A tale of the tire tiers– the dividing lines are blurring.

Our brains take in a great deal of data every day, and one way we effectively process this gathered information is by categorizing. Details are sorted into categories such as boring/fun, safe/dangerous, useful/useless, good/bad…you get the point. We naturally classify the overflow of data in our environment to better navigate and organize our businesses, and our lives. For example, when you purchase something, you may seek product information which helps you decide what you want, and invariably you will categorize products into good, better, and best. We’re wired to categorize, because it helps us make wise and better informed decisions.

That instinct for categorization exists in the commercial tire space as well. The industry calls it the “Tier System.” Everybody in the industry knows something about the Tier System, and most likely has an opinion about what makes up each tier. But there isn’t a great deal of agreement among people on how to define the tiers. As useful as a tier system may seem, there is no objective standard. Is it tire sales, or market share? Is it tire quality? Is it SKUs,? Or availability? Or warranty? And, today there are some in the industry who may even be wondering how important these tiers are to making an educated or great tire decision.

Good. Better. Best. That’s what you may see or hear about when you’re shopping for commercial tires. How is good/better/best determined? Is “good” truly good? Is “best” simply the most expensive? Is “better” just right? What does good, better, and best truly mean? At Double Coin, we think the lines are blurring between tiers, and that in making an informed tire decision, tier categorization matters less today than ever. That is why we’re working to be a Tier Beyond, and believe in Tier None.

In our opinion, there are several elements that go into making a great tire decision, a decision that transcends “tier”. Here are four:

• Quality
• Availability
• Competitive Pricing
• Support

Quality. We believe better value doesn’t mean scrimping on quality. What goes into making a quality tire? Engineering, advanced testing, and innovative tire compounds that maximize mileage and minimize rolling resistance. Every Double Coin TBR tire is manufactured to the highest standards at one of the most advanced centers in the world. Double Coin also engineers their entire line of TBR tires with 4 steel belts. This commitment to quality extends tire casing life, promotes retreadability, and contributes to a lower cost per mile.

Availability is also a key element. We’re all aware of the challenges that businesses are facing getting the tires they need. Despite these current logistics hassles, Double Coin’s advanced factories are up and running 24/7 to ensure that your business will have unfettered access to a comprehensive number of SKUs. Our commitment is to have the tires you need to meet your fleet’s application. We have 3 strategically-located warehouses across the U.S. and we’re working overtime to keep them fully-stocked for you.

Competitive pricing isn’t about costing less or, “lower quality for less money.” To us it means “higher quality and more durability for less,” and that translates to being a better investment. The better investment may, at times, initially cost more than cheaply made tires. Or, they may significantly cost less than more expensive tires, but in the end, last as long or longer. A “tier beyond” means a lower total cost of ownership, and more importantly, a better ownership experience.

Better support involves working to provide you with the confidence that you will enjoy a great ownership experience. Double Coin backs each tire with their powerful, no-hassle 7-year, 3-retread warranty. Our knowledgeable team is ready to solve any problem and provide intelligent solutions for your business. We’re truly about enabling you to maximize tire performance and get every last mile out of your tires.

What tier does a tire manufacturer belong to? Double Coin thinks the more important question is, “What tire is going to give me more quality, performance, and long-term value for my investment?” The answer will not be found in tiers. In fact, we think the answer is discovered a “Tier Beyond”.

This article was sponsored by Double Coin Tires. For more information about Double Coin, go to: www.doublecointires.com.