Devon based, Gardner Distribution has added nine new Volvo trucks to its 77-strong vehicle operation. The eight FL and FE rigids will be used on work for The Pallet Network, whilst a sole FH tractor unit is being deployed on long distance general haulage.
Volvo Trucks tick a lot of boxes for Gardner Distribution. “Firstly our Volvos have great driver acceptance. This is important with the current skills shortage. Consideration of drivers’ feedback has become an important part of the vehicle purchasing process,” notes Kevin Gardner, Managing Director at Gardner Distribution. “Our Volvo distribution vehicles are robust and economical,” Kevin adds.
Supplied by Justin Fisher, Sales Director at Stuarts Truck and Bus Ltd, the group of seven FL 4×2 rigids consists of four 16-tonne chassis and a trio of 12-tonne models. Used on Gardner Distribution’s daily deliveries and collections for The Pallet Network, the 5.3m wheelbase FL’s have D8K engines rated at 250hp, driving six-speed manual gearboxes. A sole FE 6×2 rigid comes with the more powerful 320hp engine and an I-Shift gearbox, with a 5.5m wheelbase. The FL’s and the FE were all ordered with Day Cabs, in addition to curtainside bodywork by local manufacturer, Exeter Coachworks Ltd. The group also debuts cantilever style tail lifts into this 56-year old business.
An FH 500 6×2 tractor unit was also part of the Gardner Distribution order. This Globetrotter XL cab equipped 6×2 pusher chassis will be used on the company’s long distance operations. All nine trucks are covered by five-year Volvo Gold Service Contracts, which guarantee 100 per cent uptime and complete peace of mind for the customer.
“We’ve spilt the rigid group between our Exeter and Plymouth sites,” explains Luke Gardner, Director at Gardner Distribution. “The new Volvos will be retained for full life service and we try wherever possible to use a one driver, one truck policy,” he adds.
“Stuarts Truck and Bus Ltd are first class dealers, and their depot locations in Exeter and Plymouth are ideal for our premises. We also appreciate the communication levels and willingness, from both Stuarts and Volvo, to discuss support levels,” Luke concludes.
