AKRON — Independent truckers and smaller trucking fleets that are part of the Convoy Inc. digital freight network can now buy Goodyear truck tire brands at discounted prices via Convoy's e-commerce platform thanks to a new collaboration between the companies.
Convoy's technology platform connects shippers with independent carriers, small fleets and owner/operators in an effort to increase these entities' efficiency by reducing the number of empty runs they make.
Founded in 2015, Convoy claims to have "tens of thousands" of carriers enrolled in its digital network. Convoy's revenue derives from taking a percentage of each transaction that runs through the e-commerce site.
Convoy claims 35% of all miles driven by truckers and trucking fleets are empty miles, leading to lost revenue and the generation of as much as 72 million metric tons of unnecessary CO2 equivalent emissions.
Goodyear's link-up with Convoy provides Convoy members online discounts on tires at GoodyearTruckTires.com, an exclusive service line through FleetHQ to request 24/7 emergency roadside assistance and access to Goodyear's network of 2,300 service locations throughout North America.
"Goodyear is excited to collaborate with Convoy to offer carriers of all sizes access to our trusted products, premiere service network and complete tire management solutions," Johnny McIntosh, Goodyear's director of integrated solutions and tire management, said.
"Carriers can now get the tires they need at competitive prices with a seamless purchase experience through Convoy's connection to Goodyear's e-commerce system."
Goodyear declined to quantify its sales expectations for the new program, but said it was excited "for the opportunity to capture the business of small fleets and independent owner/operators through this platform."
Convoy provides online access to Goodyear tires, including Kelly and Marathon brands, "at prices typically reserved for larger fleets," according to information on Convoy's site.
The site advertises discounts of $72 to $96 per tire versus other advertised online prices.
When a Convoy member orders tires, Convoy directs the customer to the nearest Goodyear service point within the FleetHQ program. Convoy pledges to get the sevice call completed within a two-hour window.
This is the first time Goodyear has offered an online discount program on truck tires through its commercial e-commerce platform, but the company considers it an extension of its consumer platform,
"We're thrilled to build on our relationship with Goodyear, …" Brooks McMahon, Convoy's vice president of partnerships, said.
"This partnership provides carriers in Convoy's network with unparalleled access to Goodyear's online platform and roadside assistance program, at a time when they need that support and assistance the most."