Double lifting axle trailers make for worthwhile cost efficiencies10 September 2010

S&J European Haulage says it has added new double-deck SKO Express dry freight box trailers from Schmitz Cargobull to its fleet, because their lower rolling resistance saves money.

The tri-axle semi-trailers are being used to transport adhesives between the UK and Belgium, and S&J transport manager Mark Turner explains they were specified with front and rear lifting axles that remain raised when the trailers are not fully laden.

That, he says, reduces rolling resistance dramatically when lighter loads are in transit – helped by the fitment of Michelin X One MaxiTrailer tyres. "Because we have seldom had to have all three axles down, rolling resistance has been minimised and we are achieving fuel efficiency of around 2mpg," he says.

"This may not sound hugely significant, but in monetary terms it means cost efficiencies of £65 per trip per vehicle. The trailers are working seven days a week so that's a noteworthy saving," adds Turner.

In operation, these trailers run on the single axle, but sensors prompt the front and/or rear axles to drop down as weight is added. This feature ensures that any load is evenly distributed over the optimum number of axles, and that the trailers are compliant with UK and European regulations.

Turner also says that the double-deck design allows more than 60 pallets to be stored. He also says it enables fragile loads that are unsuitable for block stacking to be carried two high.

Author
Brian Tinham

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