A leading hirer of portable site accommodation and secure storage containers is fuelling its growth after investing £1.4m in its industry-leading fleet of Scania trucks to increase operational efficiency and customer service. Mobile Mini, which has a network of 15 branches nationwide, from Glasgow to Southampton, has taken delivery of eight new Scania trucks. The new additional vehicles, which take its fleet to a total of 60, represent a major upgrade to the Company’s existing fleet of lorry-mounted loader crane vehicles, the largest of its kind in the UK.
Two of the vehicles are 32T GVW 8-wheelers with FASSI820 cranes and front mounted legs, which will be operated from the Company’s branches in London and the Thames Valley. The 82Tm 360-degree operating Fassi cranes, will primarily be used in heavily built-up areas of Greater London, as the vehicles can be more easily positioned, while improved lifting capacity makes double and triple stacking units easier and safer.
As part of the firm’s commitment to the highest possible safety standards, all new trucks are fitted with the HALO cycle warning system, featuring four ultrasonic sensors to alert drivers to bicycles and pedestrians, an audible and visual turning warning and an in-cab monitor that provides the driver with a 360-degree view. Additionally, high-intensity LEDs leave a ‘halo’ on the ground to alert cyclists to the truck’s presence in the dark.
All vehicles in the fleet are Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) and Community Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) compliant with improved vulnerable road user safety systems, improved ergonomic design, crane mounted work lights, automatic anti-idling devices, driver behaviour telematics and remote tachograph downloading functionality.
Mobile Mini’s Health and Safety Director Chris Watcham said: “As a company, we always look for ways to build on our first-class customer service and excellent safety record, enabling us to be more efficient and serve our customers better. These new trucks allow easy access to otherwise difficult sites, as well as for more accurate placement with improved lifting capability.
“The additional safety features will not only ensure driver safety, but that of other road users and those on delivery sites.”
Mobile Mini’s excellence in logistics has been recognised by the FORS, an accreditation aimed at driving up standards among commercial vehicle operators throughout the UK, having been awarded the highest honour of a gold standard for five years in a row.
Continuing its commitment to investment, and in an effort to address the shortage of Heavy Goods Vehicle drivers, the firm has also launched a fully-funded Driver Development Programme as well as offering Joint Approval Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT)-approved Driver Certificate for Professional Competence (CPC) training for both internal and external drivers.