Independent logistics service provider Seabourne Logistics announced in September that it would be moving into a new, “expansive” facility in Gauteng, South Africa.

The new 22 000 m² premises reportedly signals a significant step forward for the company’s growth and operational capabilities.

Located in the Eastport Logistics Park in Kempton Park, on the East Rand, the move will position Seabourne as a critical player in the region’s logistics landscape.

The facility is set to enhance Seabourne’s efficiency, capacity, and ability to serve its clients, by offering ample space and a well-planned layout.

The contemporary office and warehouse complex boasts 18 500 m² under roof, complete with newly installed 15-m-high racking systems.

During the initial phase, 5 600 pallet spots will be readily accessible within the racking infrastructure, with an additional 5 400 spots slated for implementation during the subsequent phase.

The new facility is a central element of Seabourne’s forward-looking growth strategy, which is aimed at South Africa’s logistics sector.

While the company’s current facility has come a long way since its inception in a modest 25 m², today spanning nearly 8 000 m², Seabourne recognises the need for increased capacity to support its ambition of becoming an unparalleled “one-stop shop” catering to diverse client needs.

The transition from a building that was not conducive to cross-docking facilities to one that is equipped with ten dock levellers, ten courier doors, and ten warehouse handling doors represents a significant leap forward.

These enhancements will have a profound impact on the company’s operations, enabling it to better serve clients and streamline logistics processes.

“This move represents a significant milestone for Seabourne as we continue to execute our active growth strategy that has been crafted to leverage every angle, from courier and e-commerce to warehousing and final-mile delivery,” says Seabourne’s newly-appointed warehouse executive David Frank.

His appointment forms part of Seabourne’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its warehousing business and is aligned with the transition to the larger facility.

“We are well-equipped to provide seamless logistics support, and our new facility is a testament to our commitment to providing top solutions and exceptional service to our clients,” he adds.

“The new facility moves us closer to achieving our expansion goals and helps improve efficiency,” says Seabourne strategic innovations executive Rouche Van Der Westhuizen.

According to Frank, the Eastport Logistics Park’s reputation for hosting some of the country’s most extensive facilities and prominent players, further bolsters Seabourne’s credibility and capacity to provide improved client services.

Frank adds that owing to the park’s central location near the airport and all the major highways in Gauteng, it will allow for easy access and movement.

Enhanced with top-end technological systems and advanced equipment, the facility boasts a layout that facilitates current operations.

It paves the way for future expansion, enabling Seabourne to adeptly meet the escalating needs of its clients and the market.

Further, the facility’s robust infrastructure empowers it to block stack goods at double efficiency and even triple levels, offering specialised accommodation for hazardous materials.

“We can address diverse requirements, while being aware of our storage objectives,” says Frank.

He adds that Seabourne upholds exceptionally rigorous standards, driven not solely by profit motives, but also by the imperative to align with its reputation and uphold specific benchmarks.

“As a business, we pride ourselves on the relationships and partnerships we build with our clients,” he stresses.

The company is scheduled to transition out of its current facility by December. To ensure minimal disruption to operations and partners’ businesses, Seabourne will gradually move its principals over weekends.

“Our approach is methodical planning and a systematic schedule, with a dedicated effort from the entire team,” concludes Frank.