Lenham Storage trials 10 new longer semi-trailers 09 August 2012

Grocery distribution firm Lenham Storage has joined the government-backed longer semi-trailers trial in a bid to deliver efficiencies and cost savings.

Most of this operator's trailers are standard 13.6m, but when the DfT (Department for Transport) gave the go ahead for longer semi-trailers trials, Lenham says it was one of the first to apply – specifying 10 new curtainsiders from Lawrence David.

All pulled by Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor units, six are 14.6m-long and have self-steer and self-tracking rear axles, while the remaining four are maximum length 15.6m-long versions, fitted with command steer rear axles to provide the necessary manoeuvrability.

Steve Hall, commercial manager at Lenham Storage, makes the point that whereas a conventional 13.6m trailer will typically carry 26 pallets, the 14.6m vehicle can accommodate 28, while its 15.6m big brother handles up to 30 – 15% more carrying capacity.

"All the trailer variants have been tested at our customer loading bays and delivery points, and there are no issues with reversing or general manoeuvrability," states Hall.

"We have been given the opportunity to explore alternatives which, in the longer term, should be good for us and good for the industry," he adds.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Lawrence David Ltd
Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd

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