Most people wouldn’t dream of buying a new vehicle without having the ability to take it out on a fairly extensive test drive. Unfortunately, most heavy equipment used in airports is rarely purchased using the same methods. When it comes to choosing a new baggage tractor, having the option to complete an extensive “test drive” can really make a difference.
The Test Drive
By renting a baggage tractor, any airport equipment manager can provide the baggage handlers with the experience of actually using the tractor in the real world situation it will be operated. This may mean renting it for a few months to allow winter and summer use or to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to drive and use the tractor and provide feedback.
It is important to carefully review the rental agreement with the company before choosing a ground equipment supplier to work with. The best companies will have a full maintenance service program with their rentals, meaning you don’t have to worry about upkeep as the rental service will include all of that in the rental cost.
During this time, it is a good idea to keep a maintenance record and to compare that with other models and options. Remember, you can rent more than one model and type of baggage tractor during this period, giving you the option to compare two or more models working under the same conditions.
The Rental Option
For seasonal peaks in travel and cargo, renting a baggage tractor, or perhaps more than one for large airports, is a very cost-effective option. This saves having to buy new or refurbished equipment that will largely remain unused except in those peak times.
By using the rental option you can control just how long you need the baggage tractor or tractors for, and even stipulate the size and type to meet the specific needs of the airport. Again, maintenance should be included even for these short-term rentals over peak travel times.
Upsizing
While you may choose to rent a baggage tractor that is the same size as your current fleet of tractors, it may also be effective and informative to upsize or upgrade to a larger, more powerful option.
This will allow you to compare the efficiency in moving luggage, fuel consumption, the speed of loading and unloading planes and other factors between smaller and larger sizes.
With this information any airport equipment manager will be better prepared to consider either continued rental of a baggage tractor, making a purchase to add to the equipment, or upsizing to increase efficiency.