DS Smith turns to Michelin Effitrailer package to build uptime

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Transport Engineer  /  June 10, 2016

Paper and corrugated packaging firm DS Smith is the latest operator to sign up for Michelin solutions’ recently-introduced Effitrailer telematics scheme – fitting its new equipmkent to 40 single-decker trailers.

“The system offers a host of services that will help streamline our operations, boost efficiency and cut tyre-related downtime,” asserts Mark Abbey, general manager for UK logistics at DS Smith.

“Its real-time data reporting and analysis allows us to proactively spot and alleviate any tyre-related issues before they result in a roadside breakdown, ensuring our logistical operation continues to run like clockwork,” he adds.

Abbey says another selling point is the system’s geolocation data which, combined with its schedule-tracking tools, he expects to enable the traffic office to improve fleet routing and efficiency.

“The Effitrailer system gives us confidence that trailer tyre-related downtime will continue to be minimised, and that our reputation for excellent customer service remains well-founded,” he says.

The system itself involves dedicated trailer telematics equipment installed in each vehicle – including TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system), EBS (electronic braking system) data analysis and an on-board datalink. Together these provide real-time condition monitoring data as well as the geolocation information.

Real-time data generated by the on-board telematics is sent to a dedicated fleet manager’s web portal, and details each asset’s mileage, exact location, the length of any periods of abnormal downtime or ‘wait-time’, the ‘unhooked’ or ‘towed’ status of the asset, and whether the trailer is overloaded – and, of course, the current pressure and temperature of every tyre on every axle.

However, the programme also includes Michelin solutions commiting to reduce numbers of tyre-related trailer breakdowns by up to 50% – the precise percentage being agreed after diagnosis by a Michelin logistics analyst.

For DS Smith, a key benefit, then, is that if Michelin solutions does not achieve the downtime reduction goal, Michelin has to refund the cost of all breakdowns over and above the contractual terms.

“Our trailers often sit at our mills and recycling partners, so being able to locate each asset in real time – and ensure when we get there to hook up that the trailer is ready to go, and that all the tyres are at the perfect pressure – offers considerable peace of mind,” sys Abbey.

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