Red Funnel Distribution, the distribution arm of cross Solent ferry operator Red Funnel has virtually eliminated punctures and tyre related forklift truck downtime after fitting Michelin XZM radial tyres to its fleet.
The company's diesel powered 2.5-tonne Komatsu and 3.5 tonne Toyota forklifts operate five days a week loading and unloading containers and trailers en route to and from the Isle of Wight.
The switch to Michelin was a radical new approach for us, as in the past we had relied upon a low cost brand, says Red Funnel Distribution Operations Manager, Nick Kirkby.
Since fitting Michelin XZMs, we are seeing a number of cost savings ranging from extended tyre life to reduced requests for a mobile fitter to attend, he added.
In addition to offering a long tyre life, Michelin XZM tyres provide high levels of traction combined with low rolling resistance and are suitable for fitment to almost all makes and model of forklift truck. They also offer significantly improved driver comfort compared with solid tyres thanks to better shock and vibration absorption which ensures better load protection, reduced machine wear and fewer shocks being transmitted to the driver, which should help to reduce fatigue and back pain.
Kirkby adds: "In switching to Michelin XZM radial tyres, we now have maximum forklift fleet availability as we are no longer suffering tyre failures or related issues. Tyre wear appears more even and drivers are reporting increased grip over a range of surfaces."
The Michelin XZM tyres offer proven resistance to cuts and damage which combined with the strong wear characteristics associated with all Michelin industrial tyres, means less downtime and excellent cost-per-hour benefits.
The Red Funnel Distribution forklift fleet is in operation 10 hours a day and in all weather conditions, driving over a variety of different surfaces, including concrete, asphalt and grit during each movement.
Red Funnel Distribution provides a range of comprehensive freight services to and from the Isle of Wight, ranging from parcel services to contract distribution, drop-trailer services groupage / palletised services, and home delivery.