One of the operating principles at Southern Refrigerated Transport Inc. (SRT) is to field only premium, late-model equipment. "There are several reasons for that approach," says Tony Smith, president of the Texarkana, Ark.-based truckload motor carrier that serves customers in 48 states and Canada with temperature controlled, dry and hazardous materials transportation handling. “For starters, we are focused on providing our hard-working drivers not just with superior benefits and a competitive pay package, but with absolutely the best equipment available.”
The SRT fleet currently includes over 1,000 tractors. In 2011, the company is adding Peterbilt Model 386 units with Cummins ISX engines. “We replace tractors after three years of service,” Smith relates. “This year we will buy 400 new tractors, including 100 new Peterbilts.”
Driver preference
“Every year we consider different manufacturers for our tractor purchases,” Smith says. “Price is a big part of our decision but just as important is what pleases our drivers, and many of them prefer Peterbilts. In the past we’ve purchased Freightliner, International and Kenworth models, as well.”
SRT also closely monitors engine performance and for the most part has equipped its latest tractors with either Cummins ISX or Detroit Diesel DD15 models. “We don’t skimp on power to save money,” Smith states. “All of our tractors are powered by 435 to 500 HP engines that are rated at about 1,650 ft./lb. of torque. For drivers that means no worrying about being able to pull the next hill.”
Smith goes on to report that SRT has not had any issues with 2010 or later emissions compliant engines, something he attributes to the low idle time for the long haul fleet. The carrier has not had any concerns about sourcing the required Diesel Exhaust Fluid for the newer powerplants either.
Improving MPG
“Several years ago we began to focus on fuel economy,” he says. “With engines built before 2010, the fleet was averaging 6.1 MPG. Today our average fuel efficiency is 6.5 MPG. Our tractors operate about 10,000 miles per month and on average we buy 1.5 million gal. of fuel monthly for the fleet. That improvement of 4/10 MPG adds up quickly.”
Smith attributes the improved fuel economy at SRT to several factors. Included are the decision to lower maximum speeds to 64 MPH for tractors, which were previously governed to 68 MPH, and the impact of newer engine technology.
“The biggest savings,” Smith says, “come from working with drivers and our operations staff to find ways to reduce idle time, and on teaching drivers to operate as efficiently as possible at all times. The newer engines and things like fuel efficient SmartWay certified tires do help, but in the end it’s up to the driver to ensure that fuel economy is as high as possible.”
Streamlining operations
To provide a comfortable a working environment for drivers, SRT specs air suspensions and equips every tractor with Qualcomm satellite communications systems. This year the carrier is upgrading to the new MCP200 model with navigation and voice activated technology. To streamline operations further, the tractors are also outfitted with PRE-PASS automatic weigh systems and EZ-PASS for tolls.
The SRT trailer fleet gets equal attention, as well. Currently, the carrier operates 1,500 trailers, primarily air-ride equipped Great Dane Super Seal and Utility Ultra refrigerated models with Carrier Ultra XL 2100A refrigeration units. All reefers in the fleet are replaced every five years.
“Our equipment costs keep going up, especially for tractors, which have cost as much as $12,000 more each in the last few years,” Smith states. “To keep up with our relatively short trade cycles and continue to address driver needs and safety, we’re always looking at new alternatives. For example, we’re now discussing the value of air disc brakes and may add them to our specs in the future.”
Key role
Suppliers play a key role in helping SRT achieve its equipment and cost objectives, from specifications to warranties and on maintenance issues—the fleet is maintained primarily by 50 company technicians in the company’s shop at its Texarkana headquarters.
“SRT has over 25 years of experience serving customers across North America,” Smith states. “Our history is one of dedication to meeting their needs and to the drivers that come face to face with our customers every day. We’re proud to offer our customers the premium service they demand with premium equipment and professional drivers.”
SRT Tractor Specifications
Model: Peterbilt Model 386
Wheelbase: 236 in.
Engine: Cummins ISX 15L
Clutch: Eaton Fuller
Transmission: Eaton Fuller
Driveshafts: Meritor
Front Axle: Dana Spicer
Power Steering: TRW
Rear Axle: Dana Spicer
Wheel Seals: Chicago Rawhide
Brakes: Bendix
ABS: Bendix
Automatic Slack Adjusters: Bendix
Wheels: Alcoa
Tires: Bridgestone
5th Wheel: SAF-Holland
Air Compressor: Bendix
Air Dryer: Bendix
Fan Clutch: Borg Warner
Batteries: PACCAR
Alternator: 160 amp
Lighting: LED
Seats: Peterbilt Ultra Ride
Fuel Tanks: dual 100 gal.
SRT Trailer Specifications
Models: Great Dane Super Seal; Utility Ultra
Length: 53-ft.
Refrigeration Unit: Carrier Ultra XL 2100A
Landing Gear: SAF-Holland
Axles/Suspension: Hendrickson
Oil Seals: Stemco
Brakes: Hendrickson
ABS: Bendix
Slack Adjusters: Meritor; Bendix
Tires: Bridgestone
Lighting: LED
