Vehicle Types

Heavy goods road vehicle that consists of two main parts, a tractor unit and the trailer. The 44-tonne weight limit includes the total weight of the tractor, trailer, and the cargo. The overall length of the vehicle can vary but it reaches up to about 16 to 18 metres. 44 tonne vehicles are essential for carrying large and heavy loads over long distances.

Essentially flatbed trailers with durable, weather resistant fabric curtains covering the sides. These curtains can be slid open for easy access to the cargo from the sides, which are useful for loading and unloading with forklifts. Curtain side trailers are generally 13.6 metres long, 2.5 metres wide and 2.6 meters high. Maximum payload (TARE weight) ranges from 24 to 28 tonnes. They are frequently used in the distribution of palletised goods, beverages, packaging materials and other manufactured products.

 

Double deck trailers are a specialised freight trailer designed to maximise the carrying capacity as they have two trailer floors. Overall external dimensions are typically up to 16.5 metres long, 2.5 metres wide and up to 4 metres in height. The payload capacity is up to 23 tonnes. Double deck trailers are highly efficient for transporting a large quantity of goods, especially when the items are relatively compact and do not require the full height of a standard trailer, therefore has the ability to carry more cargo without needing additional journeys. Often used for small automotive components, parcels and other packaged goods.

A skeletal trailer with a robust design consisting of a steel frame that forms the main chassis. Frame is equipped with locking mechanisms for a standard-sized shipping container. Skeletal trailers (skellies) are designed to match the size of the containers they carry. A 20-foot skelly is typically 20 feet long, whereas a 40-foot version extends up to about 40 feet long. This optimises fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Payload capacity typically ranges from 24 tonnes to 30 tonnes. The key benefits of a container skelly is fro the use in multimodal transport. Therefore, are often used for maritime shipping, rail transport and intermodal transport.

A fridge trailer is a specialised trailer designed to transport perishable goods at controlled temperatures. Built with insulated walls, floors and roofs to maintain a stable internal environment regardless of external conditions. Insulation is typically made from polyurethane foam to provide thermal resistance to temperature change and the exterior is often constructed from durable materials such as aluminium or stainless steel. Fridge trailers typically mirror the dimensions of standard box trailers, with lengths ranging from 12 meters up to 15.5 meters. Payload capacity is typically up to 25 tonnes. Essential in food distribution and pharmaceutical industries for hauling temperature sensitive goods.

A versatile and compact forklift that can be carried on the back of a trailer or a truck. Once dismounted, it allows for immediate unloading of goods without the need for additional unloading equipment or facilities. Moffets are generally smaller than standard forklifts and typically have a lift capacity ranging from 1.5 tonnes to 3.5 tonnes. The common uses are in construction, agriculture and places without unloading facilities.

A Hiab refers to a type of crane. It is mounted on the chassis a truck or trailer and consists of a hydraulic arm with multiple joints which allow it to extend fold and move in various directions. The crane can be equipped with different attachments such as hooks, grabs or clamps. Making it versatile for handling various types of cargo. A benefit of a Hiab is their ability to load and unload heavy goods without any additional equipment and provides flexibility in delivery locations, with the cranes being able to handle between 1 to 10 tonnes, depending on its size and capacity. Often used for construction materials, industrial equipment or even containers.

A rigid is a specific type of heavy goods vehicle where the cab and cargo area are permanently fixed on a single chassis. This design contrasts with articulated vehicles, where the tractor and trailer are separate units. This makes them more stable and easier to manoeuvre. Rigids can be equipped various equipment such as box bodies, flatbeds, refrigerated boxes and tail lifts. Rigids often run up to 18 tonnes but can also be 12.5 or 7.5 tonnes. Mostly used in deliveries into cities and services like waste collection.

A Luton van is a type of light commercial vehicle with a large box shaped storage area. It maximises cargo space without significantly enlarging the vehicle’s footprint. The box-like cargo section is built on a standard van chassis. The body is made from lightweight materials such as fibreglass or aluminium. Payload capacities for Luton vans range from about 800 kg to 1200 kg, making them suitable for transporting substantial loads such as furniture and appliances.

A low loader is a specialised type of trailer used for hauling heavy loads which are often oversized. The most notable feature is its deck height, which is significantly lower than standard trailers. The load carrying deck sits below the level of the wheels. Typically having two drops in deck height. One of the advantages of a low loader is the ease of loading and unloading, particularly for heavy machinery, as many low loaders are equipped with ramps that can be lowered to the ground, allowing for vehicles to drive on and off the trailer. The payload capacity can be up to 100 tonnes. Other advantages include a high load capacity, low clearance and with its low centre of gravity, more stability.