R.H.E. Misses the Boat
Page 39
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ONE of the reasons why the Road Haulage Executive is losing traffic formerly carried by businesses now acquired was explained to "The Commercial Motor" this week by a London manufacturer of engineering supplies.
This concern, producing components for export and home markets, relies upon a West Bromwich supplier for certain requirements, and past experience had taught both companies that the only safe method of transport for the particular product was by road. Until six months ago the London manufacturer could be sure that goods dispatched by road from West Bromwich through his usual carrier on the Monday would reach him on Wednesday afternoon.
Six months ago, however, the haulage business concerned, which had an excellent reputation for punctuality. Was nationalized. Shortly afterwards a special consignment of goods was dispatched from West Bromwich to London, the intention being to incorporate the parts consigned in a shipment leaving for abroad.
As the goods did not arrive at the expected time, inquiries were made at the headquarters of the R.H.E. haulage unit. The consignee was told that the unit had no record of having picked up any consignment at West Bromwich. Despite careful inquiry and examination, nothing more was heard. of the consignment until three weeks later, when it was delivered, without explana tion, to the London manufacturer. The boat had sailed a fortnight before.
According to the London office of the West Bromwich company. this is hut one of several similar incidents which took place after acquisition of the haulier's business. In some cases goods have been lost entirely, and in others, when complaints from customers about non-delivery were investigated, it was found that the goods were stored in a depot, because, it was said, the vans have not had occasion to deliver in that particular district lately."
Another haulier was engaged to undertake collection and delivery of the products of both the London and the West Bromwich companies. In the experience of both concerns, formerly efficient operators have lost their reputations and their customers' confidence as a result of acquisition by the R.H.E.