Capital Equipment News October 2020

USED TRUCKS

deeper insight into cost efficiencies. “Adding better fuel efficiencies and improved performance to a fleet manager’s arsenal also helps to win the cost war.” Instead of stripping away value to increase affordability, Scania enters into long-term commitments to the logistics sector which requires affordable access to products and services”. Van Rooyen, too, stresses the importance of providing value to the customer: “Regardless of whether the client is a small business owner or part of a large corporate fleet, it is essential that we provide the right advice and that our offered products will give the customer piece of mind, especially in this challenging business environment.” Buying used: advantages Donachie says this “challenging business environment” calls for flexible terms to customers, which his company provides through Scania Finance. “We also offer a range of service packages on certain of the products to provide the customer with peace of mind.” Van Rooyen advises prospective used truck buyers to seek out options where a manufacturer’s warranty and service plans are still applicable. TruckStore offers these benefits on selected vehicles, giving the customer the assurance that the vehicle they are purchasing meets the requirements for certification. “If reducing financial risk is what you’re after,” she says, “go for a lower price tag but never sacrifice reliability and overall condition just to get a good deal. Look out for a ‘good as new’ used truck in excellent mechanical shape.” Scania’s Donachie says keeping South Africa’s logistics sector sustainable requires input from all the key players. “Safety cannot be compromised while business cash flow dries up. However, business also needs revenue to ensure sustainability. It’s a challenging dichotomy that, as a truck manufacturer, we must fully explore.” He says the South African logistics sector has always been one of the most resilient in the world and that the current problems facing the industry will force positive changes that could see fleet managers and business owners working closer with vehicle manufacturers to find new solutions. “We are having those conversations with our customers,” he says. “These conversations across the sector will become the basis for a closer and more productive partnership that will ensure that cost-savings can protect jobs and business sustainability.” b

Scania offers service packages on some products.

TruckStore pre-owned stock is categorised to indicate testing and refurbishments done.

“During such uncertain economic times, customers may not have confidence in the longevity of contracts or the competitiveness of their businesses, making the purchase of used vehicles attractive. The repayments on used vehicles are lower than those for new vehicles, which alleviates pressure on cash flow at present.”

Harold Donachie, GM – Used Vehicles at Scania South Africa

“Service records are not always available, which is why TruckStore relies on qualified staff to conduct thorough technical inspections before used trucks are sold.”

Annelie van Rooyen, head of Daimler Trucks and Buses’ TruckStore division

TALKING POINTS

CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS OCTOBER 2020 18