Hi all
As some will know im currently starting out, ive got the work, op centre, truck, CPC etc sorted for the O licence application ready, what I were wondering is the other bits and bob, like where do you guys source you PPE, Ratchet Straps, Etc. also any tips in setting up would be appreciated.
I will also be looking for a Class one driver. I know there is plenty of drives in Tilbury and local areas, but what would you look for in a driver?? Experience and Attitude would be a big plus for me.
Any advice other than don’t do it would the greatly appreciated
You could try Screwfix for the PPE
Are you putting a driver on right from the start??
Must be some great rates being paid about Tilbury!!!
For your PPE and load straps have a look on t’internet and note the prices and delivery charges. Then compare the overall cost and quality with what can be obtained locally. The PPE will also be available form the likes of Wickes etc. As for Load straps these are in the Sealey catalogue and your nearest large Motor factor to Tilbury is probably LCP - off Jubilee Way Purfleet, near to Ensignbus, Smiths and Birds. This sort of thing is often available from main dealers as well, of whom DAF are surprisingly competitive on the Intertruck range.
As for drivers the best I can say is to get the business up and running with you doing the driving yourself. You need to know what is going on in a practical way with the daily operation of your business; you will never know unless you are doing this yourself. If not careful you will either have the wool pulled over your eyes or have unrealistic expectations of what can be achieved. Having done the job for someone else is not the same as being entirely responsible for everything.You need to know the problems your new customer’s work brings out on the road, where you are just as capable of dealing with it over the phone as you are in the office. An employee driver will ring in about a problem or a potential one when it suits him which maybe half an hour too late for you to make an effective decision about plan B. On the spot you will know instantly.
All that ignores the potential problems of engaging an unsuitable employee.
We use Arco for ppe but it takes big orders to get prices down unless you know someone with an account? If you’re fitting forward facing camera in the vehicle I’d take a look at his driving during his probation period. Are you taking some HR advice about the driver’s t&c or recruiting them over a beer? Will you have to provide a workplace pension now the law has changed? What sick pay and disciplinary terms will you have? Documented safety training? Often ridiculed by many but I don’t want someone stitching you up from the start. Good luck.
As you are employing less than 5 people you don’t need a written h&s policy but you do need one. So if challenged by the hse you need to be able to verbally recite your policy so I’d write it down anyway. Hse website has templates for you to use.
We have consulted a employment solicitor and have drawn up a employment contract that is tailored for this industry, so it protects us legally and have documented procedures for the driver to follow so he knows what is expected .
I won’t be able to drive full time as I have a good paying job but I will be available to answer the phone 24/7 and I’m only 10 minutes from my operating centre.
I do have a driver I know who is interested in the job but I would like to back up if he pulls out, or a weekend/ casual driver.
I have some experienced drivers available in your area who I supply to a national parcels co on an ad-hoc basis. We cover holidays, sickness & overloads.
None want full time, but are happy with few shifts, if it is of interest for a back up, pm me
Oh yeah, I have mate near you who supplies all the ppe stuff for network rail, first group, Essex police to name a few,
He can supply all the work wear, logo’d up too if you want,
He liveries all Ensigns bus’s and all the London Sightseeing buses too,
Pm if you want details