Safely and efficiently

While Hawkins says he now plans to order all new trucks for the H&P fleet with the UltraShift PLUS, he quickly adds that it’s an example of how he will readily adopt technologies to ensure drivers are equipped to move heavy loads safely and efficiently. For example, all of the company’s trailers have Roll-Rite automated tarp systems and are fitted with tailgate release controls. “Both systems are accessed from inside the cab,” Hawkins explains, “so that cuts down on how many times our drivers have to get in and out of their vehicles to cover and drop loads. That’s not only safer, but also something they appreciate, especially during the harsh winter weather conditions we can experience in southeastern Michigan.

“These systems also improve our productivity,“ Hawkins continues. “A driver can unroll the tarp while moving in a landfill as long as there’s enough overhead clearance and dump a load at a job site without getting in and out of the vehicle. We’ve calculated that the time saved adds up to an extra load per day for each truck in our fleet.”

Reliability

Another focus at H&P Transportation is on reliability and durability. “That’s essential to our success because breakdowns can be costly and harmful to our reputation with customers,” Hawkins says. “Our oldest tractors, for example, are 2013 model year Kenworth trucks, which are covered by extended warranty programs and usually traded after 40 months of service. We also mainly spec trailers from East Manufacturing.

“In all cases, we use systems and components that have worked well for us such as Cummins engines, Reyco trailer suspensions and Neway lift axles,” Hawkins adds. “Those choices help boost resale value.

“We also standardize our specs to more easily keep our maintenance facility stocked with parts we need to fix any problem,” he continues. “Dealers and parts houses sometimes don’t inventory the parts we may need and if we have to order something a truck may be down for up to a week.”

Every H&P power unit and trailer is inspected daily by the two technicians that staff the carrier’s shop, and any required maintenance or repair is made so the vehicle is ready for service at 4 a.m. the next morning. Dealer service facilities handle most warranty work for the H&P fleet, and are often called on if roadside assistance is needed.

“If a truck breaks down in Detroit and is 30 miles from our shop,” Hawkins explains, “a dealer that is much closer can often have the unit back on the job generating revenue before we could even have it brought back here.”

H&P’s dealer relationships, Hawkins also notes, include some vendors that have done business with the carrier for well over 40 years. One in particular, Lakeshore Utility Trailer, has served its needs for the life of the company.

“Our family has built many strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers that have benefited us over many years,” Hawkins states. “We also find that the latest technologies they offer that address our operating and driver needs can pay for themselves throughout the service life that we use the vehicle.”