Teesport-based Containerships is using Michelin tyres for its 60-strong fleet of 6x2 mid-lift tractors, after an in-house trial between four tyre manufacturers revealed major cost savings with Michelin.
Fleet engineer Gordon Aitchison set up the trial to measure the cost per 1,000km between different 295/80 R 22.5 premium brand tyres.
"You have to look at the total value of ownership – not just the purchase price," says Aitchison. "We ran this trial on our own vehicles, doing regular daily work, and the results were conclusive – fitting Michelin tyres will save us money."
The Containerships trial found fitting Michelin X MultiWay 3D XZE regional steer tyres delivered 32% more mileage (an extra 64,326km) compared with the average of the competitor tyres trialled. The company also trialled the XDN2 Grip drive tyres – since superseded by the X MultiWay 3D XDE – and these returned 38% more mileage (78,404km) compared with the average of the competitor brands.
"When we evaluate tyre costs we look at the total casing value," explains Aitchison. "With a steer tyre, you are not just investing in a tyre for one life, you are buying a casing which should be capable of being remoulded and used again. If you can feed the drive axle with Remix tyres, it can have a very positive impact on vehicle operating costs."
Containerships' tyres are supplied by ATS Euromaster of Middlesbrough, which also looks after fitting and servicing. A mobile ATS Euromaster tyre technician visits the Containerships depot every Saturday to check pressures, regroove, twin and turn tyres on the rim – helping to maximise tyre life.
The Containerships fleet comprises predominantly of Volvo and Mercedes-Benz tractor units covering up to 160,000km a year. The fleet mostly operates at up to 44 tonnes with skeletal trailers, plus some general haulage work with curtainsiders. All of the company's trailers are supplied on full-service lease agreements, which include tyres.