Smiths Hire went for high-specification truck bodies with fully hot-dipped galvanised chassis and Gridlock decking – the latter chosen for its grip both for personnel and access machines with rubber tracks or tyres.
Martin Prater, fleet manager at Smiths, says that in addition to the grip, Gridlock fitted to the ramps means reduced wind resistance, giving “considerable fuel saving and reduced CO2 footprint”.
The new truck was also specified with Sterling’s swing-out handrail system to comply with latest Working at Height regulations.
This system increases deck space by 250mm, allowing safe and efficient deck access when transporting full-width machines. An on-board weighing system also ensures that axles aren’t overloaded.
“After careful consideration 18 months ago we made the decision to work with Sterling on the bodies for our HGV fleet due to the innovations they brought to the table,” states Prater.
“Their professionalism and these innovations not only gave us the opportunity to have a more bespoke body, but also assisted with our ongoing strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and future proof our vehicle bodies.”