DAF scores a century with Marshalls

Hard landscaping specialist Marshalls has taken delivery of 100 new DAF XF480 tractor units with Space Cabs via leasing and rental firm Ryder.

They will be used for deliveries to builder’s merchants, landscaping businesses and construction companies, among others. The company has a three-day delivery policy, operates a five-day trunking fleet and dispatches some vehicles on tramping runs for six days and nights.

Ryder has supplied more than 240 of Marshalls’ current vehicles – around two thirds of its fleet – and the pair first began working together in 2008. The contract includes access to the former firm’s rental fleet and breakdown cover.

Along with DAF, Ryder also ran a “train the trainer” initiative, to encourage the firm to operate the vehicles as efficiently as possible.

“Maximising fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions are key priorities for Marshalls. The vehicles tend to carry very heavy loads so, in addition to ensuring the correct powertrain and differential ratios are specified, we looked at all options for reducing vehicle weight,” said Ryder’s asset engineering manager, David Grogut.  “Our engineers also carried out a detailed fleet review to ensure that all new equipment going into the fleet was compatible with Marshalls’ existing fleet. For example, reviewing the specification of the tractor units against the types of trailers they are being matched with.”