My delivery van's engine gave out right on Woodward Ave last Tuesday

It was the middle of our lunch rush and we had 12 orders to get out. The thing just died, no warning, and I was stuck blocking a lane for 45 minutes waiting for a tow. Cost me $1,200 for the tow and the initial repair estimate, plus all the lost orders and angry customers. I had to call every driver I know to finish the route in their personal cars. Has anyone else had a major vehicle breakdown during peak hours and how did you handle the fallout?

2 comments

2 Comments

campbell.evan2h ago

Major breakdowns are a cost of doing business with older vehicles. You should have a backup plan ready before it happens, not scramble after the fact. Relying on personal cars from other drivers is a temporary fix, not a real solution. A proper commercial operation needs a reserve vehicle or a standing agreement with a rental service.

king.kevin1h ago

My old delivery van blew a head gasket last winter. Had a rental lined up within two hours because the contract was already in place. Scrambling for favors just kills your whole week.