Shipping over 750,000 books to schools in Africa

When a leading publisher came to WTA seeking to ship books to various West African locations, our media specialists rose to the challenge. By using our detail-driven, customer focused approach, we were able to achieve success.

About the client

As a leading publisher of educational books, the client needed an efficient service to ensure the relevant schools were catered for. The client sought a logistics provider who could efficiently meet their needs and ensure the books arrived in
pristine condition. They teamed up with the media experts at WTA, confident in their ability to fulfil the task in front of them.

The challenge

WTA Media were approached by a leading publisher to provide freight & distribution services from Hong Kong to Sierra Leone & Liberia; freight & clearance only to Ghana; and freight only to Djibouti. The project involved the supply of English language books on a gratis basis to these countries. This was just one phase of many, to roll out the supply of books to all primary schools in these countries, so that every child will have the opportunity to learn English.

How we helped

We had to arrange freight, customs clearance, duty exemption certificates & distribution, liaising with both local customs officials and the Ministries of Education. There was a further condition in that we were tasked with delivering to the schools before the start of their academic year making for a tight timeline.

We contacted a number of agents at destination through our WCA (World Cargo Alliance) family and made
agreements with McDan Shipping who have offices in Liberia, Sierra Leone & Ghana. With the support of McDan we were able to send books to the following locations:

  • 243,000 for 20 schools in Ghana.
  • 57,000 for 2 schools in Liberia.
  • 442,000 for 8 schools in Sierra Leone.
  • 25,000 to Djibouti (where there are 135 primary schools).

WTA stayed in constant communication with the client, ensuring that they were fully appraised of our progress.
We worked hand-in-hand with their teams, gathering all necessary information about the logistics and African
contacts we needed in order to achieve a successful shipment. From start to finish, WTA took complete control of
the shipment process. Organising all paperwork and customs formalities.

How does this help you

At WTA, you can enjoy a bespoke service like no other. 100% tailor-made to your specific business needs, our experts
apply their extensive knowledge to get your goods to their final destination on time, securely and in accordance with
your budget.

When working with WTA, you’ll never be left in the dark. Our communication structures are open and frequent, keeping
you up-to-date on the status of your shipment at all times. Together with WTA, you can have a streamlined, cost effective book shipment, all while enjoying first-class customer service. Would you like to learn more about how we can help you? If so, you can learn more about our media speciality here, or request a quote with one of our experts today For more information on how we can help your business

Justin Hope Import Specialist

Have a question? Speak to our import specialist

Jade Blackburn has worked with companies of all sizes across the globe to create effective import strategies.

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