New Isuzu lightens the load for sole trader

The recent purchase of a late 2022-model Isuzu FSR 140-260 has brought impressive efficiencies to goods and parcels delivery driver, Jack Singh, who works as an independent contractor for Allied Express Transport in and around Sydney.

“I’m an owner-operator so it means that I’ve got my own business and truck,” says Jack.

“I’ve been subcontracting with Allied Express for 17 years now; the work just keeps coming and honestly, I’m thankful for it.”

Jack followed his father into trucking after moving to Australia from Fiji, where he grew up.

“My dad had a few Isuzu NPR trucks in Fiji,” he says.

“When I came to Australia more than 20 years ago, I started as a furniture removalist, but it wasn’t fulfilling. However, once I got into owning and operating my own trucks, it lifted up my lifestyle and lifted up the dreams I had.

“There were a few hard days of course but now the business is flying like an eagle!

Jack’s day typically begins around 4:00am, and takes him throughout Sydney and sometimes into regional New South Wales as he delivers car parts and ensures his clients are well looked after.

“Trucking is not easy, I think everyone knows that,” he says.

“You have to put a lot of effort in, but when it takes off, things can run really well.”

More recently, the purchase of an Isuzu FSR 140-260 has seen his business shift up another gear.

“I bought the late 2022 model of the FSR 140-260 from Dwyers Truck Centre,” says Jack.

“It’s a fantastic truck; I wanted this specific body length and size, which makes it perfect for my everyday routine.”

Jack chose the automatic transmission for ease of use in busy city traffic, also choosing to replace the suspension with an airbag suspension controlled from the cab.

Jack primarily deals with large pallets on his run and so he made plenty of space in his designs by maxing out the length at nine metres with a massive 2.6-metre clearance. He also chose sleek media doors for the back of the truck for a cleaner, more professional look. It’s all added up to one head-turning package, and one of the smartest delivery trucks on the road.

“When you drive metro, you need something that’s not too big or too difficult to move around, something that can easily get into car parks, handle tight corners and run around the city all day,” says Jack.

“The FSR fits into almost any dock, any car park and you dance around corners… there’s just never any hassle with a truck like this.

“In my opinion, the FSR is one of the best trucks for Sydney metro that we’ve got at the moment.”

With a GVM of 14 tonnes and a hefty GCM of 21 tonnes, there’s not much Jack can’t haul in his new truck. This means fewer trips back to base and greater productivity in general.

Add in standard safety features like ABS, traction control and cab tilt warning, and it also gives Jack peace of mind as he negotiates Sydney’s busy streets. But it’s the aftersales backup that also has Jack resting easy.

“I’ve got a six-year warranty on this new truck and a service agreement from the dealer,” he says.

“This means that if I get a job overnight, I just have to put the keys in the ignition and away I go and I know that I’m covered anywhere in Australia with the nationwide warranty.

“That is a big advantage that should be considered by anyone who’s thinking about buying a truck; you’re paying for that comfort and peace of mind.”

“It’s easy with Isuzu; everyone attends to you immediately, and I have found there’s no waiting around on the phone or at the dealership.”

This year has been a good one for Jack and his family, with Jack thankful for a booming business and the honour of becoming a proud grandfather.

“New truck, new baby in the house, it’s been a blessing… Australia has been good to us!” he says.

“I’m thankful for everything and everyone in the industry that have been a part of my journey and my career so far.

“It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve loved it.”