Belgian-based Aertssen Logistics is proud to announce the opening of a new international logistics site in Rincon, Georgia just 12 miles from the Port of Savannah. With their new facility they will serve original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of agriculture, mining & construction machinery, and their clients, with global logistics solutions. The location in Effingham County, Georgia was selected based on land to expand on, a strong local workforce, strategic highways and quick access to the Port of Savannah’s 35+ weekly services to world markets.
Aertssen Logistics is the evolution of the success of Aertssen Group, a family-owned and operated, global company serving the infrastructure industry (Aertssen Infra) the heavy lifting industry (Aertssen Lifting) and the exceptional/special transport and logistics industry (Aertssen Transport & Logistics). As a sister company to Aertssen Transport, Aertssen Logistics started out with the then rather limited storage of construction machinery.
Over the years, this business unit has experienced impressive growth, becoming one of the major players in Europe. The company now operates three fully-fledged and strategically located 'Equipment Processing Centers' (EPC) to serve the European market. These centers are located around the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, including Zeebrugge, the world's largest RoRo port. A fourth EPC, also based in Belgium, is currently in the design phase. These centers are complemented by a strong, extensive Asia partner network in the equipment and machinery production markets of China, Japan, and Korea.
These EPCs manage the complete outsourcing of logistics activities, including machine inspections, repairs, technical services, and complete assemblies. As a result, Aertssen Logistics now prepares over 30,000 machines a year for global delivery to end customers in the machinery sector as a one-stop shop.
“We see significant opportunities for growth, fueled by a strong US economy with substantial investments in infrastructure, which are driving an increased demand for our customers’ machinery.” said Guus Verhaagen, Business Development Manager USA of Aertssen Logistics. “At the same time, there is a growing need for more efficient logistics solutions. With our broad range of high-quality services, we are perfectly positioned to meet these demands,”
With the opening of the new U.S. site, Aertssen expands its reach to support manufacturers of construction and agricultural machinery worldwide with innovative, efficient logistics solutions. To catalyze this expansion, Aertssen Logistics has established Aertssen Logistics USA Inc. as a separate entity that aims to double the current number of machines it processes annually by 2030.
The quality of the company’s infrastructure and innovative practices developed in Belgium have driven increasing demand from global customers to bring these services to the United States. Additionally, the American market has a large volume of machinery and significant growth potential. This combination of factors prompted the company to make the leap.
The opening of the EPC in Savannah marks the next step in Aertssen Logistics' international growth strategy. In the coming years, they plan to open additional locations in Baltimore, Tacoma, and Houston to further fully support customers.
The new facility in the United States offers comprehensive logistics services, indoor and outdoor storage, and various tailor-made technical services. Its strategic location near the Port of Savannah, a key hub for the southeastern United States, makes the 35-acre facility an ideal logistics center. To support the development of this site, Aertssen Logistics selected The Broe Group as its strategic partner, leveraging their real estate expertise to ensure the facility meets the highest standards for operational efficiency and aligns with our long-term growth strategy.
Aertssen Logistics is dedicated to bringing the same high standards of high quality, global expertise and efficiency to the United States market. The Savannah area site will serve as a critical hub for operations, enabling faster, more efficient service for North American clients.
Griff Lynch, President and CEO of Georgia Ports said “We are proud to welcome Aertssen Logistics to the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick. Their new location in Effingham County will enable them to significantly grow their logistics business model and provide the region with value- added service for our respective customers.
Aertssen Logistics is not just expanding its operations, but also bringing its commitment to a family-oriented culture and safety mindset to the United States. The company places a high value on creating a supportive, inclusive and safe work environment, which is reflected in their practices and policies.
“Just like in Belgium, 'People, power and passion to build on!' remains our core value,” says Wouter Clissen, General Manager of Aertssen Logistics USA Inc.
This focus will create numerous employment opportunities, economic impact to the State of Georgia and contribute positively to the local community.
Customer-Focused Expansion
The quality of infrastructure and innovative practices developed in Belgium have driven increasing demand from global customers to bring these services to the United States. Additionally, the American market has a large volume of machinery and significant growth potential. This combination of factors prompted the company to make the leap.
The opening of the EPC in Savannah marks the next step in Aertssen Logistics' international growth strategy. In the coming years, they plan to open additional locations in Baltimore, Tacoma, and Houston to further fully support their customers.
Successful Start and Future Plans
The move to the United States can already be named successful. The first machines arrived in late May, and the collaboration with various partners has already necessitated further expansion.
"Our customers and employees are at the core of everything we do," says Sam Aertssen, Director of Aertssen Logistics. "While we've had a strong start in the USA, it's crucial to sustain this growth responsibly. I am incredibly grateful for the journey we've undertaken so far and look forward to what lies ahead."
With this expansion, the former ‘Entrepreneur of the Year' now has a strong presence in America, alongside its various offices spread over Europe and the Middle East. As a result, the number of employees worldwide is expected to grow to around 2,500.