Tiger Trailers delivered three double deck longer semi-trailers (LSTs) to logistics provider Howard Tenens that needed them for its contract with Toolstation, one of Britain’s fastest growing suppliers of tools and accessories to the trade. The LSTs were designed to increase load capacity and improve operational efficiency.
The 15.6 metre step frame double deck box van trailers were developed by Tiger Trailers in collaboration with Howard Tenens and Toolstation, to ensure that they meet the specific requirements of the company’s growing delivery demands.
“Two years ago we commissioned a standard double deck trailer from Tiger to trial in Toolstation’s fleet. The improvements in efficiency were notable, but since then the company has gone from strength to strength and the additional capacity of the LSTs became increasingly appealing,” said Richard Philpotts, National Fleet and Compliance Manager at Howard Tenens.
Tiger’s design for the LSTs includes a three-quarter length hydraulic moving deck rated to seven tonnes, with a fixed deck over the step frame specifically designed to house plastic piping and other abnormal loads, providing a dedicated area for products that previously would have taken up valuable cage space. The trailers can accommodate up to 87 cages, with 38 on both decks and 11 on its neck, optimising efficiency.
Additionally, each trailer has an on-board weighing device that makes sure that every load remains within legal limits, a self-tracking rear axle that improves manoeuvrability, and an aerodynamic sloping front roof that lowers drag and reduces fuel consumption.
For its Toolstation contract, Howard Tenens will operate a mixed 40 commercial vehicle fleet, including 25 standard trailers and three LSTs. The new trailers acquired from Tiger are expected to stay in operation for seven years and will be on the road five days a week.
Toolstation is a UK direct sale and online supplier of trade tools, accessories, and hardware products. Its head office and one of its distribution centres is based in Bridgwater, Somerset, with two further distribution centres in Redditch and Daven.
