New warehouse and truck stop planned for Gauteng

SHIPPING CONSOLIDATED Holdings is on an expansion trail.
The diversified group is currently investigating the opening of a warehousing and truck-stop operation in Gauteng, a facility that would further streamline its growing logistics offering.
SCH was established six years ago in South Africa as a warehouse to handle the exports and imports of holding company Africa Resources Limited, which is involved in the mining, industrial, construction and financial service industries.
But responding to industry demand, the company opened its facility to outside customers. It currently packs more than 500 containers of export cargo a month ranging from asbestos and cotton to fabric and chemicals, says managing director Bill Benson.
While its major business is in Zimbabwe and Zambia, it has set up offices in Durban and Beitbridge.
The recent purchase of Coma Transport with its 35 Superlinks and the launch of Shipping Consolidated Logistics has further expanded its portfolio.
But Benson sees the opening of a Gauteng facility as an important strategic move.
For hauliers who prefer not to proceed to Durban, cargo will be transhipped in Johannesburg for onward carriage. Northbound groupage cargo can be staged in the warehouse which will also be used as a storage facility.
It will provide truck stop services once it is fully developed.
While location and size are yet to be confirmed, the Gauteng expansion is a number one priority during the course of the year, says Benson.
“It’s all part of our drive to create a one-stop facility for our customers.”