The Kenworth PremierCare Connect program has expanded its service with the introduction of a new, cost-effective express option designed to offer small fleets an automated parts ordering system.
Kenworth PremierCare Connect Express makes it easier for customers to buy parts and replenish inventory without the complexities of a full repair shop management program, according to John Wisdom, Connect’s Director of Customer Systems.
Connect Express is designed for fleets of 10 or more vehicles and small maintenance shops that want a simple way to purchase parts, but do not need the additional functions of a full fleet management program. The system is easy to use and streamlines parts ordering by electronically linking customers with their preferred Kenworth dealer.
“Connect Express ends the days of service technicians at small fleets writing down part numbers on paper when they take parts out of inventory, and then having someone collect that paper daily and make phone calls to vendors to replenish parts stock,” Wisdom said.
Part numbers for any make of heavy and medium duty truck, trailer or other fleet equipment are entered into Connect, which automatically places the parts on a suggested order. If a part number cannot be found, Connect Express offers an option for the fleet to request that the preferred Kenworth dealer look up the part number. Digital images can even be submitted to the dealer to help identify a part.
Connect Express also alerts the fleet’s dealer to review the suggested order to provide availability and competitive pricing for those parts. Then any time during the day, the fleet can do a final review of the suggested order and, with two clicks of the mouse, order the parts needed.
“Through Express, the fleet’s preferred Kenworth dealer can also suggest genuine Paccar Brands parts – giving customers parts that provide outstanding performance at a competitive price.” Wisdom said. “This feature helps to ensure that fleets are able to control their operating costs and maximize equipment uptime.”
Through Kenworth PremierCare Connect Express, customers have a single on-line location to order parts from all their suppliers. Express also offers the valuable bonus features of parts usage tracking by vehicle and warranty alerts. “As parts are checked out to units, Connect automatically adds those parts to the unit’s usage history – providing an on-line record of parts used on each vehicle – and it also provides warranty alerts for all parts assigned to units,” said Wisdom.
“By automating parts ordering, we estimate that fleets with 10 or more trucks and a couple of technicians on staff can save up to an hour each day,” added Wisdom. “That can translate to a 10 percent increase in worker productivity in their service shops.”
Kenworth PremierCare Connect, which is used by 400 fleets representing about 32,000 trucks, also is offered in three other versions – WebConnect, Connect Professional and Connect Enterprise. Each program can be tailored to best suit a specific operation using Connect’s optional modules.
For more details, or to request a free demonstration, visit www.kenworthconnect.com for a downloadable brochure and information about system requirements and optional modules. To speak with a Kenworth PremierCare Connect representative, call 1-800-434-5076 or submit an e-mail to [email protected].
