Following an 11-year trial, new legislations have been introduced to safely roll out longer semi-trailers on the road from 31 May 2023. It’s a significant step towards levelling up transport, decreasing road emissions, and growing the economy. The government states that these longer semi-trailers are expected to bring a £1.4 billion boost to the UK’s economy and save 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released into the air.
They are up to 2.05 metres longer than a standard semi-trailer, which means that they can transport more cargo in fewer trips, taking one standard-size trailer off the road for every 12 trips.
Safety Measures
It is essential to ensure that LSTs are safe on roads. Operators have been encouraged to put extra safety checks and training in place to minimise the risk of accidents involving these larger vehicles.
The trial has demonstrated that LSTs are involved in around 61% fewer personal injury collisions than conventional lorries, which significantly improves road safety.
Longer Trailers are Part of the Cargo Express Fleet
Cargo Express has been part of the government trial for 8 years, so our drivers have plenty of experience handling the longer semi-trailers. They have also received further training to make sure that the additional length does not compromise their manoeuvrability or visibility. Starting 31 May 2023, we can continue to use these for our deliveries, contributing to a more efficient way of distributing your cargo.
Additionally, we have added some new extra tall trailers to our fleet. These are already in use and weren’t part of the trial, but we have decided to purchase 4.8m tall trailers rather than 4.6m tall ones. They have the same benefits to customers as the XL trailers, and are particularly useful for the automotive industry with taller stillages and product stacking.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
The use of longer semi-trailers in road freight services has several benefits. Firstly, it allows more goods to be transported in a single journey, reducing the number of lorries on the road and minimising traffic congestion and delays.
Secondly, the use of LSTs will help to reduce the cost of transportation by increasing the efficiency of logistics operations. The extra load capacity of LSTs will mean fewer journeys are needed to transport goods, resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced costs for businesses.
Cargo Express
By reducing traffic congestion, cutting costs, and decreasing carbon emissions, LSTs are a viable solution for businesses looking to improve their supply chain operations. After being part of the government trial for 8 years, we are committed to providing safe and efficient logistics services using LSTs, contributing to a greener and more prosperous future.
Looking to learn more about our services? Speak to a member of our team on 0121 384 1323.