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FORESTRY » Stuart Drummond Transport
Business Rural
High-tech keeps things on track Karen Phelps A high-tech computer system offers Stuart Drummond Transport customers live reporting, giving them the ability to track their delivery. “Details of all of our loads are sent direct from the computer at the office to a tablet in the truck,” says company manager Brodie Drummond. “We have a TV screen in the office so that we can see where all the trucks are at all times. Customers can log on through their own computer and see up to the minute where their order is.” The company’s fleet of 28 trucks also receives, frequent updates to new models. Already this year two new DAF trucks and one new Freightliner – which offer the best logging specs on the market according to Brodie – have been added. He says the company has the only self-loading Hiab in the Nelson/Marlborough area. It can cart loads of around 25 tonnes, and the crane can lift around 2.5 tonnes. “This vehicle, which eliminates the need for a logging machine to complete this part of the job, is proving popular with rural clients who cut down trees on their property for firewood.” Stuart Drummond Transport was formed in 1985 with one truck by Brodie’s father, Stuart, who had worked in the transport industry. The company has its head office in Richmond, Nelson and a base in Blenheim. Its business is log cartage from Christchurch to the Nelson-Marlborough and West Coast areas. The firm’s clientele includes forestry companies such as Tasman Forest Management, YS International, Nelson Forests and Robinson Forest Management, plus farmers. Logs are carted from the forest to ports, mills, wherever the client requires. A six-wheel tip truck is available for hire, with or without a driver, and with a log loader.
The trucks are obviously the lifeblood of the business. In 2009 Stuart Drummond Transport bought a high-spec workshop in Richmond to service and maintain its vehicles. The threebay workshop has a pit and the latest tools and equipment. Being able to service its own equipment gives the company greater control, says Brodie Drummond.
“Because logging is a specialised industry, our trucks need specialised care. For example, logging trucks need to be serviced every 5000 kilometres. We have three specialist mechanics on staff so that we can service our trucks on time and stay on top of maintenance.” In 2008 the company started importing its own tyres, primarily for its own requirements. This
has grown into a separate business, Supertyre Warehouse, which now has outlets in Christchurch, Nelson, Blenheim and Auckland. The company supplies and fits tyres for road vehicles, plus loaders and tractors for the rural market. Safety is a massive part of the logging industry,
PHOTOS Above: A line-up of Stuart Drummond Transport’s 28-strong fleet in the yard at Richmond. Right: One of two new DAF logging trucks.
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