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Serco ‘steps up’ to meet the volume challenge

Serco challenged to meet new design for trailers and accommodate maximum volumetric capacity

Serco designed trailorSerco was recently challenged when they received an order for specially- designed trailers to accommodate maximum volumetric capacity. The client wanted dry freight vehicles which could carry lightweight products cost effectively.

The team got down to it and started work on what they are really good at – tailor-making vehicles according to customers’ specifications. In the end, the client got exactly what they needed. The new delivery of six units included four new ‘step-decked’ trailers with double axles and a carrying capacity of 123m3 and a 13-ton payload versus the standard of 106m3.

Graeme Good, at Simulus Logistix in Harare, Zimbabwe, says they’re doing the job “very well!”

The other two are interlink trailers designed with ‘well decks’ and a carrying capacity of 138m3 and 32 tons compared to the standard of 124m3. Graeme Good, Regional Transport Manager at Simulus Logistix in Harare, Zimbabwe, who took delivery of the vehicles, says they’re doing the job “very well!”.

So well, in fact, that he has placed an order for a further nine trailers from Serco, to be delivered later this year. Simulus has headquarters in Harare and Cape Town, with branches in Johannesburg, Gaborone, Lusaka, Blantyre, Beira and Bulawayo. Its fleet comprises 45 mainline cross-border vehicles and 54 local delivery type units.

“We (Serco) designed them specifically for what Simulus wanted, and we’re happy they’re working well…”

The smaller trailers will be used to transport potato crisps and other FMCG goods, while the interlinks will move mainly disposable nappies into the region. Good says: “It’s the first time Simulus has done business with Serco. We’re very pleased with Serco’s workmanship and service.”

Serco Managing Director, Clinton Holcroft, said the trailers were a first for his company. “We designed them specifically for what Simulus wanted, and we’re happy they’re working well. The trailers’ fibreglass construction provides good waterproofing and the double doors on both sides makes for easy access.

“We made use of low profile tyres and an under-slung suspension to reduce the chassis height and maximise loading volume. For this customer the additional volume helps give them the edge.”

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Tristan Wiggill
Special Features Editor at Business Fleet Africa
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