Stealth thrives in car part delivery niche
In early 2023, Nathan and Sharlene Young took a bold step into the automotive logistics sector by acquiring Stealth Logistics.
With a combined 40+ years of experience in transport and logistics, Nathan and Sharlene seized the opportunity to apply their extensive skill sets to own and lead their own transport business. Nathan’s strengths in operations and transport, paired with Sharlene’s expertise in sales and customer partnerships, made this venture an exciting chance to shape Stealth Logistics with their vision and dedication to the industry.
Nathan and Sharlene say taking on this challenge wouldn’t have been possible without the invaluable mentorship and development they have received from previous industry leaders. Coming from a corporate environment, they are deeply grateful for the guidance they’ve had and are now excited to share their experience with their own team.
Exclusively focused on transporting auto parts—both new and used including delicate items such as windscreens, which require meticulous handling, they understand the importance of reliability and efficiency in today’s fast-paced business environment.
“Stealth Logistics is more than just a freight solution provider – we are a committed partner in the North Island’s automotive sector, with strategically located hubs in Auckland and Palmerston North,” says Nathan.
Operating a fleet of 16 vehicles and multiple trailers, Stealth Logistics proudly partners with several major automotive brands, delivering tailored solutions to meet their unique needs.
“By leveraging a streamlined operating model and robust systems, our mission is to deliver consistent service excellence.”
Nathan has just acquired a new UD truck and was driving it from Hamilton to Auckland when Full Throttle interviewed him for this story. The truck it replaced had just clocked over a million kilometres since 2017. The company is working on upgrading its vehicles to Euro 6 specs, incorporating the latest safety features.
“Our new truck is part of our commitment to maintaining top-notch service quality. The equipment absorbs the poor quality of our roads and supports our drivers in delivering exceptional service. Our Tauranga unit does 500 clicks a day delivering to the suburbs and then out to small towns in the area.”
Sharlene says the business has also invested in modernising its operations with a key focus of implementing a transport management system.
“Having worked with several TMS programmes we choose Transvirtual as it was a good fit for our customers and aligned with our requirements for our drivers. TransVirtual offers our customers a range of streamlined options including EDI transfers, online consignment notes through our user-friendly customer portal, or direct support from our dedicated customer care team.
“Our portal is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring transparency and visibility with features such as a cost estimate calculator, a straightforward product library, track and trace capabilities, and live proof of delivery or POD updates upon completion.”
Nathan says Stealth’s journey has faced its share of challenges. “The first six months were fantastic, but when the elections came around, we had to think strategically. This led to the implementation of an aggressive sales strategy focused not only on retention but also on driving growth.”
The company places a strong emphasis on compliance and health and safety, investing significantly in systems and equipment to ensure their drivers adhere to road rules and avoid fatigue. Partnering with NZI, Stealth Logistics is committed to core programmes aimed at eliminating risk and maintaining high safety standards.
“As a small, tight-knit team, we prioritise having fun while maintaining a strong work ethic. When recruiting, we focus on attitude – while experience can be trained, attitude cannot. Our own experiences have taught us the value of openness and transparency, and we actively encourage our team to share their ideas. We believe in listening to the fresh perspectives of the younger generation, as being challenged helps us grow and innovate.”
The couple say the future of Stealth Logistics is one of continued growth and development. They are committed to bringing their team along on this journey, encouraging each member to pursue their dreams, whether within the company or as they move on to new adventures. Ultimately, they aim is to expand the business, establish strong management, and continue building on Stealth Logistics’ reputation for reliability and excellence.
