Rudolph Logistics is investing $18m in its first US warehouse located in Greer, South Carolina, just 1.6km from BMW’s Spartanburg plant.

The 16,000 sq.m facility, which is sited on 2.3 hectares at the Caliber North Business Park, is expected to start operations in September with 150 staff under a new division called Rudolph Logistics North America. The company has not yet confirmed this start date, however.

The North America division of the German automotive logistics provider will be providing logistics services for inbound parts management including inventory management, sequencing, line feeding and empties management.

A spokesperson for Rudolph Logistics said the decision to set up operations in the US was about supporting customers with operations both there and in Europe. “Based on our proven service record we are confident we can create value for our customers for their US operations as well,” said the spokesperson.

The facility’s location provides direct access to main road routes and airport links as well as being just 5.6km from the inland port in Greer, which is connected to the port of Charleston by a rail link operated by Norfolk Southern and by Interstate 85.

“In surveying the US for an appropriate location, we were impressed by the upstate region of South Carolina, especially by the people and local communities,” said the spokesperson. “With a strong infrastructure, including local training programmes, this region belongs to one of the most dynamic in the US. The conditions were perfect for establishing our first North American operation, and we are looking forward to being part of this community and helping to promote development in the region.”