Cat redefines 'cattle class'

After taking delivery of two Cat CT630LS prime movers in mid-2014, Ian Einsiedel – founder and managing director of livestock transport firm Transedel – says the trucks have proven to be capable, comfortable, and reliable.

Ian and his partner Leonie Hunter are based near Sale in Victoria's Gippsland region, with the company's fleet of four B-double sets and two truck-and-dog combinations regularly running through Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia.

The Cats are driven by Paul Ryan, who is based near Sale, and Robert Walshe, who operates from NSW's Wagga region.

Fifty-two-year-old Ian drew on plenty of experience when it came time to purchase the trucks – he founded Transedel in 1999 but he's been driving for most of his life, and in his time he's bought over 25 new vehicles.

Ian says the reputation of Cat's C15 engine was a big factor in guiding his purchasing decision.

"Fuel consumption's certainly a big improvement over other engine brands we've run since starting this business," he says.

"In fact, measured over two trucks over a year, it's a huge saving."

The C15 relies on diesel particulate filters for emissions compliance, meaning owners can dispense with the AdBlue costs associated with SCR systems.

Ian says he's also very happy with the service he's received from the Clayton (Melbourne) branch of Cat Trucks dealer William Adams – a relationship he's enjoyed for many years.

"Good trucks are made better by good service but poor service is something that can quickly turn even the best equipment into a bad memory," he says.

"There have been a few minor hiccups but any issues have been dealt with promptly and professionally.

"The trucks are serviced under a fixed price agreement with William Adams and as far as I'm concerned, it's something we can't go past. It's brilliant, and there are no hidden issues with warranty or whatever. They have quality people working on the trucks and honestly, it's all good news.

"In some ways we're just a relatively small, boutique company but we're treated the way we should be – as professionals. Our drivers certainly aren't treated as just numbers and if they want something looked at on the trucks, it's done without hesitation."

Ian's Cats run Eaton 18-speed overdrive transmissions into Meritor diffs mounted on Hendrickson Primaax air suspension. With gross weights under volume loading up to 68 tonnes, Ian says he's entirely happy with achieving a consistent 1.5 kilometres per litre.

Ian says the two Cats complete his solution to the puzzle of providing effective and reliable livestock transport.

"These trucks have exceeded all expectations, particularly on the bottom line," he says.

"So if you were to ask me if I would buy the same again, the answer would definitely be 'yes', based entirely on the cost-effectiveness and reliability the Cats have given us."