Norman Carriers is a family-owned transport company which was first established in 1949. The business has adapted and evolved significantly in the time that followed.
Norman Carriers now specialises in a range of transport, warehousing and custom freight solutions in addition to the port logistics services which it was built on. But as evolved as the company has become over the past 76 years, one thing has remained the same – its commitment to safety.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do,” says Norman Carriers Safety and Compliance Manager, Richard Wyles. “It underpins every operational and commercial decision across our transport, warehousing and logistics network.
“We have built our reputation over 76 years on reliability, professionalism and care, and safety is the foundation that supports those values. Our approach is proactive rather than reactive, ensuring that our people, our customers and the communities we operate in are always protected.”
Norman Carriers continues to invest heavily in safety through modern equipment, technology and training. The fleet’s latest additions include Mercedes-Benz Actros 2653 prime movers fitted with integrated camera monitoring systems as well as lane-assist, emergency braking and adaptive cruise control technology.
The company has also expanded its Performance-Based Standards (PBS) trailer combinations to improve stability and payload efficiency while integrating load restraint and prestart verification systems. Although Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) aren’t currently being used, it does operate a robust fatigue management and compliance system which monitors driver hours in real time through MTData.
“This system integrates GPS tracking, driver efficiency data and run-sheet compliance to provide us with a comprehensive view of driver activity and fatigue risk,” Richard explains. “We are actively evaluating an electronic solution that can seamlessly integrate Freight Tracker, MTData and Gearbox, but we haven’t found a platform that fully meets our operational and compliance needs for both local and regional activities.”
Over 90 per cent of Norman Carriers’ fleet is fitted with camera monitoring systems. The benefits have been significant.
“Camera systems have improved situational awareness and reduced near-miss events, particularly in confined delivery areas and container yards,” Richard says. “They have allowed us to identify early fatigue risks, monitor shift compliance and maintain strong transparency across depots.
“These systems have provided us with valuable insight for incident reviews, driver coaching and behavioural training. This enhances safety outcomes and gives both management and drivers greater confidence in compliance performance.”
Safety is further embedded into Norman Carriers via daily operations through structured systems and behavioural reinforcement.
“We conduct regular toolbox meetings, safety alerts and performance reviews that connect our drivers, warehouse teams and administration staff to our safety objectives,” Richard explains. “All incidents, near misses and hazards are reported and managed through our Safety Champion platform, enabling data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement.”
Norman Carriers is also National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) qualified for Mass Management and Maintenance Management. It maintains HACCP certification for food safety, complies with Dangerous Goods transport and biosecurity regulations across multiple states, and takes Chain of Responsibility (CoR) obligations seriously by integrating CoR education into all aspects of the business.
“Our programs ensure every employee understands their role in the supply chain and how their actions impact compliance and safety,” Richard says. “We encourage open communication, where every team member feels empowered to report hazards or stop work if something does not feel safe. We also collaborate with customers and contractors to reinforce shared CoR responsibilities, helping to raise standards across the broader logistics network.
“As Norman Carriers continues to expand nationally, our focus remains on doing things safely and responsibly. We are proud of our 76-year legacy, but equally proud of the modern, technology-driven business we have become.”
Australia’s largest supply chain and logistics trade show, MegaTrans, is returning in 2026.
Scheduled to take place from 16-17 September 2026 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, MegaTrans 2026 will once again shine a spotlight on the Sustainable Supply Chain of the Future – attracting key players across freight, logistics, warehouse operations, transport technology, infrastructure and more.
To participate, visit www.megatrans.com.au/get-involved/.
