SDC build new 50ft trailers for Malcolm Logistics

Malcolm Logistics has added to its fleet with a bespoke trailer designed and built in collaboration with SDC. The 15.6m extended skeletal trailer is for use with 50ft big box containers that allow 15% more freight to be moved per journey.

Malcom acquired 20 SDC skeletal trailers at first, but has now taken a further eight units which are adaptable to fit two 20ft containters as well as 40ft, 45ft and the 50ft boxes.

The new design features a pneumatically powered rear, with a lever switch to power it in/out on a twin beam for easy operation and robustness.

The trailer weight has been reduced by 300kg in comparison to the 2014 model, providing a higher payload and greater efficiency for Malcolm’s operations.

A rear self-steering axle provides maximum manoeuvrability, while a Haldex soft docking system fitted to the rear will help prevent damage on loading bays. The trailer has also undergone stringent testing for both road and rail use, and has a total unladen weight of just 5,500kg.

SDC CEO Enda Cushnahan said: “SDC was the first manufacturer to develop a 15.6m extended length skeletal trailer under the UK’s 2012 longer semi-trailer trial and we have worked closely with Malcolm Logistics to understand their transport requirements. I am very pleased that they have chosen SDC again and their latest order is testament to our ongoing partnership, to develop practical solutions for cost effective road transport, while minimising the environmental impact of transport operations.”

Malcolm Group chief executive Andrew Malcolm said: “SDC’s 15.6m extended skeletal trailers allow our customers to move 15% more freight per journey over the largest available conventional container and by using a combination of our eco-friendly road and rail services, we are able to achieve a 13% reduction in CO2 emissions per pallet. Following significant savings achieved with the first 20 15.6m SDC skeletal trailers, we decided to increase our fleet operation while also re-visiting the design to see if we could further increase efficiency.

“I am pleased to say we have achieved this, working closely with SDC to develop a pneumatically powered extended skeletal trailer with enhanced operation, safety and reliability.”