IAA, formerly SYNETIQ Auctions, is one of the UK’s leading digital marketplaces connecting vehicle buyers and sellers.
Supporting insurers, fleet companies and government organisations, the business collects accident-damaged and written-off vehicles before processing and selling them through auction.
Operating nationwide across the UK and running more than 140 transport vehicles, IAA manages the movement of hundreds of vehicles every day.
Supplied by Renault Truck Commercials,Tipton, the new vehicles are Renault Trucks D16T 4×2 rigids powered by 250hp Euro 6 engines and fitted with car transporter bodies from J&J Conversions in Andover. Delivered on seven-year Repair and Maintenance contracts, the trucks are expected to cover around 80,000 kilometres per year.
The five vehicles are now in operation across IAA’s network, with two based at Canvey Island, and one each operating from Gloucester, Teesside and Bury St Edmunds.
Built for a demanding operation
IAA’s transport fleet operates in a high-pressure, time-critical environment, with each vehicle typically completing between three and six collections per day within a 100-mile radius of its home depot.
Colin Casselden, UK Operations Director at IAA, said: “We are not running trunking operations. Our vehicles are out all day, every day, collecting from different locations, often on tight routes and under time pressure. It is a demanding job for both the vehicle and the driver, so reliability and suitability for the application are key.”
Historically, IAA operated 12-tonne car transporters, capable of carrying up to three vehicles per load. However, the increasing weight of modern vehicles, particularly electric models, has driven the need for higher payload capacity and a move to 16-tonne GVW.
“Electric vehicles have definitely changed the dynamic for us,” Colin explained. “Where a 12-tonne vehicle worked well before, you now need that extra capacity to keep the operation running efficiently. The move to 16 tonnes gives us that flexibility.”
The new Renault Trucks D 16 transporters retain the ability to carry up to three vehicles, while providing the additional payload required to operate compliantly across IAA’s varied collection work.
Why Renault Trucks
The introduction of Renault Trucks followed a detailed evaluation process, with IAA focusing on selecting a solution that combined the right vehicle specification, body build and long-term support for its demanding operation.
“For us, it is about getting the right vehicle for the job, but also the right support behind it,” said Colin. “The Renault Trucks D 16 suited the application well, and the team worked closely with us to make sure the specification and body build were right for what we do day to day.”
Working with Renault Truck Commercials, Tipton, IAA specified the vehicles with car transporter bodies from J&J Andover – the first time the company has used the bodybuilder.
“J&J are well regarded in the market, and we have been pleased with what they have delivered,” Colin added. “From the initial discussions through to getting the vehicles into operation, everything was handled in a straightforward and professional way.”
Support and long-term confidence
IAA operates all heavier vehicles on full Repair and Maintenance agreements, making long-term support and uptime a key part of any fleet decision.
Dealer support and location were also critical factors, particularly given the spread of IAA’s national operation. “We look closely at where the dealer is in relation to where the vehicles are based,” Colin explained. “Uptime is critical for us, so having that support in the right locations was an important part of the decision.”
Early feedback from drivers has been positive, particularly in terms of cab comfort and usability in a physically demanding role. “Driver acceptance is important because the job is so varied and hands-on,” Colin said. “The feedback so far has been encouraging, especially around comfort and ease of use.”
Neil Cox, Sales Director at Renault Truck Commercials West, commented: “IAA operates in a highly demanding environment, so understanding exactly how these vehicles would be used was essential.
“We worked closely with Colin Casselden and his team to ensure the D 16, the body build and the seven-year Repair and Maintenance package were all aligned to their operation. We are pleased to see the first Renault Trucks now in service and look forward to supporting IAA over the life of the contract.”
