Don-Bur, the UK’s innovative leader in commercial vehicle bodywork, has delivered 16 newly designed 13.6m long Box Van Lifting Deck trailers to Alliance Automotive in “NAPA Auto Parts” livery. As a new client for Don-Bur, Alliance Automotive chose the company based on its established reputation for delivering exceptional reliability, durability and engineering quality.
This initial order introduces a tailored solution to meet the evolving logistical demands of Alliance Automotive, developed through numerous client discussions and visits to customer sites. It represents a significant evolution from their previous curtainsided double-deck design.
Precision-Engineered for Maximum Performance
Built to accommodate Alliance Automotive’s diverse payload—including parts for cars, light commercial vehicles, and trucks—the new 4.95m high trailers feature a robust “Wedge” box van double deck design including a full-length 10 tonne capacity lifting deck platform.
The trailers feature Don-Bur’s time-tested single ram + rope & pulley lifting deck system. This proven design delivers a smooth, balanced lift while ensuring operational efficiency and ease of use, a key reason why Alliance Automotive chose Don-Bur.
Inclusion of an 1800mm platform two-tier column tail-lift with a 1500kg capacity enables the flexibility to deliver direct to store.
The final design allows for quick loading of both decks at a loading bay while enabling easy offloading at stores using the tail-lift.
Innovative Features for Operational Efficiency
These trailers include several advanced features designed to optimise their functionality:
- Wedge Chassis Design: A gently sloping chassis on 445/45 R19.5 mini single wheels provides two uninterrupted deck lengths ideal for wheeled dolly trays.
- Generous Deck Apertures: Clearances starting at 1.74m per deck at the front, increasing to 2.06m at the rear, maximise load volume and usability. The trailers can carry an impressive 120 dollies and a total capacity of 960 totes.
- Durable Side Panels: Constructed with Don-Bur’s proprietary “Blade” panels, a lightweight and durable 7.5mm composite material, ensuring high impact resistance and extended service life.
- LowGlide Safe Ground Coupling: Don-Bur’s patented coupling system allows drivers to couple from the side of the vehicle and eliminates the need to access the catwalk; a practice known for its potential hazards.
Enhancing Logistics for Alliance Automotive
This bespoke design caters for Alliance Automotive’s operational requirements, streamlining their logistics operations while improving the safety and efficiency of loading and offloading processes. The compatibility with their new tote and dolly systems ensures faster, more efficient transportation.
Comment from Don-Bur
Daniel Challinor, Commercial Director at Don-Bur, stated:
“Partnering with Alliance Automotive on this project is a testament to Don-Bur’s engineering expertise and adaptability. These tailored Box Van Lifting Deck Trailers are built to enhance their logistical operations, and we’re confident they will deliver outstanding performance.”
A Promising Partnership
The delivery of these Lifting Deck Trailers marks the start of a dynamic partnership between Don-Bur and Alliance Automotive. This collaboration highlights Don-Bur’s ability to create innovative solutions that meet and exceed the demands of modern logistics.
