Government plans for high-volume trailers welcomed

Date: 1/4/2011

The government's recent proposals to extend the length of lorry trailers - without increasing the weight they can carry - have been welcomed by one industry group.

According to the Freight Transport Association (FTA), the plans make "environmental sense".

Earlier in the week, the Department for Transport revealed it was consulting on suggestions to extend the maximum length of trailers by up to just over two metres, while retaining maximum weight limits at 44 tonnes.

This could allow drivers to transport more lightweight goods and avoid the need for two vehicles being deployed when making a delivery.

Andy Mair, FTA's Head of Engineering Policy, said: "Increasing the length of semi-trailers makes business sense and environmental sense, as it will improve logistics efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the freight industry."

He added that not all operators will need to invest in the new trailers, with demand predicted to come mainly from sectors where the products being transported are bulky but low-density.

Posted by Nick Anderson