Important update on our services throughout COVID-19 – January 2021
January not only saw us ring in 2021, but also saw us entering a third lockdown. Northern Ireland and Wales imposed national lockdowns over the festive period, with Scotland and England following on Monday January 4th.
Health and safety remain paramount for us all and we continue to review and follow government guidance, whilst strengthening our business continuity plans, and reinforcing our commitment to keeping your vehicles moving.
As we enter this new period of heightened restrictions, we do so armed with new knowledge and insights gained over recent months.
With lockdown now in place once again in England, Fleet Operations/TraXall UK has re-entered P3 status.
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Service delivery
While it is broadly ‘business as usual’ for us, we continue to experience significant restrictions, delays and shortages across a number of service support areas. These appear likely to continue for the foreseeable future, so we explain the impacts below to help you advance plan.
Maintenance/Breakdown
The network currently remains open during the lockdown period as an essential service, but there are often longer lead times than normal. Courtesy car, while-you-wait servicing, and collect/deliver services are still impacted due to the hygiene and social distancing measures needed to ensure the safety of all drivers. We expect no further change to the service that we are operating for your drivers and continue to monitor the network on an ongoing basis.
Rental
The rental sector has closed branches and reduced staffing. While rental services are still available, the challenges within the short-term rental market are showing no signs of easing, impacting lead times, service levels and vehicle availability across the industry. As a result, some urgent/same day rentals are being turned down by suppliers and different classes of vehicle may be delivered, often without notice, to fulfil a mobility need. Our teams are prepared to deal with all scenarios, including the use of taxis where absolutely necessary, to keep your drivers safe.
New Vehicle Deliveries
The Department for Transport has made it clear that logistics, including the collection and delivery of vehicles, should continue, provided it can be done in accordance with safety guidelines. All of our dealers have confirmed deliveries will continue under the same safety protocols they have had in place since the start of the pandemic.
Pool Vehicles/Vehicle Reallocation Services
We have received a large number of requests for vehicles to be collected/delivered and go through our reallocation service. In response to demand, we have enhanced our process, service, and supply chain but turnaround times remain longer than usual due to COVID-19 impacts and hygiene requirements. We thank you for your patience during this unprecedented time.
Fleet Operations/TraXall UK will continue to provide you with regular updates and we assure you of our continued efforts to deliver the highest quality service at all times. Despite the challenges, our people remain committed to taking whatever steps we can to keep you mobile and minimise any potential delays or disruption.
We hope you, your families and work colleagues continue to remain safe during these difficult times.