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Posts Tagged ‘collision repair news’

Commercial Vehicle Tape Solutions for Box Truck Assembly and Repair

Posted by Jennie Lepore

St. Paul, Minn. – (April 25, 2023) – Since 1980, 3M™ VHB™ Tapes have been utilized in the transportation industry for permanent attachment of sidewall and roof panels on commercial vehicles such as cargo trailers, truck bodies, ambulances, fire trucks, buses, and rail cars. 3M pioneered the use of durable acrylic foam tapes to attach sidewall panels and roofs on cargo trailers.

3M™ VHB™ Tape gives manufacturers fast and easy assembly, high performance, and unmatched support and technical expertise. Industry leaders trust 3M to help build durable, dependable, and good-looking vehicles that their customers can rely on year-after-year.

3M is proud to support the box truck assembly and repair community with 3M™ VHB™
Commercial Vehicle Tapes. These tapes feature:

• A fast and easy-to-use permanent bonding method provides high strength and long-term durability
• A fully cured pressure sensitive adhesive that bonds on contact to provide immediate handling strength
• A proven alternative for liquid adhesives or mechanical fasteners
• The ability to seal against moisture and dirt intrusion
• A predefined tape thickness that eliminates starved-bond lines associated with manually-applied liquid adhesives
• A high strength, viscoelastic acrylic foam that provides unique energy absorbing and stress relaxing properties ideal for transportation applications

The 3M™ VHB™ Commercial Vehicle Tape products complement other transportation solutions such as 3M™ Extreme Sealing Tape used in roof repair and seam sealing
applications, as well as 3M™ Adhesive Sealants used for vertical and horizontal joint sealing. For more information, please visit 3M.com/VHBboxtruck.

3M and VHB are trademarks of 3M Company.

About 3M
At 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $34 billion in sales, our 92,000 employees connect with customers all around the world. Learn more about 3M’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at www.3M.com or on Twitter @3M or @3MNews.

HD Repair Forum to Showcase OEM and Insurer Involvement

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The HD Repair Forum (HDRF) is in its 6th year and the level of engagement from OEM’s and insurers continues to grow. Previous conferences have highlighted information on new vehicle technology, repair resources, and parts information from several OEMs including PACCAR, Daimler, Ford Motor Company, Rivian, Great Dane, Volvo Group North America, and others.

“As the industry and technology continues to evolve, engaging with the OEM’s and insurers has never been more critical, ” stated Brian Nessen, HD Repair Forum President. 

Isuzu, MCI, Navistar and Prevost will take this stage this year to present during the 2023 general sessions on Tuesday, April 18th and Wednesday, April 19th in Fort Worth, Texas. “Their participation is a continuation of the support the event has received the past few years from the manufacturers.” Nessen continued. Speakers from our OEM supporters will provide insight on the latest in technology for newer model vehicles, where to find repair information for those vehicles, updates on the parts supply chain, and more.

The HD Repair Forum is a platform for all industry stakeholders to discuss common challenges and identify solutions, and that includes involvement from the industry’s insurance partners. “We have had a number of insurance and independent appraiser companies involved with the HD Repair Forum over the years.” Nessen emphasized. “Without their input, we would be missing a big piece of the puzzle.” 

This year’s insurance panel will feature representatives from National General, an Allstate Company, Great American Insurance Group, and Federated Insurance and will focus on challenges experienced by both repairers and insurers with the goal of identifying potential solutions, including audience participation and Q & A. 

Registration for the event is still open, and the opportunity to save on registration rates is still available. To access registration and gather more information go to hdrepairforum.com/event-registration

Those with questions or interest in getting more involved in the industry’s only collision-focused event may reach out to Jennie Lepore JennieL@hdrepairforum.com or Brian Nessen BrianN@hdrepairforum.com.

About HD Repair Group

HD Repair Group offers a dedicated source of focused-information for those involved in collision repair work of heavy-duty, medium-duty, commercial, and non-commercial vehicles in classes 4 – 8. This community is where industry stakeholders such as shop owners, company executives, managers, technicians, estimators, and others can network with industry peers and find the latest news, tips, trends, and best practices in the heavy- and medium-duty collision repair marketplace. The HD Repair Group serves this industry in numerous ways including hosting conferences, distributing a monthly e-newsletter, hosting webinars, videos, social channels, and more. 

Learn more or sign up here to get connected today. 

Progress in Heavy-Duty & Medium-Duty Collision Repair Continues

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The HD Repair Forum is gearing up for one of its largest events in the program’s history, April 18th-19th, in Fort Worth, Texas. Early registration numbers are higher than normal driven by a session line-up that covers topics such as addressing the technician shortage, improving profitability, and handling new vehicle technology during repair. “We are also very excited to announce two new OEMs, who are participating for the first time this year,” stated Jennie Lepore, HD Repair Forum’s Communications Director.

MCI representative Tim Barnes, will take the stage on Tuesday, April 18th to discuss how to access repair information, find parts, and  share opportunities for engagement with the OEM. Presenting on the main stage Wednesday, April 19th, is Prevost’s Robert Hitt, who will explain the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features common to their latest vehicles and underscore proper repair.

OEMs like Navistar will continue their long standing involvement with the forum and deliver information about new vehicle technology. Component suppliers like Bendix, whose ADAS technologies are embedded within a wide range of vehicle makes and models, will supply attendees with need-to-know education that will help prepare the industry for more complex repairs.  And 3M, AkzoNobel, Axalta Coating Systems, Evercoat, I-CAR, PPG, and TEXA will also deliver educational seminars throughout the two day event. Their support of the market and year-around efforts to provide solutions for this industry has been pivotal to improvements in the marketplace. To see the full agenda go to www.hdrepairforum.com/agenda

“We are encouraged by the level of engagement from so many of the industry’s leaders. As the market continues to evolve there is an even greater need for collaboration among stakeholders, and the HD Repair Forum is the perfect conduit.” stated Brian Nessen, co-founder of the HD Repair Forum.

Registration for the event is open and provides attendees with discounted hotel rates at the Hilton Fort Worth. To access registration and gather more information go to hdrepairforum.com/event-registration/

Companies interested in getting more involved in the industry’s only collision-focused event may reach out to Jennie Lepore JennieL@hdrepairforum.com or Brian Nessen BrianN@hdrepairforum.com for more information.

HD Repair Forum Opens Registration for 2023 Collision Conference

Posted by Jennie Lepore

On April 18th & 19th, 2023, members of the heavy-duty and medium-duty collision repair industry will travel from all parts of North America to hear the latest information on collision industry trends and how technology is redefining the industry.

The two day conference returns to the historic Hilton in downtown Fort Worth, Texas and will follow a similar format as in years past, with presentations and panel discussions involving OEMs, repair experts, insurers, and other collision industry leaders. Unique to the event are a diverse set of focused learning tracks, providing more in-depth information on topics that address the industry’s repair demands and business growth opportunities.  

Similar to previous Heavy-Duty Repair Forums, the advisory board plays a critical role in developing the agenda, speakers, and content. Rodney Rowland,  Body shop manager at Lakeside Trucks in Wisconsin, “I’ve been attending the HD Repair Forum since its inception in 2018. It has become the place for the leaders in the industry to gather to share knowledge, identify trends, and drive improvement for the entire  industry.”

The HD Repair Forum is the only collision-focused event for heavy-duty and medium-duty repairers, making it a must-attend event for collision shop owners, managers, lead technicians and estimators. These stakeholders and other industry partners including executives from OEMs, insurance and appraisal companies will also not want to miss this exclusive, once-a-year in-person opportunity to gather information, network with peers and business partners, and better equip their business for the  challenges experienced by everyone in the market. 

Registration for the event is now open. Early registration discounts and group hotel rates are available for a limited time. To access registration and gather more information go to hdrepairforum.com/event-registration/

Companies and organizations interested in sponsoring the industry’s only collision-focused event may reach out to Brian Nessen @ BrianN@hdrepairforum.com or Jennie Lepore, formerly Lenk, @ JennieL@hdrepairforum.com.

HD Repair Forum Fall Conference to Tackle Industry’s Biggest Challenges

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The Fall HD Repair Forum will take place September 26th and 27th and it will address the industry’s biggest challenges including staffing issues, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), electric vehicle repair information, new model vehicle technology advancements, and more. The complete agenda can be found here.

The advancement and adoption of electric vehicles and ADAS continues to evolve. As their presence and complexity in the industry grows, it is the HD Repair Forum’s mission to make sure the heavy-duty and medium-duty collision repair industry is prepared to handle and repair these vehicles for safe and proper repair.

Taking the stage in September is a well-known list of companies, organizations, and industry experts who will provide education, training, and insight on these key topics. Organizations represented include: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Big Rig Alignment, Ford, Great Dane, I-CAR, the RV Dealers Association, Penske, Progressive and many others.

The HD Repair Forum will take place alongsideTMC’s 2022 Fall Meeting and National Technician Skills Competitions, which offers attendees a chance to participate in both events. Those involved in heavy-duty & medium-duty collision repair looking to prepare yourself, your team, and your business for growth and success should make plans and head to Cleveland.

For more information on the organization, event educational sessions, and industry resources sign-up for our e-communications
To register for the event, visit the HD Repair Forum website or go here

HD Repair Forum Advisory Board Welcomes New Members in 2022

Posted by Jennie Lepore

For the past five years, stakeholders in the heavy-duty and medium-duty collision repair industry have met annually at the HD Repair Forum to discuss the greatest challenges impacting this market. Leading the conference’s focus and direction and the industry’s requests for progress is the HD Repair Forum’s advisory board; a diverse group of collision repair facility owners, managers, and executives from across North America.

This year the advisory board welcomed four new board members; Jamie Cole, President and Owner of Ace Truck Repair, Randy Johansson, Body Shop Manager at Rihm Kenworth, Bernie Obry, General Manager of Coach USA- Perfect Body, and John Spoto, Director of Collision, Premier Truck Group.

“We are very fortunate to add four dedicated individuals to our strong group of board members. Their experience and perspective sheds additional light on the industry’s challenges and drives the industry toward solutions and best practices,” explained Brian Nessen, HD Repair Forum President and Co-founder. “We are grateful to these forward-thinking and passionate individuals. It is their leadership alongside industry peers and supporting partners that is driving the industry’s progress.” 

The upcoming Fall HD Repair Forum will take place alongside the American Trucking Associations© (ATA) Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) 2022 Fall Meetings in Cleveland, Ohio. The two-day conference, taking place on Monday and Tuesday, September 26 & 27th, will address the industry’s call for staffing solutions; updates on repair demands from vehicle technology developments; repair information on substrate and material advancements; the need for industry connection, and much more. 

Collision repairers and industry stakeholders serving the heavy-duty and medium-duty repair markets, including tractors, trailers, RVs, buses, and delivery & emergency vehicles, are invited to join in on the educational sessions, conversations, and opportunities presented at the Fall HD Repair Forum. This includes shop owners, shop managers, estimators, fleet managers, dealer repair shops, commercial vehicle manufacturers, insurance providers, and service, equipment, and technology companies.

Early bird registration is available for a limited time. Discounted hotel rates are available to HD Repair Forum attendees at the Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade, recently ranked “One of the Best Hotel Lobbies in the World.”

Save money and plan ahead! Register at www.hdrepairforum.com/register 

If you would like to receive industry news and event updates for the heavy- & medium-duty collision repair industry, sign up for e-communication here. 

Registration Opens Fall HD Repair Forum

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The Fall HD Repair Forum 2022 conference will take place Monday and Tuesday, September 26th & 27th, 2022, in Cleveland, Ohio and will be co-located with the American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council’s (TMC) fall meetings.

Attendees of the event will hear presentations and panel discussions that give insight and speak to trends in the heavy-& medium-duty collision repair marketplace. Speakers involved include truck manufacturers, insurance carriers, collision repair experts, and many other collision industry leaders.

The fall event begins Monday with a networking breakfast and vendor fair enabling those in attendance a chance to fuel up for the day and catch up with friends, colleagues, and industry partners. Following will be an agenda filled with educational sessions that speak to industry executives, shop owners and managers, insurance partners, and other company leaders. This year’s sessions and presentations will look deeper at topics involving ADAS repairs, Ford’s e-Transit in the medium-duty market, solutions to the technician shortage, welding newer substrates, and many other key topics and trends.

Also unique to the Fall 2022 program is the organization’s partnership with the American Trucking Association’s TMC Fall Meetings. Registration to the HD Repair Forum’s event in Cleveland will also include access to TMC’s s17 Heavy-Duty Collision Task Force’s meeting. 

The partnership with TMC speaks to the HD Repair Forum’s continuous efforts to work with all stakeholders in the market. ”Collaboration is vital to the success of an industry and we are pleased to partner with TMC this year,“ stated President and co-founder, Brian Nessen. “Hosting a collision industry event alongside TMC provides both audiences with a unique opportunity to attend a wider array of sessions.“

The HD Repair Forum is the only event dedicated to heavy-duty & medium-duty collision repair and is the only place where stakeholders in this market can gain access to available industry specific training, equipment and service providers, receive information on topics that matter most to this industry, and have important and affirming conversations with peers. 

Registration to the HD Repair Forum is now open and access to the early bird rate is available for a limited time. To access HD Repair Forum registration, go to www.hdrepairforum.com/register

For those offering equipment, services, and educational opportunities to this industry, be sure to check out our 2022 sponsorship opportunities. Or to find out how your company can get further involved in the evolution of this industry, please reach out to via email or call 281-819-2332.

HD Repair Forum Recognizes Mark Polzin as “Collision Repairer of the Year”

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The Spring HD Repair Forum (HDRF) took place in Fort Worth, Texas on April 5th & 6th at the Historic Fort Worth Hilton. Industry leaders and executives from the United States and Canada gathered to network and participate in the only conference solely dedicated to the heavy-duty collision repair industry. 

On Tuesday, HDRF leadership recognized Mark Polzin as the Collision Repairer of the Year. This award is presented to an individual for outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to advancing the heavy-duty collision repair industry. Mark joins a select group of industry leaders that have been presented with this distinguished award. 

Mark is the current owner and CEO of Budget Truck and Auto in Janesville, WI. He is one of the inaugural HDRF advisory board members and continues to selflessly give his time and knowledge to the benefit of the entire industry. His contributions to the advisory board have led to greater participation and support from collision repairers, insurers, and manufacturers. Mark’s passion and desire to improve the industry is evidenced by a growing list of participation and support of various industry groups and associations. 

The award presentation was extra special as Mark’s son, Aaron, was in attendance. Aaron is also active with Budget Truck and Auto. Mark’s passion for the industry can only be rivaled by his love and commitment to his family. We are thankful for people like Mark, because they give without expecting anything in return.

About HD Repair Group
HD Repair Group offers a dedicated source of focused-information for those involved in collision repair work of heavy-duty, medium-duty, commercial, and non-commercial vehicles primarily in classes 4 – 8. This community is where industry stakeholders, such as shop owners, company executives, managers, technicians, estimators, and others can network with industry peers and find the latest news, tips, trends, and best practices in the heavy- and medium-duty collision repair marketplace. The HD Repair Group serves this industry in numerous ways including hosting conferences, distributing a monthly e-newsletter, hosting webinars, videos, social channels, and more. Dates for the Fall HD Repair Forum later this year will be announced in the coming weeks. Stay connected with the heavy-duty collision repair industry by signing up for our e-newsletter and visiting https://hdrepairforum.com/

About Budget Truck and Auto
Budget Truck and Auto has been a family owned and operated business since 1973. Starting with only one building and growing to a 40,000 sq ft repair facility. The current operation includes four paint booths with three that measure over 65 feet long, and one of the largest frame machines in the country. The company is committed to producing the highest quality repairs along with impeccable customer service. 

2021 Year-end Trends for Commercial Collision Claims

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The following data provides benchmarking insights and trends compiled from PPG’s ADJUSTRITE® Commercial Estimating system for the 4th quarter, 2021. This data reflects information compiled from both insurance and shop estimates from the United States and Canada. For all metrics, this information excludes known total losses, estimates with only one line item, and estimates <$100.
Severity for 2021 averaged $9,965—a 13.3% increase over 2020.  Severity for the 4th quarter experienced the largest increase, up 20.6% relative to Q4 2020. 

When looking at Sale Mix Percent for the past four years, the only year-over-year trend is that Sublet percent is increasing. Comparing 2021 to 2020, Parts and Sublet percentages increased, while Labor and Paint Materials decreased. All Sales Mix dollars categories saw increases in 2021.  The annual average for Parts dollars had the highest increase of 14.6%, while the lowest increase was for Paint Materials dollars at 10.1%.  

Table 1:  Sales Mix Percent for 2018 – 2021

In Table 2, the 2021 Labor Mix Percent shows an increase in Mechanical over 2020, while Body Percent continued to slightly decline.

Looking at Table 3, all Average Labor Dollar categories show an increase in 2021 relative to 2020, with the exception of Frame.  Body and Paint had the largest increases of 11.2% and 8.6, respectively.

Table 3: Average Labor Dollars for 2018 – 2021

Please note that a correction to Sublet was made for trends reported Q3 2021 and has been applied to all years. 

Average Dollars for Sublet, Paint Materials and Shop Supplies show a year-over-year increase. Compared to 2020, Shop Supplies had the highest percent increase of 14.8%. 

 

Thank you for your continued interest in following the latest trends for commercial collision claims.

 

About PPG ADJUSTRITE®:

The PPG AdjustRite Commercial Estimating system is an industry-leading platform in the medium-to-heavy-duty equipment repair and claims industry. This system is a web-based, fully mobile application, driven by a comprehensive database of commercial vehicles and equipment including: tractors, trailers, trucks, boxes, motor coaches, RVs, and buses. To learn more about the PPG AdjustRite Commercial Estimating System, visit www.adjustrite.com .

Attorneys to Highlight Educational Offerings at the HD Repair Forum

Posted by Jennie Lepore

The HD Repair Forum is excited to bring two collision industry veteran attorneys to next month’s event. Patrick McGuire has spent the past twenty years of his career helping collision repairers avoid wasting their time and money in court. Attendees will leave better prepared to protect their business and assets through this interactive session. Patrick will provide repairers with a series of best practices that will reduce reliability and grow their bottom line in the session, “An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure”.

Cory King is an expert in HR and employee related matters. As wage-hour compliance lawsuits continue to rise, is your business at risk? Cory will provide real world examples of mistakes made that were not only avoidable but preventable. Employee handbooks, hiring and firing best practices will leave attendees armed with knowledge that will undoubtedly serve them for years to come.

Brian Nessen, HD Repair Forum President commented, “We are fortunate to have presentations from two attorneys for this year’s conference. Their insight could save shop owners significant legal fees in the future. Patrick’s and Cory’s collective insight will provide valuable information for repair businesses.

These legal sessions fit perfectly with a robust two-day, multi-session program that includes presentations on the safe handling of EVs, dust mitigation, ADAS updates, calibration, and more. All of which lead to improved productivity and a more successful heavy-duty/medium-duty collision repair business.

To learn more about the HD Repair Forum’s upcoming conference, sign up for our e-communications or to go to: https://hdrepairforum.com/register