In light of recent events, we would ask you to take note of our customer information on the suitability of 14.90 metre long trailers for loading on pocket wagons in Combined Transport. The debate has centred all too often around the term "mega", but this is not clearly defined. As Kombiverkehr understands it, "mega" stands for trailers with an internal cargo space height of three metres with a continuously level cargo area. There are no suitable pocket wagons for the 14.90 metre version of these vehicles! This is because the rear end of the vehicle must comply with a minimum ground clearance of 900 millimetres over a length of approximately 1,100 millimetres, measured with a fully laden trailer with pneumatic shock absorption systems fully lowered. The rear of the vehicle will otherwise bang against the wagon, which is not permitted. This condition applies to all 14.90 metre long trailers, irrespective of tyre size and superstructure height. To achieve the necessary clearance, the fixed underride guard must again give way to the complex retractable model, which is susceptible to faults. The tighter requirements on test loads for the underride guide under EC guidelines will only make matters worse. Some trailer manufacturers say that it will no longer be an option to move the reinforced retractable underride guide by hand because of the higher weight. Routine practice in the terminals will show what is still feasible.
 
Finally, it must be noted that the information given by Kombiverkehr on the suitability for loading of 14.90 metre trailers in CT is still applicable:

• Megatrailer with superstructure of maximum height – No
• Trailer with superstructure of normal height and standard tyres – Yes

The customer information on 14.90 metre trailers is still applicable. It can be downloaded here.



Left: 14.90 metre semitrailer with retractable underride guard on pocket wagon T 3000. Right: 13.60 metre semitrailer with retractable underride guard on pocket wagon T 3000. Picture credits: Kögel

If you have any questions, please contact:
Kombiverkehr, Operations, Manager Wagon Resource Planning, Kristian Kölsche
Phone +49 69/7 95 05-3 31 or kkoelsche@kombiverkehr.de