Page 95 - 2017 Hotel Cost Estimating Guide

DROPPING TRAILERS ON SITE:

WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF ONSITE TRAILER STORAGE?

by Darlene Henke, ISHC
President of Audit Logistics

During the renovation process, the storage and staging

of new FF&E can sometimes present just as many
challenges as the renovation itself. Based on the size

of the hotel and available space inside, sometimes the

parking lot becomes an option for storing FF&E. When
ample space is available in the parking lot of the hotel,

the option of dropping trailers onsite with FF&E staged

internally is often utilized. There are many advantages
to this approach, especially when there is no storage at

all in the hotel, but also the potential for many problems

The irst thing that should be considered when looking

at the option of dropping trailers on site is what size

trailer the hotel is able to accommodate. Trailers come
in all sizes ranging from 20’ to 53’. Most hotels are in

very well populated areas and even though the parking

lot may be able to accommodate the trailers, the turns
into and out of the facility along with side roads may

limit access.

Once it is determined a site can accommodate drop

trailers, some beneits include having FF&E onsite

throughout the duration of installation. This allows the the FF&E you are storing in the non temperature
installer to ofload the trailer at a slower pace and in
regulated box and what could have potential damage
sync with room turnover. The installer can also beneit
due to extremities.
when unfavorable weather is present and rather
than having to unload a live delivery during a major
Drop trailers can help execute FF&E delivery and
downpour, they can choose to wait so FF&E does not
installation, especially on limited service projects or in
get wet. It is important to have a clear and immediate areas where budgets are constrained. Consider having
claims reporting process, so if items are discovered
the GC provide 40’ containers, not trailers, as a more
damaged or missing the installer is addressing in a
competitive cost option on site. In addition, the container
timely manner and claims can be iled.
is at ground level and can be easier for the installer to

move in and out of. They also generally are cheaper
Although dropping trailers has many beneits, the
to re-paint if vandalized, due to the nature of how basic
following concerns should be taken into consideration the box is. For more information please contact us at
and could be problematic. Security once the trailer is
info@auditlogistics.com.
on site can be an issue. It is critical to have the installer

or GC provide the lock for the trailer, and have a clear
procedure with their supervisors and laborers on when About the Author

the trailer should be unlocked or left open. Vandalism
Ms. Henke and Audit Logistics are
of the trailer can create a liability for the property if recognized leading experts in the
it occurs while onsite. Trailers once vandalized can
hospitality sector. Her reputation is well
be expensive to ix because most companies have deserved and based on integrity, hard
work and dedication. Ms. Henke’s ability
graphics and company logos on them. When this does
occur, the warehouse will look to the hotel’s insurance to think outside the conventional dealer
business model resulted in Audit Logistics
company for remedy. Drop trailers can experience
being the only industry irm in existence
very high heat and cold during winter and summer to offer auditable freight and warehouse management to the
months, as well as humidity. It is important to consider
hospitality sector.

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