A meticulous approach to specialist logistics and classic truck restoration at Charles Russell Transport

The immaculately turned-out fleet of Gloucestershire-based Charles Russell Transport is a regular sight on UK and mainland European roads. They’re immediately recognisable in their distinctive orange, white and green livery, almost exclusively Scania for many years, and often transporting oversized loads on a truly diverse trailer fleet. In addition, the specialist machinery installation and lifting division has a wide range of crane-equipped trucks and trailers, specialist forklifts with lifting capacities between 2 tonnes and 60 tonnes, plus other specialist equipment operated by a multi-talented and highly skilled workforce carrying out all manner of complex projects throughout Europe, and almost anywhere in the world when required.

Regular visitors to classic truck shows will be equally aware of the family’s collection of restored classic Scania tractor units, with particular emphasis on the legendary 14-litre V8-powered models. Charles Russell has amassed one of the finest collections of these trucks, with beautifully restored and presented models from every generation, from the original LB140 that was launched back in 1969 with a record-breaking 335hp to a late model 144 530. Later versions with the 16-litre power units have also joined the collection, along with a P113H and an LB81 tractor that is undergoing restoration. One or two of the V8 tractors running in the current fleet might be included in the future. 

In addition to the restored trucks, there is a huge collection of Scania signage, advertising material, technical data, and even a sectioned display 14-litre V8 that was prepared by a local company.

The modern truck fleet is quite diverse, with different tractor unit and rigid configurations. Great care is taken to optimise the specification to meet the individual application. Several low-height 4x2 tractor units are matched with purpose-built Mega Euroliner trailers in order to maximise internal loadspace within the 4m continental limit. Dual-height fifth wheels give increased flexibility. Three-axle tractor units in both pusher and tag axle form are a key part of the fleet, with the ability to operate at 44 tonnes under C&U regulations, and run at higher weights under STGO rules. This varies between 60 and 78 tonnes, depending on the model and trailer configuration.

Heavier-capacity 6x4 tractor units complete the tractor line-up. These operate with multiaxle trailers, and a number have high-capacity, rear-mounted Fassi hydraulic cranes. The trailers are specially designed and built to carry the high imposed weight of the 200-plus t/m crane and the extending outrigger legs. The bespoke engineering required for this application has been developed jointly between the haulier and the trailer and crane manufacturers. As a result, the biggest outfits weigh well in excess of 44 tonnes unladen, hence the use of a double-drive tractor to provide the traction and stability required.

The rigid fleet consists of mainly 3- and 4-axle chassis, with front- or rear-mounted cranes to suit the application. Most of these vehicles pull purpose-built drawbar platform trailers to increase capacity. Almost all the cranes are from Fassi, and mounted on Scania chassis. The only exception is a 14-tonne DAF LF. Every vehicle is carefully specified and fully equipped for its given task, and every truck driver has his own dedicated stock of equipment, be it lifting gear, straps, chains, sheets, or other specialist tools. The big articulated crane outfits carry a bespoke equipment container on the neck of the trailer. Once again, these are assigned to particular drivers/operators, and are only used by them.

The same applies to the vans used by the machinery installation gangs. They carry an array of specialist equipment including skates, rollers, lifting gear, jacks, and a great deal more. A further example of the meticulous approach that is a cornerstone of the operation is that every trailer in the fleet has its own set of chains, straps, anti-slip mats, edge protectors, sheets and ropes (if required). Other equipment includes marker boards, warning beacons, timber dunnage and packing, spare wheels and tyres, and tools. Every tractor unit carries convoi exceptional boards for use in continental Europe, with proper mounting points on the grille and storage brackets behind the cab when not required. Fine detail is everything, and each tractor has both an oblong and a square trailer number plate to match the different types of trailers in the fleet.

This approach runs throughout the operation. The depot facilities are superb, with literally acres of hard-standing. The warehouses are purpose-built for the storage and handling of heavy machinery, with overhead cranes and multiple access doors.

All of the reinforced concrete throughout the buildings and yard is ultra-strong, and is specified to withstand the phenomenal point loadings imposed by the largest Versa-Lift forklifts. The machine alone weighs 55 tonnes and it can lift almost 60 tonnes. All of the step-frame and low-loader trailers are stored under cover, particularly when empty. This might seem like overkill, but wet weather will cause the timber to distort, making it challenging to carefully position an expensive CNC machine on the bed. 

While the trucks and other specialist equipment are the most visible part of the operation, the company offers a wide range of inter-related services that enable it to manage complex projects for customers in several specialist sectors. Road transport in the UK and mainland Europe represents roughly 50% of the company’s activities. Much of its business involves the transport, storage, lifting and installation of a wide range of specialist machinery, industrial equipment, and even high-value sculptures and art installations. Many customers work in specialist sectors, such as precision engineering, aerospace, motorsport, and other activities that require high standards from their suppliers. 

The haulier has worked to the highest possible standards right from the outset, and company founder Charles Russell has a simple but effective approach to the operation of the business, which could be summarised as ‘meticulous’. It involves careful examination of the alternatives, before deciding on the best course of action. This policy, and the high operating standards, mean that customers are assured they are dealing with a professional company that has the knowledge and experience required. While some might have heard such claims from others in the past, the reality can sometimes fall short. But not at Charles Russell. It arrives on-site with an array of superbly presented trucks, cranes and heavy forklifts, plus vans kitted out with additional specialist equipment. Every truck, trailer and lift truck is painted in the company livery, and team members wear company workwear adorned with their individual names, plus every imaginable piece of personal safety equipment. It’s difficult not to be impressed. 

Another standout feature of the operation is load security, and many of the more observant readers will have seen evidence of the skills of the driving staff. If you are a fan of the art of traditional roping and sheeting, this company and its staff are among the best practitioners in the country. While they operate a wide range of specialist covered trailers with sliding roofs and width-extending rear door apertures, along with fully covered bespoke step-frame and low-loader trailers, a lot of the large machine tools and other oversized loads must be carried on flat, semi-low and low-loader trailers. Apart from extensive use of chains, straps and other lashing equipment to secure the load to the trailer, the load itself must be fully protected from the elements. The sheets used for this are far bigger than conventional tarpaulins and take a lot of handling. The loads are often high, wide and long, with irregular shapes. Russell’s staff have turned this into a real art-form. The sheets are invariably drum-tight, without any loose material flapping. Care is taken to protect the sheets from sharp edges, and the finished job is a delight to see. 

- This article was first published in the 29 February issue of Commercial Motor.