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At Stoter Truck and Trailer, selling a trailer isn’t just about the technical aspects. Just as important are attention, trust, and a relationship that continues long after delivery. The practical expertise of this family-owned business from IJsselmuiden and Schwarzmüller’s more than 150 years of experience come together in this process.
“We view every customer inquiry as a challenge,” says sales consultant Harmen Beens. “We take the time to understand exactly what someone wants to do with a trailer. Sometimes that requires several conversations. Ultimately, we need to come up with a product that will allow the customer to perform their work as effectively as possible.”
This approach suits Stoter well. The family-owned business has been active in the world of sand, gravel, construction materials, and transportation since 1950. As a result, it understands not only the technology but also the day-to-day realities of the business. Since 2022, Stoter has been the official importer of Schwarzmüller in the Netherlands. The Austrian family-owned company has been manufacturing commercial vehicles since 1871 and is known for its high-quality, custom-designed trailers.
Asphalt dump trucks and trailers for sand, gravel, and soil form an important foundation. Within that foundation, there are many possibilities. Floor thickness, capacity, wear protection, cylinder, rear bumper, and cover system are tailored to the intended use. For transporting sludge or dredged material, for example, a virtually leak-proof design with a dredging hatch may be required. We also welcome unusual requests. For instance, Stoter developed a flatbed trailer—normally used behind a truck—for use behind an agricultural tractor.
For every modification, Stoter consults closely with Schwarzmüller’s engineers. They determine whether design requests are structurally feasible and comply with applicable approvals. Subsequently, Stoter’s in-house workshop and regional partners carry out any additional modifications as needed, such as extra lighting or a specific finish.
According to Harmen, customization also means providing honest advice. “Sometimes we have to say that something isn’t technically feasible. Or we might recommend a different solution than the customer initially had in mind—for example, because it’s more versatile. It’s not about selling what someone asks for, but about delivering what someone really needs.”
So the relationship doesn’t end with the delivery. Stoter asks about real-world experiences and uses that knowledge to adapt existing trailers and further improve new solutions. “We never really let a customer go,” says Harmen. “If something can be done differently or better, we work together to figure out what’s needed to make it happen.”
Customers remain mobile even during the delivery period. Stoter maintains a large inventory and rental fleet, which often allows it to provide replacement equipment. This gives the concept of a family business a broader meaning at Stoter: developing together, honoring commitments, and being there for one another even after the sale.
