56 | TRANSPORT Alpha Load Piloting Piloting specialists enjoy steady growth The business has grown into a trusted provider of piloting services for oversized loads, supporting truck operators to move large and complex freight safely. T T Karen Phelps “I have a lot of pilots around the South Island I can call on so I can make things happen.” Phil - 027 257 4258 info@pilotcar.co.nz www.pilotcar.co.nz YOUR PROFESSIONAL SOUTH ISLAND LOAD PILOTING SERVICE LOAD PILOTING ALPHA MAG WHEELS • TYRES • BRAKES • ACCESSORIES WHEEL ALIGNMENTS • VEHICLE SUSPENSION 43 Fitzgerald Avenue, Christchurch 8011 Website: magandturbochch.co.nz Phone: 03 365 6613 Christchurch-based Alpha Load Piloting is proving that strong customer relationships can drive rapid growth. Owned and operated by Phil Paul, it has expanded steadily since he purchased the company in 2022, building a reputation for reliability and service across the South Island. From modest beginnings, the business has grown into a trusted provider of piloting services for oversized loads, supporting truck operators to move large and complex freight safely. After buying the company, Phil began with just one staff member, one casual worker and a handful of vehicles.Today, the company has grown to include seven vehicles, five regular staff and additional casual pilots, with Phil, who holds a Class 1 licence, still actively involved behind the wheel. “Having owned an elevated work platform company prior, with some large clients, the emphasis was on service,” says Phil. “I’ve taken that philosophy of customer service to Alpha Load Piloting.” That background, along with working in Alpha Load Piloting prior to purchasing it, has shaped the way the company operates. Phil places a strong emphasis on communication, attention to detail and consistently delivering a high-quality service. “I do my best to meet my customers’ requirements, and have at times had up to 12 pilots on the go in one day,” he says. “I have a lot of pilots around the South Island I can call on so I can make things happen.” This flexible approach has enabled the company to service a wide geographic area, working across the South Island and even arranging pilots in the North Island from time to time when required. Phil says load pilots play a critical role in the transport sector. Loads that exceed standard dimensions often require careful navigation through roads designed for ordinary traffic, with pilots helping to manage safety for both the transport operators and other road users. Alpha Load Piloting provides Class 1 and Class 2 piloting services. “The people that work for me are my most valuable assets,” says Phil. “Clients give great feedback about my staff. I’ve selected them carefully and they have great relationships with our clients and really care about giving them a great service.” He believes this focus on people has been central to the company’s success, both in terms of staff and customers. By building a team of experienced and certified pilots, Alpha Load Piloting ensures it meets all WorkSafe and compliance requirements. The company is a proud member of the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association. Phil has ambitions for further growth with plans to expand the fleet and secure more regular clients. “We have the capacity to increase our customer base,” he says. “We have awesome clients now, and I’d love to have another one or two cars on the road. It’s a matter of getting more of the right staff on board as customer service will always be first.”
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