Athens Paper Optimizes Fleet for Better Fuel Economy
Athens Paper has carved a significant niche in the paper products industry, offering a diverse array of items ranging from envelopes to newsprint and wall signage. With over 10,000 products available, this Nashville-based company, established in 1959, has expanded its reach to cover 16 states and operates 10 core distribution centers. The logistics of their operation are impressive, as they distribute approximately 3 million miles of paper products every year, ensuring timely delivery to their extensive customer base.
To maintain this level of service, Athens Paper relies on a fleet of 70 medium- and heavy-duty trucks, predominantly Kenworth models leased through PacLease. This robust transportation setup is crucial for fulfilling the demands of more than 3,000 customers across various sectors.
Understanding the Operational Efficiency
The journey toward an optimized fleet began several years ago, sparked by a seemingly routine sales call that would eventually transform Athens Paper's logistics operations.
Scott Loomis, the corporate operations manager at Athens Paper, recounts, “We weren’t initially looking to change leasing providers. However, PacLease approached us with a unique proposition: rather than focusing on selling trucks, they wanted to understand our business.” This approach resonated with Athens Paper's evolving operational needs, prompting Loomis to arrange for a comprehensive assessment of their transportation operations.
PacLease conducted an extensive analysis of logistics at some of Athens Paper’s larger distribution centers. This included:
- Evaluating delivery routes
- Assessing the current product mix
- Reviewing the variety of trucks in use
- Examining specifications and performance data
Following this thorough evaluation, PacLease provided tailored recommendations aimed at optimizing the fleet mix. “Their insights were invaluable, introducing us to new truck specifications that better aligned with our operational needs,” Loomis noted. This proactive approach stood in stark contrast to the previous leasing experiences of Athens Paper, paving the way for a fruitful collaboration.
Building a Customized Fleet
Initially, PacLease began its partnership with Athens Paper by leasing 31 medium and heavy-duty trucks across seven locations. As lease contracts with other providers expired, PacLease continued to win business by tailoring their offerings to meet the specific needs of each location.
“Each site collaborated with PacLease to create a program that worked best for their specific area,” Loomis explained. Although there was initial resistance to change—common in any established operation—the arrival of the new trucks quickly changed attitudes. “Once they got behind the wheel, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” he added.
The fleet includes the latest Kenworth T680s, which constitute 20% of their total trucks. These vehicles are equipped with:
- PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 HP
- PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission
In addition, the medium-duty Kenworths feature the PACCAR PX-9 engine with a capacity of 330 HP, paired with a PX-8 automatic transmission. This combination not only enhances performance but also significantly boosts fuel efficiency.
The Logistics of Deliveries
Each day, seven Kenworth T680s make their way into Nashville, hauling 53-ft trailers to restock the remaining core locations of Athens Paper. This operation utilizes a hub-and-spoke model, where Kenworth T380 and T480s, with 26-foot boxes, make deliveries within a 150-mile radius.
The scale of operations is impressive, with Athens Paper executing between 800 and 900 deliveries daily. Larger customers may receive multiple shipments each day, while others are serviced weekly. This level of logistics coordination is essential in meeting customer demands efficiently.
Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of the optimized fleet is the enhanced fuel economy, particularly with the Kenworth T680s. “We’ve seen an improvement of 1 to 1.5 miles per gallon compared to our previous brand, which translates into substantial cost savings given the volume of miles we cover annually,” Loomis pointed out. This improvement is not merely incremental; it represents a transformative impact on operational efficiency.
Moreover, PacLease didn’t stop at truck leasing; they also contributed to optimizing the specifications of the cargo components on Athens Paper's box trucks. This included:
- Utilizing wider cargo boxes to maximize load capacity
- Implementing taller door openings that do not affect overall height
These adjustments have significantly increased the productivity of their straight trucks, allowing for more efficient handling of deliveries.
Collaboration and Maintenance
While Loomis oversees the broader logistics strategy, each location's logistics manager collaborates closely with their local PacLease franchise, ensuring that trucks receive timely scheduled maintenance. “Downtime is not an option for us,” Loomis emphasized. “In today's just-in-time world, our customers rely on our ability to fulfill orders promptly.”
With a commitment to rapid turnaround—sometimes as quick as two hours after receiving an order—Athens Paper has built a reputation for reliability that is critical to its business model. This efficiency is made possible through a trusted fleet and a proactive maintenance program that minimizes downtime.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
The partnership between Athens Paper and PacLease has evolved into a highly successful collaboration. “Reflecting on that initial sales call seven years ago, I can confidently say it has been a turning point for our transportation program,” Loomis remarked. The strategic alliance has not only improved the fleet’s efficiency but also enhanced overall operational performance.
As Athens Paper continues to grow and adapt to changing market demands, the robust structure of their logistics and fleet management will remain a cornerstone of their success. The commitment to innovation and optimization ensures that they will remain a leader in the paper products industry.
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