PTS Logistics Takes on Tight Access with TRT ESS

OVERVIEW

PTS Logistics used its TRT ESS Modular Platform Trailer to transport 12 bridge beams for the Gillingham Road bridge replacement project.

The trailer gave the team the steering, modular setup and access needed to move long, heavy beams through tight New Zealand streets.

SITUATION

PTS Logistics operates from eight locations across New Zealand and runs a fleet of over 300 trucks.

The business handles major transport work across several divisions, including wind farm and infrastructure projects.

For the Gillingham Road project, PTS Logistics needed to move bridge beams from Marsden Point to Whangarei.

Each beam measured 26 metres long, with the heaviest weighing 42.7 tonne.

CHALLENGE

The route covered around 40 kilometres and included residential streets.

Access was a key constraint, with tight manoeuvring required for a long and heavy load.

PTS Logistics also needed a trailer configuration that could support the beams correctly.

The job required control at both ends of the trailer, without placing unnecessary strain on tyres, roads or equipment.

SOLUTION

TRT supplied an ESS Modular Platform Trailer with patented Electronic Steering System technology.

It was the first TRT trailer in the PTS Logistics fleet to use ESS.

The system provides electronic steering across all axles and gives operators several steering modes.

Jarvis Miller has said the trailer’s steering capability and load handling were key reasons for choosing it.

For the bridge beam moves, the trailer was set up in two modules.

A lead module and rear module carried the load, with a lattice section used through the centre for added beam support.

Quick Connect also helped PTS Logistics reduce setup time on complex moves.

Jarvis Miller has pointed to the system as a major advantage when preparing trailers for different jobs.

MADE POSSIBLE:

PTS Logistics successfully moved 12 bridge beams for the Gillingham Road bridge replacement project.

The ESS Modular Platform Trailer helped the team access areas that would have been difficult without steerable trailer capability.

Jarvis Miller has said the steering system can reduce tyre strain, lower the risk of road damage and reduce stress on equipment during tight turns.

He has also pointed to benefits beyond bridge work, including forestry projects where the trailer can reduce manual movement of equipment.

A separate move showed the wider value of the system.

PTS Logistics reduced pilot vehicle requirements and completed travel, assembly and the move in about 9 hours, where a conventional trailer could have taken up to two days.