I have a bit of experience shipping supplies into Kigoma from the Dar es Salaam port. Getting the packages released from the port is no easy process, usually one too complicated for me to follow. I just wait for the export agent to say "ok, your shipment is in our warehouse" and then step forward to watch the transport process unfold.
The most exciting part is getting the shipment from the trucking company's depot to its final location. Arranging for transport from Dar is simple, and payment is straightforward. It's the offloading from the truck that's complicated.
Yesterday, I went to pick up a shipment.
First step: hire a pick-up. At the taxi stand in town a row of beat up trucks stand at attention, waiting for customers. They're all the same--Toyotas with no shock absorption and bodies that are held together mostly with twine. Usually it's better if they park facing downhill. Chose one that seems likely to be able to carry the weight of your goods-- surprisingly, most are able to manage just about anything.
Second step: agree on a price with the heavy lifters. This can be complicated, because you must figure out who the proper spokesman of the group is, try to understand who is working for who, and agree on a fair price. Also you should avoid being mobbed by 24 flip-flop wearing, wiry muscled, dust covered guys who are hoping to pressure you into choosing them to carry your stuff around at exorbitant rates. It's better to quietly negotiate with the leader, and then let him deal with the mob.
Third step: stand back and watch as the group of men you have hired transfers the goods into your pickup. You might want to close your eyes. At times it might seem like they are going to break your package or the truck or themselves-- but don't interfere, it always works out in the end.
Forth step: lead your pickup to the place where goods will be deposited, with your group of heavy lifters catching a lifti in the back. Repeat step three, but in reverse. Pay the lifters and your truck driver. Make yourself a cup of tea, or a stiff drink, to relax and admire your new shipment from Dar.
