Ryder delivers 400 trailers to Howdens as part of a major fleet upgrade

Ryder has supplied 400 custom-built tri-axle curtainside trailers on contract hire to Howdens Joinery, the leading supplier of kitchens in the UK, as part of a total fleet upgrade programme.

The 13.6 metre long trailers were designed specifically to meet Howdens requirements with chassis supplied by SDC and bodywork by Lawrence David featuring pillarless ‘clearspan’
ENXL-certified loading support safety curtains.

The deal closely follows the 100 DAF CF tractor units supplied to Howdens by Ryder earlier in the year which will operate across Howdens’ Yorkshire and Northampton distribution hubs, and its four regional transportation hubs, delivering to nearly 600 trade depots.

“Our previous trailer fleet was beginning to be ready for replacement so, in addition to upgrading to new high-specification trailers, we took the opportunity to re-design the trailer livery to give the vehicles more visual impact and improved brand awareness,” comments Charlie Nissen, Howdens national transport manager. “In addition, we are also trialling trailer tracking hardware to maximise trailer usage.”

Robin White, sales and marketing director at Ryder, concludes: “Working with Howdens is a true partnership the results of which are enabling Howdens to operate the most modern and high tech fleet in its sector and one which will help improve significant operating efficiencies and brand image benefits. We look forward to continuing our working partnership with Howdens and helping the company to continue to grow and expand.”