Travelstar European the continental group-travel specialists and CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport) members have switched to TruTac’s compliance control software for improved reliability and tighter control, particularly regarding potential European tour-driver infringements.

Formed in 2005 the family business operates a modern fleet from its Walsall base throughout the UK and Europe and, says Operations Manager Craig Jackson, the company needed a system which could provide real-time monitoring and checking of each driver and the vehicle in their charge.

“For example,” explains Craig “with the ’12 day rule’ whereby coach drivers on an international trip can take their weekly rest after 12 consecutive 24-hour periods, we needed to know ahead of time when any individual might be at risk of exceeding their limit so we could avoid triggering an infringement.”

To ensure this, TruTac’s CPT Tacho Analysis software provides automatic digital reporting of all key information including mixed EU and domestic drivers’ hours and is fully WTD-compliant.

“The system was developed by TruTac in partnership with the CPT” adds Craig, “so it’s borne from real operator and regulatory requirements, plus it’s intuitive and simple to use. All we need is a portal and we can monitor any vehicle and driver at any time, with the knowledge that all data is secure and instantly retrievable – with auto email reporting – should we need it for any random inspections.”

For additional compliance control and insurance protection, TruTac’s CPT Licence Check module – also fully approved by the CPT – enables Craig and his team to carry out online verification checks on UK driving licences and CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) information. As with all TruTac software, the system saves time and improves accuracy by cutting out manual procedures and providing alerts for monitoring key compliance data.

According to Craig, Travelstar European also benefits greatly from TruTac’s CPT Daily Checks. This software, designed by TruTac and the CPT specifically for the coach and bus industry, makes it easy for drivers to carry out inspections and send photographs and detailed notes regarding any faults or recommended actions.

Furthermore, modelled on a CPT template, the system complies with all regulations and DVSA guidance on inspections and service maintenance records. Advisory and failed checks are highlighted and reported for comprehensive defect and maintenance audit records, while all checks and reports can be downloaded in various formats for detailed KPI analysis.

“It’s very useful and practical.” Adds Craig. “The data seamlessly integrates with the main system and provides full visibility of drivers’ working-time, infringements and tachograph data. All in all, we find the software and the support from TruTac to be first class and both play a key part in ensuring we stay legal, compliant and professional at all times.”

Travelstar works with some of the largest tour operators within the UK, as well as smaller individual businesses, conducting tours across Europe. The company also operates services on behalf of National Express – by whom Travelstar were nominated nationwide National Express Operator of the Year on four separate occasions.

Trutac

About the Author: admin