Mini trailer to boost utilisation at Tuffnells

By Categories: NewsPublished On: Tuesday 16 February 2021

Parcel carrier Tuffnells has commissioned a new ‘mini-wedge’ trailer design from Don- Bur to improve utilisation of its tractor fleet, while gaining improved accessibility for deliveries and increased payload over its 18-tonne rigids.

Supplied via TIP Trailer Services, the first 9-metre single-axle concept trailer is destined for a brief trial to ensure the new equipment dovetails with existing delivery and collection operations around Tuffnells’ 33 depots. Tractor units with the primary role of inter-depot night trunking can now also be utilised on day-time delivery and collection work, freeing the rigid fleet for use on other routes.

Its unconventional sloping wedge shape is tailored to allow easy access from ground level at the rear, and also incorporates side-access double folding doors and fold-down ladders for easy side loading and kerbside deliveries. The side door design also allows pallets to be loaded through the side when making customer collections.

With a short kingpin position and set-back axle, it is said to offer excellent manoeuvrability, and maximum flexibility for a multitude of uses within the last mile delivery and collection sector.

The new trailer design has a 13,000 kg payload; far more than could be carried by an 18-tonne rigid vehicle. It also comes fitted with a host of safety features, such as additional lighting and specialised load restraint to cater for irregular dimension and weight parcels, and diminishing loads.

Tuffnells services director, Simon Parsons, said: “Working on this joint project with Don-Bur and TIP has been a privilege. We have taken a collaborative approach, combining design and engineering skills with our industry knowledge to deliver a practical, common-sense solution.”

The mini-wedge trailers are part of a planned fleet expansion by Tuffnells, which includes an intake of over 200 DAF trucks and 300 new trailers.