Fleets of large removal vehicles seems to be a thing of the past as the removal industry changes to meet the needs of today. Fifteen years ago most removal fleets were dominated by a row of 17 ton trucks
So what has brought about this change ?
Shortage Of Removal Drivers : Changes in legislation have meant that you need an HGV licence to drive anything over 3.5ton and in addition you need to have ongoing driver CPC training. The costs associated with this are high and for those that choose to go down this route the step up to drive a Class One is not too onerous and allows drivers to sit behind the wheel all day, instead of having to carry furniture as well.
You will often see a move being performed nowadays by two or even three 3.5ton vehicles instead of one 17ton truck as they can be driven on car licences and are also not restricted by tachograph regulations.
Access to properties : This is the biggest factor in the drive to smaller vehicles being used on removals. In the 1960's most large homes had drive in, drive out driveways but this seems to be a thing of the past. There are more gated communities, tall walls with narrow gateways. People seem to want to live with more privacy. Overhanging trees down long driveways is more the norm.The design of most modern housing estates, even for larger properties tend to be more winding.
Appleyards have realigned their removal fleet in line with this need and although they still have some large vehicles the majority of their removal trucks are 3.5ton vehicles
If you would like to get a quotation for your move call Appleyards on 01482 221898 or send an email