Hemel Hempstead-based In-Excess Removals has recently taken delivery of a new 12-tonne DAF fitted with a bespoke body supplied by Norfolk bodybuilder Vancraft.

Director Steve Yates considers his vehicles as important tools of the trade and all have been carefully designed by Vancraft to fit their purpose. The new DAF is no exception, boasting a DHOLLANDIA fold-away tail lift and a state-of-the art two-man sleeper cab designed to be dual purpose, offering comfy accommodation for a night out but also providing extra storage space above the cab when not in use. LED lighting and night heaters provide the crew with just a hint of luxury on longer trips. As you would expect the DAF is fitted with the latest Euro 6 engine in readiness for London’s Ultra-Low emission zone.

Steve established the company in 1996, with a just two large box vans and a handful of staff. Now, the family business boasts an impressive fleet and employs around twenty skilled drivers, movers and admin personnel.

Like many in the removals business, Steve and his operations manager Lee Winter take great pride in the quality and appearance of their vehicles.  “Customers like to see smart vehicles pull up outside on moving day. It really helps to communicate our culture of professionalism,” said Steve. “It’s good for morale within the ranks too. Everyone likes working with nice, clean, smart vehicles that do the job well.”

Removals in the blood

Removals run in the blood of the Yates family. All Steve’s children have worked for the business over the years and Justin, Steve’s son, took things a stage further and in 2010 at the age of just 18 founded his own company, Jamvans (see The Mover November 2016).

Justin and his partner Matt Williams used the knowledge gained from working for Steve to build their thriving London removal company. The two companies have never run in direct competition due to differences in their target markets, but often work together and help each other out.

In-Excess has perfected the high volume moves across the South East with its five HGV trucks and five Lutons, while Jamvans works primarily in London exclusively using Luton box vans. Jamvans are also enjoying success with its continental moves and Steve jokes that it’s probably only a matter of time before In-Excess and Jamvans crews are bumping into each other on the ferry.

Being located just north of London close to the M1 motorway, Steve is happy to carry out ‘last-mile’ deliveries into the capital for movers based elsewhere in the country.    

In-Excess is a BAR member, Which? Trusted trader and has online reviews that support the ideals of professionalism, customer care and a genuine love of the industry.

Photo: L/R Lee Winter and Steve Yates with the new DAF, Justin Yates and Matt Williams