New fleet pumps up performance of UPS courier division

A fleet of specially designed and manufactured Pullman Brown Mercedes-Benz Sprinter panel vans are set to revolutionise South Africa’s billion-rand courier industry. This follows a decision by UPS SCS South Africa to replace some of the vehicles in its fleet with 19 brand-new Sprinters, imported from Germany and fitted with specialised UPS upgrades to meet express delivery needs. Speaking at the key hand-over in Centurion this week, Paul Horsfall, MD of UPS SCS South Africa, said expertise gained from 200 companies globally had been implemented in South Africa with the launch of the new fleet. “Our aim is to improve our delivery capabilities and these vehicles are proof of that commitment. We have had these vehicles fitted with unique specifications such as brake and clutch components to accommodate high usage. The door handles, for example, can withstand a regime which usually sees them being opened on average over 100 times a day.” The vehicles are fitted with satellite tracking as well as cameras and video monitors that allow the driver to see what is happening at the external rear of the vehicle as part of the deal. Horsfall said the vehicles ensured drivers did not have to get out to access the packages. “The vehicle is preloaded in a specific sequence and the driver’s route planned accordingly. He can comfortably walk to the back, retrieve the parcel and exit via the passenger door. The new vehicles are not only safer, but more efficient.” According to Horsfall, five major cities in South Africa have also been digitally mapped making navigation to destinations easier, while a digital system has been implemented to allow parcels to be tracked throughout the process and logged into a database once the receiver signs an electronic device (digital pad) monitoring all parcels. Kobus van Zyl, director of sales & marketing, commercial vehicles, Mercedes-Benz South Africa said the 309 CDI units were the best option for UPS as they would allow optimum consumption and minimum downtime. The new diesel-run vehicles are to be deployed in the Johannesburg area.