Bristol-based transporter, Tudor Services, has switched to general haulage in response to the impact Covid-19 has had on corporate events and entertainment.
Drawing on the load flexibility of its recently acquired Mega Dry Liner box trailer from Krone, the firm is satisfying a growing demand for cargo transport to and from the continent.
“The pandemic created a massive hole in our traditional business but instead of feeling sorry for ourselves, we immediately looked for new opportunities suited to the secure and high-volume capabilities of our trailer fleet,” said Luke Power-Hippisley of Tudor Services.
Tudor Services is now running regular routes to destinations throughout Europe, carrying anything from horse food and hay to furniture and mixed loads.
Covid-19 and new Brexit regulations combine to present some unique but surmountable challenges for operators.
“The virus has caused the entertainment business to evaporate and then Brexit red tape followed up, to slow everything down,” said Power-Hippisley.
“However, because many foreign hauliers are reluctant to come over to the UK for fear of encountering problems on return journeys, we have seen some price hardening and a gradual increase in work two and from abroad.
“Moreover, as we had the foresight to gear-up with a customs broker, we are able to quickly deal with the new administration and provide a relatively fast and uninterrupted service in both directions.”
Making the best of each high cube load, the Krone Mega Liner comes with an internal load height of 2,865mm, inside 4m overall. While for low cube work and coupled to Tudor’s 4×2 Mercedes tractor units, the lightweight design of the trailer allows a payload of 23.7 tonnes. Furthermore, the trailer is fitted with an extendable rear loading ramp and 5 rows of load locking for secure loading of mixed cargo. The ‘container type’ rear doors feature double integrated door locks with a flat outside surface and for added security, the door latches are recessed under the floor.
The Mega Dry Liner benefits from Krone’s powder coat paint process and 10-year guarantee against corrosion perforation. Plus, in keeping with Tudor Services’ distinctive brand, the rear bumper, light panels, and side guards are all finished with a special metallic top coat.
“During difficult times like these our advice is to seek out new opportunities and make sure your trailers are versatile and dependable enough to carry virtually any load,” said Power-Hippisley. “In this regard, we will be returning to Krone for future trailer requirements.”
In other news, Krone generated €1.9B in sales.