Nationwide commercial parts and service provider Truckstops will remain in operation during the Covid-19 level 4 lockdown.
All 19 of its sites remain open to ensure it’s able to support the essential services within the road transport industry.
“As critical providers to New Zealand’s emergency services, local government, freight, utilities (including bulk gas and fuel suppliers) and waste industries, we are aware that many of our customers’ businesses are categorised as essential services,” Sime Darby commercial group general manager Chris Brown says.
“Right now, our focus is on supporting these organisations to keep essential services operational through the availability of parts the and provision of vehicle maintenance and break-down services.
“On elevation of the alert level to level 4 we will be unable to provide parts and maintenance services to customers whose businesses do not qualify as essential service providers,” Brown says.
Truckstops which provides authorised distributor and aftersales service and parts for Hino, Volvo, Renault and Mack.
Alliance Truck and Bus is also open for essential service for UD Trucks and Volvo.
All vehicles must be pre-booked for a service and for parts orders or enquiries customers are requested to email or phone in advance.
Goods can be delivered directly to customers in order to save time and limit risk.
“Customers who attend our parts and service environments are reminded of the social distances required by the level 3 and 4 alerts.
“Please do not be offended if our staff refuse entry to any customer who is visibly sick.
“During this time, drivers will not be permitted to use the onsite facilities to wait for their vehicle to be serviced/repaired.
“We are taking a wide range of precautions to prevent the potential spread of Covid‐19 and to protect our employees, customers, business partners and communities. We are committed first and foremost to the safety of our employees, contractors and business partners. Our preparedness includes closely following the Ministry of Health’s advice,” Brown says.
There has been no significant impact on parts supply at this stage but the company is closely monitoring the situation.
Truck sales staff for the Volvo, Mack, UD and Hino brands remains available on phone and email, however new truck deliveries are on hold unless dispensation is given.
“We are having a number of discussions with essential services customers and the MIA/Government to get clarity around particular situations and will update our affected customers if the situation changes,” Brown says.
