Delay to longer trailers decision affecting sales, says Cartwright

Delays in a government decision over the proposal to extend semi-trailer lengths by up to 2.05m are starting to affect sales of current 13.6m semi-trailers, according to trailer builder Cartwright.

"We are seeing the effect of 'indecision' over trailer orders, as some customers wait to see the outcome of the longer length debate and ultimately do not place orders," says director Steven Cartwright. "Our opinion is that there will be a new length but, by the time it goes to consultation and approved as legislation after trials, you could be looking at up to 24 months."

Cartwright believes that whether or not the DfT eventually allows longer semi-trailers, ministers are unlikely to increase the existing 44-tonne weight limit.

"This is a key area, as many of our customers will not benefit from a length increase, as they weigh out now on payload," argues Cartwright.

It has been suggested that a longer semi-trailer would be restricted to a maximum height of 4.2m or 4.3m, meaning double-deck trailers would remain 13.6m in length.

"We are building more and more double-deck trailers with carrying capacities of up to 52 pallets, on a 13.6m length," Cartwright says. "The proposed 15.6m trailer would mean a 30-pallet carrying capacity - 18 pallets less - so surely the lead from an environmental point of view should be 13.6m double deck rather than 15.6m single deck?"

However, Richard Owens, group marketing manager at Don-Bur, says that the company has not seen any evidence of a reduction in sales or enquiries.

"We are obviously very aware of the proposals and have been working with a number of clients to develop LHV solutions," he says. "However, the reality of the proposal going through at some point in the future is not yet tangible enough to delay clients from purchasing equipment they need now."

It is understood that the DfT will make an announcement on longer semi-trailers by the end of March, although ministers have repeatedly delayed a decision.