Moving It BIG into Africa: Logistics in the World's Most Complex Terrain

Moving It BIG into Africa: Logistics in the World’s Most Complex Terrain

Why Africa Demands Precision, Partnership, and Planning

Getting critical cargo into—and across—Africa is no small task. From remote destinations to regulatory complexity, the continent presents one of the most challenging logistical environments on the planet. Yet, it’s also one of the most rewarding for those who get it right.

At Move One, we know this better than most. With over 30 offices across Africa, we’ve built our operations to deliver where others hesitate. But first—let’s break down why Africa’s logistics landscape is unlike any other.

Why African Logistics Is So Complex

First and foremost, Africa’s vast geography and diverse infrastructure demand a different level of preparation. While major cities may be well-connected, the majority of critical projects—whether for mining, humanitarian aid, or energy—take place in remote or conflict-affected zones.

For example:

Roads may be unreliable or non-existent in rainy seasons.
Permitting processes vary wildly by country and region.
Border crossings can experience delays, security checks, or policy shifts overnight.
Some areas may lack warehousing, cold storage, or airlift capacity entirely.

Therefore, it’s not enough to plan well—you must plan exceptionally well. Or, as the saying goes, “Measure twice, cut once.” In Africa? Better measure ten times—then cut once.

From Strategy to Execution: How Move One Delivers

Given these realities, we approach African logistics with a three-part mindset: Preparation, Presence, and Precision.

1. Preparation That Leaves Nothing to Chance

Before any shipment is booked or packed, we dive deep into:

Route mapping
Permit research
Contingency planning
Security assessments

Moreover, we coordinate with local authorities, consular networks, and in-country experts to ensure smooth operations from day one.

2. Presence on the Ground

Unlike other providers, we don’t rely on third-party handoffs. With physical offices and trained teams across the continent, we maintain direct oversight of cargo at every stage.

Whether it’s moving medical supplies in South Sudan, mining equipment in the DRC, or solar panels into Mali—our eyes are on the cargo, and our boots are on the ground.

3. Precision in Execution

Even the best plans need real-time adjustment. That’s why we offer:

Real-time cargo tracking
Last-mile delivery coordination
Customs brokerage and crisis response
Secure transportation in volatile zones

We operate with a “no surprises” mentality—because in Africa, even a minor delay can become a major issue fast.

Who We Work With

We serve a wide range of partners, including:

Energy companies
Humanitarian NGOs
Defense contractors
Embassies and government agencies
Telecom and infrastructure developers

No matter the client or cargo, our mission is the same: make the impossible possible.

Ready to Tackle Africa? Let’s Talk.

In conclusion, if you’re facing major logistics challenges across Africa, don’t go it alone. With the right partner—one with deep experience, local networks, and real-world resilience—even the toughest shipment can arrive on time, safely, and smoothly.