The logistics specialist will take over operations at the car-maker’s warehouse and distribution centre at FCA Australia’s Port Melbourne headquarters with the potential to expand forward stocking locations in Western Australia and Queensland.

DB Schenker – which last month also opened a new facility in Hoxton Park, NSW – will receive, store and dispatch automotive spare parts to FCA’s national dealer network covering brands Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Fiat, Jeep, SRT, Abarth and Mopar.

The service integrates with DB Schenker’s transport management system and supports FCA’s distribution programs.

DB Schenker’s new Hoxton Park facility has a warehousing capacity of 50,000 square metres and will be used for consumer electronics, Fast Moving Consumable Goods (FMCG) and fashion and retail items.

It brings the number of the company’s logistics sites in Australia to 25 and raises total capacity to 333,000 square metres.

“The investment into this facility is for our customers, our staff and our environment,” DB Schenker Australia and New Zealand CEO Ron Koehler said in a statement.

“Efficient freight supply chains are a critical enabler for productive cities and the national economy,” he said.

“Productivity is the foundation for growth in Australian incomes and living standards. The freight and supply chain sector contributes to that growth as a service provider to Australian industries, communities and regions, and as the connection to international suppliers and consumers.

“Transport and logistics are a critical element of the Government’s cities strategies, and key to delivering on the Prime Minister’s goal of a 30-minute city – delivering access to work, services, open spaces, all within 30 minutes of your home.”

By Neil Dowling