Smiths Hire

Published on: 21st September 2023

For over 50 years, Smiths Hire has provided equipment rental services to a varied customer base across the North West.  Their commitment to providing top-quality solutions has earned them a deserved reputation as a reliable partner for businesses across various industries.  Smiths’ experience and accumulated knowledge is barely rivalled, and they pride themselves on offering unparalleled service.

Smiths Hire has made a strategic investment by acquiring their first new-generation DAF XD trucks which come fitted with the Sterling Access Spec Beavertail.  Sterling were especially privileged to be awarded this work given that these are the first beavertail bodies in the UK to be mounted to the DAF XD chassis.

Specified with Smiths’ wide product offering in mind and particularly considering their large MEWP fleet, this build contains:

1. Decking: The inclusion of a composite gridlock decking fitted to the entire body and ramp surface provides maximum grip for their access machinery. This feature is particularly crucial for equipment with smooth-tyred wheels that tend to slip, ensuring safety during loading, unloading and transportation.
2. Lashing Rings: With thirty-six 5T rated lashing rings providing many tie-down options, this body offers unmatched flexibility for load securing. Smiths Hire often transport machinery of various sizes and load configurations frequently change so this versatility is hugely beneficial.
3. Ramps: The double flip ramps are full width eliminating the risk of machines falling down the gap there is between standard ramps. However, the centre gate feature means that load space is still maximised as the basket of a cherry picker can put behind the ramp when the gate is open.

There are many other features of this highly specified body but ultimately it is designed to make loading, unloading and transportation of machinery as safe and as easy as possible giving peace of mind to drivers, managers, and machine operators alike.  Put simply, when it comes to delivering access machines, this body does the job and then some!

Mark Shale, Head of Fleet at Smiths commented, “Smiths have an established long-term relationship with Sterling, due to the quality and specification of their bespoke bodies. The design and build of Sterling’s bodies are continuously evolving and Sterling are not afraid to ask for customer feedback and they openly encourage the customer to add individual specifications to suit their individual business needs.  We look forward to many more years of working alongside Sterling as we continue to upgrade our fleet.”

Grant Owen, Sales Executive at Sterling further commented, “Smiths’ investment in these new generation DAF XD 6x2s with the Sterling bodies is a testament to their commitment to providing market leading service.  Their partnership with Sterling, as exemplified by this project, underscores their dedication to excellence and innovation in the field of powered access solutions. Smith’s Hire’s new-generation DAF XD chassis will undoubtedly enhance their operational capabilities and further solidify their reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.”