About
Born in Africa’s Ports.
For over 40 years, we have bridged the gap between African commodities and global markets. Combining LBH’s local heritage with the global logistics power of Rhenus.
A Legacy of First Moves
The LBH Group was founded on a commitment to service excellence in 1984. What began as a dedicated ships agency has evolved into a comprehensive logistics service provider in South Africa and beyond.
The South African chapter began when the original partners and Athol Emerton established the local office, bringing a vision that extended far beyond the quay. Recognizing that the region’s trade potential was outgrowing its traditional borders, LBH pioneered expansion into Mozambique.
Today, that spirit of pioneering strategy remains with shareholders, Emerton and Rhenus Group. We don’t just follow the map; we help define the routes that keep cargo moving.
Local Agility. Global Power.
The Best of Ships Agency & Worldwide Logistics.
The combination of LBH Group and Rhenus represents the evolution of the modern ships’ agent:
Local Expertise
We retain the specialized, hands-on knowledge of a port agent who knows every berth, regulation, and have established close relationships with key personnel in every Port.
Global Infrastructure
We leverage the massive network of Rhenus and LBH Group, giving our clients access to international freight forwarding, warehousing, and logistics capabilities across six continents.
Why It Matters
This combination means a client exporting coal from Mpumalanga or importing machinery to Zambia has a single partner managing the entire chain, from the mine gate to the final global destination.
Built to Think Outside The Box
Our vision is simple
To be the most trusted link in the African supply chain. We achieve this by combining “boots on the ground” operational reality with high-level data analytics to deliver greater visibility and informed decision-making across the supply chain.
African Strongholds
We believe in sustainable growth. This means strictly adhering to compliance and governance standards while investing in the upskilling of local teams in Mozambique, Kenya, Guinea and South Africa.
Data-Driven Decisions
We have moved beyond traditional reporting. Using advanced data analytics and our “Portable Agent” technology, we provide clients with live stats and actionable insights, ensuring you know exactly where your cargo is and how it is performing.
Adaptability
In African logistics, conditions change. We pride ourselves on the ability to adapt instantly, whether it is rerouting road freight or managing a sudden regulatory change at port.
A Full-Service Logistics Partner
We are supply chain architects.
Our combined years of senior staff experience allow us to offer a holistic suite of services:
Ships Agency
Protecting vessel interests and ensuring fast turnarounds.
Cargo Supervision
Tallying, monitoring, and stockpile management.
Clearing & Forwarding
Managing complex customs and compliance requirements.
Logistics & Transport
Road, rail, and sea solutions for bulk and breakbulk.
Where We Operate
Our Reach is Global, our Strength is Local.
South Africa:
Durban, Richards Bay, Komatipoort, Johannesburg, East London, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Ngqura, Cape Town, Saldanha Bay.
Mozambique:
Maputo, Ressano Garcia, Beira, Moma, Nacala, Pemba, Palma.
East Africa:
Kenya (Mombasa).
West Africa:
Namibia (Walvis Bay & Lüderitz), Guinea (Conakry, Kamsar & Morebaya).
