Same Day Delivery Completed Despite En-Route Vandalism and Theft
Local transportation specialist TMC Transportation had to overcome vandalism and the theft of a catalytic converter from one of their vehicles during a delivery of stage props to the Barbican Centre in London earlier this month.
Whilst making a pick up from a client, TMC’s van was parked outside for little more than 15 minutes, during which time thieves broke a window, gained access to the engine compartment and stole the catalytic converter.
It was the second time in 6 months that TMC’s vans have been targeted. However, despite a touch and go journey the delivery was completed on time.
“Catalytic converters are a target for scrap metal thieves because generally they are easy to access and steal and can be quickly sold. This sort of theft is a common problem and it’s not the first time it’s happened to TMC,” said Tom Coates, Managing Director at TMC Transportation.
The theft happened as TMC was making a late afternoon pick up of a consignment of rigging equipment and stage dressing from PMB Theatre and Exhibitions Services for delivery to the Barbican Centre in London later that night.
It wasn’t until en route that TMC’s driver realised the van had been vandalised and the catalytic converter and exhaust stolen. But knowing the critical nature of the delivery he pressed on and was able to complete the job.
“This is the second time in 6 months we’ve been targets because of the ease with which an opportunist thief can make a quick buck by stealing a catalytic converter. Unfortunately there isn’t much we can do to prevent it,” continued Coates.
“I’d like to call on motor manufacturers to make it harder for thieves to steal catalytic converters. After all, vehicle security has improved significantly over the years, so why not extend measures to the catalysts? In this instance we were able to carry on and make this delivery despite the theft, but one of these days there will be more serious consequences.”
TMC customer Vanessa Bond said, “I was so impressed that the delivery was made on time. When I learned of the trouble the driver had faced on the journey I was amazed that our equipment was delivered at all that night, let alone on time!”
Audiences at the Barbican were able to enjoy the performance thanks to TMC’s professionalism and dedication – with no hint of the drama surrounding the delivery of the stage equipment!
About TMC Transportation
TMC Transportation is a Hertfordshire-based carrier of parcels for overnight and same day delivery. As well as providing courier services, they specialise in the transportation and handling of delicate and sensitive medical equipment and instrumentation.
They can deliver a small parcel for by express same day or next day delivery, or a surgical microscope requiring careful packing and carriage to a specific medical department.
They are ideally placed in Hertfordshire with connections to the UK’s main transportation infrastructure to satisfy all courier requirements in the UK, Europe and beyond.