Virginia International Logistics, based in Maghera, Virginia, Co. Cavan, Ireland have recently added a new Ekeri trailer to their fleet and, says the company, it is already making a big difference to loading and handling on their national and international routes.Specialising in food products, F.M.C.G, electronics, manufacturing and pharma products, the family-owned business operates every day of the year between Ireland, the UK and throughout Europe. 120 trucks and 400 trailers are supported by three ambient and chilled warehousing facilities in Ireland – the main one being in Virginia – with a fourth distribution and forwarding hub in Tamworth, England.

Co-Director James Cole, explains why the company first took an interest in Ekeri:

“We knew someone who had been operating an Ekeri for 17 years and not least, the remarkable condition of the trailer made us take a closer look. Also, we were very impressed by the combination of high security and multiple loading access through the sides. All the speed and ease of a curtainsider but with the strength and reliability of an insulated van-type body.”

Much of the cargo handled by Virginia Logistics is of high value, says James, and certain routes are prone to migrants attempting to board vehicles as they pass through ferry terminals. Both these factors pointed towards the Ekeri trailer being ideal for the job.

“The multiple side-door opening on both sides of the trailer enables us to quickly access any part of the load and this is important for multi-drop routes. Plus, with remote central locking, we can be confident that nobody but us can gain access to the inside.”

James adds that owing to the diverse nature of the freight which Virginia handles, the unique internal strapping system enables them to secure virtually any load at any point along the aluminium trailer bed. The Ekeri trailer is carrying a mixture of fibre bales, plastic bins and pharma products.

“The Ekeri strapping system is truly one of a kind.” Says James. “There are channels in the floor and ceiling along which the straps can slide, so unlike conventional systems, there are limitless strapping options, which helps us to make optimum use of the load area.”

The origins of Virginia International go back to the 1960’s when Johnny and Bridie Cole founded Ramor Transport, for local milk deliveries. In 1982 the present company was formed and is now run by their four sons: James, Sean, Eamon and Ray, who are co-directors of a fast-expanding logistics operation now extending as far afield as China and the USA.

“Although the Ekeri Trailer is just one small part of a large vehicle fleet,” concludes James, “it’s already pulling its weight. Built to last, it does everything we want it to and certainly lives up to the name, Easy Loader!”

Virginia International Logistics maintains a progressive environmental policy and as such, won the Green Transport Award at this year’s prestigious Green Awards in Dublin.

Ekeri Trailers

About the Author: John Loughran