Upgrade for NHS Logistics vehicles

More than 100 new vehicles, all in smart new livery, have been delivered to TNT Logistics for its distribution contract with the NHS Logistics Authority.

The vehicles, including 3.5 tonne vans, 7.5 tonne trucks, 18 tonne trucks and double-deck trailers, have been phased in over the last six months, with the final delivery in this part of the replacement programme due by the end of June.

The NHS Logistics Authority saw sales grow by 14 percent last year and is looking to build on this success this year. It is also developing an increasing market share among the smaller clinics and health centres.

The order for 108 new vehicles includes more than twenty 3.5 tonne IVECO Daily vans - a number which has doubled in the last 12 months, as deliveries to the smaller health units grow.

The 7.5 tonne MAN rigids have slightly larger bodies to allow them to carry more roll-cages, and double-deck trailers are being introduced on one truck route to increase efficiency and reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Fuel efficiency, noise reduction and driver comfort and safety were all important selection criteria.

NHS Logistics is responsible for the supply of consumable goods (everything from surgical instruments and wound dressings to stationery and uniforms) to the 600 NHS organisations which run hospitals and other healthcare centres throughout England.

In total, TNT Logistics utilises about 250 vehicles to make deliveries from six distribution centres for the Authority.

Barry Mellor, Chief Executive, NHS Logistics Authority, says "This modern efficient fleet, together with our joint initiative to improve fleet utilisation, will further improve the world class service already provided to the NHS."