A well-coordinated team and hard work — that’s what sets us apart!
Today, Dmitry Kozhedub, Technical Director at PRIMUM, shared how logistics keeps running smoothly even on the road.— Dmitry, why does a logistics company need its own service station? What kind of work is done there?
A logistics company needs its own service station so the client doesn’t have to wait.
We know our fleet inside out — every truck and trailer. We take full responsibility for quality and won’t let an unprepared vehicle go on a route. Repairs are faster: we don’t depend on third-party services, their queues, or supply chains. The result for the client is fewer downtimes and more available trucks. As for the work, we handle everything — from small fixes to engine and gearbox repairs.
— How do you ensure service quality at the station?
First comes diagnostics and a “remarks sheet.” Then the repair follows a checklist. After that — acceptance: we drive the truck over the pit and check the quality of the work done.
There’s always the human factor, so the system is not “by eye” but a complete procedure. We control quality ourselves and will never send out a truck we cannot vouch for.
— What does “European standard” mean to you?
I’ve been to service stations in Europe and, to be honest, they’re far behind us. (Laughs).
A European standard means order and speed. A clean workplace creates discipline, processes are clear, deadlines are predictable. At specialized service centers, repairs can take longer, while we keep a faster pace. For the client, this translates into reliable deadlines with no surprises: the vehicle leaves the bay ready for the trip, not with a “we’ll see on the road.”
— Dmitry, what are your plans for developing the service station in the near future?
I can’t reveal everything, but yes, we have plans. (Smiles).
We’re speeding up processes and improving quality. New technologies are adopted as soon as they appear on the market. The goal is simple and clear: even fewer downtimes and more available trucks in the fleet, so that “a truck is available” becomes the default answer for the client.
— What is PRIMUM’s mobile service station?
It’s basically a service on wheels. We have four of them. Imagine: a truck breaks down a thousand kilometers from base. Looking for a tow truck or subcontractor means losing a lot of time and money. We simply send our own team.
The mobile service is fully equipped, and our mechanics are prepared for any conditions. There have been cases when, “in the field,” they removed a gearbox or repaired an engine. Once they even dismantled and reinstalled a 700-kg rear axle, delivered it to the workshop for repair, and got the truck back on the road. In such cases, people are always surprised: “Is that even possible?” (Laughs).
— In what cases is the mobile service especially useful?
Always! (Smiles). In transportation, time is more important than profit. We take responsibility for delivering cargo on time, and the mobile service helps us keep that promise.
— What kinds of breakdowns can be fixed on the spot?
Almost everything! Of course, a full engine overhaul can’t be done in the field — that goes to the service station. But many things can be fixed immediately: replacing injectors, adjusting valves, changing the clutch, repairing the suspension, reprogramming control units, or fixing electrical systems — all that can be done on site.
— How do internal control and transparency at the service station affect overall fleet reliability?
Fleet reliability depends not only on the service station but on the whole team: mechanics, engineers, procurement specialists, even economists. Everyone has their role, but together we keep the fleet in shape.
— What sets your approach to vehicle maintenance apart?
The key is responsibility. Everyone understands: the quality of repairs impacts road safety, the company’s reputation, and client trust. That’s why everything matters to us — from discipline to teamwork.