Fairport Containers receives its first ever DAF

Fairport Containers has added a 26-tonne DAF XF450 FAR 6x2 rigid hook-loader to its 45-strong predominantly Mercedes-Benz fleet.

Lee Cunliffe, Fairport Containers’ fleet Engineer, said: “When this requirement came up we decided to at least let our local DAF dealer, Lancashire DAF, talk to us. We liked what we heard and asked for quotations. That came in at a competitive level, so with a three-year R&M package included, we decided to go for the XF.”

The XF operates out of the Bridgwater depot and ventures as far as Cornwall, although Cunliffe stated those trips are very rare: “It mainly operates in and around the Bridgwater depot which is why we opted for a tag-axle to help the driver manoeuvre the vehicle.”

The truck is proving popular with drivers, while Cunliffe praises the “very good” fuel economy.

He said: “Fuel economy figures between two new Actros 6x2 rigid hook-loaders and the XF are similar; 10.2mpg for the DAF and 12.2mpg for the Mercedes. Which is great considering the Actros accumulates more motorway miles.”

Fairport Containers’ Adlington, Lancashire base looks after the rest of the fleet, replacing clothing bank containers around the UK for charities. Increased activity there has led it to employ the services of another DAF; a second-hand, refurbished 10-year old LF with a HIAB crane.

“We wanted a vehicle like this for urgent calls where a clothing bank has been vandalised or broken into – we are expected to respond within 48 hours, so are trialing this DAF as our ‘rapid response’ vehicle. Right now we are very happy with it and will see how it goes before making a decision on maybe replacing it, or adding to it with a new truck,” commented Cunliffe.