The big idea
The Taurus story really began in 1980 when Bernard Hack (the founder of Taurus Logistics) decided to become his own man and go it alone in the field of customs consultancy, helping primarily New Zealand manufacturers overcome the problems dealing with customs, regulations and international shipping.
In the 1980’s importing was strictly controlled and import tariffs were very high, so many importers needed people like Bernard who had in-depth knowledge of tariffs, import licenses and how to minimise duties.
$1000 and a typewriter
Bernard started with $1,000 in capital, two major customers, an Olympus typewriter and an office at home.
By 1984 his clients were also asking for a custom brokerage service and coincidentally he was approached by a broker wishing to work in his business, as a result in November 1984 Customs Consultants Ltd was formed.
Building Taurus
The international freight forwarding business was another coincidence when in 1986 the New Zealand agent for an American forwarder literally walked off the street and asked whether Customs Consultants would be interested in representing them in the south island.
Bernard had been considering this for some time so he jumped at the chance to provide a total door to door service for his clients.
Growing up
From there the company went from strength to strength until 1998 when a new manager of the American forwarder decided they no longer needed Custom Consultants services, so in 1999 the agreement was terminated after a long and stressful eighteen months.
As it turned out, as one door closed an even better door opened, Custom Consultants started establishing their own agents around the world and gradually refocused the business to specialise in dealing with “difficult cargo” like yachts,container sidelifters, earthmoving equipment and more.
To reflect the true nature of the business from this point forward Custom Consultants was changed to Taurus Logistics.
The future and beyond
Soon after the company name was changed, Bernard’s son Richard rejoined the business with new skills and refreshing new ideas, he made such an impact on the company (particularly through developing the website) that he is now managing the business.
The future is a bright one and Taurus Logistics is pushing ahead with several exciting new initiatives which will see into the future, still doing what they love.
