Bradfords Building Supplies has taken delivery of four DAFs, supplied by Ryder, comprising one 26-tonne CF340 6x2 and three LF 4x2s ranging from 12 to 18 tonnes. All are fitted with Atlas cranes and are the first of a 28-truck order.
Martin Caddick, head of transport, said: "Given that we needed to place such a large order, I took the opportunity to review our entire truck fleet specification. We canvassed our 43-branch network for their suggestions on vehicle specs and I am pleased to say many ideas made it to the final cut.”
All the vehicles are fitted with V-Rave side-rails on the body and are set with an anti-slip surface, and are monitored by Ryder’s fleet management tool, FleetCare Online.
Caddick added that the reason Bradfords opted for Ryder was because of its “long-standing relationship with DAF” as well as the financial package it offered which, he said, helped to give them an edge over its competitors.
The Atlas equipment can be operated via radio control, allowing for the drivers to move around the vehicle safely while maximising the view during operations.
The cranes also feature automated warning lighting: which means the crane and truck warning beacons and LED lighting automatically switch on. Lifting Operations Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) tests take place during normal crane servicing to also minimise downtime.
National accounts manager at Ryder David Bunniss said: “DAF dealer Ford & Slater has been exemplary in keeping us up to date with delivery schedules, and working around the business to deliver our vehicles at a time and date to suit.”
