Containerships unloads cost savings with Michelin

ERJ staff report (TP)

Teesport, UK − Containerships is using Michelin tires for its 60-strong fleet of 6x2 mid-lift tractors, after an in-house trial between four tire manufacturers revealed major cost savings with Michelin, reported Laura Cork for Transport Engineer.

Fleet engineer Gordon Aitchison set up the trial to measure the cost per 1,000km between different 295/80 R 22.5 premium brand tires.

"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 tires will save us money."

The Containerships trial found fitting Michelin X MultiWay 3D XZE regional steer tires delivered 32% more mileage (an extra 64,326km) compared with the average of the competitor tires trialled. The company also trialled the XDN2 Grip drive tires – since superseded by the X MultiWay 3D XDE – and these returned 38% more mileage (78,404km) compared with the average of the competitor brands.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 tire costs we look at the total casing value," explains Aitchison. "With a steer tire, you are not just investing in a tire 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 tires, it can have a very positive impact on vehicle operating costs."

Containerships' tires are supplied by ATS Euromaster of Middlesbrough, which also looks after fitting and servicing. A mobile ATS Euromaster tire technician visits the Containerships depot every Saturday to check pressures, regroove, twin and turn tires on the rim – helping to maximise tire 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 tires.

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Full story from Transport Engineer