What’s the benefits of trailer refurbishment?
TIP is all about keeping freight on the move and its trailer refurbishment program is an essential part of that philosophy. CVW finds out more.
Since 1968, TIP has been providing market-leading rental, leasing, and value-added services ranging from maintenance, repair, refurbishment and breakdown assistance to asset tracking solutions, including electronic braking performance monitoring. With over 55 years of experience, it has progressively increased its size, market share, customer base and services offerings to become one of the most trusted names in the industry.
One of TIP’s standout services is its trailer refurbishment program, which offers transport operators and logistics providers a cost-effective and sustainable way to extend the life of their trailer assets. By refurbishing trailers, companies can defer the need for new acquisitions, significantly reducing both costs and environmental impact. According to the company, refurbishing a trailer can save up to 3.9 tonnes of CO2 compared to purchasing a new one.
Refurbishment services – what’s what?
TIP’s trailer refurbishment services are comprehensive, covering a wide range of needs:
- Replacing worn or damaged curtains and body panels
- Cargo strapping replacement or fitment
- Accessory item repair or replacement
- Mechanical re-fitting
- Chassis repainting
- Telematics system upgrade:
Incorporating TIP Insight, which includes the electronic braking performance monitoring system (EBPMS), BrakePlus, for continuous brake performance monitoring and reduced physical roller brake test requirements. The man behind the program is Craig Vest, TIP’s refurbishment leader: “We offer an array of trailer refurbishment services tailored to the needs of transport operators. The level of service varies depending on factors such as the trailer’s condition, refurbishment life expectancy, replacement strategy, and rebranding requirements.
“Services can range from a simple curtain change to a full chassis shot blast, repairs, and repaint. We also provide axle overhauls and hub services to ensure trailers are in top condition. Our refurbishment services are complemented by maintenance packages to keep assets in optimal shape for as long as possible.”
So, what happens when the time comes for a decision to be made as to whether a customer goes for refurbishment or replacement? In this scenario Vest emphasises the importance of chassis condition in the decision-making process. “Chassis condition plays a huge part in determining whether to refurbish or replace a trailer. We compare the cost of refurbishment with the trailer’s net book value and its lifecycle stage. If refurbishing is more cost-effective and reduces CO2 impact, that’s the route we’ll take.”
Skilled technicians
Vest also stresses that these services are available to any trailer owner not just TIP customers: “The refurbishment services are available for both customer-owned assets and TIP’s hired fleet,” he adds, highlighting the flexibility and inclusivity of TIP’s offerings.
Of course, the quality of the service has to be top notch so TIP recruits engineers accordingly. Vest says that a diverse skill set is crucial: “We require skills in metalwork, painting, and electrical engineering, among others. Teamwork is essential, as these skills are often needed in combination to provide comprehensive refurbishment services.”
In the course of a typical year some of the work will be insurance-based and the business works closely with insurance providers on the write-off versus repair calculation. “TIP provides a compensationfor- loss figure along with a repair estimate, supported by photos to help insurance assessors make informed decisions. This aids in evaluating the costs of repair versus writing off the trailer,” explains Vest.
TIP believes its refurbishment services represent a win-win for the transportation and logistics industry – offering cost savings, sustainability, and excellent service. As the market continues to evolve, TIP remains at the forefront, providing solutions that keep customer freight moving efficiently and responsibly.
