New glass transport concept from the Netherlands

The picture collage shows how the MaXi Trailer is converted from a glass transporter into a versatile-use truck. The lowering of the glass frame creates a continuous loading surface capable of accommodating up to 34 Euro-pallets.
Picture: Van Huët Glass Logistics

The Dutch company Van Huët Glass Logistics wishes to replace the classic inside loader with a new transport concept and thus make glass transport more cost favourable and environmentally friendly.

With its new MaXi Trailer, the flat glass logistics company - a member of the Emons Group - is placing its faith in a completely new concept for the transport of large format float glass (6 m x 3.21 m). New here is above all the fact that the special truck - in contrast to the inside loaders previously used to accommodate the glass frames weighing tonnes - can also be used for transporting other goods.

This is made possible by a glass frame integrated into the articulated vehicle. After transporting glass panes, the frame can be lowered automatically in the loading area of the MaXi Trailer and the floor opening closed by stable floor plates. In just a few minutes, a special transporter for glass is transformed into a normal mega-trailer capable of transporting general commercial goods (up to 34 Euro-pallets).

A saving of 10 to 15 percent

According to Van Huët Glass Logistics, effective use of the MaXi Trailer for transport enables glass manufacturers to save between 10 and 15 percent compared with the previous situation. On corresponding routes, the MaXi Trailer can also be transported by rail or water. This too makes the new concept so environmentally and cost friendly, is the message from the company headquarters in Tiel. Van Huët estimates that the new concept will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 50 percent. Given multi-modal use, i.e. when taking advantage of all possible positive transport aspects (loading on outward and return journey, ship and rail transport) reductions of up to 75 percent are even possible. The reduction in emissions of fine dust particles is 80 to 90 percent.

Successful tests in practice

Own tests with three trial trailers during the past year have shown that the new transport concept works. During these tests, the new MaXi Trailer was used over a distance of more than 500,000 km. The transport innovation will be presented to the professional world for the first time at glasstec 2008 in Düsseldorf. The market launch of the MaXi Trailer is scheduled for just a few weeks later.

Transport solutions at glasstec 2008

Trend-setting logistics and transport concepts are elementary fundaments of corporate concepts in the international glass industry. Given the high pressure on costs, time and cost-saving transport solutions are also indispensable for medium-sized and craftsman’s companies. glasstec in Düsseldorf will provide an overview of the entire spectrum of new concepts and international product innovations for both industry and craftsmen from 21 to 25 October 2008.