Why Melbourne Freight Forwarders Partner with Datts for Depot Services

Freight forwarders in Melbourne rely on trusted depot partners for local logistics services their clients need: container transport, fumigation, unpacking, and warehousing. Datts Logistics provides a single-source solution for forwarders seeking reliable depot services in Melbourne’s western corridor. Our Laverton North facility combines transport, DAFF-approved fumigation, container unpacking, and secure storage under one roof, giving forwarders a consistent, accountable partner for their Melbourne operations.

What depot services do freight forwarders need?

Freight forwarders manage international shipping but often don’t operate their own local facilities. When containers arrive in Melbourne, forwarders need partners who can handle:

Wharf cartage. Collecting containers from Port of Melbourne terminals and delivering to depots or customer sites.

Fumigation. BMSB and biosecurity treatments during seasonal periods and for specific cargo types.

Container unpacking. Devanning containers, counting cargo, and preparing goods for storage or distribution.

Warehousing. Short and long-term storage while cargo awaits collection, customs clearance completion, or onward transport.

Distribution. Final mile delivery to the forwarder’s end customers across Melbourne and beyond.

Forwarders traditionally piece together these services from multiple providers. Each handover creates delay risk, communication gaps, and accountability problems when things go wrong.

The single-source advantage

Datts offers freight forwarders a genuinely integrated service model where all depot services happen at one location, managed by one team.

One point of contact. Your account manager coordinates all activities: transport bookings, fumigation scheduling, unpacking priorities, and dispatch arrangements.

Seamless handovers. Containers collected from port arrive at our depot where they can be fumigated, unpacked, stored, and distributed without leaving our facility.

Clear accountability. When everything happens under one roof, there’s no finger-pointing between providers. If something goes wrong, we own it and fix it.

Faster turnaround. Eliminating inter-depot movements saves time. Containers can be fumigated and unpacked within 48 hours of port collection.

Simplified invoicing. One invoice covers all services rather than reconciling multiple provider statements.

Our capabilities for freight forwarders

Container transport. Own fleet of trucks and trailers for port-to-depot and depot-to-customer movements. VBS slot management for all Port of Melbourne terminals.

BMSB and biosecurity fumigation. 100 TEU fumigation pad with licensed on-site fumigators. 4.6 Fumigation accreditation from DAFF. Fast turnaround during peak BMSB season.

Container unpacking. Professional devanning for all cargo types: palletised, floor-loaded, steel, machinery, fragile goods. Full count and condition documentation.

Warehousing. 9,000+ sqm of storage including racked areas and clear-span space. Inventory management systems with client portal access. Short and long-term options.

Refrigerated storage. 20+ powered reefer points for temperature-controlled cargo.

Distribution. Metropolitan Melbourne delivery via our own fleet. Regional Victoria and interstate connections through trusted partners.

Industries we support through forwarder partnerships

Freight forwarders serve diverse client bases. Datts supports forwarders across multiple industries.

Agricultural exports. Handling nuts, grains, and produce requiring biosecurity-approved facilities and export treatments.

Steel and metals imports. Specialised handling for coils, beams, and structural steel.

Machinery and equipment. Oversized items, agricultural machinery, and industrial equipment.

General merchandise. Retail goods, manufacturing inputs, and wholesale stock.

Automotive. Vehicle imports requiring BMSB treatment during seasonal periods.

Whatever your clients ship, we have the capability and experience to handle it properly.

Communication and visibility

Forwarders need to keep their clients informed. Our systems support this requirement.

Real-time tracking. Container and cargo visibility through our client portal. Know where shipments are and when activities complete.

Status updates. Proactive communication on arrival, treatment completion, unpacking, and dispatch.

Documentation. Fumigation certificates, unpacking tallies, and delivery PODs provided promptly.

Responsive team. Direct access to operations staff who can answer questions and solve problems quickly.

How forwarders work with Datts

Establishing a partnership is straightforward.

Initial conversation. We discuss your client base, typical cargo types, and service requirements.

Rate agreement. We provide competitive rates for your expected volumes across all service categories.

Account setup. We establish your account, portal access, and communication protocols.

Operational integration. We work with your team to establish booking processes, documentation requirements, and reporting preferences.

Ongoing relationship. Regular reviews ensure service levels meet expectations and identify opportunities for improvement.

What forwarders say about working with Datts

“Datts offer a very professional service… we’ve developed a strong partnership which has allowed us to confidently offer potential new customers a true end-to-end service.” – James Clowes, Managing Director, LG Logistics

Forwarders choose Datts because we make their job easier. Reliable execution, clear communication, and genuine partnership.

Competitive positioning

Melbourne has many logistics providers. What sets Datts apart for freight forwarders?

Family-owned responsiveness. Decisions happen quickly without corporate bureaucracy. When you need flexibility, we can deliver.

Integrated services. Genuine one-stop capability rather than brokered arrangements with multiple subcontractors.

Location. Laverton North position minimises transport costs and time between port and depot.

Capacity. Facilities scaled to handle volume without creating bottlenecks during peak periods.

Consistency. Same team, same standards, same results. Your clients receive reliable service every time.