Smiths Hire has taken delivery of its second DAF 8×2 rigid delivery truck fitted with Sterling beavertail access specification body.
This second vehicle is based at the company’s Warrington depot and will be delivering Smiths’ wide range of access, plant and tool equipment throughout the North West. Smiths’ consistent investment in new equipment ensures their service is second to none.
The high specification truck bodies are fully hot-dipped galvanised which provides maximum corrosion resistance and vastly improved longevity. Both trucks use the Gridlock decking which provides unrivalled grip both for personnel and access machines with rubber tracks or tyres.
In addition to the excellent grip, the Gridlock fitted to the ramps means much lower wind resistance giving considerable fuel saving and reduced CO2 footprint. A further touch is that the Gridlock deck and side raves are finished in the distinctive Smiths blue creating maximum visual impact!
As Health and Safety is a priority for Smiths, the trucks are specified with the Sterling swing-out handrail system to comply with latest working at height regulations.
This system when deployed increases the deck space by 250mm allowing safe and efficient deck access when transporting full width machines. An on-board weighing system also allows the driver to easily operate his vehicle at maximum capacity without overloading the axles.
Martin Prater, Fleet Manager at Smiths, commented, “After careful consideration 18 months ago we made the decision to work with Sterling on the bodies for our HGV fleet due to the innovations they brought to the table.
“Their professionalism and these innovations not only gave us the opportunity to have a more customised, bespoke body, but also assisted with our ongoing strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and future proof our vehicle bodies in regards to extending its life and the health and safety requirements.”
Jarl James from Sterling added, “We’ve enjoyed working with Martin and the team on this project. The specification makes full use of many of the latest developments and innovations from Sterling which are clearly proving their benefits in use already. The end result is great and also looks fantastic!”
