A new family-led logistics venture is entering the market with a strategy focused on acquiring smaller, high-service operators.
Ross and Sheryl Christensen have established SCLD Holdings Pty Ltd as the foundation for an inter-generational transport business, bringing their sons Liam and Dylan into the industry while combining decades of experience across operations, finance and commercial logistics roles.
The company’s acquisition-led strategy is aimed at identifying businesses that strike the right balance between scale and service.
“We are actively seeking out businesses that are big enough to service and small enough that the service that they provide is exceptional,” said Ross Christensen.
He added that many transport companies founded in the 1970s and 1980s are approaching ownership transitions, creating opportunities for succession-focused buyers.
“The owners are retiring and there is little interest from family to pick up the baton,” he said.
Sydney-based carrier OS Freight has been selected as SCLD’s first acquisition, with the Christensens viewing it as both a practical entry point and a platform for expansion.
“OS Freight is a small Sydney-based LCL carrier that has an excellent reputation within the space in which they operate,” said Ross Christensen.
“We see it as a launching pad to fulfil our vision.”
The business currently operates four 10–12 pallet curtainsiders supported by subcontract drivers and services customs brokers, freight forwarders and other customers in the metro freight space.
SCLD told Prime Mover the operation has immediate growth potential through its existing client base and through expansion into broader local distribution across both B2B and B2C markets.
The acquisition also plays a role in developing the next generation of the family business.
“The current operation was a size that our son Liam could learn quickly and then manage and develop,” said Ross Christensen.
SCLD is now seeking new premises in Sydney to relocate the business and formally launch its local freight offering, with plans to scale fleet and staff as opportunities arise.
While technology and vehicle upgrades will be considered over time, investment decisions will be driven by operational fit.
“The fleet will evolve over time, we will consider electric if it’s suitable, but it will be tailored to the city it’s in and the clients we work with,” said Christensen.
Looking more broadly at the sector, the Christensens expect consolidation to remain a constant feature of Australia’s transport landscape.
“Transport might go through change, but it will always be here,” he said.
“Despite advancements in technology, we still need some mode of transport to sustain the economy.”
Over the next five years, SCLD aims to assemble what it describes as a ’boutique national network’ built on strong customer relationships and consistent service standards rather than scale alone.
The company has also signalled it is open to conversations with owners considering succession, particularly those with profitable operations and loyal client bases, as it continues to expand its footprint.
Read about the projects to be discussed at the VTA State Conference.
