One of the most important components in South Africa’s financial infrastructure is a resilient cash cycle. In an article by Daily Investor, Nthabiseng Mohale stated that despite the global trend towards digital payments, cash remains an integral part of the South African economy.
Cash-in-transit services play a crucial role in this, as they ensure the secure handling, movement, and protection of cash and other high-value assets throughout the country. However, this essential service comes with the risk of theft, which may result in casualties, as we have seen in recent news.
So, how do you protect millions without compromising on safety? The straight-up answer is a good fleet management software. Let’s look into the difference an advanced fleet management system can make for cash-in-transit operations.
Running a fleet that is responsible for moving large sums of money presents several challenges that go far beyond those of typical logistics operations, such as the following:
Safety is the primary concern for CIT services. Cash-in-transit heists are often very calculated, with some of the robberies involving explosives, posing the threat of physical harm to CIT officers and civilians. According to an article by IOL, more than 200 cash-in-transit robberies were recorded in 2024, with KZN being the highest-risk province, accounting for 27% of the robberies, followed by Gauteng at 25%, and the Eastern Cape at 21%. A single heist can result in the robbers getting away with millions, making it a highly lucrative business for criminals.
Due to the security risk and the need for cash, CIT officers have very strict time restrictions. They need to perform their duties as quickly as possible and make sure they meet deadlines to avoid cash-flow disruptions. However, while doing so, vehicle operators need to practise safe driving habits while on the road, which means they cannot compromise by speeding. Cautious driving practices are also crucial for the safety of the high-value cargo.
CIT services must adhere to strict regulations that are set by regulatory bodies such as the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA), and associates such as the Cash-In-Transit Association of South Africa (CITASA). These compliance authorities cover things such as security protocols, how many CIT officers should be in one vehicle, and how to reduce the risk of theft and violence.
Insurers require CIT companies to meet specific standards in order to qualify for coverage. Some of the insurance specifications include GPS tracking systems and alarm systems. Any cash flow disruptions and an increased risk of theft might result in higher insurance premiums. It also causes operational inefficiencies due to improper resource allocation and rescheduled stops.
A non-negotiable standard when it comes to CIT vehicles is their need to be able to withstand explosive attacks. These vehicles that are designed for security and protection in various environments require regular inspections and servicing to maintain structural integrity and functionality for optimal performance. However, the complex builds of CIT vehicles require specialised care and attention, but due to the busy schedules and tight deadlines, fleet managers might end up missing service dates, which then leads to unexpected breakdowns.
To ensure that everything moves quickly and runs smoothly, dispatch coordinators must plan schedules and choose routes. The selected routes must be secure and change daily to prevent criminals from predicting movements. This presents a great challenge, as there might be limited options, and the task can be time-consuming. In addition, there needs to be constant monitoring to ensure that drivers are following the stipulated routes.
So, what does it take to build an efficient and secure CIT fleet beyond the bulletproof glass and locks?
An advanced fleet management system has many short-term and long-term benefits for CIT operations. This technology allows you to manage your fleet all on one platform, so you can make more informed decisions. It also enhances the safety of drivers and high-value cargo. Here are the main ways in which a fleet management system improves cash-in-transit operations:
It’s important that you always know where vehicles are at all times. A GPS tracking system gives you real-time visibility so you can check where drivers are and see how much time they take at pick-up and drop-off spots.
Route optimisation software helps you plan routes and minimise time and risk exposure while maintaining punctuality. This technology uses predictive analytics and historical route data to help determine the most efficient route for cash deliveries.
A GPS tracking device with telematics capabilities allows you to see how drivers use vehicles. Through this technology, you can see when vehicle operators are speeding, taking sharp turns, rapidly braking, or accelerating excessively, which could indicate that they were trying to get away from criminals or practising unsafe driving habits.
Through fleet management software, you also have the option of remotely disabling parked vehicles, ensuring there is no unauthorised vehicle movement.
Over the years, numerous videos capturing CIT ambushes have surfaced online and gained widespread attention, such as the following footage:
Cameras allow operation centres to respond quickly to threats. They also give managers a closer look at what CIT officers are doing so they can identify safety hazards or inefficiencies. Video footage can also be used for incident investigations.
Vehicle cameras that are integrated with telematics software are highly recommended, as they typically come with advanced features such as AI technology that can trigger alerts when certain rules are broken. This allows fleet managers to pinpoint areas where drivers need to improve so they can be trained on proper procedures and how to respond in various situations.
Like any business, CIT companies must manage costs and boost profits. A fleet management system supports this in the following ways:
Cartrack is one of the leading security and fleet management service providers in South Africa. Partnering with us ensures your fleet remains protected and that all operations are streamlined. Here’s what we have to offer for your cash-in-transit services:
Modern fleet management is no longer just an operational tool; it’s a key line of defence in CIT operations. Our high-tech solutions are tailored to enable safer, smarter, and more compliant cash-in-transit operations. Contact us today and invest in technology that will transform your business.
What is fleet management in transportation?
Fleet management in transportation involves the use of different technologies to oversee a company’s vehicles. The main objective for using these smart tools is to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and enhance safety. To achieve this, fleet managers must use the technology to monitor various aspects of the fleet, such as vehicle maintenance, fuel consumption, driver behaviour, and route planning.
What is a cash-in-transit policy?
A cash-in-transit policy is a type of insurance that provides coverage for the loss of money or valuable items while they are being transported. The policy protects CIT companies and other businesses that handle high-value items, such as banks and retailers.
Find out how a fleet management system can improve your company’s cash-in-transit services.
