5th October 2022
Fergusons Transport acquire 20 SDC Fuel-saving Curtainsiders
Northumberland based haulier Fergusons Transport, has acquired 20 new Curtainsider trailers from manufacturer SDC Trailers. The order was secured as part of an ongoing investment to strengthen services across the company’s UK-based transport network. Fergusons general haulage division consists of three UK depots supported by their Northern Operating Centre in Washington, Tyne and Wear, providing full load scheduled deliveries.
The new SDC Freespan trailers are built to EN 12642-XL standard with BPW Eco-plus axles, a GRP dome and rear GRP vortex fins which reduce drag that develops with vehicle speed. The design also features a sliding coupling box, PVC document holder, Haldex info centre fitted to the wheel, ISO Regulation and LED electrics, rear buffers and a galvanised pull-out step.
The privately owned haulier operates a fleet of over 100 vehicles including curtain-siders, armoured curtains siders, flat beds and specialist trailers, with full track and trace visibility for customers. They also have highly qualified ADR (Hazard Goods drivers) for the transport hazardous goods and controlled waste.
Fergusons Transport’s Logistics Director Stuart Arkle said: "We have been looking at various designs but decided on SDC’s Freespan built to our own specification as it provides all the fuel economy benefits without compromising load capacity. At Fergusons Transport we’re continually investing and updated our modern vehicle fleet to provide the highest level of service to our customers. We know our customers have diverse needs, which is why we worked closely with SDC to develop a solution that would meet both our operational and environment requirements.”
Incorporating SDC’s robotically welded chassis technology, the Freespan curtainsider features SDC’s ‘Easyroll’ curtain rail technology, which slides open and closed on a fully open side aperture with minimal driver intervention.
SDC Trailer’s Sales Manager, Matthew Duxbury said: "This the first batch of Freespan Curtainsiders entering service for Fergusons Transport and the feedback has been very positive. We worked closely with them to ensure the entire process was tailored to meet their needs, from concept and design through to manufacture and completion. Fergusons were keen to reduce their carbon footprint and improve fuel economy and I am pleased that we were able to deliver on this with an aerodynamic design."
SDC’s Curtainsider range includes twelve models, each of which is designed with unique characteristics for different transport applications. They offer a wide range of aerodynamic features which can be applied across their range including optimised chassis / body design, curtains, side-skirts and mudflaps. The manufacturer offers straight and step frame options, as well as a wide range of door, floor, storage and load restraint options to suit operator requirements.