GE-BE TRANSPORT GOES FOR GROWTH WITH 6 NEW SCANIA TRUCKS
9th January 2020
Strong product performance and dependable dealer support seal the deal for Kings Lynn based Ge-Be Transport, as they choose to invest in six new Scania 44-tonners in their eye-catching livery.
Supplied by our Sales Director Harley Coulson, the new tractor units consist of three R450 and three S450 6x2/2 Highline mid-lifts, equipped with front steel and rear air suspension systems. Powered by Scania’s 13-litre fully SCR engines they produce 331 kW (450hp) and deliver maximum torque with 2,350 Nm, making them the perfect combination for the general haulage operation.
Past experience with their PRG model R450s has proved the Scania to be a highly reliable performer on the fleet. So much so that when the finance agreement came to an end, the six vehicles were extended instead of being replaced as originally intended. This combined with a demand for business growth meant the company looked for new additions to the fleet.
“Due to the known lifecycle of a Scania and previous performance we know they’ll just keep going so it made sense to extend them,” comments General Manager for Ge-Be Transport, Jay Goldspink. “The product is already very good so we are keen to see how the next generation models fair.”
This latest investment reflects the company’s commitment to its drivers – one where they provide a working environment designed with comfort as a priority. Inside, the cabs benefit from a high specification including a drivers package plus, leather trims, heated and cooling seats, electronically controlled air conditioning, a fridge, microwave, large infotainment system and much more.
"Our trucks average around 120,000km annually and are pretty much fully loaded all the time, ready to go. The drivers are out in them for the best part of a week, so being able to completely tailor the specification for what we (and they) need is a real plus point."
JAY GOLDSPINK
GENERAL MANAGER FOR GE-BE TRANSPORT
A perfect example of this is the internal storage. Historically the company had dual bunks in their vehicles in spite of them only having single occupancy. Now the option to add the rear lockers instead provides that extra level of storage. Especially when combining it with the external lockers on both the driver and passenger sides that offer convenient access from both inside and outside the cab.
The Scania’s were purchased on a 5-year contract hire agreement through Scania Financial Services. Included with this is full repair and maintenance, which alongside all inspections will be carried out at TruckEast’s Kings Lynn branch with whom Ge-Be already have a long-standing relationship.
“The service levels we receive from Kings Lynn were a huge factor in us returning to Scania for these trucks. I really can’t fault them and that back-up is supported nationwide, which is important when our vehicles operate all over. If I have an issue with one of my trucks I know I can pick the phone up to the team at Kings Lynn and they’ll be on the case,” continues Jay.
“I’ve even had a situation of a vehicle breaking down that was another marque, and they sorted me out with a replacement straight away. We’re a 24-hour operation and that downtime could significantly cost us, but they understand our business, and that goes a long way for me,” he concludes.
Ge-Be Transport Ltd was established in 1982 with just the one truck and operated out of their home. Over the years, the family business has continued to expand with two core operations – palletways and general haulage. In 2019, further milestones were accomplished as they moved into a new warehouse and purchased an additional yard to support the growth.
