Richards Bay was initially built and opened in 1976 as a Coal Port and has since developed into a major bulk Port, handling a variety of bulk cargoes. Rennies Ships Agency (RSA) is widely recognized as the bulk experts, becoming involved with shippers and receivers, in understanding their commodities and how they should be handled.

The bulk cargoes that move through the Clean Cargo side of Richards Bay – which includes commodities such as Heavy Minerals, Ferro Alloys, Ores, Steel, Granite, Pulp and Woodchips – all have their specialist requirements about handling and transportation.

Rennies Ships Agency has been instrumental in developing the handling for Pulp & Paper, Ferro Alloys and certain Ores through Richards Bay. Rennies Ships Agency has developed specialist teams to handle this variety of different products.
One of the first ships agency offices opened in Richards Bay was Richards Bay Steamships (RBS), our specialist Coal Agency.

Richards Bay has a large and efficient Coal terminal which has a capacity to export 91 mt per annum. Our specialist Coal office – Richards Bay Steamships has been operational in the Port since the first Coal ship was handled in 1976. Over the past 43 years, we have developed experience and expertise in handling Coal vessels.
RBS continually investigates more efficient and cost-effective methods of handling vessels, including deep draft sailing on a rising tide. RBS has a long and good relationship with the Coal shippers and many of the Coal receivers.
RBS sends out daily line-up reports of vessels and a regular newsflash which highlights any changes in the terminal regulation or any problems that will affect Coal shipping. The company has ISO Accreditation.