Distribution of your goods
The entire process of transporting goods is something that has a great
deal of components: warehousing, loading, distribution… the list goes on. But there is one particular element that is arguably more important than any other, and it’s here that we focus on in today’s post.
Transporting stock requires careful planning and strict time management, and it’s easy to see why: with so many variables that could go wrong, everything has to be spot on. That’s why the vehicles used to transport the stock are such an integral part of the process, and why so much investment is made into ensuring they’re up to the job of hauling goods from one end of the country to the other.
On the open road – how are your goods transported
The most common distribution and logistics vehicle is the articulated lorry, used by many in the world of logistics. In fact, most fleets are comprised almost exclusively of these trailer-cab vehicles, and with little wonder: they offer vast amounts of space and flexible loading and unloading options, depending on the nature of the trailer being pulled.
Articulated lorries of this nature usually tend to have space in the cab for the driver to sleep, allowing long journeys to be broken up using a single driver. The cabs often have entertainment facilities, too, such as a TV and radio. The entire vehicle can weigh up to and in excess of 44 tonnes, making them the true heavyweights of the road. Drivers are trained to receive a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Licence and have a certain quota of hours in which they are able to work during the day, and are skilled professionals in their field just like any other.
Selecting the right vehicles
With a fleet of lorries of this nature, a Logistics company is investing not only in their assets, but in their customer, too. Whilst these vehicles don’t come cheap, failing to invest in the necessary assets would be highly detrimental to both logistics provider and customer. Certain criteria must be taken into account to maximise vehicle lifetime and customer satisfaction.
The first of these is in the age of the vehicle. Although many logistics providers buy new, many also choose to purchase second hand. Now, both approaches have their benefits: price, vehicle lifespan etc. But purchasing a vehicle that is too old may lead to unreliability issues – something you don’t want to be telling your customer over the phone while their stock sits on the side of the M25.
Another is price. Overspending on vehicles that are equipped for tasks that a logistics company doesn’t provide is something that will have highly negative effects on the customer and the price they’re expected to pay. Purchasing a vehicle equipped for long-haul journeys when the trips it will make are far shorter is a complete waste of money.
The vehicles used by your logistics provider are incredible machines. Yet there is a certain level of investment that should be made into their fleet to ensure that they provide you with the level of service you deserve.
If you require assistance with your logistics and distribution, please contact Whichwarehouse on 0800 1707 555.