| 57 Direct Logistics Logistics solutions for diverse client base Direct Logistics serves a broad customer base across Canterbury and Auckland. T T Kelly Deeks LOGISTICS Just three and a half years after launching with a single warehouse and one truck, Direct Logistics has rapidly scaled up into a major third-party logistics provider across Christchurch and Auckland. Now operating seven warehouses and a fleet of 16 trucks, including a growing number of specialised crane vehicles, the company is looking to its niche capabilities to drive the next phase of growth. Founded in December 2021 by Nathan Scott and two partners, Direct Logistics was born out of their desire to deliver more agile, tech-enabled, customer-focused logistics solutions. With decades of combined experience, they have built a business with deep capability across multiple sectors. Today, Direct Logistics serves a broad customer base across Canterbury and Auckland, handling everything from dairy exports and FMCG distribution to fragile whiteware and electronics and construction materials. The company manages up to 150 export containers weekly, and provides tailored import container devanning and warehousing services to FMCG businesses, with the largest FMCG warehouse strategically located close to the major grocery distribution centres. Nathan says the company’s rapid rise has been driven by experience, service, and a no-nonsense approach to getting the job done. “We’ve had a journey,” he says. “We moved into our new site in Hornby late last year because we were bursting at the seams. We’re growing fast, but it’s all been driven by customer demand and a reputation for reliable service.” He says Direct Logistics’ crane truck division is now poised for expansion, with both the equipment and expertise ready to meet rising demand, particularly in the construction sector. “We’ve got the gear, and we’ve got the operators. Crane trucks are a real strength for us. We’re not just replacing our older vehicles; we’re strategically keeping some of them in service to support growth in this part of the business.” Direct Logistics’ crane trucks have proven vital for clients in construction and trade, offering specialised delivery services where precision placement of materials is required. From lifting spa pools over fences to placing building supplies on to multi-storey sites, the crane trucks, all with up to 23 metres of reach, are helping Direct Logistics carve out a competitive edge. “Our operators are experienced, and have strong relationships with builders and tradespeople,” Nathan says. “It’s more than just delivery – it’s about knowing what’s needed on-site and getting it done efficiently and safely.” While other logistics providers may focus on high-volume, low-touch deliveries, Direct Logistics sees opportunity in also handling the complex jobs. “Crane work requires skill and investment, but it’s also where we can add real value. That’s why we’re leaning into it.” To support continued growth, the company has secured several short-term leases on additional warehouse space, and is weighing up a longer-term expansion on to adjacent land at the Hornby site. Meanwhile, with customer networks extending nationwide, Auckland remains a focus for further development. “We’ve already got one warehouse up there, but we’re actively looking for another site,” Nathan says. “Auckland is where most of New Zealand’s main distribution centres are based, so having more capacity there is a priority.” With a capacity of more than 60,000 pallets across its warehouses, and a fleet that’s being refreshed with low-emission, fuel-efficient trucks, Direct Logistics is poised for sustainable growth. “We’re not here to do things the same old way. We’ve got the experience, the people, and the mindset to do it better.” www.aucklandracking.co.nz info@aucklandracking.co.nz Supply and Install | Compliance | Repairs and Maintenance Project Management | Dismantles and Buy Back of Racking Proudly supporting ‘We Know Trucks’ CANTERBURY AND SOUTH ISLAND WIDE Invercargill - 03 215 8250 • Dunedin - 03 455 6449 Christchurch - 03 349 0044 • Nelson - 03 546 4605 Check us out at: www.cvc.co.nz Proudly supporting Direct Logistics
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