TankShare goes for vehicle efficiency
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II by Toby Clark West Thurrack fuel distribution operator JW Suckling Transport has introduced a service designed to improve utilisation of its vehicles by sharing resources and improving working practices.
The TankShare scheme involves more than a dozen customers, including TotalFina, Elf, Future and Phillips Petroleum, which will share 11 of Suckling's tankers; these vehicles will run under the TankShare banner.
TankShare was launched last week by ETA Chief Executivedesignate Richard Turner, who said: "We used to think that it was basic common sense that you couldn't backload a petrol tanker—well you can!"
Suckling managing director Peter Lamer reveals that he faced resistance from some colleagues when he proposed the idea: "I think they thought it was a bit ridiculous." But Lamer is convinced that improved utilisation is vital: "Sustainabihty is the issue of today—or should I say tomorrow" Customers took some convincing too, but they are keen on the options it provides. James Milne of Future Petroleum says: "You're paying for that extra flexibihty at a rate that's justifiable."
The Tankshare fleet will comprise 11 new 6x2 Daf FTC 85.430CF tractive units with tank trailers including a seven-compartment Heil unit (pictured). Multi-compartment tankers are important in this application, as is a reliable metering system.
No additional IT systems have been needed: the scheme will rely on conventional scheduling techniques, while pricing is determined by a conventional rate card, depending on delivery point and volume transported.
• Last year a government sponsored report on key performance indicators in "sustainable distribution" concluded that vehicle utilisation was the most important factor in overall efficiency (CM 22-28 July 1959