Kaiser Enterprise's Derek Nolen on building specialised logistics for data centre projects

Speaking on the Red Sofa at ALSC Global, Derek Nolen, logistics executive at Kaiser Enterprise, explained how the company has built its logistics function as the business has expanded, including a transport management system (TMS), a mix of asset-based and brokered carriers, as well as in-house hazmat-certified drivers.

More than half of Kaiser’s freight moves on open-deck equipment, with project-based shipments including customised equipment and components that require a different approach from conventional freight. For larger shipments, the company uses RFQs and asset-based carriers, while smaller or less urgent loads can be handled through brokers and less-than-truckload (LTL) services.

The company's move into the data centre market has added further complexity, particularly around warehousing. Nolen explained why understanding local regulations, fire-suppression requirements, hazardous materials and permitting needs has become critical when establishing warehouse capacity.

Kaiser is also using in-house drivers to consolidate material between facilities and reduce transport costs, while continuing to look for opportunities to combine shipments where the dimensions and urgency of the freight allow.

Furthermore, Nolen discussed how tariffs has impacted the company's international logistics processes, with specialist expertise helping Kaiser identify tariff-drawback opportunities and correctly apply duties. He said that the company has recovered more than $1 million through these efforts.

Looking ahead, Nolen said logistics providers need to offer more than transport capacity, with expertise in local regulations, engineering and warehouse requirements becoming increasingly valuable as Kaiser expands its data centre activities.

Watch the full Red Sofa interview with Derek Nolen from ALSC Global 2026.