News

Isuzu Grafter finds extra work for itself at HMT

Northwest warehouse and logistics business HMT Group is operating the Isuzu Grafter 3.5 tonne truck as a driver training vehicle to encourage non-HGV drivers to make the step up to Class I and 2 driving levels within the overall organisation.

This is the first Isuzu truck in the HMT Group fleet and is being used within the company’s Palletline pallet network business, not only to train new drivers but also to work on local urban delivery schedules.

Mark Gallagher, general manager UK & Ireland, HMT Group, said: “Whilst we bought the truck initially purely for driver training purposes, we have subsequently found that the Grafter has provided a major operational benefit to the business. Like most pallet networks, we are currently experiencing a growing number of pallet deliveries to residential and domestic properties, and this is where the Isuzu Grafter really does come into its own. It can get to places that other trucks simply cannot deliver to.

“It really does tick all the boxes for driver training with its heavy truck-like cab position, not forgetting its capacity for intense delivery work. And literally anyone in our business can drive it, even myself and some fellow directors have taken our turn behind the wheel to appreciate at first-hand the practical driving experience.”

The Isuzu Grafter N35.125 curtainsided rigid was supplied by local Isuzu Truck dealer JDS Trucks in Salford and is operating from the company’s Preston head office for a minimum of a three-to-four-year period after which it will then go to work at one of the company’s other depots. As part of HMT’s pallet network distribution, the Isuzu Grafter is making between three and four delivery journeys per day within the company’s allotted postcodes in West Lancashire.

Related content