Volvo Cars has awarded a five-year contract to logistics provider DHL Supply Chain to handle its aftermarket parts warehousing and distribution to more than 120 of its dealers across the UK.
Under the new contract, DHL will manage four shared-use local distribution centres. The company said that through changes to the network and working with Volvo Cars it has been able to increase the availability of parts whilst providing an efficient service to the dealer network.
"This new contract heralds a new partnership between DHL and Volvo Cars, which will see us deliver an innovative service-level delivery network, resulting in increased efficiencies,” said Michael Martin, vice-president of business development for automotive, at DHL Supply Chain.
Deliveries will take place through the night using DHL’s ‘Auto Alliance’ collaborative platform, according to DHL. This network includes use of distribution and logistics facilities that are also shared by other automotive customers. Earlier this year, Scania, the Swedish commercial vehicle manufacturer, also shared a three-year contract to use a similar DHL network.
During the day, deliveries will be made through the same day service to all of Volvo Cars UK dealers. This service incorporates flexible driver departure times to even the most remote dealers, which the company said meant an enhanced, more efficient delivery service nationwide.
DHL is deploying a fleet of 35 fuel-efficient vehicles on the contract. They feature Microlise vehicle tracking – a telematics systems – to increase fleet performance, full closure tail lifts to maintain high safety standards and state-of-the-art double deck trailers designed for working in the aftermarket environment.
DHL Supply Chain has also been a provider of aftermarket parts deliveries for Volvo in Scandinavia.
