Advanced Mechanical Handling for Euro Car Parts Ltd from Penny Hydraulics

Penny Hydraulics – Enhancing Safety and Efficiency for Euro Car Parts Ltd

Each year, Euro Car Parts Ltd supplies essential components and consumables to over five million cars and light commercial vehicles. Every day, more than 2,750 vans and bikes deliver over 60,000 orders to independent and franchised garages, body shops, and fleet service centres across the UK. Additionally, more than 400,000 retail customers visit the company’s outlets for DIY parts, car care products, and accessories.

The company recently expanded its operations with the addition of a new National Distribution Centre and prides itself on offering customers “the ultimate parts buying experience: Any make, any model. The right products, at the right prices – first time, every time.”

In 2014, Euro Car Parts Ltd Fleet Manager Daniel McKeown reached out to lifting equipment specialist Penny Hydraulics to source equipment for lifting large garage oil barrels in and out of their Peugeot Expert van fleet. After a consultation with Penny Hydraulics, the LoadLift 250—a lightweight, compact, and hydraulic loading platform—was selected specifically for this purpose.

LoadLift 250 – Key Features:
Low-level style platform: 600mm x 554mm

Three fixed toes for easy loading/unloading of barrels

Stowage bracket with tie-downs and top steady for the barrel

Protective cover to maintain condition when stowed

Lightweight (approx. 100kg) for minimal vehicle payload impact

Lifting capacity up to 250kg

Hydraulically powered for smooth, safe operation

Built-in overload protection

Wander lead controls

Compact design to maximize usable van floor space

Installed just inside the rear doors, customized to customer preferences across the UK

In 2016, the lift installation specification was updated to accommodate the new Peugeot Boxer fleet. The lifts were installed next to the side door rather than the rear. To date, over 75 units have been installed with 10 more on order.

Commitment to Health and Safety
The latest data from the Health & Safety Executive highlights the continuing need to reduce manual handling risks. Euro Car Parts Ltd has shown its commitment to employee welfare by investing in vehicle-mounted cranes and hydraulic loading platforms, effectively eliminating the need for manual handling.

Daniel McKeown commented, “We were able to nail down the lift specification efficiently. The quality of the lifts is brilliant and they are already helping us to work more safely and productively.”

About Penny Hydraulics
Founded in 1978, Penny Hydraulics Ltd has been designing and manufacturing bespoke lifting solutions for decades. The company’s award-winning range of vehicle-mounted lifting equipment is often developed through direct consultation with customers, resulting in tailored and highly effective solutions.