Longer semi-trailers (LSTs) deployed on trial by Bibby Distribution have been instrumental in delivering substantial benefits for Board24.

The 3PL now has five 15.5m LSTs operating from Board24’s Preston depot, which sends out dozens of trailer-loads of corrugated board to manufacturers every day.

Because of the high-volume, low weight nature of the goods, the trailers have been built 4.7m tall to ensure optimal internal load space and operate alongside more than 30 Bibby Distribution trailers providing transport for Board24.

The LSTs represent a new phase in cost reduction for Board24 which, by working closely together with Bibby, had already made substantial improvements, such as increasing pallet heights and the use of high-cube trailers. This had already increased trailer loadfill to reduce vehicles on the road, improve environmental obligations and enhance delivery efficiencies.

Lee Bullen, Services Manager, Board24, says: “Our partnership with Bibby Distribution really works because it is not your typical client-provider relationship. Bibby proactively finds ways to reduce costs, such as the introduction of LSTs, which is very refreshing. We share the same long-term goals.”

The close working relationship means that the Bibby Distribution team is well-versed in anticipating and managing demand from Board24.

Output can vary by significantly within 24 hours according to market demand, requiring a very flexible logistics operation. Bibby Distribution works closely with Board24 to predict demand and plans accordingly, minimising costs for its customer.

Bullen says: “Bibby Distribution has the flexibility to manage our output, which can be extremely variable because of the market. They are big enough to get the job done cost-effectively, but still have that personal touch which means they work around our needs, rather than making us fit in with theirs.”