The working environment across Australia is particularly challenging for many businesses. Jade Truck Loans, your top choice for Truck Finance Broker Australia, has been staying informed through news reports and conversations with our customers. Recognizing the increased demand for flexibility, we've enhanced our Truck Refinancing options, ensuring our clients have the best tools to navigate these testing times.
Covid Creates Confusion
The transport industry, including Cargo Trailer Financing sectors, has been repeatedly commended for their work in keeping supply chains happening throughout the coronavirus pandemic. But with the recent outbreaks, arguably the second wave of COVID-19 in Victoria which then extended into parts of NSW and Queensland, new levels of restrictions have been introduced.
These restrictions relate to all businesses having COVID-safe work and business plans but the issues which are greatly impacting the trucking sector are in regard to the border controls. As COVID-19 hot spots have appeared in various states, other states have tightened border restrictions.
These border controls seem to constantly changing which is creating a whole world of issues for transport and freight operators with confusion and delays.
In response to the second wave, protocols for freight movements, including guidelines for Commercial Heavy Vehicle & Truck Loans, were agreed to by the National Cabinet. This Cabinet includes the Prime Minister, the state Premiers and territory First Ministers and the protocols have the endorsement of the AHPPC (the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee) which has been advising the PM on all aspects throughout the crisis.
The protocol document states that while not identified as a source of COVID-19 community transmission, freight movements, as with all movements of persons through communities needed to be risk-managed.
The document is lengthy and detailed but as an idea of some of the points:-
- Border controls for heavy vehicles to be streamlined across jurisdictions to minimise delays.
- Dedicated freight lanes at border control check points.
- Standardised permits.
- Drivers of heavy vehicles should not be required to self-isolate when crossing state borders unless showing symptoms of COVID-19.
- Routine testing for drivers regularly travelling into/out of hot spots.
- All companies to have COVID-safe workplans
- No passengers in trucks unless workers.
- Overnighting in accommodation only to adhere to fatigue requirements.
Plus many more details which no doubt companies are well aware of or refer to the Government website for details.
Several transport industry figures have commented on the need for a more consistent approach. Many drivers have reported their frustrations with border controls and restrictions, emphasizing the benefits of Leasing Commercial Vehicles for added flexibility.
Border Requirements
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has a dedicated webpage to collating and listing the requirements of the industry in regard to state borders. This information is updated regularly as the situation changes and details what is required by each state and has links to each state and territory government requirements.
The NHVR states that it is working on providing services to drivers in regard to the coronavirus pandemic to support the industry. The SETUP initiative aims to meet the National Road Safety Action Plan targets, ensuring that transport businesses, especially those considering Commercial Van Finance, have the best safety tools at their disposal.
Safety Updates
NHVR also announced wide support by the industry in regard to incorporating safety technologies into both existing and new heavy vehicles. According to NHVR the plan (SETUP) is very important in providing certainty to the industry in regard to the installation of new technologies.
The purpose of SETUP is to address the National Road Safety Action Plan targets and the plan covers several key areas including vehicle standards, education and access to the latest technology.
Lending Updates
With interest rates at record lows, Used Truck Finance becomes a more appealing option for businesses looking to upgrade. Jade Truck Loans collaborates with various banks and non-bank lenders, providing an array of loan products tailored for every need.
In addition to what we can offer you, remember, the Instant Asset Write-Off initiative has been extended, the Coronavirus information and support for business has also been extended and certainty around JobKeeper has also been announced.
All these aspects may combine to present the ideal environment for you to upgrade your truck. If that is in your mind, contact Jade Truck Loans to discuss what offers we can source for you. You don’t have to have your vehicle already selected, we can provide pre-approved low interest truck loans on estimated value and give you a quick quote to assist with pre-purchase planning.
Looking Ahead
Due to COVID-19, most conventions, shows and other trade fairs and showcases have been cancelled for the entire 2020 calendar in most states. No doubt everyone is hoping in 2021 the calendar of great truck showcase events is reinstated.
One you can mark in the calendar at this stage is the 2021 Brisbane Truck Show. The dates are locked in for 13-15 May 2021 at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and Southbank Parklands.
Stay in touch with Jade Truck Loans for further industry updates in our news and articles and if you’re in the market for a new truck, give us a call for a loan quote.
Contact Jade Truck Loans on 1300 000 003
DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR GENERAL CONSIDERATION ONLY. INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURERS, GOVERNMENT, INDUSTRY AND OTHER SOURCES HAS BEEN GATHERED FROM THE PUBLIC DOMAIN WEBSITES. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR INTERPRETATION OF PRESENTATION OR ERRORS IN CONTENT. READERS ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT WITH THEIR FINANCIAL ADVISOR OR ACCOUNTANT IN REGARD TO FINANCIAL DECISIONS IN REGARD TO INDIVIDUAL REQUIREMENTS.
