Delays in decision over longer trailers are affecting sales
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steve.hobson@rbi.co.uk DELAYS IN a government decision over the proposal to extend semi-trailer lengths by up to 2.05m are starting to affect sales of current 13.6m semi-trailers, according to trailer builder Cartwright, “We are seeing the effect of ‘indecision’ over trailer orders, as some customers wait to see the outcome of the longer length debate and ultimately do not place orders,” says director Steven Cartwright. “We think there will be a new length but, by the time it goes to consultation and approved as legislation after trials, you could be looking at up to 24 months.” Cartwright believes that whether or not the Department for Transport eventually allows longer semi-trailers, ministers are unlikely to increase the existing 44-tonne weight limit.
“Many of our customers will not beneit from a length increase, as they weigh out now on payload,” he argues.
“We are building more doubledeck trailers with carrying capacities of up to 52 pallets, on a 13.6m length. The proposed 15.6m trailer would mean a 30-pallet carrying capacity – 18 pallets less – so surely the lead from an environmental point of view should be 13.6m double deck rather than 15.6m single deck?” But Richard Owens, group marketing manager at Don-Bur, says the company has not seen any evidence of a reduction in sales or enquiries. “We are aware of the proposals and have been working with a number of clients to develop LHVs,” he says.