New bespoke DAFs for Marshalls

Operational flexibility, optimization of payload and improved driver safety were key factors in the development of a very detailed specification for 16 DAF drawbar outfits now in service with Marshalls, the UK’s leading producer of hard landscaping products.

By specifying a drawbar configuration using DAF’s 6x2 FAN CF85 model as the drawing unit, the company aims to improve the efficiency of its national delivery service. 

The trucks are currently on a comprehensive seven-year lease through Marshalls contract hire partner Contract Vehicles Limited (CVL) and are based at locations across the UK, delivering a wide range of paving and hard landscaping products to builders’ merchants, garden centres and direct to building sites.

The DAFs with trailers operate to their full 44-tonne gross weight, but where site restrictions make it difficult for the full unit to gain access the trailer is left in a nearby secure place. The drawing unit then drops its load, returns to the parked trailer to tranship the remainder of the load using an on-board crane, and completes the delivery.

Site access is also made easier by the increased maneuverability that comes from the self-tracking, rear-steer capability of the DAF FAN model. By raising the rearmost axle, traction can be increased on the drive axle to assist move-offs in the slippery conditions often encountered on building sites.

The DAFs are using SDC and Wheelbase tri-axle trailers and both trucks and trailers have dropside bodies manufactured by Micra of Wakefield.  A particular feature of the body is the move from metal side panels to a lighter-weight type, which uses a reinforced curtain material. This cuts weight, reduces the risk of accidents, requires less effort for the driver in lowering and raising the dropsides and improves the aesthetics of the truck. Further weight has been taken out by the use of Alcoa Frontrunner polished alloy wheels, which also add to the smart appearance of the outfits.

Responding to comments from driver representatives, Marshalls have also decided to increase the capacity of the cranes. Two types are being used: a Palfinger PK14001; and Hiab XS 122BS-2 Hi-Duo. Both can be remotely controlled from the ground but the drivers prefer to do this from a position of height where they can see what is around them. 

Another important feature of the DAFs is easier access on to the body along with a working platform from which the crane can be controlled more safely, both for the driver and for bystanders.

Marshalls’ regional logistics manager Guy Ripley, who is responsible for commercial vehicle specification, said the project is about developing the company’s blueprint specification for vehicles of the future.

He explained: ‘All aspects of the specification were addressed, from the base vehicle and trailer to the body specification and the choice of crane. Our goal was to develop a specification that offered maximum safety for our drivers while allowing us to safely and legally maximize payload and have more flexibility in the way we can use the trucks.’

Marshalls’ contract with CVL includes repair and maintenance using local DAF dealers close to where each of the trucks is based. Each truck is expected to clock-up around 700,000km during its planned service life with the company.

‘The supply of these vehicles continues a highly successful relationship that we have with Marshalls over many years,’ commented Eric Burns, sales director at CVL. ‘We worked with both Marshalls and DAF to develop a detailed vehicle specification, aimed at achieving the overall business objective of increased efficiency. The contract will progress with CVL supporting and maintaining the fleet for its lifespan with Marshalls and continuing to work in partnership with the client to procure any new vehicles for its fleet.’

Guy Ripley added: ‘I am delighted with the outcome of what has been a lengthy exercise to develop the specification and deliver trucks that meet all the criteria. All parties involved have done a great job and our drivers are very pleased that we have vehicles that are efficient, productive and safe.’