Norfolk-based logistics operator Lynn Star Distribution has sourced 13 new DAF vehicles under contract hire from Ryder, a leading independent provider of commercial vehicle contract hire, rental, and maintenance services.
The new fleet comprises 12 DAF XF480s with Space Cabs and mid-lift axles, and an 18-tonne DAF CF220 curtainsider with Day Cab.
The DAF XF tractor units will be used for general haulage work locally and trunking nationally, while the new 18-tonne curtainsider will be used for multi-drop work on Lynn Star’s palletised distribution contract with Pallet-Track, covering the PE postcodes.
“We looked at the options of outright purchase and of buying quality second-hand vehicles, but with the very comprehensive and competitive package Ryder put together for us, it was too good to say no to,” said Lynn Star Managing Director Sherridan Dowen.
Additional extras such as a courtesy vehicle when Lynn Star’s trucks are off the road for MoTs, and one-to-one driver vehicle training with a DAF trainer were part of what impressed Dowen about the overall Ryder package.
“A DAF trainer comes to our site and spends a day with each of our drivers, explaining how to get the absolute best of the new vehicles. We’ve had it before and it delivers huge value to our business as it helps our drivers operate the vehicles in the most economic, fuel-efficient way,” explained Dowen.
The other deciding factor in opting for Ryder for its fleet upgrade was Ryder’s pedigree.
“Ryder is a substantial company with massive buying power, so there is peace of mind in having a vehicle provider of Ryder’s size that can offer the level of back-up and support that keeps our vehicles on the road,” added Dowen.
The new vehicles are a mixture of replacements and additions, and Dowen said Lynn Star is quite cautious about what it will buy: “We won’t just buy the cheapest vehicles because it doesn’t pay dividends – we like to keep our drivers happy, hence why we opted for the XF Space Cab this time because it’s a much bigger cab. Some of our drivers go out on a Monday and won’t come home until Friday, so it is important that they are comfortable while they are out working for us.”
Steve Williams, Ryder Business Development Director, said: “We are delighted to have been able to provide Lynn Star with a comprehensive package that meets all of their requirements. We understand that it’s not just about providing the right vehicles, but also being a trusted partner delivering added value like the driver vehicle training from DAF.”
