In 2007 Grindrod acquired a 50% interest in Vanguard, a heavy lift logistics specialist, based in Cleveland, Johannesburg. The business was first established in 1975 to address the demand for complete machine relocation an installation services.
Vanguard has four core areas of focus, namely: specialised lifting & transportation; mechanical & electrical construction; relocation & installation and freight & transportation management.
Specialised Lifting and Transportation:
Vanguard competes on an international level when it comes to heavy lifts and the moving of complex machinery. The process involves more than simply lifting. Detailed rigging studies are carried out beforehand to ensure that every eventuality is catered for and that the best; most appropriate, cost-effective and practical solution is delivered.
This division is supported by a fleet of specialised trucks and trailers, including the Goldhofer modular trailer system. The imported, multi-axle trailers are the first of their kind in the country. Cost-effective with high maneuverability, the trailer system has an on-site payload capacity of 1000t, boasts 32 axle lines, 3 x 650hp prime mover tractors, and can be configured into various combinations to suit the project and application
Mechanical and Electrical Construction:
In this arena Vanguard provides mechanical, electrical and instrumentation (MEI) services which encompass project planning, engineering and management. The company undertakes large mechanical construction projects specifically related to manufacturing. Vanguard’s project management skills include the coordinating and execution of projects from rigging and installation to commissioning.
Projects include installation and commissioning of complete steel mills with up to 11 000t of equipment, board manufacturing plants and automotive production stamping plants. Vanguard’s capabilities for these and similar projects extend to mobilising, managing and controlling 250 people on-site for up to 1 year. The company employs specialist engineers and a large complement of skilled labour.
Relocation and Installation:
Vanguard is a specialist heavy lifting, rigging and installation company with a dedicated and dynamic relocation and installation division. This division focuses on plant and factory moves, as well as relocation and installation of specialised machinery. Complemented by professional staff and operators, the division is active across multiple industries, including mining, steel and glass manufacturing, food and beverage, escalator, printing, medical equipment, and automotive. The Relocation and Installation division supports Vanguard’s other core areas with its vast expertise and fleet of equipment.
Freight and Transportation Management:
The company finds the most cost-effective and safe method of moving break bulk or oversized cargo such machinery and equipment.
To supplement this service, Vanguard has warehousing facilities from 1000m² to 6000m² in Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg.
With over thirty years experience in the industry, professional and knowledgeable staff, and a continued investment in leading edge technology and equipment, Vanguard is the leader in these fields and has the skills to tackle any heavy lifting or logistics engineering project.