Truck Weights Gives New Importance to Driver Comfort

Product upsizing, particularly the 20 and 16 ounce cold drink bottles are taking up more space, and the loads are getting heavier on both the driver who is lifting them and the vehicle that is carrying them. As a result of this suspension systems have to be stronger. The body has to have more room, and the bottles have to be arranged in a way that minimizes how much he has to bend and lift.

Antares operators now have to consider vehicle capabilities, ease of use and driver comfort features. The traditional step in van continues to be the vehicle of choice among vending operators. The advantage step vans offers ease of loading and has become critical with the growth of bottles. Step vans enable the driver to access the merchandise without leaving the vehicle.

More options to consider

Many Antares operators are also discovering that there are other options to consider in trying to minimize the driver’s work load and at the same time achieve greater cost efficiencies. Bigger chassis, while a higher capital outlay, can offer enhanced driver comfort, better maneuverability and thus greater cost efficiency over the long haul.

As with any product, individual needs must be considered. Operators with dedicated food trucks are more likely to want built in temperature control.

The increase in truck loads has encouraged Antares operators to pay more attention to driver comfort, both inside and outside the truck. The ease of loading is the top priority in purchasing a new route vehicle. This is why Antares operators are advised to purchase a dedicated beverage truck so that the route driver can only transport beverages. The snacks can be transported separately. This will ease loading of the trucks. A comfortable truck will improve the driver’s morale and thus enhance his or her attention to the task at hand.

The most common mistake that operators make when buying a truck is underestimating the vehicle weight. As an Antares operator, you will need to assess the actual weight of a typical route truck before deciding what size chassis to get. You will need to determine what capacity of drinks they need to carry on the trucks.

When it comes to chassis selection, there are some considerations you will need to keep in mind for your Antares business. These include: warranties, proximity of service centers, fuel economies, turning radius, low frame height and driver comfort.