FEATURE LOADING BAYS & DOORS
SEMI-PERMANENT SYSTEM lasting solution for logistics business
A fresh produce transport business is benefiting from improved flexibility and operational performance since installing a semi-permanent loading system from Thorworld Industries
F
resh produce transport company IDS Transport (UK) has become one of the
latest UK logistics firms to benefit from improved flexibility and operational performance after installing a bespoke loading system manufactured by Thorworld Industries. Bolted to the ground outside its warehouse facility in Evesham the system provides IDS with an alternative to a permanent loading dock. “Installing a fixed dock within the
warehouse was not an option due to the civil engineering work required,” explains director Derek Simms. “At the same time it made long-term economic sense to find a solution that we can remove and
relocate should we move to new premises in the future.” Given the high throughput of items
requiring loading and unloading, IDS required a robust and practical solution that would suit its fleet. “After researching the market online we became aware of Thorworld’s expertise in devising bespoke configurations built from high quality modular elements including ramps, platforms and levellers,” says Simms. “As such, they could offer us the exact flexibility we were looking for.” Thorworld designed a bespoke solution
comprising ramp, large platform and two dock levellers with appropriate safety
STEERING SYSTEM IMPROVES VEHICLE EFFICIENCY
Due to restricted space at the loading areas of one of the Canute Group's long-term contracts, smaller trailers had to be used which meant high frequency of deliveries. By specifying Tridec steering systems on two 45ft vehicles Canute was able to solve the access issues and improve efficiency for its customer. "Efficiency is key in the haulage business," says engineering director Glenn Marshal. "It keeps our
customers' logistical networks operating smoothly and ensures that we are profitable. We are always on the lookout for new technologies and why we've installed two of our newest trailers which will be dedicated to a single customer with the Tridec mechanical steering system from JOST." Tridec TD-X is designed to reduce the turning circle of tri-axle trailers while improving the overall
efficiency of the vehicle. A mechanical arm is attached to the kingpin on the front of the trailer; as the driver steers the vehicle the arm is moved and steers the front and rear axle of the trailer. This creates manoeuvrability comparable to that of a much smaller trailer and offers reduced friction between the tyre and road surface during turning which improves fuel efficiency and prolongs the life of the tyres.
JOST T: 01204 528888
www.jostuk.co.uk Enter 317
aids including handrails, anti-slip surfaces and dock bumpers. Loads can be forklifted out of the warehouse before being safely ramped to a waiting trailer with the process reversed for deliveries. A hinged barrier with locking gas spring permits goods to be (un)loaded from ground level where required. “Many SMEs with a warehouse facility
don’t have the option for a dedicated loading bay but still need to unload and despatch deliveries and distributions effectively,” comments John Meale, managing director of Thorworld Industries. “This is where a semi- permanent modular solution can be the answer. The bespoke configuration is developed to work seamlessly within IDS’ existing operational infrastructure while meeting health and safety regulations. This means IDS can optimise its loading process for enhanced productivity and improved cost efficiency.” “Thorworld’s design, manufacture,
installation and service has all been excellent and while still fairly new the equipment is already showing its worth and potential for long-term success,” concludes Simms.
Thorworld Industries T: 01246 260981
www.thorworld.co.uk
S16 MAY/JUNE 2014 | MATERIALS HANDLING & LOGISTICS
Enter 318 / MATERIALSHANDLINGLOGISTICS
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