Grange Travel has given a vote of confidence in the Convey driver compliance management suite after that platform helped the Gravesend operator to gain membership of the DVSA Earned Recognition scheme in the latter half of 2025.
The business runs 77 vehicles and has around 80 drivers and four duty managers. Its work captures everything from local contracts to sports team transport and overseas tours, with much else in between.
Convey has displaced another tachograph analysis system at Grange Travel as part of preparation for Earned Recognition accreditation.
Compliance and Training Manager and Transport Manager Joe Westgate notes how making the change was not an easy decision. But after arranging a demonstration that involved Convey and members of the Grange Travel senior management team, he says that the optimum course of action was clear.
The short trial preceded a full rollout on 2 September 2025. Every coach already had the necessary equipment for remote tachograph downloads, but SIM card swaps and serial number updates were needed to ensure that all data transferred into the new system correctly.
Convey supplied 15 more remote downloaders. “The setup went really smoothly. Convey supported us all the way through and made sure that we had everything we needed. It was seamless – I can’t fault it,” says Mr Westgate.
The operator was quickly live with tachograph analysis, performance, training and Earned Recognition modules via the Convey system, with plans agreed to add licence checking.
It reports that once the platform was in place, a noticeable difference was seen immediately. Data flowed smoothly, reports arrived on time, and Grange Travel’s team could focus on keeping the fleet safe, compliant, and on the move.
“Everything needs to be on a clear dashboard. We want to see what is in front of us and deal with it,” Mr Westgate continues. “That is what we are getting with Convey.”
He adds that such visibility is the most valuable change for Grange Travel. Managers and operational staff now have a clear view of driver activity, rest periods and infringements in one place. The platform’s Manager app allows quick checks from anywhere and automated reports give weekly summaries of downloads, infringements, and performance trends.
Drivers have also embraced the system. Convey says they find it easier to understand and engage with their own compliance data, while a clear overview of shift times and rest periods has improved conversations and accountability across the operator.
Infringement numbers have already fallen as a result of better driver visibility. Grange Travel has also started using the training module, which keeps all Driver CPC data and certificates in one place. The licence check module provides greater oversight and highlights potential risks directly on the dashboard.
Beyond achieving Earned Recognition membership, Grange Travel continues to expand its engineering facilities while working to secure more contracted work.
Mr Westgate advises other coach operators that switching platforms is not something they should shy away from if it is right for the development of their business. “Moving to Convey has been a really positive experience,” he says. “All systems aim for the same goal, but with Convey the difference is ease, trust, driver buy-in, and customer service.”
