Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) is no doubt a hub of activity, where more than 650,000 tonnes of cargo find their way in and out each year.
Right in the thick of this hustle and bustle is Zethu’s cosy corner office, her creative space where she fulfils her duties as a Duty Manager for Import Administration at Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) South Africa, a joint venture between WFS and Airlink.
Zethu in her quiet corner office at WFS South Africa (Johannesburg)
Import cargo logistics is the process of managing goods arriving from overseas destinations through an airport cargo facility. It involves reviewing shipment documents, coordinating with customers and stakeholders, ensuring compliance with regulations, processing cargo records, and helping shipments move efficiently to their next destination.
For businesses, import cargo logistics plays a critical role in global trade. For customers, it helps ensure goods arrive accurately, safely, and on time. At airports such as JNB, these activities support the smooth movement of cargo across local, regional, and international supply chains.
Zethu’s journey in logistics started humbly, joining WFS South Africa as a Customer Service Representative in 2012 when the office commenced operations.
From managing customer inquiries and navigating import tariffs to handling calls, she quickly mastered the trade, and within a brief period, she landed successive promotions as Team Leader, Senior Team Leader, and Duty Manager (Editor's Note: Since this story was first published, Zethu has been promoted to Operations Manager).
Over the years, Zethu has not only climbed up the ranks but also embraced cargo as her chosen career path.
Reflecting on her journey thus far, Zethu acknowledges, “My hard work and determination paid off.”
Beyond a personal aspiration to excel, she finds her drive rooted in a desire to make her children and the women who raised her proud.
Ntombizethu Precious Dlamini, Duty Manager, WFS South Africa
A Duty Manager for Import Administration helps ensure imported cargo is processed efficiently, complies with regulations, and moves smoothly through airport cargo facilities.
For Zethu, that means balancing operational oversight with administrative responsibilities. From managing staff and resolving issues to supporting customers and coordinating with other departments, she plays a vital role in keeping import cargo operations running efficiently.
A pointer from this seasoned cargo professional? “Communication is key,” she stresses. “Everyone must be on the same page so we can achieve collective success.”
Her day starts with a thorough review of documents provided by customers, ensuring that all cargo is properly accounted for and all requirements have been met before cargo is processed.
Years of experience have equipped Zethu with the confidence to handle this responsibility efficiently, while maintaining strict compliance with industry and company regulations.
Throughout the day, Zethu works closely with her team as well as other departments, offering support wherever needed to maintain a seamless flow of operations and timely cargo processing. She believes this hands-on approach keeps the Import Administration workflow seamless and customers well supported.
When imported cargo arrives at an airport, several processes take place before shipments can be collected, delivered, or transferred onward.
Documentation must be reviewed, shipment records verified, regulatory requirements met, and cargo properly accounted for. Teams also coordinate closely with customers, operational staff, and other stakeholders to ensure cargo moves through the facility efficiently.
While freight forwarders and e-commerce customers rarely see these activities, import administration teams play a critical role in keeping supply chains functioning smoothly and ensuring cargo reaches its intended destination.
Air cargo and freight logistics represent a dynamic domain, constantly evolving to meet the demands of consumers, integrate emerging technologies, and adhere to changing regulatory frameworks.
Recognising this, Zethu is always looking for ways to improve how work is done in air cargo logistics.
After completing a course on artificial intelligence (AI) and developing a deeper understanding of its potential, Zethu began looking for opportunities to integrate AI into cargo operations.
She led an initiative focused on automating invoice processing, an important component of import cargo administration. By reducing manual effort and minimising the risk of errors, the project aims to improve operational efficiency while allowing teams to focus more on value-added activities.
Zethu's interest in AI reflects a broader transformation happening across the SATS Group network.
Across the business, teams are exploring how digital technologies can enhance cargo handling efficiency, improve data quality, and strengthen operational visibility. One example is the adoption of CIND's Dimensioner in Motion system.
![[People] - CIND-Dimensioner-Technology-WFS](/media/careers-our-people/my-job-at-sats-import-cargo-logistics-wfs-south-africa/_jcr_content/root/responsivegrid/container/container_1453597496/image.coreimg.png/1784788472023/cind-dimensioner-technology-wfs.png "[People] - CIND-Dimensioner-Technology-WFS")
The CIND Dimensioner in Motion system captures dimensions and shipment data in real time, supporting faster, more accurate cargo handling operations.
Following a successful operational trial in Copenhagen, WFS, a SATS company, announced plans to deploy the AI-powered solution across multiple locations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
The system uses stereo vision cameras and advanced algorithms to automatically capture cargo dimensions and shipment data while pallets remain in motion.
For teams across the SATS Group, innovations like these demonstrate how technology is becoming an increasingly important part of modern cargo handling, complementing the expertise of people who keep cargo moving every day.
While Zethu's work is based at JNB, her role forms part of a much larger cargo handling network.
WFS, a SATS company, is one of the world's leading providers of air cargo handling and airport services. Following SATS' acquisition of WFS, the combined SATS and WFS network now spans 225 stations across 27 countries, serving trade routes responsible for more than 50% of global air cargo volumes.
In Africa, WFS provides cargo handling services at both JNB and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) through a joint venture between WFS and Airlink. Established in 2012, the business was created to deliver world-class cargo handling services across South Africa's two largest air cargo gateways.
Every shipment processed by teams in Johannesburg and Cape Town forms part of a wider global network connecting airlines, freight forwarders, businesses, and consumers across multiple continents. The South African operation supports a diverse range of cargo, including general freight, express shipments, and specialised cargo such as pharmaceuticals.
Zethu’s workplace may be nestled within the bustling confines of JNB, yet, despite the fast-paced nature of her role and the environment, she refers to it as her source of joy.
Zethu (in red) with her colleagues celebrating their 10th work anniversary with WFS
“Working with WFS has been fantastic,” Zethu shares. She fondly recalls the camaraderie shared among her team, from spontaneous celebrations to moments of support. For her, these interactions make the daily grind something to look forward to.
As a working mother with family residing in a different city, Zethu understands the importance of striking a delicate balance between work and personal life. She offers a piece of advice, particularly to fellow women in the workplace: “It’s about finding that balance by prioritising one’s purpose and doing activities that bring inner peace.”
Outside the confines of her office, Zethu finds solace in nature’s embrace. Much like her cherished corner office, the serenity of being surrounded by trees and water fuels her creativity and provides a welcome escape amidst work demands.
Q: What is import cargo logistics?
Import cargo logistics involves managing shipments arriving from international destinations. This includes documentation checks, regulatory compliance, customer coordination and cargo processing through airport facilities.
Q: What role does WFS play in air cargo handling?
WFS, a SATS company, provides cargo handling and airport services for airlines, freight forwarders and logistics providers across a global network of 225 stations in 27 countries.
Q: Where does WFS operate in South Africa?
WFS South Africa provides cargo handling services at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) through a joint venture between WFS and Airlink.
