Hemel Hempstead plant and machinery haulier Murphy has taken delivery of the first of six new plant bodies and four drawbar trailers from Andover Trailers, citing the versatile loading options and build quality as key factors in placing the order.

All six bespoke-built, low-profile plant bodies are mounted to new 32-tonne 8×2 Mercedes Arocs chassis, with four featuring a front-mounted PK63002E Palfinger crane.

Each of the four tri-axle heavy duty drawbar trailers offers a range of loading solutions and will help to significantly increase payload capacity.

The six plant bodies replace older units, while the four drawbars are new additions to the company’s 40-strong mixed commercial vehicle fleet.

Each of the new plant bodies includes a hydraulic beavertail, underslung coupling and Andover’s pioneering fold-forward ramps, which combine to offer a flat load bed that provides maximum deck space on the truck and trailer.

The four front-mounted Palfinger cranes offer a 2,950 kg lift at a 15.7 metre reach, providing maximum load versatility, including the transportation of cabins to site.

With the trailers offering an additional payload capacity of up to 18 tonnes, each combination can carry a large range of plant, from 3-tonne dumpers through to 15-tonne telehandlers.

The trucks include camera systems and audible turning alerts, as well as a telescopic working at height system for maximum operator safety.

Mark Olden, Logistics Manager at Murphy said: “We chose Andover for the versatility and range of their drawbar combinations, and are very pleased with the quality of the workmanship on the builds we have received so far.”