Flaman Rentals Blog

Disney's Approach To Quality Service

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 24, 2017

Flaman Welcomes Disney Institute to Saskatoon.

We aspire in the betterment of your staff, and our customers

In 2017 retail brands are scrambling to differentiate themselves.  There is still some product exclusivity left but for the most part product X can be replaced by product Y.  This then just leaves price and the experience.  Customer Experience that is the key to making your customers loyal, giving them a reason to pick your organization over the one down the road. In fact if you are good enough the customer will talk you up and tell their friends if you need product X go see Retailer ABC.  If you are really good the customer will become a promoter, a brand ambassador and is excited about doing business with you and receiving messages from you; the customer might even be delighted by any interaction with your retail brand.   There is a company that creates this experience consistently; Disney.
 
We have been in a boom economy for a long time.  It was good times.  Business was good, in fact it was so good some might be honest enough to admit it was easy. It is not easy anymore.  Combine a tightened economy with a customer that has more choice and the power to broadcast any mishap a brand makes via social media and review sites business has gone from being interesting at times to frightening.  Customer Service Excellence has to be a top priority for every business. I personally lead the customer journey focus at Flaman Group of companies measuring all the touch points to rank for improvement. This is a journey we believe can never stop. This is where Disney Institute comes in and why Flaman Group of Companies has assisted to bring Disney Institute to Saskatchewan. 

So what does bringing to Saskatchewan mean?
 
Well on March 9th Disney Institute will be hosting their full day interactive learning experience:  Disney's Approach to Quality Service sponsored by ACC and Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by FLAMAN Group of Companies.
 
Who is Disney Institute?
 
Disney Institute is the professional development and external training arm of The Walt Disney Company. The company showcases 'the business behind the magic' through seminars, workshops and presentations, as well as programs for professionals from many different industries, including healthcare, aerospace/aviation, government/military, food/beverage and retail.
 
What will the course provide?
 
The one-day event will help area professionals begin to examine how they can differentiate their service to become a provider of choice and understand the processes necessary to develop a culture that consistently delivers that exceptional service. This day of Disney Institute training uses business insights and time-tested examples from Disney parks and resorts worldwide to inspire individuals and organizations to enhance their own customer experience using Disney principles as their guide. Disney’s Approach to Quality Service gives participants the chance to explore how customer experience insights and time-tested examples from Disney parks and resorts worldwide can provide relevant illustrations and engaging stories to help organizations deliver the type of long-term results they are capable of delivering.        
 

So I have taken the course…
 
The course woke me up to what I needed to do, in fact the course was transformative to my thinking. The session itself was remarkable in how it brought the concepts to life which provided clarity and deep understanding. I personally came out of the course with a deep belief of what quality service really is and how every single team member at Flaman Group of Companies is so important to making our customers' experiences remarkable. After the course, I applied the thinking to Flaman Group of Companies to aid our culture shift towards the entire customer journey.
 
So why is Disney Institute coming to Saskatchewan important?
 
Beyond learning to create remarkable experiences for your customers, there are other things happening with Disney Institute coming to Saskatchewan.  This course could be the start of movement in customer service excellence which will help define and differentiate how business is done in Saskatchewan. This is not pie in the sky thinking it could happen and imagine where the companies could rise to if they embark on this journey.

Steve Whittington



Walt Disney Company’s 90 years of world-renowned Customer Service Excellence into your organization March 9, 2017 at TCU Place.
 
Disney Institute, the training arm of the Walt Disney Company, is coming to Saskatoon with their full day interactive learning experience:

Focusing on the customer experience has become the single most important way for an organization to achieve success — often becoming its key differentiator and competitive advantage. You have the opportunity to learn Disney’s Approach to Quality Service. One of the world’s most recognized names in business solutions; Disney Institute, the professional development training arm of the Walt Disney Company, is coming to Saskatoon.

Saskatoon Testimonials:
 
"The course was transformative to our thinking. The session itself was remarkable in how it brought the concepts to life which provided clarity and deep understanding. I personally came out of the course with a deep belief of what quality service really is and how every single team member at Flaman Group of Companies is so important to making our customers' experiences remarkable.” ~STEVE WHITTINGTON Vice President Marketing and Customer Experience FLAMAN - Group of Companies
 
"Treating Donors, Clients and Volunteers the Disney Way is an inspiration everyday since taking my very first Disney training in Regina. Bringing the Disney experience to your business or organization is so much fun!!" ~ CINDY FUCHS Vice President -
The Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan
 
Thank you Event Sponsors, Hosts and Marketing Participants: The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, FLAMAN Group of Companies, the Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan, and Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association.



 The Walt Disney Company’s 90 years of Customer Service Excellence Best Practices March 9, 2017 at TCU Place Saskatoon is now sold out. To receive information on the next Disney learning experience and/or pre-reserve your seats; email info@investinyou.today 
 
As to Disney artwork/properties: © Disney

Posted in Division News | More articles by Steve Whittington

The 2017 Trailer Divison Meeting

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 10, 2017

Every year the Flaman Trailer Division gather to enhance our product knowledge and customer processes. 

We bring our partner suppliers from across North America to train with us on their products, new technology and industry trends. We focus our team on customer service and set our product line up for the spring. It is a once a year boot camp for the trailer division to get focused and this year did not disappoint!

As a result of this meeting we have a new additions to our line up. In the spring expect the following new and exciting products:

• Hook lift Dump Trailer from Southland Trailers -  A powered lift to service multiple job-sites at once

• Blackwood Decking from Diamond C  IC  - Non slip rubber decking inserts.  Great deck grip!

• Quest Car haulers from ATC  IC - These Leading edge trailers will now be stocked at multiple locations 

• Express Aluminum Enclosed Cargo trailers from High Country  - Lighter but just as strong an industry shift is happening and we are leading the charge now stocking in Saskatchewan

• Detachable Gooseneck Equipment Haulers from Behnke, B-B Trailers  - Big equipment no problem call us to determine your needs

 

• Travalum stock trailers - top quality trailers available at all locations

 

---

 

Prior to getting down to work, we like to get the team primed and focused with some teambuilding. So what do you do in the Canadian Rockies?  We  went Ice Climbing and Dog Sledding  (No salesman or dogs were harmed). After a day in the great Canadian outdoors everyone was recharged to learn for the rest of week.

 
All in all another successful meeting helping Flaman Trailers reach higher, providing new product offering and more focus on our customers.
 
SW

 
Posted in Division News | More articles by Steve Whittington

Disney's Approach To Quality Service

Posted by Steve Whittington Nov 18, 2016

Flaman Welcomes Disney Institute to Saskatoon.

We aspire in the betterment of your staff, and our customers

In 2017 retail brands are scrambling to differentiate themselves.  There is still some product exclusivity left but for the most part product X can be replaced by product Y.  This then just leaves price and the experience.  Customer Experience that is the key to making your customers loyal, giving them a reason to pick your organization over the one down the road. In fact if you are good enough the customer will talk you up and tell their friends if you need product X go see Retailer ABC.  If you are really good the customer will become a promoter, a brand ambassador and is excited about doing business with you and receiving messages from you; the customer might even be delighted by any interaction with your retail brand.   There is a company that creates this experience consistently; Disney.
 
We have been in a boom economy for a long time.  It was good times.  Business was good, in fact it was so good some might be honest enough to admit it was easy. It is not easy anymore.  Combine a tightened economy with a customer that has more choice and the power to broadcast any mishap a brand makes via social media and review sites business has gone from being interesting at times to frightening.  Customer Service Excellence has to be a top priority for every business. I personally lead the customer journey focus at Flaman Group of companies measuring all the touch points to rank for improvement. This is a journey we believe can never stop. This is where Disney Institute comes in and why Flaman Group of Companies has assisted to bring Disney Institute to Saskatchewan. 

So what does bringing to Saskatchewan mean?
 
Well on March 9th Disney Institute will be hosting their full day interactive learning experience:  Disney's Approach to Quality Service sponsored by ACC and Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by FLAMAN Group of Companies.
 
Who is Disney Institute?
 
Disney Institute is the professional development and external training arm of The Walt Disney Company. The company showcases 'the business behind the magic' through seminars, workshops and presentations, as well as programs for professionals from many different industries, including healthcare, aerospace/aviation, government/military, food/beverage and retail.
 
What will the course provide?
 
The one-day event will help area professionals begin to examine how they can differentiate their service to become a provider of choice and understand the processes necessary to develop a culture that consistently delivers that exceptional service. This day of Disney Institute training uses business insights and time-tested examples from Disney parks and resorts worldwide to inspire individuals and organizations to enhance their own customer experience using Disney principles as their guide. Disney’s Approach to Quality Service gives participants the chance to explore how customer experience insights and time-tested examples from Disney parks and resorts worldwide can provide relevant illustrations and engaging stories to help organizations deliver the type of long-term results they are capable of delivering.        
 
So I have taken the course…
 
The course woke me up to what I needed to do, in fact the course was transformative to my thinking. The session itself was remarkable in how it brought the concepts to life which provided clarity and deep understanding. I personally came out of the course with a deep belief of what quality service really is and how every single team member at Flaman Group of Companies is so important to making our customers' experiences remarkable. After the course, I applied the thinking to Flaman Group of Companies to aid our culture shift towards the entire customer journey.
 
So why is Disney Institute coming to Saskatchewan important?
 
Beyond learning to create remarkable experiences for your customers, there are other things happening with Disney Institute coming to Saskatchewan.  This course could be the start of movement in customer service excellence which will help define and differentiate how business is done in Saskatchewan. This is not pie in the sky thinking it could happen and imagine where the companies could rise to if they embark on this journey.

Steve Whittington


Walt Disney Company’s 90 years of world-renowned Customer Service Excellence into your organization March 9, 2017 at TCU Place.
 
Disney Institute, the training arm of the Walt Disney Company, is coming to Saskatoon with their full day interactive learning experience:

Focusing on the customer experience has become the single most important way for an organization to achieve success — often becoming its key differentiator and competitive advantage. You have the opportunity to learn Disney’s Approach to Quality Service. One of the world’s most recognized names in business solutions; Disney Institute, the professional development training arm of the Walt Disney Company, is coming to Saskatoon.

Saskatoon Testimonials:
 
"The course was transformative to our thinking. The session itself was remarkable in how it brought the concepts to life which provided clarity and deep understanding. I personally came out of the course with a deep belief of what quality service really is and how every single team member at Flaman Group of Companies is so important to making our customers' experiences remarkable.” ~STEVE WHITTINGTON Vice President Marketing and Customer Experience FLAMAN - Group of Companies
 
"Treating Donors, Clients and Volunteers the Disney Way is an inspiration everyday since taking my very first Disney training in Regina. Bringing the Disney experience to your business or organization is so much fun!!" ~ CINDY FUCHS Vice President -
The Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan
 
Thank you Event Sponsors, Hosts and Marketing Participants: The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, FLAMAN Group of Companies, the Canadian Red Cross in Saskatchewan, and Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association.



 The Walt Disney Company’s 90 years of Customer Service Excellence Best Practices March 9, 2017 at TCU Place Saskatoon is now sold out. To receive information on the next Disney learning experience and/or pre-reserve your seats; email info@investinyou.today 
 
As to Disney artwork/properties: © Disney
 
Posted in Local News | Tagged with Disney Institute Customer Service Seminar TCU Flaman Saskatoon | More articles by Steve Whittington

Ultra Lav Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 12, 2015

In this episode of Trailer Talk Steve talks with Brent Sheehan from Ultra Lav. Brent shares with us insights about mobile restrooms and showers units that are a fast growing segment of the industry. Listen, learn, Enjoy!

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts UltraLav | More articles by Steve Whittington

Alcom Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington May 28, 2015

In this episode of Trailer Talk Steve talks with Dan Mills from Alcom. Dan has lots of thoughts about the impact of Aluminum trailers on the trailer industry. Listen, learn, Enjoy!

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts Alcom | More articles by Steve Whittington

All-Sport Trailers

Posted by Steve Whittington Nov 17, 2014

If you have been in the trailer industry as long as I have,you can reflect on trends and the evolution of a product.  One product I believe that has been evolving  quickly is the enclosed all sport trailer. The best place to see this evolution at its most diverse is the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Show and Sale or the Alberta Power Sports Show.  While both of these shows have been dubbed “sled shows” and are run by the provincial snowmobile associations they are so much more than just Snowmobiles shows. 

Over the years I have watched non-snowmobiling recreation power sports creep into these shows (there was a wake boarding boat at the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Show and Sale this year). As the products on display have broadened so too has the versatility of trailers at this show.  Many of the trailers showcased were not just “sled” trailers they were trailers to haul products for all seasons and all sports.  Thus the name all sport. 

So what is an all sport trailer? Its name suggests it is a unit that can transport all power sport equipment.  Fair enough, but the reality is that most of the “all sport” dubbed trailers can only transport a few types of units the name would otherwise imply. So if you are shopping for a true all sport trailer, below are characteristics to look for and reasons why:

1. Extra Height: If you want to just haul sleds and quads height is not an issue. But as soon as you decide to transport a UTV you will need extra height to clear the rear ramp door opening.  I generally recommend an 84” interior height that will allow for 78” in rear ramp door clearance.  With lots of UTV’s having 76” as their overall height that provides the clearance you need.
2. Lowboy or Middeck as opposed to the traditional 8.5 ft wide highboy (deck over trailer):  This type of trailer allows for a lower ramp incline making it easier to load quads, sleds, or UTV’s.  The lower ramp angle makes it easier to back sleds in, which is required for many loading configurations with a lowboy or middeck trailers.  The lowboy trailer also allows you to haul a vehicle, and with that toy hauling capacity, now you have an all sport.
3. 5200 - 6000 lb axles: The machines keep getting bigger and thus heavier.  In the case of mountain sleds 11’ in length is not uncommon and these come with bigger engines every year.  While the manufactures strive to keep the weight down it does continue to creep up. The same trend goes for ATV’s and UTV’s. With the primary cargo getting bigger and heavier more axle capacity makes sense, certainly if you are transporting extra gear along with your snow machines or quads.  The larger axles also provide the payload capacity for a vehicle and can handle some of the rougher roads you may need to travel on to get to your adventure destinations.
4. Extra Length: As mentioned before all the units are getting bigger and longer. A thrity foot long trailer used to be a rare unit, now we try to keep in stock. While it is not the common size (26’ is still 90% of the units sold) it is no longer uncommon.  Twenty foot long (16’ straight wall plus 4’ v-nose)  3 place trailers with extra height are a very popular size; but because they are too short to transport a car they are not considered an all sport trailer.
5. 8.5 wide: While 7’ wide inline units are gaining popularity as a multi-use units (they fill in as a standard cargo trailer in the off season) and are easier to tow, turn, back up and park; they have less capacity and of course cannot haul a car (8.5’ wide is needed for a vehicle).

Several additional points to note:

• These units can be steel frame or aluminum frame. The difference is weight and cost. I use the 1/3 rule: aluminum reduces the curb weight by about 1/3 but adds to the cost by about 1/3 more.
• Escape doors: Many folk insist they need these.  I agree shimming out your window like a Bob and Luke duke is not a fun task in a confined space of an enclosed trailer. I have a few words of caution.  First if your car has very low clearance there is chance you will not be able to use the escape door because the car door will not clear the inside fender of the trailer.  Second, customers have gotten quite excited about the escape door only to discover after loading their car the escape door does not line up their door, so I would suggest taking some measurements first.
• Heaters, cabinets, stereos, benches, fan tails, oh my!  The list of options is vast.  Customers sometimes buy the options instead of the trailer.  Figure out what you need and then what you really want and go from there…

Shopping for an all sport can be an exciting experience.  Have fun, and talk to an expert.

Posted in New Products | Tagged with All Sport Enclosed Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

CJAY Trailers Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 29, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk Steve talks with Brad Harvey from Cjay Trailer. Brad fills us in about his organization and some unique new products only available from Cjay Trailers. Listen, learn, Enjoy!

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts CJAY Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Govi Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 28, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk Steve talks with Christian Aitkin from Govi. Christian educates us about the emerging market of trailer refrigeration. Listen, learn, Enjoy!

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts Govi | More articles by Steve Whittington

NATM Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 02, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk Steve talks with Pam O’toole Trusdale from the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). Pam provides the history of the association, its mission and delves into details about how the association is helping the industry and the end trailer customer. Listen, learn, Enjoy!

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts NATM | More articles by Steve Whittington

QAI Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Aug 22, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk Kevin Tsumura speaks about the Canadian pre-clearance program for trailers. Steve also asks Kevin about the risks consumers face when the purchasing from US retailers that do not have to comply with the program. If you thinking about buying state side you should listen and learn.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcasts Canadian | More articles by Steve Whittington

Why built in Canada still matters

Posted by Steve Whittington Jul 25, 2014

It was a Friday.  I was at our Nisku location and I was leaving the dealership walking through the lot headed home for the weekend. I walked past a Trailtech TD 210 that had a few  modified options on it. I looked the trailer over as I always do when walk past any unit in our yard. As I walked along the length of the unit from taillights to hitch I noted the features, fit and finish, quality of build, overall appearance, etc, etc, etc…when I reached the hitch  I saw this trailer had just gone through our pre-delivery inspection process (as the sticker slapped on the front of the gooseneck indicated).  I then stopped and looked back down the length of the trailer.

“This is a damn fine trailer”  I thought to myself.  So  I took a closer look at the welds and the convenience features on the unit (some installed by us).  I started to really critic the unit looking at the decking for cracks and other imperfections; I looked under the frame at the paint coverage; I followed the wiring harness (note I wrote wiring harness not strand wiring) along the frame paying attention to how it was secured and protected.  Everything on this trailer was perfect. No matter how hard I looked I could not find any problems with the trailer.  Quite honestly, this is not an exception to the rule, it is the rule: Trailtech product has outstanding consistent quality. 

Call me bias (Trailtech is Canadian built, and a brand FGC has a longstanding history with) but I believe the quality that goes into to trailers built in Canada, for Canadian conditions is underappreciated. To address this I decided to give you reasons as a Canadian consumer why you should buy a Canadian built Trailtech.

1)      Quality of Build.  As in many products there are a good, better and best for light industrial trailers. At Flaman Group of Companies  we sell products that fit into all three categories in order to meet the various needs of various customers.  These categories are differentiated by features and quality which ultimately means different pricing.  Trailtech as a brand offers a good, better and best  models for each category. Where I believe they really shine (and customers have been voting this way with their dollars) is in the best category.  The Premier and Industrial series generally have no equal in the market place.  If you need a reliable trailer as a tool for your business, to me it makes sense to invest in a Trailtech that will always do what you need and last the test of time.

2)      Canadian weather and road conditions. They are awful, both our roads and our weather and many trailer brands are built for the warm flat highways of the southern states as opposed to the gravel and pitted frozen highways of the Canadian north.  For these conditions you need paint that can absorb some of the mechanical impact of road rocks at -40 and a RV plug that will not shatter when you fight to plug it into your tow vehicle.   Trailtech based in Gravelburg SK lives in and understands these conditions.  A Trailtech trailer is made to deal with this weather without fuss.

3)      Warranty: We sell thousands of Trailtech products every year.  They get horribly abused by some customers (another story) and yet we rarely hear of any issues. That said no company is perfect.  The product is built by people and people make mistakes (as we all do).  What defines a product and company is what they do when that happens. It has been my experience that between Trailtech and Flaman when a mistake happens that affects the customer,  the Trailtech and Flaman people always make it right.

Lastly Americans market buy American all the time to support American companies and American workers. Let me be shameless and proudly yell the same thing: Buy Canadian!  Yes I am a hypocrite as we sell many American brands across many of our divisions( including the Trailer Division).  Being a leader in retail we need to provide the leading products in their appropriate categories in order to provide the best customer experience to our customers. That said, there are Canadian products that we sell that are the best in their categories (Trailtech is one of them)…Buy Canadian and support Canadians.

 So if you are in the market for your first trailer or are adding one to your fleet. Think about Canadian quality.  Quality comes with a cost but I believe it is worth it.

 

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Trailtech Flatdeck Canadian built Trailers dump trailers ag transport | More articles by Steve Whittington

B & B Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 03, 2014

Jim Behnke from Behnke Enterprises talks to Steve about Ag Transports and changes he has seen in his 27 year career in the Trailer Industry. Behnke Enterprises is a truly world class and worldwide brand with distribution in many countries and continents. Behnke Enterprises manufacturers a diverse product line of Ag Transport equipment and industrial trailers that allows evolving. Listen, learn, and enjoy the podcast.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcast Flaman Trailers Steve Whittington Behnke Enterprises Ag Transport Industrial Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Semi Flatbed Trailers, Stock Trailers, and Level loading Trailers. All new this year at Flaman Trailers

Posted by Steve Whittington May 07, 2014

Every year we have Trailer Division training in February and every year we find new products to bring to you our customers.  Organizing the event this year I surprised at the logistics required to make this happen.

Five years ago we had three manufacturers to focus on. We now supply fifteen trailer manufacturers to Western Canada eleven of which were at our inside training event. We consumed an entire exhibition hall in Lethbridge to show case the equipment inside from the cold. Ultimately, that is a lot of product choice for you. Now that spring has sprung these trailers are in our lots ready to be viewed.

Many of these fifteen manufactures many are what I consider speciality products: Office Trailers, Concession Trailers, Mobile Restroom trailers, Sprayer Trailers, car dollies, level loading trailers, fuel trailers... the list goes on. But to be fair many are also mainline manufacturers and we have aligned ourselves with the best in the industry to provide our customers pricing and specification choices or simply put their pick of good better or best. 

What I was excited about most this year however are products I believe we have be needing to supply for quite some time;  Stock and Horse Trailers (which we used to supply), and Semi flat bed trailers. To meet these needs we have aligned ourselves with Corn Pro Trailers for Horse and Stock Trailers and B&B Trailers for Flat Bed Semi Trailers. We have more product information on our website. Both of these brands have been in the industry for a long time and we excited to offer them.  

The last new trailer type we had in our training is quite unique. The company Air Tow Trailers are a worldwide industry leader for level loading trailers. When I was first exposed to this trailer I will admit I raised an eyebrow and thought what use are these trailers? The idea is nice but regular trailers can do the job. The fact is they cannot. The bed of these units lowers completely to the ground and when raised for travel the bed self levels depending on weight distribution on the deck. For loading safes, pianos, sky jacks, pallets, etc. this trailer does a job that other units cannot do: painless and safe loading plus smooth transport. So if you have a special moving consideration, this is the trailer. Listen to our podcastto learn more.

Posted in New Products | Tagged with Trailers stock level-load flatbed office concession restroom sprayer car-dolly fuel-pup air tow | More articles by Steve Whittington

Southland New Products 2014 Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington May 06, 2014

In this Episode we talk with Ryan Sailer General Manager of Southland Trailers. Ryan takes us through three exciting new products from Southland Trailers. The E270 Dump Trailer, the SL 280 Dump Trailer and their Fuel pup trailer. Enjoy the conversation.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcast Southland Trailers Steve Whittington Ryan Sailer Flaman Flaman Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Bull Dog Truck Deck Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Apr 22, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk we talk with Brett McDowell who shares with us the innovations and evolution of bull dog truck decks. Have a listen and gain insights on how the use of the decks has changed over the years and continues to expand. Trucks Decks are not just for Sledding any more.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Podcast Truck Decks Bull Dog Decks Super Decks Flaman Flaman Trailers Brett McDowell Steve Whittington | More articles by Steve Whittington

Corn Pro Trailers Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Mar 10, 2014

Brian Frette from Corn Pro Trailers talks us through the manufacturing of the product and shares his views on the versatility of their products. (For instance snow machines in a stock trailer?) Have a listen to some great information about this respected brand.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Flaman Brian Frette Steve Whittington Trailers Trailer Talk Stock Trailers Horse Trailers Podcast | More articles by Steve Whittington

Air Tow Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 13, 2014

Albert Behr from Air Tow joins us for this episode of Trailer Talk. He shares the history of how level loading trailers came to be and the evolution of the product line. Albert also explains a multitude of uses for the product that you might never have thought of...which got me thinking about what the trailers can be used for...the list gets quite long.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Air Tow Podcast | More articles by Steve Whittington

ATC Trailer Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jan 29, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk we learn about ATC trailers, their value stream manufacturing and some really unique products. Industry veteran (24 years!) Trent Sheets tells us the story.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast ATC | More articles by Steve Whittington

Trailtech Trailers Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jan 03, 2014

In this episode of Trailer Talk we hear from Ryan Miller at Trailtech, one of our long time partner manufactures. Ryan gives us a sneak peak at his ideas about the future of the trailer industry.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Trailtech | More articles by Steve Whittington

Aluma Trailers Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 24, 2013

In this episode we hear from Mike Lloyd, President of Aluma, CFO of Kay Corporation and President of NATM (National Association of Trailer Manufacturers.) Lucky for us Mike has taken some time out of his busy schedule to tell us the back story of Aluma and what is on the horizon for Aluminum trailers.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Steve Whittington Aluma Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

NATDA Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 08, 2013

In this Episode we are joined by the President of the North American Dealer Association(NATDA) Andy Ackerman. Andy shares the history of NATDA, membership benefits and how NATDA is working to improve the trailer industry.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Steve Whittington NATDA | More articles by Steve Whittington

Picking a Sled Trailer part 2

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 30, 2013

Part 2 of Steve's Sled Trailer guide. To see part 1 which focuses on steel vs. aluminum click here

Picking an Enclosed Sled Trailer:  You decided you did not want to clean off your sleds every time you reach your destination. Or you need somewhere to store your machines in the summer, or you want to work on your sleds out of the wind in the staging area.  Whatever your reasons, you’re going to buy an enclosed trailer; now which type? Your options are many.

 To help you understand your options here are how they’re generally classified:

The first way enclosed sled trailers are classified is by how many sleds they carry: 2 place, 3 place or 4 place. 

The second way they are classified is by deck height: lowboy (deck is as low to the ground as possible) mid-deck (the deck is raised for some clearance but not too high, keeping the ramp angle down) and highboy (the deck is above the wheels so the platform is a full 8’ wide).

The third way the trailers are classified by is width, which tends to fall into two broad categories 7’ or 8’ wide (which is really 8’6” wide).

Lastly, the frames will either be steel or aluminum.  

 When it comes to deciding which class of trailer is right for you, it really comes down to your specific needs, but I will give you some things to consider with the most popular classes that may help your decision making.

 2 place, highboy, 8’ 6” wide:  This class of enclosed sled trailer tends to be the most economical.  It is usually single axle without brakes, so a half tonne truck can pull it with no problem.  They are often aluminum so they are quite light, which makes them even easier to move around.   It is a great starter enclosed trailer. The down side of this trailer is that unless you bump up to tandem axles you do not have a drive off front ramp, and if you add another axle and a front ramp your costs sky rocket.  That said, with a reverse option on today’s sleds, is the front drive-off ramp really needed?

 2 or 3 place, lowboy, 7 wide:  This trailer with a steel frame is also very economical.  Being 7’ wide and lower to the ground means they pull well behind a truck. Plus, they are tandem axles so their ride is smoother than a bouncy single axle trailer.  They also have a front ramp so you can drive your sleds in and out with ease.  Beyond those points this trailer is also being used year round as a traditional cargo trailer because it is just the right size – not too big, not too small. Contractors love the access to the trailer with two ramps.  The downside of these trailers is that the loading of three sleds can be difficult, but once you figure out the configuration needed it is not an issue.  As well, being only 7’ wide there is not a lot of room on the inside for cabinets and racking.

 3 or 4 place, lowboy, 8 wide:  These enclosed units have become more popular as a multi-use unit or toy haulers.  Instead of just sled trailers the ramp can be reinforced and you can haul a car or side by side MUV if you make the rear door opening high enough.  If you have a lot of different toys this becomes a really economical option. Instead of two trailers you can get one built for all your toys.  The down side is that you have full size fender boxes inside the trailer to maneuver around when loading your sleds, but trust me that is not a difficult issue, and if it is, are you sure you want to chase powder  between the trees?  The other issue with the lowboys is adding a heater. Generally the propane tanks will have to go on an extended hitch so your trailer gets a little longer overall.

 3 or 4 place, mid-deck, 8 wide: These units are another popular class of toy hauler, but with a little bit more clearance.  The extra clearance comes in handy for added features such an underbelly mounted fuel tank and propane tanks.  The fender boxes inside the units are not as high and can be easily driven over. The disadvantage of these units is the extra clearance; if it is going to be a toy hauler trailer a lot of cars will not be able to make it up the higher angled ramp.

 3 or 4 place, highboy, 8 wide: If there is a traditional enclosed sled trailer, this is it. It is still the most popular option for an enclosed sled trailer. They have a full width deck so it is very easy to drive and position your sleds for travel. The full width provides lots of room for cabinets and racking on the walls.  They have lots of clearance, they track well behind a vehicle on snowy roads, plus with all the deck clearance there are no problems adding options such as on board fueling stations or under deck mounted propane tanks.  Quite simply, they are specifically designed to load sleds and all their accessories the easiest out of all the trailers on the market and as a result, people buy them the most.  The downside of the units is the fact that they are specifically designed for hauling sleds, being so high up you have a hard time loading cargo or recreational power sport vehicles.  Lastly, again being so high up in a cross wind they act as a big sail and they push the tow vehicle around a lot.

 There many other options to consider when buying a sled trailer such as adding heat or cabinets, the type of interior walls, little features such as kick plates and floor drains...the list is endless.  I was talking to a manufacturer about his enclosed sled trailer production run this year and he estimated that 90% of the trailers will be unique coming down the line. The point is, there are a lot of choices in the market place. Make sure that when you are looking for a trailer you talk with someone that can educate you and provide you with all the options so you can get your trailer, your way.

Posted in Trailer Tips | Tagged with sled trailer steel trailer aluminum trailer enclosed trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Picking a Sled Trailer part 1

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 26, 2013

 I grew up in the small northern mining town of Thompson, Manitoba.  We were a family of sledders, four of us, but at times we had upwards of six sleds. For my brother and I we had a red Yamaha Bravo, an orange Élan and a yellow Tundra. Mom and dad had bigger machines, both Polaris, a Cutlass SS and Indie Trail. The Cutlass was eventually upgraded to a liquid cooled Indie 400, and when we got older we could take it for a rip. It was fast.

Posted in Trailer Tips | Tagged with Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Sled'N Snap Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 20, 2013

In this episode we talk with Chris Brewer President of the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association (SSA) about the Sled'n Snap photo contest. The Sled'n Snap photo contest has been running for three years and has reached thousands of snowmobilers sharing their photos and comments in a fun online forum with a potential to win great prizes. SSA and Flaman Group of Companies united to create this intuitive and Steve reflects with Chris about how the contest has grown and provided benefits to the associations and members that were never expected. I hope you enjoy the conversation.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Steve Whittington Sled'N Snap | More articles by Steve Whittington

Sourcing new trailers at NATDA 2013

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 18, 2013

I landed in St. Louis at 11:30 pm Wednesday the day before the North American Trailer Dealer Association Tradeshow started.  I have been making the pilgrimage to NATDA for that last five years.  The event has been improving every year with more vendors exhibiting in the tradeshow and a higher quality speaker line up for the education sessions.  As a team we travel to St. Louis to stay on top of industry trends, to learn about new and innovative products and how to improve our business practices.  Attending the show refocuses us on the trailer business and provides us with great ideas for what more we can do for our customers.

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with NATDA new trailers camper trailers fuel trailer horse trailers speciality trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Truck Boss Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Aug 19, 2013

Aidan Thygessen and Kent Natrass, joined me on a call to explain truck decks, the evolution of truck decks and how the Marathon Truckboss is the pinnacle of that evolution. Marathon has been building Truck Decks for 17 years there have been a lot of changes along the way. Today the Truckboss is much more than just a truck deck, have a listen and learn why the truck boss is shipped and used all over the world.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Truck Boss Aidan Thygessen Kent Natrass Marathon sled deck sleddeck truck deck truckdeck truck cargo management system | More articles by Steve Whittington

Wells Cargo

Posted by Steve Whittington Jul 31, 2013

They called themselves the tinker club and during this timeframe the original design for an enclosed cargo trailer came about and so there was a decision that was made I think it was like in 1953 to hop into the cargo trailer business and start building trailers. You can actually see the first wells cargo trailers that were basically produced and sold on our dealer website.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Steve Whittington Wells Cargo | More articles by Steve Whittington

What's New With Diamond C

Posted by Steve Whittington Jul 15, 2013

A flatdeck is a flatdeck and customers sometimes just say, “I'm looking for a flatdeck”. They're not looking for a particular brand; they're not looking for anything like that, because they believe a flatdeck is a flatdeck. So that being said, what do you believe makes your trailers standout so they're not just another flatdeck? To find out listen to the podcast below.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Steve Whittington Diamond C | More articles by Steve Whittington

Southland Trailer Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jul 08, 2013

With having associations like NATM it kind of allows the collaboration of all the manufacturers so we can all get together to say "what are our big obstacles right now". Whether government regulations or whatever it may be we can all work together to figure out how we can come up with a resolution to those...

Listen to the rest of the podcast below.

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with Trailer Talk Podcast Southland Trailers Ryan Sailer Steve Whittington Flatdeck trailers Royal Cargo XR Series Enclosed Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Restroom Trailer Podcast

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 26, 2013

...we've all been to those outhouses at concerts and stuff and they are just horrible, I mean do these things stink, what is it like? Personally I think that is where they shine, we have rented these out to the stars in fact, the VIPs at the Dauphin Countryfest where country acts like Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, and Eric Church have actually used these facilities. They are first class all the way and they give you all the amenities, and comforts of a nice bathroom at any kind of hotel. So the customers love them, the reactions been great? The reaction has been "wow" right from the get go. We've had these things at many weddings, country jamborees, graduations, and golf tournaments...

Listen to the rest of the podcast below.

 

Posted in Podcasts | Tagged with trailer podcast trailer talk restroom trailers bathroom trailers mobile restrooms ultra lav wellscargo | More articles by Steve Whittington

Trailer Division Meeting at Wells Cargo a success

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 15, 2013

On Thursday February 7 the Flaman Trailers division team toured the Wells Cargo plant in Ogden, Utah.  We toured all areas of the more than 100,000 square foot facility. The team was impressed by the quality control processes at every step and the craftsmanship apparent in the build process. 

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with trailers Flaman Trailer trailer meeting Wells Cargo trailer manufacturers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Winter is Coming Snowmobile Trailer Sale

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 24, 2012

The end of September is close, and every year at Flaman Trailers we review excess stock we have from the previous year and discount our snowmobile trailers. 

• 20’ enclosed steel-framed Summit Series sled trailer with heat
• 26’ all aluminum enclosed NashCar Rage snowmobile trailers
• 20’ two-tone XR Series enclosed sled trailer
• 12’ single axle two-place enclosed all aluminum NashCar Rage snowmobile trailer
• Plus 12’ aluminum and steel open deck sled trailers and 10’ steel and aluminum tilt sled trailers 

Posted in Local News | Tagged with sled trailers snowmobile trailers trailers for sale winter | More articles by Steve Whittington

Lessons from NATDA

Posted by Steve Whittington Sep 10, 2012

Every year, Flaman Trailers travels to the North American Trailer Dealer Association (NATDA) tradeshow to learn about changes in the industry.  This year the tradeshow was in St. Louis. This year, as we have every year, we learned a lot. There are new parts and new trailers coming into the industry and all manufacturers showcased new improvements to their line ups. This is a great event for the industry.  Besides the product specific learning, we also walked away with three big thoughts.

 

Posted in Division News | Tagged with trailers trade show NATDA Flaman industry trends new lessons learned | More articles by Steve Whittington

So You Want a Concession Trailer?

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 25, 2012

At Flaman trailers we have offered concession trailers for some time. With the addition of the Wells Cargo line, we can really offer quality concession trailers from a company that knows the industry requirements.  We do receive requests for quotes for a concession trailer and they range from pointed requests such as “How much?” to more detailed inquiries.

Posted in New Products | Tagged with concession trailer ticket trailer ticket booth food trailer Flaman trailers custom trailer | More articles by Steve Whittington

Award Winning Customers

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 12, 2012

Good companies often win awards but what about their customers? Shouldn’t they be recognized? Are they not part of the reason for the award? At Flaman Group of Companies this year we have won two awards: Consumer Choice Award and SABEX Marketing Award.

With both of these awards, it would be easy to position the employee efforts as the reason for the awards. Certainly the Consumer Choice Award is directly correlated to outstanding customer service by the staff and a marketing award is due the creative efforts of the marketing team.While both of these facts are true, there is more to each story.

Let’s start with the Consumer Choice Award. Obviously customer service is an important factor, but so is customer convenience and variety of choice for product offerings. Customer Service is the number one value of Flaman Group of Companies (FGC) so we will take credit for that, but how did the other two factors, convenience and variety of choice evolve?

The other two evolved by listening to loyal, engaged customers – customers who asked for more from FGC: more hours of operation, more product choice. It is these award-winning customers who pushed us to be better and by meeting their needs we ended up serving more people, more effectively. Without these loyal customers we would not have won the Consumer Choice Award.

But how do customers influence marketing? Is not marketing self serving for a company, designed solely to convince customers to buy product? Advertising can be, but The Great Stuck in Muck Photo Contest and Sled’N Snap contest are both examples of customers coming to Flaman Group of Companies with an idea. FGC then took the idea and marketed it because we have the resources. Additionally, both contests rely on user generated content to make them come alive. So in the case of these marketing contests all FGC did was build the ball park,so to speak. It was our customers that showed up and played a great game that drew in the crowds, some of whom purchased our products.

In 2012 FGC won two awards. The staff worked hard and deserved to be recognized for their efforts, but our customers worked hard and should be recognized as well.

Posted in Division News | Tagged with marketing communications award customer service Consumer Choice Award SABEX Award | More articles by Steve Whittington

How to Choose Which Trailer to Buy

Posted by Steve Whittington Mar 19, 2012

I have been in the trailer industry for a long time: 3 years as a marketing consultant to the industry, 6 years as General Manager of a trailer manufacturer and 4 years running retail dealerships. Despite all this experience, I still get overwhelmed by the diversity of choice offered to a customer in today’s market place. 

Unlike the auto industry, there are hundreds of large trailer manufacturers and thousands of small players. The dealerships to buy from range from a small, one-man band to professional, fully staffed dealerships that emulate the auto dealership model.  

Posted in Trailer Tips | Tagged with trailer brand name manufacturer service parts choosing a trailer Flaman | More articles by Steve Whittington

Snow = Savings

Posted by Steve Whittington Jan 17, 2012

Well, we finally have snow!

Posted in Division News | Tagged with snowmobile trailers sled trailers enclosed trailers trailer sale snow winter snowmobiling | More articles by Steve Whittington

So many Sled Trailers but what should you choose?

Posted by Steve Whittington Nov 24, 2011

This season the diversity of choice for a sled trailer can be daunting. There are many brands, different dealers, options and types to choose from. 

Posted in Trailer Tips | Tagged with snowmobile trailers sled trailers trailer open flat deck enclosed highboy lowboy deck over steel aluminum Canadian | More articles by Steve Whittington

Sled Trailer Season Has Started!

Posted by Steve Whittington Nov 07, 2011

The days are getting  colder, Halloween has come and gone and this means Sled Trailer season has started!

Flaman Trailers is excited for the start of the season. Flaman Trailers has already been to the Alberta Snowmobile show and the Saskatchewan Snowmobile show.

We have more product choices for you than ever before. Starting with the economical offering of our steel framed Summit Series trailers to the all flat black Stealth trailer from NashCar Trailers, we truly have a trailer for every sled.  Our open deck line has expanded as well. Aluminum tilt trailers with a five year warranty are always popular units.  For the 2012 season Trailtech  has produced a special edition open deck two place. It is an eye catcher with flat black paint, silver reflective tape, white LED lighting and series 7 aluminum rims. 

However, the show stopper is the ultimate custom Stealth 40 foot long gooseneck. This trailer features mirrored interior walls, black hard top flooring, a kitchenette, a rocking stereo system with no less than 4 subs, air conditioning, a 40,000 BTU heater, insulated generator set...and the list goes on and on.  

Last and most exciting is the new photo contest Sled'N Snap (www.slednsnap.com). Flaman Trailers partnered with the Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba snowmobile associations to bring this exciting contest to the sledding community. The contest has it all: six categories to enter into, an entry prize of a two place aluminum tilt trailer per province, and the grand prize, use of a 28’ tag Stealth trailer for a year.  

So this winter season there is a lot going on at Flaman Trailers.  Check back often to keep in the loop.

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Snowmobile Trailers Flatdeck Trailers Aluminum Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Toy hauler Camper Trailer from Nash Car Trailers

Posted by Steve Whittington Aug 02, 2011

In many ways this product is nothing new, but this product is part of new specialization occurring with trailer products. Let me explain.

• High End LQ units
• Custom built units
• Customer modified units (customer takes a stock unit and makes what they need)
• Unit vented and the customer throws in a mattress

• A Simple pull out allows for affordable, quick, comfortable accommodation.
• The pull out allows for full use of the trailer box
• The unit can be customized for different cargo (extra height for side by side units, or extra length) or more features: Awning, Stereo, water, base cabinets, the list goes on.
• The unit is all aluminum so it will not rust, light to pull plus it is stylishly designed (the triple wedge front really stands out)

 

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Toy Hauler Trailers Camper Trailers Nash New Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Are hydraulic trailers the next big trend?

Posted by Steve Whittington Jul 05, 2011

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Hydraulic Trailers Tilt Trailers Dump Trailers Multideck Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Utility Trailers do not have to be poor quality

Posted by Steve Whittington May 26, 2011

Posted in New Products | Tagged with Utility Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Congratulations!

Posted by Steve Whittington Mar 01, 2011

On February 24th 2011, Ryan Sailer, General Manager of Southland Trailer Corp. won the NATM (National Association of Trailer Manufacturers) Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

I personally nominated Ryan and extend professional congratulations.

Why is all this important?

Flaman aligns with manufacturing leaders. Clearly Southland Trailer Corp is a leader. Together Flaman Trailers and Southland Trailers hope to continue to bring you, our customer, innovative and industry leading products.

Posted in Division News | More articles by Steve Whittington

New Enclosed Trailer Line Up

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 22, 2011

The 2011 Lightning line by Southland Trailer Corp has been redesigned away from a V-nose back to the traditional flat front.

Economy without Comprise

Sure it's a tag line, but really what else should I write, because the line is the proper description for the Lightning trailer. Sometimes you do not want a trailer with all the bells and whistles - you might be a customer that is only going to use a trailer several times a year, or maybe you have just started a business and cash is tight. Either way with the new Lightning line, Flaman Trailers has the trailer for you.

The new Lightning line has an all tubing main frame. The interior is lined with plywood not luan and the units ride on robust spring axles. Sure the aluminum skin is mechanically fastened with screws and the the lights are incandescent as opposed to LED lighting, but these are standard specifications for this class of trailer.  The rear taillights are rubber mounted and most LED lights are fix mounted. I personally still debate whether a rubber mounted LED which can absorb travel shock will last longer than a fixed mounted LED with has to take the full jarring impact of the road.

As mentioned above, the unit is a flat front in the traditional style of enclosed trailers and conforms to the standard box sizes.  You, our customer, have been asking for an entry level priced unit and through consultation with our partner manufacturer this line up is it.

Canadian made, Canadian value, Flaman Trailer services what we sell. Come to our locations and see the new Lightning trailers starting at $2,995.

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Southland Snowmobile Trailers Cargo Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Annual Division Meeting at Aluma!

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 15, 2011

Posted in Division News | More articles by Steve Whittington

The good and not so bad about heated enclosed sled trailers

Posted by Steve Whittington Dec 30, 2010

This year we brought in a standardized insulation and heating package for our XR enclosed sled trailers. The package was designed to be simple and robust and it really is! It includes a 25,000 BTU forced air propane heater with a 35 lb underbelly mount propane tank. To start the unit the operation is simple – move the thermostat to the desired heat level and an interior battery will fire up the unit. Presto! You now have heat.

To understand the units we have been field testing them. The system is easy to use and warms a three place enclosed sled trailer at -10 in about ten minutes. It really is quite comfortable and fast. The insulation in the roof, walls and floor keep the heat in well. You’re going to need that in this weather!

There are a couple of things we don’t like: there’s no remote fill on the tank. Not having this option does keep the costs down, but that is hardly remembered when you are struggling on your back beneath the unit to fill the propane tank. While filling the tank is not an everyday occurrence, when it does happen it is a nuance, and you have to make sure wherever you are getting it filled has a long enough hose to reach.

The second thing we did not like was shutting the system down. If you do not push the thermostat into the right position it stays on and drains your battery. This has occurred for us in our lots with customers while showing off the unit, so most likely this is not applicable in the field.

In conclusion, the good far outweighs the bad. The system works well and produces heat fast! We are looking at carrying a remote fill kit for aftermarket purchase in case you get tired of crawling around beneath the trailer.

 

Posted in Product Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Ultimate Enclosed Sled Trailer- The Boom Boom Trailer

Posted by Steve Whittington Nov 06, 2010

Sometimes seeing is believing. Last night was the opening night for the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Show and Flaman Trailers has a 4,200 square foot booth, twelve trailers, five Flaman Salesmen and three factory representatives working the booth, plus three show girls to hand out brochures. With all the space and trailers and the draw of the Boom Boom trailer it was all the girls could do to keep up with handing out brochures.

Why is our booth so popular? Well the Aluma trailers and the XR Series enclosed sled trailers are dialed in to provide the best value on the market. They are a big draw by themselves but the all black Stealth Nash Car unit and the Boom Boom trailer really get people excited. I mean really excited! While I was working there was a lull in the crowd for just a moment. When I mean lull, one Product Rep was not helping a customer and the rest of us were busy...so being a salesman he cranked the Boom Boom's stereo.  I shot him a nasty glance as I was trying to answer questions and now the roar of the music (from six speakers and two subs) made it more difficult. He shrugged his shoulders and pointed at the wave of people coming to check out the Boom Boom trailer. I am not exaggerating...a literal wave of people was working down the aisle and through the booth to the trailer. If we were being invaded we had just become completely overrun! Over twenty people lined up and started working their way through the trailer.

Sometimes seeing is believing,  so if you read this post and are anywhere near Saskatoon you ought to come down to the show and see the Boom Boom and the Stealth for yourself. You will not be disappointed, and if you want the girls will give you a tattoo!

Posted in Product Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Sled Trailer Season is here!

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 30, 2010

Well, snow has arrived and so have our sled trailers.  This year Flaman Trailers is very excited about our line up.  The XR Series Enclosed Sled Trailer is packed with features. An all aluminum interior, overhead cabinet and black hard top flooring are just a few of the standard fetaures. Two tone colours to match your sled have been brought in across our eight locations, and we have more selection than ever before: heater packages, insulated, lowboy toyhualers, 7 wide inline sled trailers and the list goes on.

Our flat deck sled trailers have the same amount of choice: aluminum or steel, tilt or drive on drive off.  Salt shields, aluminum rims, torsion or spring axles are available.  

Once you pick your trailer our parts departments are stocked with accessories to make your trailer your way: helmet bays, shelving, broom hangers, base cabinets and much, much more.

Come in today to outfit your trailer needs for this winter! 

Posted in Product Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Trailer Trade Shows Coming

Posted by Steve Whittington Oct 17, 2010

The Alberta Snowmobile Association Show in Edmonton and the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association Show in Saskatoon will soon be here.

On October 22nd, 23rd and 24th at the Edmonton Expo Centre, Flaman Trailers will be exhibiting enclosed sled trailers, aluminum sled trailers, drive on drive off flat deck sled trailers,  tilt deck sled trailers,  plus a full line of sled trailer accessories.  Come down to see the all new 2011 XR Series enclosed snowmobile trailer complete with a heater and insulation package.

On November 5th , 6th and 7th in Saskatoon at Prairieland Park, Flaman Trailers again will be exhibiting the same line up.  There will be show specials and free draws.  Be sure to take advantage of these pre-season offerings.

Posted in Local News | More articles by Steve Whittington

First time buying a trailer?

Posted by Steve Whittington Aug 10, 2010

The first thing you need to do is qualify what your intended use is:

• Often (2- 5 times a week)
• Frequent (2 -5 times a month)
• Infrequent (2 -5 times a year)

Next set of basic questions you need to answer are as follows:

• Size required
• Payload to be hauled
• Any special requirements (i.e. extra tie downs)

Armed with this information you should have an idea of the amount and type of use required from your future trailer. This will help you pick a unit in the quality class you need.

The trailer world is divided much like the car world into classes of trailers of different quality, for simplicity at Flaman Trailers we simply say:

• Good
• Better
• Best

The differences between the classes depend on the type of trailer, enclosed, flat deck or utility: However some generalities are as follows:

As you move towards best the strength of the frame increases, for instance a good trailer may have all light channel construction, a better many combine tubing steel with heavier channel steel with the best unit being built entirely with HSS (High Structural Steel) tubing.

The same sequence will occur with the features on the units.Good trailers will have a straight springaxle, Better a torsion while Best may have an adjustable torsion.

So knowing the quality of the unit you require will help you and a trailer product specialist pick your required unit.

Another major item to consider is who are you buying from? There are so many manufacturers and dealers popping up that have only been in business for a few years one must question whether they will be present down the road to service your unit, or provide warranty.

Flaman Trailers has been in business for over 50 years as have several other dealers, but not many so be aware! Buy from accredited dealerships that can support you and the product you have purchased. Your trailer needs to be serviced at least annually and you want a dealership that cantake care of you. The final and a very important consideration is the trailer brand which you are purchasing. Flaman has partner manufacturers that have been in business for many years, known in the industry, and stand behind their products. As well Flaman Trailers support Canadian manufacturers. Trailtech Inc and Southland Trailer Corp are the two largest and oldest Canadian manufacturers that build for Canadian conditions. Do you think a trailer built in Texas has the heavy gauge wire to stand up to a Canadian winter?

So there are a lot of things to consider but to summarize

1. Determine the amount of use and what you need to haul
2. Determine the class of trailer that will work for you
3. Chose a dealer that has a proven track record in the industry
4. Pick a quality brand of trailer. (I would pick Canadian)

All the other details in between a professional trailer product specialist will be able to guide you through… have fun!

Posted in Trailer Tips | Tagged with Information | More articles by Steve Whittington

Multi Deck Trailer

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 30, 2010

The new Trailtech MD270 MultiDeck Trailer is one of this season’s hottest innovations. This is a must see unit for trailer users that have been thinking about another trailer for their fleet, or looking to replace/reduce trailers in their fleet. The trailer has a lowboy position, a highboy position and is a powered tilt in both positions. So this unit is really four units in one.  The dovetail at the rear of the trailer with  the tilting deck eliminates the need for ramps, combine this with the hydraulic cushion, loading equipment is truly a one person job.

Features on this unit include:

1.       Self Contained Hydraulics
2.       Patented MultiDeck
3.       Load Securement: rub rails and stake pockets standard plus D-rings in the axle location.

This unit rides on (2) 7000 lb Torfex (Rubber Torsion) axles with 16” tire providing a 16,100 lb GVWR.  Contact your local rep for more details.

Available at all Flaman Trailer locations.  

Posted in New Products | More articles by Steve Whittington

Consumer Choice Awards

Posted by Steve Whittington Jun 20, 2010

On June 20th, Flaman Rentals was the recipient of a Consumer Choice Award in the Equipment Rentals Category at the 2010 Consumer Choice Award Gala in Saskatoon.

The Consumer Choice Awards have been recognizing and promoting business excellence since 1987. This year represented the inaugural year for the awards in Saskatoon, Steve Whittington accepted the award on behalf of Flaman Group of Companies.

Dignitaries in attendance to help celebrate included: Mayor of Saskatoon: Mayor Donald J. Atchison; Minister of Justice & Attorney General: Honorable Don Morgan; Minister of Advanced Education, Employment & Labor: Honorable Rob Norris; Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification: Honorable Lynne Yelich For management at Flaman, this award is a remarkable accomplishment by its staff.

To be chosen by consumers from amongst our competitors truly distinguished the Rental Division and the team that serves the customer. The number one goal at Flaman is the achievement of customer service and it is our staff that make this happen. It is great to be part of a team that works with this goal in mind. We hope to win this award next year as we continue to strive for excellence in customer service.

Posted in Division News | More articles by Steve Whittington

A True Multi-Use Trailer

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 26, 2010

The New Roll off Dump Trailer is truly a versatile unit. The same chassis can serve as a cargo trailer, flatdeck or dump unit. Currently Southland trailers has released the garbage bin attachment, with the above other attachments soon to follow. We are pretty excited at Flamans to be the first to bring this new unique paradigm changing trailer to the market place.

Often when you drive to a construction site there are multiple trailers present. Cargo Trailers serving as mobile tool cribs or a job site shack. Flat decks for hauling equipment, garbage bin on the ground, and dump trailer for moving dirt or landscaping. Imagine the possibilities and cost shavings of having all these functions combined with one chassis. What if you have two or three job sites!

You only need to register and maintain only one trailer instead of multiple units or if you are renting eliminate rental fees for the occasional rentals by purchasing a cost effective attachment. Additionally the attachments can be spotted and picked up at your convenience and you do not have to worry about the theft of your trailer.

These units are due to be released the middle of March just in time for the start of the spring construction season.

Posted in New Products | Tagged with New Trailer Dump Trailers | More articles by Steve Whittington

Why Buy Aluminum

Posted by Steve Whittington Feb 01, 2010

Well, there are many reason to buy an aluminum trailer vs a traditional steel trailer. Firstly Aluminum is lighter by 35- 45% which means your payload is going to be higher than a steel trailer with the same axle rating. Generally though most aluminum trailers have a lighter axles than their steel counterparts but are still able to offer the same payload. This equals a less weight to haul (better fuel economy) and your trailer is easier to move around when hitching up.

Another big advantage of aluminum is that it does not rust nor will you have a rotting wood deck to replace (considering you purchased an aluminum decked trailer). A simple acid wash brings the shine of the trailer immediately back.

One of the main misperceptions about aluminum trailers is that aluminum is not as strong as steel. Actually pound for pound aluminum can be two and half times as strong as steel. The extruded shape and type of aluminum used provides a higher tensile strength. Finally if aluminum was weaker why are airplanes made of it?

Posted in Product Information | Tagged with Information Aluminum Aluma ATC | More articles by Steve Whittington