The inter odal accent
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by Bryan Jarvis • Last week's Freight Connection show underlined the growing interest in the use of intermodal vehicles for cross-Channel work, particularly in the road-rail sector, as operators take advantage of the Channel Tunnel and the 44-tonne limit for trucks running to and from rail terminals.
The rail infrastructure will have to be expanded if the Eurotunnel system is to reach its potential but limited rail freight services have been running through it since July—Lamberet's exhibit reached Freight connection via the Chunnel.
Among UK hauliers expanding in this area is Aldridge-based S Jones, which now runs up to 54 intermodal movements a week with more growth to come. Its 120strong artic fleet includes thirty 3+3 44-tonners on road/rail duties.
"Intermodal traffic is beginning to build up in the UK," says Mansped managing director David Cardle, "which is why we are surveying our existing and potential customers."
This growing level activities has not been lost on the manufacturers. There were more than 75 exhibits at Freight connection, including many trailer, container and handling equipment suppliers.