading (eBLs)

Online customs declarations

Digital certificates of origin

Invoices and packing lists uploaded to cloud systems

Port and terminal entry permits submitted via web portals

It’s faster. It’s cleaner. And it’s much easier to track. But it also means sensitive data—shipment value, buyer and seller details, even routing instructions—is now floating through emails, cloud drives, and APIs.

And that… invites a new kind of risk.

Where the Threats Are

Let me share a quick story. A few months ago, one of our clients nearly fell victim to an invoice fraud scheme. They received an email—looked identical to ours—with instructions to pay into a different account. Everything matched: email address, document format, company logo.

Except… it wasn’t us. It was a cloned domain and a spoofed signature. If they hadn’t called us to double-check, they could’ve lost thousands.

That’s the thing about digital threats—they don’t always show up with flashing warnings. They slide quietly into the systems we trust.

Other threats we’re seeing in the logistics space include:

Man-in-the-middle attacks during document transmission

Phishing scams targeting freight forwarders or importers

Unencrypted data sharing between platforms

Weak passwords or login access to customs portals

Shared spreadsheets stored in open-access cloud folders

It’s not dramatic. It’s often subtle. But it’s happening—and growing.

What We Do at Portlink

Security isn’t just about firewalls and passwords. It’s about habits. Protocols. Culture.

Here are a few ways PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED has strengthened our digital freight documentation process:

1. Two-Factor Authentication

We require two-step verification for all systems that handle client data—internal or external. It’s an extra layer, yes. But it’s become essential.

2. Secure File Transfer Tools

Instead of email attachments, we use secure portals and encrypted cloud drives for document exchange—especially for anything involving financial or customs data.

3. Client Verification

If a payment instruction, delivery note, or routing document looks off, we call. Even if it’s awkward. Even if it seems unnecessary. Because trust is better than regret.

4. Training Our Staff

Not everyone in logistics is a tech expert—and that’s okay. But they need to know how to spot a suspicious link, a fake email, or an unauthorized request. We run periodic internal workshops to build that awareness.

Ghana’s Role in Global Trade Means We Can’t Ignore This

As Ghana continues to position itself as a regional trade hub—especially under AfCFTA—the volume of digital documentation moving through our ports, warehouses, and borders will only increase.

It’s a sign of growth, but also of exposure.

The systems we use must be resilient. The people handling them must be vigilant. And the businesses relying on them must have contingency plans.

Not Just a Tech Issue—A Trust Issue

I’ve come to believe that data security isn’t really about IT. It’s about trust.

When a client hands us sensitive trade documents, they’re trusting us to keep more than cargo safe—they’re trusting us with business continuity. A leak, breach, or forged document doesn’t just hurt the shipment. It hurts the relationship.

That’s why we care deeply about the security behind the convenience.

And a Small But Proud Note

This commitment to secure, modern logistics practices is part of why PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED is honored to be a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted this November in London by the International Trade Council.

But this isn’t just an award show. It’s a convergence of minds—from every continent, every sector—sharing how to build safer, smarter, more sustainable trade systems. We’re proud to be part of that dialogue.

Because to be globally competitive, we must also be digitally responsible.

Final Thoughts

Digital freight documentation has changed how we work—mostly for the better. But we can’t ignore the risks just because they’re silent. If we want fast, paperless, borderless trade, then we also need secure, cautious, detail-oriented systems to support it.

At PORTLINK GHANA LIMITED, we’re committed to that balance—speed and safety, convenience and caution.