Babcock dealerships are equipped to offer a comprehensive pre-purchase analysis of a used DAF truck for prospective buyers at no cost. In a tough economic climate it’s difficult to finance a new truck and many companies are considering buying second-hand vehicles. Unfortunately, such vehicles frequently don’t live up to their expectations in the long term.
A second lease on life
Babcock offers a thorough ‘health analysis’ of the status of the vehicle being considered, categorising problem areas into critical, recommended and optional repairs. The potential buyer can then make an informed decision based on the truck’s actual condition. Our dealerships throughout southern Africa are also equipped to do the necessary repairs and maintenance throughout the second life of the vehicle and will provide warranties on the parts and workmanship.
The value of this service was recently demonstrated when Dubai-based Edgebold JLT approached Babcock for assistance with its purchase of 10 used DAF XF105.460 trucks for deployment in Mozambique. Edgebold was founded in Dubai in 2011 with the purpose of growing businesses in southern Africa by investing in promising existing companies and by establishing new ones. Its Group company First Base Cargo SA was founded in Nacala, Mozambique, to provide reliable, safe and cost effective transport solutions to customers across the country. First Cargo SA has a long term vision to become a major SADC firm and intends to expand its fleet over the next two years and replicate its success in other countries.
Edgebold’s John Raper explains: “After carefully independently researching several leading truck brands worldwide, we came to the conclusion that we required vehicles for First Cargo SA with an African specification and which were suited to the southern African environment. We wanted a highly regarded brand of truck to be associated with First Cargo SA and DAF fit this requirement. Additionally, the brand had to be well supported in the region, not just by a company able to provide world class technical support, but which also had knowledge of the region and a footprint in Mozambique. This made DAF and Babcock the standout choice.
An order was signed for 10 used XF105.460s to be reconditioned and exported to Mozambique at the end of 2014. Babcock facilitated the transportation of the refurbished trucks to Mozambique, including drivers, police clearance, pre-inspections and customs clearance on the South African side. In addition, a basic container store and a shipment of maintenance and breakdown parts was supplied to Edgebold. The transaction went so well that Edgebold placed a second order to refurbish an additional 10 used XF105.460s and these were delivered to First Cargo SA in May 2015.
“The trucks were delivered in a condition as close to new as possible. They will be operating in tough terrain, over long distances in remote areas, so the repairs we recommended were designed to keep them performing optimally for the long term.” - Dave Black
Raper comments that Edgebold has seen its relationship with Babcock evolve into more of a partnership, with Babcock providing operational advice based on its knowledge of fleet operations in southern Africa. “This has proved hugely beneficial, particularly during the initial phases of our venture in Mozambique,” he says. “During the import process the Babcock team was constantly at hand to assist and their aftersales support has also been impressive. Outside of their technical expertise, I have found their availability and professionalism to be their most valued qualities. They have always been quick to respond, and have gone above and beyond what has been asked to help find a solution.”
