Malcolm skeletal 2

Malcolm Logistics has introduced a new generation of its award-winning extendable skeletal trailer.

The original 15.6m extended skeletal trailer, which is used with 50ft containers, was a double winner at the Motor Transport Awards in 2015, taking the Low Carbon and Innovation trophies.

Malcolm Logistics has now introduced eight of the latest versions, which can be adjusted to accommodate two 20ft,  one 40ft or one 45ft container when closed or a single 50ft container when extended.

While the original version used a manual winding mechanism, the new design features a pneumatically powered rear section for easy operation and robustness, according to the operator.

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The trailer weight has been reduced by 300kg in comparison to the 2014 model too, providing a higher payload and greater efficiency.

Integrated self-aligning rollers align the sliding mechanism as it is moved in and out.

The skeletal trailer, which Malcolm Logistics operates under the longer semi-trailer trial, is expected to need less maintenance than the original design as it does not have the gearbox and toothed rack of its predecessor, which needed regularly cleaning.

Andrew Malcolm, chief executive of the Malcolm Group, said: “SDC’s 15.6m extended skeletal trailers allow our customers to move 15% more freight per journey over the largest available conventional container and by using a combination of our eco-friendly road and rail services, we are able to achieve a 13% reduction in CO2 emissions per pallet.

“Following significant savings achieved with the first twenty 15.6m SDC skeletal trailers, we decided to increase our fleet operation while also re-visiting the design to see if we could further increase efficiency.”

  • There’s still time to enter this year’s prestigious Motor Transport Awards and demonstrate the calibre of your business but don’t delay!

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