Smiths Hire

Published on: 11th August 2016

Smiths Hire first approached Sterling in 2014 requiring a partner to supply beavertail bodies suitable for their wide range of equipment, yet maximise efficiency, safety and longevity.

Sterling specified the composite Gridlock decking as the safest and most efficient deck system, which provides unrivalled grip both for personnel and their range of access machines with rubber tracks or tyres. In addition, the Gridlock fitted to the ramps means much lower wind resistance giving considerable fuel saving and therefore reduced CO2 footprint. An on-board weighing system also allows the driver to easily operate his vehicle at maximum capacity without overloading the axles.

To meet Health and Safety requirements, the trucks are specified with the Sterling swing-out handrail system to comply with latest working at height regulations.  This system when deployed increases the deck space by 250mm each side allowing safe and efficient deck access when transporting full width machines.

With fleet care a priority, Smiths often run their HGV’s up to 10 Years in the fleet, meaning the bodies have to be up to the job.  The solution provided by Sterling was to fully hot-dip galvanise the body which provides maximum corrosion resistance, vastly improved longevity and reducing maintenance, compared to a traditional paint finish.  A further touch is that the Gridlock deck and side raves are finished in the distinctive Smiths blue, creating a striking new look for the fleet!

Martin Prater, Fleet Manager at Smiths, commented, “after careful consideration 18 months ago we made the decision to work with Sterling on the bodies for our HGV fleet due to the innovations they brought to the table. Their professionalism and these innovations not only gave us the opportunity to have a more customised, bespoke body, but also assisted with our ongoing strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and future proof our vehicle bodies in regards to extending its life and the health and safety requirements.”

Jarl James from Sterling added, “we’ve enjoyed working with Martin and the team on this project.  The specification makes full use of many of the latest developments and innovations from Sterling which are clearly proving their benefits in use already.  The end result is great and also looks fantastic!”

The first body went into service last year at the company’s Preston depot, and the second vehicle is also now on the road, based at Warrington depot.  We hope these are to be the first of many over the coming years.