Chugh Transport has come a long way from its humble beginnings in 2011, when Peter and Kirsty Chugh started the business in Dandenong South with a single second-hand Scania prime mover. Fourteen years later, the family-run operation has expanded to a fleet of 15 Scanias, diversified its services, and opened a larger depot to support further growth.
From removals to containers and warehousing
Originally focused on removals, Chugh Transport has steadily moved into container cartage and now warehousing and container unpacking. The company’s new facility on Remington Drive, opened in March 2025, increased capacity from 100 to 500 containers and brought valuable exposure on one of Melbourne’s busiest industrial strips.
“It was a massive achievement for us to get a place on a main road and know that we’ve got the capacity to bring 15 trucks in here,” said Kirsty. “Already we’re getting full and will need additional space soon.”
A loyal Scania fleet
The company’s relationship with Scania has been central to its success. After starting with used trucks, Chugh Transport has moved into buying new models, including G 560 six-cylinder prime movers and R 590 V8s. The fleet also includes high-spec units such as an R 620 V8 and 130-tonne rated R 590.
All new trucks are covered by Scania repair and maintenance contracts, financed through Scania Finance Australia, and monitored through Scania Fleet Monitoring. Driver training and strong dealer support from Scania Dandenong round out the package.
“Reliability is a strong point and that’s come from the Scanias as well,” Peter said. “We’ve had two side-of-the-road breakdowns in 11 years.”
Fuel savings are also being realised. “We use around 25,000 litres each month, so the economy of the new Scanias and buying bulk fuel makes a big impact,” Kirsty said.
People and service at the core
With 20 employees, including long-serving drivers and reach stacker operators, the Chughs place strong emphasis on professionalism and culture. Drivers are allocated their own vehicles, trucks are kept spotless, and new AI camera technology adds another layer of safety.
But it’s customer service that sets Chugh apart in a highly competitive container transport market. “Our customers know they can talk to the boss at any time,” said Kirsty. “We don’t operate a call centre – customers can get straight through to us. That’s something many of our clients appreciate.”
Around 60% of the business now comes from direct customers rather than freight forwarders, a mix that has supported steady organic growth.
A partnership approach
Scania Account Manager Mat Staddon described Chugh Transport as “an excellent example of a business that has let Scania do all the hard work keeping the business rolling.”
“By using our financial services, repair and maintenance contracts, and trained technicians, their trucks deliver unparalleled uptime at a predictable cost. That allows Peter and Kirsty to focus on their customers while we look after the trucks. A win-win for all.”
