Design Air / Hino Trucks
In the stillness of Kimberly, Wisconsin’s early morning the Design Air warehouse is buzzing with activity. Workers in high-vis jackets move with a synchronized rhythm honed by countless hours of practice, these diligent drivers prepare to embark on their route, delivering to independent HVAC contractors and businesses the crucial components that ensure our living spaces remain sanctuaries of comfort.
ADAPTING THROUGH THE DECADES
Since its inception in 1922 as Milwaukee Stove & Furnace Repair by the Oelstrom brothers and Fred J. Engler, Design Air has been deeply rooted in the HVAC industry. Through a journey of growth, acquisitions and mergers, the company transitioned from specializing in pot-bellied furnace repairs to becoming a leading HVAC distributor under the name Design Air from 1985.
“We deliver to approximately a thousand customers daily. They’re relying on us to be there. We must be there,” explains Dave Garvey, President of Design Air. “That’s the difference between success and failure for our customers. And our fleet is a key component of that.”
Today, with eight operational locations spanning across Wisconsin, upper Michigan, northern Illinois, eastern Minnesota, and northeast Iowa, Design Air takes pride in its century-old heritage and continues to build a promising future. The growth of the company reflects its commitment to its customers, and the innovative technological solutions employed to enhance their experience.
CONNECTING THE DOTS
Design Air’s pursuit of efficiency led to a pivotal partnership with Kriete Truck Centers, who introduced the company to telematics with the purchase of Hino’s 268 medium duty truck. “Our fleet has been totally turned over in the seven years since we owned it,” says Garvey. “We recognize the importance of a very high-quality fleet and a very high-quality maintenance partner to keep that fleet active.” Design Air’s trucks are equipped with Hino Edge, this telematics solution provides advanced fleet management with real-time vehicle tracking, fleet performance metrics and vehicle health monitoring. “This technology is now a cornerstone of our delivery process,” Garvey proclaims. “Not only does it help us ensure punctual deliveries, but it also aids us in coaching our drivers to maximize efficiency on the road.” The strong partnership with Kriete Truck Centers has been crucial in this journey, providing high-quality trucks and maintenance support that keeps their fleet in top condition.“
“We’ve found balance in our partnership with Kriete.”
“It’s about give and take. This understanding has allowed us to maintain an effective and cost-efficient fleet, and the quality of the Hino trucks we acquire from Kriete is second to none.” Hino’s trucks are also favored among the drivers at Design Air, providing a smooth ride and dependability when they start their early morning shifts.
One of the add-ons to the fleet are curtain-side trailers provided by Kriete Truck Centers. Design Air driver, Rick Carter, shares his experience, “I use it at practically every stop because a lot of the stuff that I’m dealing with is longer. It’s priceless.” This functionality allows Design Air’s products to be quickly and easily moved on and off the truck by drivers. For certain loads, conventional trailers can add at least an hour to the driver’s schedule at every pick-up. The curtain side trailers combine advantages of a flatbed with the covering and containment benefits of an enclosed trailer. Allowing Design Air’s drivers to devote time to driving, not struggling with a tarp.
Their customers agree, Brian Schmidt, with Sinkler Heating and Cooling, a Design Air customer, remarks on the trailer as an added benefit, “Going from closed box trucks to a soft side curtain truck was a huge improvement. It’s almost impossible to get sheet metal pallets off the back of a closed truck and it’s safer for our team.”
At Design Air, the goal is to deliver a unique, high-quality experience to every customer. The company recognizes the role its competitors play in driving it towards excellence. Design Air differentiates itself through the depth of its value-added services, technological solutions, and the reliability of its delivery service, understanding that the repercussions of a missed delivery can be catastrophic for their customers.
Design Air’s drivers have a unique understanding of the products they are delivering because prior to deliveries, many of them spend time stocking parts in the warehouse. By having drivers with extensive knowledge of the products they are delivering they assist their customers by providing an added level of support and efficiencies by ensuring the right product that was ordered is also delivered. For Healthy Home Heating & Cooling, a longtime Design Air customer, it adds tremendous value to the team, “We have a good driver. He takes a lot of the responsibility off our team. He’ll come in and unload the truck and put stuff aside for us. He’ll check it in and it’s a great relationship.”
“Embracing the digital revolution has been a key strategy for us.”
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