A new Volvo FH helps launch a new business at Bewlake Lift and Haul Ltd

22/10/2019

County Antrim based, Bewlake Lift and Haul Ltd is a new-start business that has selected a crane-equipped Volvo FH tractor unit, coupled to an SDC trailer, to launch its operations.)

County Antrim based, Bewlake Lift and Haul Ltd is a new-start business, recently founded by its Managing Director, Mike Blake. A crane-equipped Volvo FH tractor unit coupled to an SDC trailer has launched the company’s operations.

Bewlake Lift and Haul Ltd purchased the Volvo FH with a three year Volvo Service Contract, which will be carried out by Dennison Commercial’s Coleraine dealerpoint. The 6x4 tractor unit features Volvo’s Tandem Axle lift and is plated for STGO operations up to 65 tonnes. Powered by a Volvo D13K engine with a power output of 540hp, the FH was ordered with a Globetrotter Cab and a high specification interior that includes full leather trim.

The FH has been fitted with a Hiab 858 Hi-Pro EP6 truck mounted crane that can lift 22 tonnes at 3 metres and 4.1 tonnes at 16.3 metres. “At present this Hiab is possibly the largest in Northern Ireland and I decided on the FH chassis as I think Volvo builds the best truck on the road,” reports Mike Blake.

The FH hauls a brand new SDC extendable platform trailer that can stretch from 33 to 54 feet. The outfit permits Bewlake Lift and Haul to offer a combined crane and heavy transport solution, with both high safety standards and maximum operational flexibility to customers, through a single vehicle solution.

Mike also rates Volvo’s Dynafleet fleet management system highly. “The Dynafleet app is a phenomenal telematics tool for a small business. I can measure so much data. This will help with managing costs and identifying potential savings,” he adds. Mike is the Blake family’s third generation to be involved in the road transport industry; as his Dad, Roy drove and then owned trucks over a period of 50 years, whilst his Grandfather operated commercial vehicles prior to the Second World War.

The Volvo / SDC combination impressed several existing and potential customers during its first few weeks in operation. The FH cab is also liveried with eye-catching graphics from Ecosse Signs. “The Globetrotter Cab has already proved comfortable for multiple nights out and generally the FH is second to none, I’m extremely happy with it. I’m starting out in business on a very strong footing. The time spent researching such a comprehensive vehicle was well worth it,” Mike concludes.