Wharf Horses

Taking the simple, but effective approach to its container transport service, Melbourne-based Arrow is now rolling out two new quad-quad super b-double combinations from Vawdrey.

In Victoria’s competitive and busy wharf cartage industry, using more efficient means to transport containerised cargo has become a clear priority for transport provider, Arrow Transport Logistics & Quarantine Services. Now completing just its fifth year of operation, Arrow has added two Vawdrey-built Performance-Based Standards (PBS) approved Super B-double skel combinations to its fleet.

For the young, progressive transport business, the latest additions will allow Arrow to carry more containers, but with less running costs. “Our goal since opening in 2011 has been to reduce the amount of single truck movements, fuel and maintenance costs,” says Craig Webster, General Manager of Arrow.

“Instead of using two trucks to carry two 40-foot containers, we can send in a Super B-double to carry both, saving both time and money. More importantly, we expect these combinations to help us achieve a greater Return On Investment.”

Arrow is no stranger to both Vawdrey and PBS equipment, having purchased two of the trailer builder’s A-double skel combinations in 2014. In doing so, Arrow became the first Victorian transport business to use that particular configuration in the State.

According to Craig, the success of the PBS A-doubles prompted him to come back to Vawdrey in early 2016. The objective this time was to carry two 40-foot containers over the Maribyrnong River and in and out of the Port of Melbourne with an increased buy diflucan 150 mg mass of 77.5 tonnes.

“Vawdrey has built these PBS Super B’s according to not only our specifications, but those of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and VicRoads,” he says. “The trailers will operate mainly in and around Melbourne’s wharf precinct and back up to our Altona North facility.”

Using high-tensile Domex steel for each chassis, both of the Vawdrey B-double skels can reach a gross combination mass of 77.5 tonnes, making them suitable to carry two 40-foot containers and an overall payload of 54 tonnes.

In addition to increased weight capacity, each of the Super B-doubles is fitted with the latest Electronic Braking System (EBS), quad-quad suspension and rubber mudflap guards. “This configuration allows us to achieve the maximum weight and still be able to travel on city and suburban roads 24-7 without obstructing road regulations,” Craig says.

Another key feature is the steerable axle at the end of each quad group – a requirement specified by the NHVR.

With ambitions on becoming an ‘importer/exporter wharf cartage carrier of choice’, Vawdrey’s new Super B-doubles represent Arrow’s most prized additions to date.

“Using less vehicles to cart the same number of containers improves profitability, ensures we are competitive with pricing and most importantly, exceed customer expectations. “Vawdrey supplying equipment that fits that profile makes it the ideal partner to help us continue to grow long term. The A-doubles have exceeded our expectations to date and we feel these Super B-double skels will meet those same high standards of efficient transport.”