Member Spotlight: Eastern Truck & Trailer

Member Spotlight by Eastern Truck & Trailer.

Provide us with a brief summary of your business’ services

Eastern Truck and Trailer, including daily repairs ranging from electrical work to major component replacements and engine overhauls. They utilize cutting-edge diagnostics equipment to pinpoint necessary repairs, minimizing labor costs and downtime for customers. Additionally, they provide preventative maintenance programs to increase uptime and reduce costly repairs, offer assistance with federal inspections to minimize downtime and ensure compliance, and have certified technicians experienced in tuning and overhauling various engine types. Their additional truck services include A/C services, transmission and differential work, box repair, alignment, brakes, tire services, light-duty repairs, accessory installations, 5th wheel repair/replacement, battery replacements, computer diagnostics, and diesel APU/generator maintenance.

Tell us about your company’s mission and values

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Eastern Truck & Trailer in Columbus, OH, pledges to significantly reduce downtime for our valued customers. We understand that a vehicle out of service is not just an inconvenience but a critical disruption. Our mission is to address these challenges swiftly and effectively with our comprehensive suite of services. As a one-call solution, we offer an extensive range of capabilities, ensuring that every client receives prompt, reliable, and expert service. Our focus is not just on fixing vehicles, but on restoring momentum to businesses and lives disrupted by unexpected vehicle issues. At Eastern Truck & Trailer, we keep you moving forward!

At Eastern Truck & Trailer, our vision is to revolutionize the truck and trailer service industry in Columbus, OH, by becoming the unequivocal leader in minimizing customer downtime. We see a future where vehicle breakdowns no longer mean prolonged delays and disruptions. Our goal is to transform every unexpected hassle and scheduling inconvenience into a seamless, efficient, and swift resolution. With a diverse and robust range of capabilities, we are dedicated to being the one-call solution that immediately springs to mind for every customer in need. We aspire to set new standards in service speed, quality, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every interaction not only solves immediate issues but also reinforces a lasting trust in our expertise and commitment to keeping our customers moving.

What are the services you use the most (or are looking forward to using) from the Columbus Chamber?

Chamber of Commerce could offer support to Eastern Truck and Trailer in various ways:

• Networking Opportunities: The Chamber provides platforms for Eastern Truck and Trailer to connect with other businesses, potential clients, and industry professionals, facilitating collaboration and partnerships.
• Business Resources: They offer access to resources and information relevant to the trucking and transportation industry, including market trends, regulatory updates, and business development tools.
• Advocacy and Representation: The Chamber advocates for the interests of local businesses like Eastern Truck and Trailer, representing them in local government affairs, promoting favorable business policies, and addressing industry-specific challenges.
• Promotional Support: Eastern Truck and Trailer could benefit from the Chamber’s promotional activities, such as inclusion in business directories, participation in Chamber-sponsored events, and exposure through the Chamber’s communication channels.
• Training and Education: The Chamber may organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions tailored to the needs of businesses like Eastern Truck and Trailer, covering topics such as workforce development, safety regulations, and best practices in the industry.

Overall, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce serves as a valuable resource and support system for Eastern Truck and Trailer, helping them thrive and succeed in the local business community.

How do you stay engaged with trends that you see in your industry?

• Following the Economy: Truck repair is tied to the overall economy. During economic booms, trucking activity increases, leading to more repairs. The shop should stay informed about economic trends to anticipate demand.
• Embracing Evolving Technology: Trucks are becoming increasingly complex with advanced technologies. The shop needs to invest in mechanic training and equipment to handle these repairs.

Building Strong Customer Relationships:

• Excellent Service: Providing high-quality repairs, fast turnaround times, and transparent communication builds trust and keeps customers coming back.
• Specialization: Focusing on specific repairs (e.g., engine, brakes, trailers) or truck types (e.g., long-haul, construction) can attract a loyal customer base.

Staying Competitive:

• Competitive Pricing: Regularly research competitor pricing and offer fair pricing for services.
• Investing in Efficiency: Utilizing shop management software and streamlining processes can save time and money.
• Marketing and Engagement: Building a strong online presence, offering loyalty programs, and attending industry events can attract new customers.

By following these strategies, a truck repair shop like Eastern Truck and Trailer can stay relevant and thrive in the competitive truck repair industry.

What is your company culture like?

Starting out as a small repair shop in Columbus, OH, Eastern Truck and Truck, LLC has endured the big competition and the high costs associated with running a repair shop. 

We know diesel engines, and the hard work it takes to keep them running. Our seasoned mechanics were certified and specialized in a variety of areas revolving around diesel trucks & equipment. We worked hard to help you grow your company and keep you included with ours.

Eastern Truck and Trailer, LLC started out as a diesel repair company founded by Fleet Owners for Fleet Owners. Being in the trucking industry for over 20 years, we know what it takes to keep your trucks moving. We’ve kept our own trucks on the road, and it is not an easy feat. We also know that with the ‘big companies’ you can’t catch a break either. With the rising labor costs and slow turnaround, being a truck owner these days results in headaches with shops. We understand and are here to help. Enjoy our small-town atmosphere and like-minded people. We look forward to helping!

We have now expanded our ability to help our community. We have acquired a dealership agreement with Capacity Yard Trucks. With this dealership will come the ability to provide new equipment to the growing population in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. We are able to provide access to repair and maintenance along with parts sales. We look forward to continuing to grow our footprint and helping customers in all these areas.

What does it take to be a successful employee at your company?

A happy and prosperous technician at our company is one who is both skilled and keeps learning. They are masters of diesel engines, from fuel systems to transmissions, and are always curious about the latest advancements. They are a problem-solving whiz who can diagnose issues quickly and meticulously fix them, all while keeping safety at the forefront of their mind. Communication is key for them, as they interact with customers and colleagues clearly. Time management keeps their workday running smoothly, and they are adaptable to new equipment and ever-changing technologies. A happy and prosperous technician also believes in providing excellent customer service and operates with honesty and integrity, building trust with everyone they work with.

What makes Columbus such a great place to do business?

Columbus, Ohio is a prime location for a truck repair shop that caters to on-highway commercial transportation due to several factors:

• Strong Trucking Industry: Columbus is a major transportation hub with a significant concentration of trucking companies. This creates a steady demand for parts and service.
• Centralized Location: Columbus sits at the intersection of several major interstates, making it a convenient stopping point for truckers traveling across the country. This can lead to increased service and parts sales.
• Business-Friendly Environment: Columbus has a pro-business climate with a skilled workforce and competitive tax rates. This can help truck repair shops maintain profitability.

Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EasternTruckTrailer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastern_truck/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eastern-truck/
Website: https://www.easterntruck.com/