Hofmann Megaplan Blog
As expected, the MOT exemption put in place last year to aid vehicle owners is set to cause even more havoc this year – specifically, this Autumn. MOTs are predicted to surge once again throughout the Autumn months of August, September and October, in line with the rise from 2020.
Since the beginning of 2021, the DVSA has been urging vehicle owners who have an MOT due in August, September, October or November this year, to bring it forward into the months of April, May, June or July.
A DVSA spokesperson said:
“Last year we issued exemptions to help keep industry moving during the pandemic.
“As a result, test dates are not evenly spread throughout the year and August, September, October and November are significantly busier than usual.
“For peace of mind, we are advising vehicle owners with test dates in August, September, October and November to bring their vehicle in for test during May, June or July instead, to avoid the busier months.”
Has it worked?
It would appear not.
Despite calls from the aftermarket for more visibility of the advice, the DVSA failed to encourage vehicle owners to bring forward their MOTs this Spring – leading to another expected sharp rise in MOT services this Autumn.
Make sure your garage is ready for this Autumn...
Talk to the experts to see how we can help you deal with the expected demand (especially if you only managed to scrape by last Autumn).
The fully qualified MOT team at Hofmann Megaplan have been busy installing brand new MOT bays throughout lockdown as many garage owners seized the opportunity and made sure their equipment is up to scratch and ready to cope with the expected increase in demand.
Is it about time you did the same?
Check out our specialist MOT division online now or call our team on 01480 8-9-10-11.
Traditionally (pre-covid), March & September are the busiest months for MOT testing. April is usually quiet and we don’t see that changing this year.
The MOT extension which was introduced last year when the first lockdown was announced, meant that many vehicle owners postponed their MOT test and they will be waiting the full 12 months before needing another. However, for garage owners across the UK in need of additional revenue to support their business, any April lull will be unwelcome.
It isn’t all bad news though; vehicle owners are being encouraged to forward-think and book their MOT tests in good time, meaning the lull may not be as bad as first anticipated.
So, how can your garage make the most of a quieter period?
Our steps to MOT servicing success in 2021...
Here at Hofmann Megaplan, we have been keeping a close eye on the peaks & troughs throughout the entire pandemic, and we have come up with some suggestions to make the most out of a potentially quiet month in April...
Personal Development & Training
Step one involves getting your team up to speed with the latest MOT CPD and annual assessments, together with training any non-testing staff to help them get up to speed. Ensuring your entire team are up to scratch can make all the difference when the busier months inevitably return later in the year.
There really is no excuse – now that remote learning is at the forefront of training and development in every industry, there are no obstacles in terms of travel to and from training sites; your employees can develop their skills from the comfort of their own home.
MOT Equipment Maintenance & Improvements
Another area for improvement is the efficiency of your MOT equipment. Making sure that your MOT bay receives the proper maintenance and love it deserves, can help to ensure the longevity and reliability of equipment in the long run.
While your essential kit is potentially under-used throughout April, it may be the best opportunity you will have in 2021 for a thorough inspection and maintenance programme. Alternatively, if you feel now is the time to upgrade your MOT bay completely, call our specialist division on 01480 8-9-10-11 to ensure you get the right advice, equipment and support for your MOT services.
Garage Business Planning
When covid struck the UK last March, many garage owners had to draw up a forecast for their business throughout lockdown 1.0 and the remainder of 2020.
A year later we are still dealing with restrictions, so April is the perfect time to review and develop your business plans and forecasts to incorporate long term goals for your garage and services. Having a realistic approach to what you can achieve in 2021 can help to keep you and your team focused on providing an excellent garage repair and maintenance service for your customers.
Over the duration of the lockdown months, the focus of the MOT sector has been set on the six-month extension announced by the DVSA - due to this, other areas of the MOT world (including MOT connected equipment) have taken a backseat.
Since the end of the lockdown, the DVSA’s “Beat the Rush” campaign has taken centre stage – often with mixed reviews.
The success of the rollout of Connected Roller Brake Testers back in October 2019 and Connected Decelerometers in February this year, is still unknown. However, a lot of garages have been experiencing some difficulties in working the connectivity, which has boiled down to a lack of knowledge by MOT equipment installers.
The biggest connected MOT issue...
All new roller brake testers and decelerometers installed into any garage must be connected to the MOT testing service.
It has been brought to the DVSA’s attention that issues with locating the “key” to connect equipment has been one of the biggest nuances for garage owners, after the install has been completed.
Official DVSA guidance for obtaining a key...
A DVSA spokesperson said: “When the engineer is on-site and ready to install your equipment you need to request a key and give it to them.
“The key will not work at another testing station and only works on one piece of equipment.”
To obtain a software code, users should sign into the MOT testing service and go to the ‘vehicle testing station’ page where they can ‘request a key’ under ‘change and connect equipment’.
Make sure you choose the MOT equipment experts
Ensuring you work with the experts is a must to getting it right first time.
Here at Hofmann Megaplan, our fully qualified engineers have been installing brand new MOT bays throughout the whole of lockdown. Many garage owners have seen the opportunity that has risen over the past couple of months and made sure their equipment is up to scratch to cope with any increase in demand.
Is it about time you did the same?
Check out our specialist MOT division online now or call our team on 01480 8-9-10-11.
With twice as many MOTs predicted to take place in September, October and November, many garage owners are already wondering how to cope. Is your MOT Equipment ready?
The worst of the MOT exemption is now behind us as garages begin to return to normal. A sharp rise in MOT testing is of course expected as customers begin to book in for their mandatory annual vehicle checkup. But what is the new normal for MOT Equipment & testers?
A “Beat the Rush” toolkit has even been released by the DVSA to help customer and testers. Understand what is coming & highlights some important statistics.
- 40% of MOT customers prefer to choose a garage they have used before
- 83% of your MOT customers will prefer to get any necessary repairs fixed by your garage
- 52% of customers will come to you if they have questions about their MOT
These stats will quickly tell you the level of demand you can expect in the coming months.
The document also advises motorists get their MOT test done early and out of the busiest time period. It states that “By working together, we can manage the unprecedented demand for MOTs which will start to peak as more and more customers try to get their vehicles tested from September onwards”.
What can you do?
Now is the time to get smart and ensure your garage, team, customers and MOT Equipment are all prepared for this surge in demand. Have you thought about:
- Contacting your existing customers whose MOTs will expire in September, October and November? Encourage them to book their MOT this summer.
- Sharing the “Beat the Rush” campaign materials on your social media channels, using #MOT?
- Putting the campaign banner from the link on your website and social?
During the pandemic, we’ve been busy preparing MOT bays for the challenges that lie ahead. We’ve had new installs, expansions & upgrades.
These are the business owners have recognised the inevitable demand increase for MOT services in the Autumn of this year and have been proactive in getting ready.
Our ATL MOT division has everything you need to succeed this Autumn including our incredible calibration, servicing and installation services.
For more information on what we can offer your garage’s MOT services, call our specialists today on 01480 8-9-10-11.
It is the people of Hofmann Megaplan that make us the best. An easy example of this? Our experts across in the MOT division that specialises in garage preparation, MOT equipment installs and getting business up & running to MOT. It is so much more than just an install.
Why are we considered one of the best in the industry?
Quality guaranteed.
The beginning of 2019 saw the integration of our separate ATL MOT site into our renowned main website, in a decisive shift to combine all our services together to showcase the service that has made us famous.
It is safe to say, that journey has got our MOT division booming with new business, throughout the summer and continuing into the tail end of 2019. No one says it better on how we go the extra mile than our valued customers.
A masterstroke that put us ahead of the curve.
Since October, we have been running our new ATL MOT 5 Year Peace of Mind Offer – earning you a potential saving upwards of £3,750 + VAT in calibration fees over the 5-year period.
Available on all orders until the end of the year, this offer covers all MOT bays for sale – which would also see you gain 2 years warranty as standard on your order!
What to expect from 2020.
With the new announcements of connected MOT equipment, we are set to have another busy year in 2020 – equipping even more garages with new equipment.
If we are busy, that means you should be too!
Contact our specialists on 01480 8-9-10-11 to discuss your ATL MOT requirements in further detail.
Massive changes are hitting ATL MOT garage services at the moment around connected equipment & it can be tricky to keep on top of what the DVSA now expects of you.
To give you a running start in 2020 & peace of mind with your MOT endeavours, we want to share some of the most important updates that you should really be aware of.
MOT Connected Equipment is on the move!
Over the past 12 months, plans have been in place to roll out new connected MOT equipment standards – in the hopes of making the MOT procedure intuitive, integrated & fraud-proof.
Since October 2019, the DVSA (working alongside the GEA) has completed the successful rollout of connected Brake Testers and announced the introduction of connected Decelerometers from February 1st of this year.
Trails are also being held on emissions testers and headlight testers, with the ambition of them being put into circulation by the end of 2020.
Updated VT01 Form
The well-known MOT application form VT01, has recently been through a facelift too.
Introduced on November 1st 2019, the VT01 application to apply, run or change an MOT station now requests a few extra details as part of the application.
PLEASE NOTE: Any submissions made on the old version of the form, will delay your process.
You can download the new application form here.
Or you could work with Hofmann Megaplan!
We can take care of the entire application process for you as part of our comprehensive MOT Bay install service. Applications, planning, groundworks, calibrations & servicing. If you are searching for someone to install a new MOT bay or looking to upgrade your current MOT bay package, make sure you give us a call.
This is more than a purchase. You are investing in a relationship with us. In return, we’ll ensure you never have a headache from your MOT Bay!
Our specialist ATL MOT division has moved from strength to strength this year. Renowned for an unbeatable 360-degree service from the first call, no ask is too big in helping to get your MOT Bay up & running.
The easiest way to showcase this. Let one of our customers do it for us!
Transcription:
Hofmann Megaplan: What made you choose Hofmann Megaplan for your MOT Bay?
Richard of Ruislip Tyres: Ease! We didn't really get much response back from the emails & phone calls [to others], so rang Andy at Hofmann [Megaplan] the next day. I think two days later he was down from Leeds, so it was good. We ran through what was needed & went from there.
HM: What has it been like working with Hofmann Megaplan?
RR: They project managed the whole thing from day one. The garage we bought was basically a blank canvas. It was going to be completely refurbished and with a blank canvas to play with it needed to be done right. So, we went in, marked everything out & changed a few things around. We have done a lot of the groundworks ourselves [although Hofmann Megaplan are able to organise & manage this], just because we know a lot of builders through customers. Apart from that, it was every week we were getting good comms with Andy & we were on track with everything!
HM: How did Hofmann Megaplan exceed your expectations?
RR: They did all the paperwork for DVSA, for the signoffs and all that sort of stuff, so it took a lot of the pressure off me. I had a lot of stuff going on obviously with the build & we had other machinery going in. We had to do the extension on the back & all sorts. You can see in the video the whole back section is new, so we had to basically build that section to accommodate the MOT Bay because the previous MOT Bay, it wouldn't be signed off. It was too old.
HM: Since working with Hofmann Megaplan on your MOT Bay, how has the business changed?
RR: It's gone from strength to strength I mean we were already very busy with tyres obviously being one of the leading tyre places in the area. All the tyre customers we had, now we are getting the MOT custom as well It's gone from strength to strength & we've been open 3 months now so it's great.
We look forward to sharing more MOT Bay installs with you in 2020. It’s already shaping up to be a busy year.
The MOT process as we know it is beginning its biggest change in decades!
Connected brake testers are now a mandatory requirement for all new bays. While garage owners can continue to use their current MOT equipment, any changes or updates must include the ability to connect to the DVSA through your garage's internet.
Brake testers are the first MOT equipment to become connected, with the rest of the bay to follow.
So, what is the reason for this technological change in a process that has run for nearly half a century?
Overlooked & Inaccurate Data
Garage owners want to consistently push for more revenue – after all, isn't that why businesses are created in the first place.
The pressure on MOT testers to perform tests quickly is a constant, as it can mean more customers, but this can overwhelm the assessor so the need for accurate and efficient testing is always a priority!
Details like mileage or even the vehicle registration number can be mis-read (or fraudulently entered) when completing manually.
These simple human errors will be no more in a world of MOT connected equipment.
Fraudulent MOT Activity
As mentioned before, this is sadly a thing!
Fraud has become an all to regular part of the MOT testing conversation, with some facilities using it to increase test numbers, or even allocate a MOT to a vehicle not yet in the country.
Safety is at the forefront of the DVSA's mind,therefore action is needed to eradicate MOT fraud completely.
Most MOT centres continue to follow the rules and regulations, providing valid testing certificates.There are always those who try to cheat the system though.
Not only is this a crime, but the risk of unsafe vehicles being on the road continues to put other drivers and pedestrians lives in danger.
Advantages to the modern garage - everyone must be on-board with Connectivity!
The biggest challenge could be changing the mindset of garage owners and mechanics alike to embrace this new technology change with open arms.
Many will continue to run on their current equipment, but could you be missing out on unexplored benefits from upgrading, as well as equipment offers and trade-in opportunities.
In fact, changing to MOT connected equipment can make your life as an MOT tester much easier in the long term. These new automated processes not only decrease human error at each stage but will also accelerate jobs, making the test more efficient.
More efficient testing = More MOT's completed = More revenue
When should I get MOT Connected Equipment?
As it stands, only brake testers have been deemed as mandatory to connect meaning if you replace or update your current equipment, the new rules from the DVSA apply and you need to have the ability to connect your new brake tester.
Release dates for the next piece of connected equipment are yet to be confirmed though and our team are engaged with the DVSA and GEA in working to ensure we are ready at every change and keeping our customers informed.
Don't be left in the dark about MOT Connected equipment!
Contact us online today or call our dedicated team on 01480 8-9-10-11 for more information on one of the biggest MOT equipment challenges in the more recent years!
You've heard us say before that purchasing the right MOT equipment isn't easy and that it can take time to find the right supplier, from first visit to initial MOT inspection.
Not only that, we live in times where the budget required to make such an investment can be hard to justify. The price of a job is quite low in comparison to the price of equipment needed.
It can take time for garage equipment to pay its way, by it will do so and in tremendous fashion!
Here at Hofmann Megaplan, our many years of specialist experience and after-sales service in the MOT sector have taught us numerous lessons, especially when it comes to supplying our renowned MOT Bay Packages.
Check out our advice on purchasing the MOT Equipment that's right for you:
Heed our expert advice or suffer the consequences...
The new rules on MOT equipment, put forward by the DVSA, are starting to change the game for MOT equipment suppliers and garage owners alike. Extra precautions must be taken to ensure your MOT testing bay adheres to these connectivity rules.
Follow our three steps to MOT greatness:
MOT Lift
The centre piece to your MOT operations! A reliable and robust MOT Lift cannot be understated.
Making sure the lift can firstly fit into your garage without a hitch and meeting all regulations, you must be mindful of the difference between a standard 4 post lift and a MOT lift. If there is a lack of space or security features for your operators you're going to be stuck before you start.
Connected Testing Equipment
The new rules brought in by the DVSA have caused a bit of a stir across the MOT sector.However, the possibilities available if the correct equipment is purchased can increase your garages productivity. Offering a seamless flow of automatic data from your testing equipment, these connected tools can supply quick and easy reporting for both you and your customer.
Service - before, during, after
Although not strictly a piece of MOT equipment, the importance of correct planning, application, installation and equipment maintenance is just as valuable as the product itself. Most MOT equipment suppliers will offer some sort of maintenance package – some with warranty, some with parts & labour, some with both.
It is important you read the small print on these plans, as you could be getting less than you originally thought!
MOT connectivity dates to remember!
The introduction of the DVSA's new rules mean new or replacement equipment you buy must be connected.
Not sure if this applies to your equipment? Call us today for an update consultation to ensure you're only upgrading when its needed.
This applies to:
- roller brake testers (from 1 October 2019)
- decelerometers (date to be confirmed)
- diesel smoke meters (date to be confirmed)
- exhaust gas analysers (date to be confirmed)
- headlamp beam testers (date to be confirmed)
Speak to the experts!
Check out our ATL MOT equipment range for more information.
To discuss your MOT requirements in more detail, contact us online or call our dedicated specialist division on 01480 8-9-10-11 today.
MOT Bays are not just about the equipment. There is a host of requirements and regulations surrounding their install and legal running. The question is how much do you need to know and how much can the right partner help ease this pain?
Hofmann Megaplan have supplied and fitted high quality MOT bay packages with equipment and often more importantly, superb pre, during and after-sales service for many years.
We have built up an understanding of the common issues, pain points and best practices when putting together an MOT Bay.
In-depth knowledge and the required experience to tailor your new MOT service can be more valuable than the equipment itself.
From design concept to installation and your first MOT...
The first steps to supplying MOT services can sometimes be the biggest. The work involved in installing the right MOT equipment for your business starts way before ground is even broken.
A360-degree service is a must when installing your MOT Bay as it gives you full support from the early planning stages through to installation.
Offering total project management and advising on MOT equipment to suit your services, the likes of Hofmann Megaplanare able to provide and source the right outfit for your new MOT testing bay based on your space and our specialist industry knowledge.
Expert after-sales service...
MOT test lanes remain reliable and accurate if they are looked after. Simple.
This is the most crucial stage of any MOT installation service; the care and training supplied to help you increase the efficiency and longevity of your new bay. Passing on knowledge to help you succeed in the future should be a part of the package you receive.
Calibrations. Certifications. Servicing. Any reputable supplier should be able to offer this. Hofmann Megaplan are proud to fully manage MOT projects and offer all the support required once you are up and running.
Hofmann Megaplan go the extra mile...
Our team always aim for an exceptional service.
The above & beyond standard we set ourselves means you have everything you need to succeed in your MOT service.
The most comprehensive MOT bay install service in the UK just got better!
But there's less than two weeks left to claim your 1st year calibrations for FREE!
Let us take the reins!
Are you puzzled by the complexities of ATL MOT? Are you currently searching for the perfect MOT station for sale?
Contact us online today or call our dedicated team on 01480 8-9-10-11 for a friendly chat to discuss your new or upgrading MOT services.
- Above and beyond services FREE OF CHARGE
- 1st year calibrations FREE OF CHARGE [Limited Offer]
- Call now to discuss your MOT Bay - 01480 8-9-10-11
Widely regarded as the industry-leading suppliers of MoT equipment across the UK, our specialist team assist with the entire process of not only getting your MoT bay installed but making it compliant with the DVSA ready to use.
Through many years of knowledge development and practical learning, our dedicated MoT install division understand what it takes to complete a successful installation. And it's this vast experience that means our team are able to offer one of the most comprehensive MoT Bay Installation services on offer in the UK.
Above and Beyond MoT Offer!
As part of every Hofmann Megaplan MoT Bay project you receive, completely FREE of charge:
- Full garage design and planning
- Any council paperwork completed
- All DVSA applications taken care of
- Full turn key package from placing the order to your first MoT
- On site survey and advice
Our service is second to none, meaning any headache is taken out of setting up your MoT Bay so you can focus on running your business.
We've dealt with every possible surprise and complication that can come from planning, installing and running an MoT Bay so you don't have to!
Free MoT Calibrations for 1 Year [Limited Time Offer]
What's more, we are able to offer the 1st year calibrations FREE OF CHARGE for MoT Bay installs booked before the 31st August 2019!
There has never been a better time to sort out your garages brand new MoT Bay.
So what are you waiting for? Visit Hofmann Megaplan ATL MOT now!Do you need more information or advice on what we can do to help your workshop? Contact us online now or call us today on 01480 891011 to book an appointment with our MoT Station specialists.
There are a number of different pieces of equipment that make up an MOT Bay and understanding what is needed for classification can be a bit of a head spinner!
Here at Hofmann Megaplan, we pride ourselves on our MoT Bay knowledge and experience, having been a leading supplier of garage and MOT equipment since 1931.
Our specialist division for handling automotive testing equipment within the workshop, works to ensure you have the right equipment in your garage and to make sure your ATL MOT workshop operations run efficiently with little interruptions. They have put together the below quick beginners guide to understanding the different Class bay's when it comes to ATL/MOT.
Class 1 & 2 ATL MOT Bays
Many garages are unaware that their existing ATL MOT bay can be modified to cater for Class 1 & 2 vehicles, however having a specific Class 1 & 2 ATL MOT Bay can be highly beneficial to the efficiency of testing certain vehicles including:
- Motorbikes
- Scooters
- Mopeds
- Motorcycle Combinations (e.g. sidecar)
More often than not getting a Class 1 & 2 bay is a no brainer. By contacting our knowledgeable team we can provide specialist insight into achieving this.
Class 4 ATL MOT Bays
As your standard passenger car is the most popular form of transportation, it is of no surprise that Class 4 ATL MOT Bays are the go to when investing in MOT testing equipment. Due to the workload these bays see there is a need for them to be more robust and durable than ever.
Equipping your garage with the right Class 4 MOT bay can be a struggle though, as they can come in all shapes and sizes. By delivering our comprehensive analysis and design bespoke to your workshop, we can offer and advise on the best solution for your space and services. This peace of mind approach is imperative and ensures your bay is right and ready to start making you money ASAP!
Class 7 ATL MOT Bays
With heavy duty vehicles comes larger MOT testing equipment! Where the opportunity to get business from light commercial and heavy commercial machinery testing presents itself, you are going to need specialised Class 7 ATL MOT Bays and equipment to deal with the enormity of each task.
For dealing with the sheer weight and size of the vehicles, you will need a lot of space and very robust equipment. The need to plan well and get thing right first time is key, else a simple project could end up costing you more than needed.
If you need to draw on our expertise and advice for your MOT equipment, contact us online now or call us today on 01480 8-9-10-11 to speak with one of our MOT Station specialists.
As you know by now, the Hofmann Megaplan's ATL MOT site has moved! However that doesn't change the impeccable service we aim to give all the companies we have supplied garage equipment to, and worked with to achieve the best possible result for their MOT Bays.
Our specialist division for handling automotive testing equipment within the workshop, works tirelessly to make sure your ATL MOT workshop operations run efficiently with minimal interruption. We ensure we have individuals with the correct knowledge and skills, working with you on these projects to guarantee maximum productivity and minimum time to delivery and installation of your MOT Testing Equipment.
What do we offer?
Having been a leading supplier of garage and MOT equipment since 1931, our product standards are of the highest quality and we wouldn't supply equipment with the famous 'H' logo on it, if we didn't feel it was up to scratch.
We can supply test equipment for:
Visit Hofmann Megaplan ATL MOT now for more information.
Contact us online or call us today on 01480 891011 to book an appointment with our ATL/MOT specialists.
