PGR Timber is a building and timber merchants, operating from 11 locations across Essex and Surrey. Founded in 1984, PGR Timber has grown from a single site, focused primarily on supplying the local community, to a multi-site operation, serving the south of the UK.

Operating a fleet of 55 vehicles, from light vans to 32T HGVs, every year, the PGR Timber delivery team make more than 60,000 deliveries whilst covering around 800,000 miles annually.

With a vast range of products from aggregates, blocks and bricks to specialised landscaping products and tools, they deliver to an array of customers, both commercial and domestic.

The Challenge

Historically, the market for a mid-sized, sub 100 fleet has been limited. For PGR Timber, their previous provider supplied cameras only.

As PGR Timber has grown, supplying businesses and homes across Essex and Surrey, so has the sophistication of their operation.

Being able to track and have full visibility of their fleet was the next step. And with driver and public safety of huge importance to the business, they needed a fleet technology system that could grow with them.

As Group Transport Manager, Dave Collins put it, “We struggled with assisting our drivers in the tight areas they are working in, and the previous system unfortunately didn’t not give our drivers the confidence they needed when it came to complex vehicle movements.”

The challenge was clear, PGR Timber needed an enhanced fleet solution that would:

• Improve road safety and protect vulnerable road users
• Enhance driver confidence and streamline operations
• Elevate its industry reputation through best-practice logistics

The Solution

Leaving the previous hardware in situ, the Microlise system was easily fitted around, with minimal disruption whilst also helping keep the cost of hardware down.

Using the Focus telematics and tracking system – specifically designed for fleets with 100 vehicles or less – PGR Timber has full visibility of their daily operation, across multiple sites. Using Focus, they can quickly locate any vehicle and see departure and arrival times, which not only makes life easier in the transport office, but also enables their team to keep customers informed.

With a new 5-way camera system fitted to every delivery vehicle, drivers have 360˚ visibility, perfect for those tight spots. And in-cab Drive Tabs provide full blind spot vision, as well as a load bed viewpoint thanks to additional load cameras fitted to all new vehicles.

Hands-on, personal support

Over the years, as PGR Timber’s fleet technology portfolio has expanded, our relationship has grown, too. With personal support from all departments at Microlise, including accounts, service desk and technical assistance, help is only ever a phone call away.

Also, having a dedicated account manager provides a single point of contact to speak to about future development, installs or a direct point of escalation should any issues arise.

“Having access to the Microlise team is fundamental for our business,” adds Dave.

“I have a relationship with the technicians, system support and account management, all who understand the importance of fast contact, to ensure our service continues with as little downtime as possible.”

Together, Microlise and PGR Timber have transformed their transport operation, combining safety, efficiency and transparency. With enhanced visibility, real-time tracking and a responsive partnership, PGR Timber can continue building excellence – with every delivery.