Buildbase is one of the UK's fastest growing builders’ merchants. A network of over 130 branches nationwide supplies local trades people and members of the public with building products and materials.
Phil Alexander, Group Transport Manager is in charge of the Buildbase commercial vehicle fleet nationwide, including over 230 Toyota forklifts. He is responsible for driving maximum productivity from the fleet whilst ensuring the company’s commitment to the highest safety standards is met.
Toyota Material Handling were appointed as preferred supplier for Buildbase in 2002 and to continue to meet the demands of the growing business, Buildbase are now upgrading their fleet to the latest diesel Tonero models.
Duncan Towse is the Toyota senior account manager with responsibility for Buildbase; he explains why the Tonero is the perfect truck for the builders’ merchant: “One of the guiding Toyota principles is Genchi Genbutsu, or going to the source of the facts to make correct decisions. When Toyota developed the Tonero we carried out extensive research with thousands of customers to ensure we met their needs. The Tonero takes the plus points of its predecessor, the popular 7 Series, but improves on them in key areas including productivity, safety and durability.”
A key productivity booster for Buildbase is the option of hydraulically adjustable forks. This allows the driver to alter the fork width to suit different loads without leaving the truck. Combined with block clamps, the versatility of each truck is increased further. Padded sleeves are fitted over the existing forks, allowing the trucks to lift un-palletised stacks of bricks or blocks. By utilising the adjustable forks fitted to the Toneros, Toyota has eliminated the need for Buildbase to keep a truck on each site purely for moving bricks.
Safety is paramount for Buildbase as the forklifts predominantly work in areas also used by the public. The redesigned mast and instrument panel ensure the best possible visibility when travelling forwards, whilst the option of a seat that swivels through 20 degrees with large rear assist grip allows drivers to position themselves comfortably for safe reversing.
Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS) has proved popular with drivers, allowing them to operate confidently and safely. Toyota SAS is an electronic system that automatically monitors and controls over 3000 key forklift functions, helping to keep both load and operator safe. This helps the drivers to manoeuvre safely even when lifting bulk bags with dynamic load centres.
By opting for the Safety Plus Package, Buildbase got load weight indicators fitted as standard. Phil adds: “They prove invaluable when loading our delivery lorries as the weight indicator makes it easier for drivers to keep track of weight as each pallet is added, avoiding over-loading.”
Phil concludes: “Over the years our relationship with Toyota has been superb. Duncan has worked with us to understand the needs of our business and tailored the products and services to suit. If the performance of the 7FDF is anything to go by, we can look to the future with confidence that the performance of our new Toneros will be first class.”
