The rugged and rocky landscape of regional New South Wales can prove to be challenging terrain for the many vehicles that seek to traverse it. But Freightlinx has always had an answer to this problem – BPW Transpec components.
In the 21 years since Freightlinx established as a transporter of Full Container Load (FCL) shipping, BPW Transpec axles and suspension systems have been vital to the fleet and its strong reputation of providing punctual logistical services. This punctuality has been key to the logistics provider’s identity throughout the various phases of its evolution – from its first office space inside a truck cab to its custom-built headquarters in Tuggerah, NSW.
This emphasis has been personally seen to by Freightlinx founder and Managing Director, Adam Hale.
“I’ve put a very high priority on timely deliveries and ensuring safety ever since I started the business,” he says. “This has been the goal to achieve at every stage for our clients.”
Freightlinx has particularly invested in BPW Transpec’s drum brake axles, along with its air suspension systems, since 2004. These components contain many features which contribute to durable transport for its fleet.
BPW Transpec drum brake axles, for example, include a compact design which allows for versatile fitting, quick brake service, suitability to Electronic Braking Systems (EBS) and a lower operating and spare parts cost. The drum brake axle has also been designed with an effective camshaft bush to reduce friction, as well as anti-skid brakes and automatic slack adjusters.
On the other hand, BPW Transpec’s air suspensions are easy to install and service. They include flexible trailing arms which result in strong wheel control and reduced stress on the trailer chassis.
Adam was initially encouraged to try these products out when buying his first sideloader in 2004, a critical vehicle for his FCL shipping operations.
“Hammar recommended BPW Transpec for its axles to me when I first started out,” he recalls. “It turned out to be a very good thing that they did.
“Our first sideloaders had BPW Transpec drum brake axles fitted onto them and I was extremely impressed.”
Now, 10 sideloaders later, Adam is still relying on those exact components.
“My sideloaders have all been fitted with BPW Transpec drum brake axles and suspension systems,” he says. “They work great for safely transferring shipping containers from vessels at Port Botany directly onto the ground. And from there, it’s much safer for us to unload the freight and begin moving it on the road for our clients.”
According to Adam, BPW Transpec’s drum brake axles were specifically prescribed for the sideloaders because of the durability benefits they offer.
“These sideloaders are the backbone of our business,” he says. “We’ve been continuing to run BPW Transpec equipment on them because we know they will protect our units. If the gear doesn’t break down, we do our jobs right and on time.”
This quality results in better handling for Freightlinx’s sideloaders which operate through a variety of road conditions at different times. But as Adam explains, the drum brake axles and air suspensions also make the trips safer and easier.
“My operators all think the BPW Transpec axles handle well and tow well,” he says. “This good towing is really felt in the lack of rolling resistance and minimal fuel usage.
“The axles are incredibly durable, too. Our sideloaders are very hard-wearing compared to regular trailers. We cover every bit of terrain around the state, and the last thing you’d want to experience in an isolated and inaccessible area is a breakdown. But with these axles, we don’t need to worry about that.”
Due to the proven abilities of both the drum brake axles and the air suspension systems, the BPW Transpec components have been specified onto Freightlinx’s new Performance-Based Standards (PBS) quad-axle sideloader.
“In accordance with PBS regulations, this new quad will allow us to carry higher payloads on the road,” Adam says. “Historically we could only cart a 22-tonne container, but we’ll be able to carry 30-tonne containers on this quad. This will make a massive difference for our deliveries.”
Like all instalments, these BPW Transpec components will be supported by Freightlinx’s own in-house maintenance services. In Adam’s experience, the high quality of the BPW Transpec componentry has made maintenance on Freightlinx’s part minimal.
“We’ve had very little need to require spare parts or even visits from BPW’s team,” he says. “That’s a testament to how well BPW Transpec makes the parts that it sells.”
Freightlinx’s fleet, despite travelling throughout many harsh landscapes, continues to perform with BPW Transpec axles and suspensions.
“The peace of mind we get from driving with the right of equipment makes all the difference,” Adam says. “We’ve never needed additional help from BPW Transpec because their axles and parts just perform.”
