To support operations, multiple trailer bodies may be needed by beverage fleet managers. On a global, national, and local level, distributors are being affected as more and more consolidation is being experienced in the beverage industry. Meanwhile, as packaging options proliferate, new products emerge, and more beverage categories mature, product SKU levels continue to grow.
The result of all of this? Delivery options are shifting. Orders are being pre-palleted and pre-staged, and orders are being presold. With this product mix evolving, more and more solutions will be needed for the delivery of multi-temperature, refrigerated, and temperature-controlled loads.
This might be a good time to consider getting into the product transportation/shipping business. If you’re already a transporter/shipper, you may well consider purchasing more beverage trailer bodies to accommodate the shift.
Maximizing Beverage Fleet Productivity
New trailer and body configurations are being looked into by distributors with the market evolving. These configurations can lessen the needed number of vehicles for given product amounts but still allow drivers to service more customers per shift, more effectively.
To achieve maximum productivity, load configurations are being reevaluated to accommodate increased operating costs. A switch from straight trucks to tractor-trailers can assist operations where second shift deliveries are an option. This can mean fewer power units while a fleet moves more product.
Beverage Delivery Battles
One of today’s roughest battles in the beverage delivery environment are urban area operations classified as small to midsize. The delivery force may require a special operations branch due to a combination of route selling, cyclic order volumes, poor delivery access, etc. A wide variety of required SKUs and the current presale environment offer challenges, as well.
Considering Starting A Beverage Delivery Business?
Naturally, you’re going to need to decide whether the use of a semi/beverage trailer is appropriate or, if you’re just starting out, you might instead go with a flatbed truck or even a box van. It all depends on the kind of volume you think you can do right off the bat. As business improves, you can always grow your fleet and/or upgrade your transportation vehicle(s).
To start your own beverage delivery business, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Before you do anything else, make a plan. Look at long-term, short-term, and mid-term goals.
- Got money? You may consider looking into loans or investors.
- Make a very careful and detailed examination of the current market and market predictions.
- Rather than a single unit, consider a fleet or franchise.
- Never, ever overlook or underestimate your competition.
Turn to Mickey Genuine Parts
Interested in saving money? Browse our “Used Trailer, Truck, and Van Equipment” page for used trailers, vans, etc. The inventory changes on a pretty regular basis, so make sure you frequently check back if you don’t see what you’re looking for right away. When you need your trailer, truck, or van serviced, we’ve got you covered there as well. Throughout the United States, we have Mickey certified service centers. Whatever your transportation needs, you can count on Mickey Genuine Parts for parts, preventative maintenance and service, equipment, helpful and knowledgeable customer service reps, and more. Contact Mickey today to find out what we can do for you.