Maxi-CUBE’s sweet ride
- From the March 2011 issue.
The term ‘enjoying a sweet ride’ has been given a new meaning since Prospect Refrigerated Transport and Maxi-CUBE put four new Maxi-CUBE Classic vans into operation, designed to deliver Sara Lee’s range of cheesecakes and pies.
To service a contract between Prospect Refrigerated Transport (PRT) and Sara Lee Bakery Australia, the Maxi-CUBE vans will provide shuttle transportation of Sara Lee products from the manufacturing and production base in Lisarow, New South Wales, to Sara Lee’s 3PL warehousing and distribution centre in Arndell Park, located just down the road.
Prospect Refrigerated Transport’s Manager Carl Salat chose Maxi-CUBE, “because the name speaks for itself.” Delivered by SX Trailers in Chipping Norton, NSW, “the degree of professionalism and the ability to provide the equipment just in time have made the difference,” he says.
And whilst ‘shuttle transport’ may seem to be a simple job when compared to long haul, Bruce Lawson – SX Trailer’s Area Sales Manager commissioned to organise the specification process – found that PRT had rather strict requirements; including the type of trailer floor system used and the quality finish of the side wall graphics.
All new Maxi-CUBE trailer models are Classic Reefers featuring 40mm fibreglass/foam side wall panels, designed to perform at temperatures down to minus 30 degrees. The floor is specified with the Maxi-GRIP flat aluminium floor system, which has been developed to reduce the risk of injury due to wet or slippery floors.
Yet the Maxi-GRIP floor system provides an additional advantage. “It’s a robust and durable system, so I think it is perfectly suited for the job as it will be constantly exposed to daily pallet jack and forklift use,” Bruce explains. “The rugged Maxi-GRIP floor will provide the extra grip needed.”
In addition, the trailers’ side walls are carrying vibrant Sara Lee graphics, completed by Rae’s Graphic Signs who, for the past four years, has provided PRT with all sign writing services.
Established in 1980, PRT started off carting vegetable oil before it entered the refrigerated transport market in 1985. “To date, we have grown from a one man band to a company of almost thirty people,” Carl says. “After 25 years in the industry, we are still delivering temperature controlled products, utilising new technologies to deliver consistent premium service.”
In order to provide specialist food distribution services across New South Wales, the family owned business operates a versatile fleet, consisting of six rigid vehicles, eight prime movers and a total of 16 trailers, including the new Maxi-CUBE reefers.
Reflecting upon the experience with SX Trailers, Carl comments that, “Bruce was very responsive to requested details and helpful in relation to the expected delivery. In fact, Bruce made the entire trailer delivery process seamless.”
As a result, Carl is considering using Maxi-CUBE trailers as part of a future replacement program. “If there is a new opportunity, I will contact Maxi-CUBE again. I know that we share the commitment to delivering premium service, and I like dealing with people who speak the same language.”
