Thursday, 14 September 2017

Copart visit

We were welcomed by general manager Ian Smith, assistant manager Thomas Swan, vehicle engineering team leader Andrew Lorraine and also Alan Clark, branch vehicle image engineer who is an Institute member.

We assembled in the conference room and learned that Copart was founded in California in 1982 by W.J.Johnson and how over the years due to extremely hard work and vision, grew into the global organisation which it is today. There are 15 branches in the UK, one in southern Ireland and elsewhere in Europe, Canada, USA, South America and Asia.

Health and safety are high on the firm's list. After a briefing and signing in process, we donned high visibility jackets and then followed a tour round the premises where procedures and general operations were described. The large site has permanent hard standing allowing accessibility and easy movement of all types of damaged and other vehicles, most of which are parked in herringbone pattern. Some selected vehicles have indoor storage. The whole complex is surrounded with high well-constructed metal railings and this together with camera system ensures excellent protection and security.

Copart organise and conduct live online vehicle auctions at which registered trade buyers are able to bid for a huge range including cars, motorcycles, caravans, light and heavy commercials, agricultural machinery etc., even the occasional boat. Most have suffered accident damage but not always as there is a regular flow of undamaged vehicles. Copart provides planned and agreed online auction services for the insurance industry, fleet operators, rental and finance companies, motor traders and also, the general public. There are collection and delivery services available and a facility to purchase recycled parts from the firm's dismantling division. In addition to damaged and used vehicles, Copart will deal with non-runners and those with mechanical or electrical issues.

To assist with online bidding, registered buyers are supplied with images and description of damage or current condition. By prior arrangement and before an auction date, a buyer may take the opportunity of viewing any particular vehicle on site. Terms and conditions apply and in cases of salvage Category B purchases, certain other conditions must be met.

A Question and Answer session took place and Copart's team dealt suitably with the points raised regarding their unique services. This was a very informative visit and we are grateful to our hosts including UK Head Office-based engineering services manager Russell England for allowing the visit to take place. Refreshments were provided for our members. Past Chairman Arnott Aitken delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the Region.

Copart would be happy to extend similar site visits to other IAEA Regions. Arrangements should be made through Russell England who is also an Institute member and who can provide detail of Copart's services.

Peter Ramsay