Longer semi-trailers: request for supporting information

Members will recall that the input of logistics buyers and operators have been sought to provide supporting information to consultants commissioned by the Department for Transport (DfT) who are currently seeking evidence from industry to inform an assessment of the benefits of extending longer semi-trailers by up to two metres, and their likely take-up by operators

A number of the responses provided so far show a clear need case for the introduction of longer semi-trailers. However, in order to make the case to DfT for the introduction of longer semi-trailers, the consultants must have robust evidence to support that case. The consultant's modelling and desk-top analysis can only go so far, and industry must be able to demonstrate a clear need case based on 'real-life' operations. Being able to show, based on actual operational situations, that vehicles are currently 'full' (in cube terms) and that a longer vehicle would result in fewer trips is essential to support the case to Government.

The case study type information which the consultants are requesting is, for example:

• the number of journeys on a particular contract using semi-trailers which 'bulk' out over a given time period
• the total current road miles for these journeys
• number of pallets/units etc currently moved on these journeys
• the reduction in road miles for these journeys if longer semi-trailers were used
• the reduction in fuel used for these journeys if longer semi-trailers were used
• the CO2 saving (in line with fuel consumption) if longer semi-trailers were used

FTA has negotiated a two week extension to the deadline for information to be provided to the consultants in order that members have the opportunity to submit the detailed information requested. The negotiated deadline now being 13 November.

The survey form provided by the consultants can be downloaded here.

To assist with the data gathering, FTA has produced a simple spreadsheet requiring members to enter data on current operations where trailers are loaded which 'cube out'. This requires members to enter details of current operations and will calculate the reduction benefits of utilising longer semi-trailers. The data does not have to be for every operation, perhaps one or two suitable traffic flows could be used as 'case studies'. To download the spreadsheet click here.