DIESELtalk spoke to VINZ national manager of delivery Sean Stevens about the company’s inspection services on offer that keep the wheels of the transport industry turning in the right direction.
DT: In regards to COF A and COF B , how does VINZ help transport operators to efficiently manage the condition and roadworthiness of their vehicles?
Stevens: Vinz currently utilises its internal direct contact system for reminders to all customers. However, we also offer a service where we can provide the COF A and COF B inspections at a client’s site rather than ours.
For COF A inspections, in particular, it is a great help for customers to manage their fleet as they can then be done at a location as and when required.
In addition, we now have several COF B customers either already using or in the process of setting up this service.
DT: Do you offer a service where operators can bring their vehicles in before the COF due date for a safety check and inspection?
Stevens: Yes, we offer a pre-COF service for both A and B, however, of the two product B is the most utilised.
DT: What testing equipment do you have and how is this calibrated and checked?
Stevens: We utilise MAHA brake testing equipment throughout our network for COF B, while COF A is a mix of the MAHA and BM testing equipment.
The latest Maha raising bed equipment is utilised in our Gore branch, and this technology will be introduced at all new stations and replacements where they can be retrofitted.
This new equipment allows a greater test and productivity speed, and so allows lesser time to be utilised from a customer perspective.
DT: What experience do your inspectors have, and how do they maintain their appreciation of new technology in emissions and brake systems?
Stevens: All our inspectors are fully trained and appointed by NZTA for the class of vehicle they inspect. Future product training is usually provided by our quality and technical department. However, we have been in discussions with some manufacturers to allow our staff to train directly with them.
DT: Are you regularly audited by NZTA? What are the service levels and standards that VINZ is required to meet to be a TSDA?
Stevens: Yes, we are now called a KSDP or key service delivery partner, which means we have to undergo a rigorous NZTA auditing process.
This process covers quality standards as well as internal and external service. We also have regular meetings with NZTA staff to ensure we are all on the same page.
DT: Does VINZ have access through its parent company Jevic to a wealth of expertise and intellectual property to assist in the heavy transport market?
Stevens: Not really, as Jevic does not have a footprint in the heavy market. However, we do utilise our contacts within global inspection committee CITA to ensure we are abreast of the latest technology and processes.
