Bandstra Transportation operates a private fleet, shifting the responsibility of maintenance from the drivers to management. This transfer is highly successful for us as we can ensure all our equipment is running in top working condition. Unique to most carriers, Bandstra Transportation runs a preventive maintenance program. This program is designed to have all our equipment serviced and inspected on a regular time interval. All of the maintenance facilities at Bandstra Transportation are government inspected and approved, and staffed with certified mechanics. The entire maintenance program is computer monitored to ensure that our fleet is the best in our industry.
Naturally, maintenance costs are transferred to our customers through our rates, which is why our philosophy is that by continually maintaining our fleet we can prevent the unexpected expensive repairs. These savings are passed down to the customer with reduced freight rates. Aging equipment is another area of high costs. Our fleet is continually updated with old and aging equipment replaced by new equipment, to ensure that we are not overpaying on maintenance.
A major concern facing truck fleets is maintaining proper inflation pressures. Tires naturally lose inflation over time, which results in inefficiencies. The main inefficiencies are reduced fuel economy and dramatically decreased lifetime. To counter these concerns, we regularly check to ensure the optimum inflation pressures are maintained. Another cost savings is found in utilizing retreaded tires. These tires are not only more cost effective but are more environmentally friendly, reducing the oil consumption in the manufacturing processes from 22 gallons of oil to less than 7 gallons of oil.
Check out the Tire Maintenance Program page to find out more information about how Bandstra Transportation turns something as simple as tire changeovers into cost reductions and increased operation efficiencies.
