Non-destructive testing (NDT) and inspection provider DEKRA Industrial South Africa (SA) has launched local vendor inspection and expediting services, leveraging its global vendor inspection network and NDT and inspection expertise, to service various industries, including power generation, petrochemicals, steel fabrication and mining.

Globally, Dekra already provides inspection and expediting services in more than 60 countries, with over 2000 inspectors worldwide.

“It therefore made sense that we would also launch this much-needed service locally, as we can leverage our extensive global network, collaborating seamlessly on a daily basis – particularly in key markets such as India and China, with which we work closely,” says DEKRA Industrial SA MD Johan Gerber.

By leveraging its extensive international presence, DEKRA Industrial can swiftly provide clients with qualified and highly trained inspectors who possess sector-relevant expertise. Equipped with regulatory knowledge relevant to the industry and geographic location of the client, inspectors can provide industry-specific insights and advise on adherence to relevant standards.

Further, global coordination ensures that local inspection services are enhanced by the latest international standards and practices.

Through a strict selection process, DEKRA Industrial SA will ensure its local inspectors provide quality, dependability and consistency, as well as fast vendor inspection report turnaround times.

“For complex contracts requiring specialised vendor inspections expertise, we will tap into our global network of experienced inspectors,” highlights Gerber.

“Businesses face challenges such as navigating complex regulatory environments, ensuring consistent quality across global supply chains, and managing the costs associated with comprehensive inspections,” says DEKRA Industrial business line manager JP Muller, responsible for the company’s vendor inspection and expediting services locally.

DEKRA Industrial’s vendor inspection and expediting services aim to support South Africa’s multibillion-rand import and export industry by assisting companies in ensuring accurate quantities and correct products in their supply chains, Muller explains.

DEKRA Industrial helps businesses to overcome these obstacles by offering tailored vendor inspection services and offering cost-efficient solutions. The flexible portfolio of vendor inspection services allows clients to select specific services or create bundles tailored to their needs.

This approach ensures that clients can confidently manage their vendor inspection and certification needs.

“We recognise the importance of agility and adaptability in today’s fast-paced business and import and export environment, and our goal is to empower South African businesses with the tools and resources they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market,” Gerber adds.

Added Value
In addition to its core vendor inspection services, DEKRA Industrial will also provide value-added services, such as assisting clients with supply chain optimisation and regulatory compliance.

Other services including vendor qualification assessments, in-depth manufacturing progress investigations and on-site examinations. These services help clients verify vendor claims, ensure quality norms, and maintain regulatory compliance.

By providing comprehensive reports and recommendations, DEKRA Industrial supports clients in optimising their supply chain, “ensuring that every link in the chain meets the required standards and operates efficiently”.

This leads to more efficient vendor inspections, timely project completion and reduced risk of non-compliance. As a result, South African businesses benefit from increased confidence in their supply chain quality, allowing them to focus on their core operations.

Timely Support
While acknowledging that every project has its own dynamics, Muller asserts that DEKRA Industrial’s standard turnaround time for vendor inspections is 24 hours. This quick response is essential for maintaining project timelines, minimising downtime, preventing potential bottlenecks and ensuring projects progress smoothly.

“For our clients, this means increased satisfaction as they can rely on timely and efficient service, which is essential for maintaining the flow of operations and meeting business objectives,” he explains.

DEKRA Industrial owes this efficient vendor inspection reporting to its experienced project coordinators, streamlined communication processes and advanced reporting tools.

Further, project coordinators are available “around the clock” to address client needs and ensure that vendor inspections are carried out promptly. The use of digital tools and real-time data sharing further enhances the accuracy and timeliness of vendor inspection reports.

“Performing competent and reliable product verifications has built DEKRA’s credibility globally as an experienced vendor inspection company with high professional standards – and we aim to offer our local clients the same dependable service,” Muller adds.

Meanwhile, DEKRA Industrial SA plans to expand the vendor inspection service offering by increasing its local presence in key regions across South Africa and the broader African market.

The company aims to enhance its service offering by integrating more advanced technologies and expanding its team of expert inspectors.

DEKRA Industrial also plans to establish strategic partnerships with local industries to better understand and serve their specific needs, ensuring that services remain relevant and highly effective.

“We look forward to continuing to support businesses in South Africa and beyond, helping them navigate the complexities of vendor inspections and regulatory compliance with ease and confidence,” Muller concludes.