Protect the equipment driving you forward

For fleet managers in South Africa, keeping trucks moving safely and efficiently is an ongoing challenge. Rising fuel costs, deteriorating road conditions, and an increase in road hazards make tyre reliability a critical factor for success in the road freight industry.

Managing these challenges is essential in a sector that moves over 70% of the country’s goods; fleet managers need to be innovative to minimise unplanned expenses and maintain operations efficiently.

One of the largest contributors to these unplanned costs is unexpected tyre damage. A single tyre failure can disrupt tight delivery schedules, leading to costs that include not just replacements, but also labour downtime and other cascading expenses. Even with rigorous maintenance routines, certain road hazards remain unpredictable, making it essential to have additional safeguards in place.

Recognising this need, Dunlop Tyres introduced Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance in 2022, an innovative product that addresses the specific risks faced by fleet managers, providing protection against irreparable damage caused by road hazards.

The power of protection

Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance is designed specifically to help fleet managers navigate these issues by offering 18 months coverage for selected truck and bus radial (TBR) tyres against irreparable damage from road hazards. This offer is exclusively available from Dunlop-branded dealers (Zone, Express, Commercial, or Container) in South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia, and Lesotho. “Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance was created to directly address the risks and costs that come from South Africa’s challenging road conditions. It’s a simple but powerful way for fleet operators to protect their investment and reduce unforeseen expenses,” explains Louis Marais, general manager commercial sales at Dunlop Tyres SA.

The truck tyre insurance policy provides full replacement for irreparable damage in the first six months of purchase. For the remaining 12 months, Dunlop offers a pro-rated credit based on the remaining tread, helping to reduce the financial impact of unexpected tyre replacement. The policy is effective once tyres are registered, so long as this is done within seven days of purchase.

Designed for African roads

South Africa’s road network presents unique challenges, from long stretches of rough terrain to potholes and debris that threaten tyre integrity. Dunlop’s truck tyres, manufactured locally with advanced Japanese technology, are engineered to withstand these conditions.

Features like cut and chip resistance – as well as designs that reduce stone retention – ensure durability and reliability. When paired with Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance, this technical edge offers a holistic solution to keep tyres – and the trucks that rely on them – on the road for longer.

Seamless integration for fleets

Activating Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance is as straightforward as purchasing tyres through Dunlop dealers. Registration is completed via the Dunlop Dealer Portal within seven days of purchase, ensuring fleet managers have a seamless experience. Claims can be processed across South Africa and key regions like Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho – locations where many fleet operators frequently operate.

This accessibility adds significant value for fleet managers navigating the complexities of cross-border logistics. Additionally, the policy enables better management of cost-per-kilometre (CPK), a critical metric in the freight industry. By mitigating unexpected expenses, Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance gives fleet operators the tools to stay competitive in a cost-sensitive sector.

Solving industry-wide challenges

South Africa’s road freight industry is essential to the country’s economy but faces persistent challenges in efficiency, reliability, and safety. Unexpected failures not only lead to financial strain but also pose safety risks for drivers and other road users.

Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance offers a practical solution to these challenges, empowering fleet managers to operate with confidence. “As fleet managers work to keep vehicles operational and safe, Dunlop Sure provides them with the confidence and coverage needed to handle unexpected tyre damage,” Marais adds. “We know that reliability is essential, and this insurance is part of our commitment to giving fleet operators the support they need to keep trucks on the road.”

Why it matters

In an industry where downtime can lead to significant financial losses, Dunlop Sure Truck Tyre Insurance represents a proactive approach to business risk management. By addressing the causes of unexpected expenses head on, this policy enables fleet managers to focus on their core operations rather than worrying about unplanned costs. The result is greater efficiency, improved safety, and a more sustainable bottom line.

Ready to experience the Dunlop Sure advantage?

By offering tailored insurance policies, advanced engineering, and a reliable local supply chain, Dunlop is helping to raise the bar for tyre solutions in the South African trucking industry.

Managing risk and staying competitive can be seamlessly achieved by protecting vehicle assets, reducing downtime, and ensuring safer roads with a game-changing tyre policy that keeps businesses running.