Supplied by Richard Cochrane at Volvo Truck and Bus North & Scotland’s Aberdeen depot, the newcomers carry Dyce Carrier’s unique and instantly recognisable, black and gold livery.
All 13 FHs are Globetrotter XL models equipped with Volvo D13K 500hp engines, I-Shift automated gearboxes and ADR specifications. Extra safety equipment includes a front facing camera and an audible left turn warning device.
The dozen tractor units feature 3900mm wheelbases, a rear axle ratio of 2.64:1 and Bridgestone tyres. Leather seats and a refrigerator boost the Volvos’ interior specifications, whilst outside the chassis includes chain trays and a fire box.
Dyce Carriers was established by Dave and Jean Moir in 1973. Initially the company moved parcels with vans, but it soon progressed to larger vehicles, including some of Volvo’s iconic F86 and F88 models. After relying on used truck purchases until the early 1990s, the firm’s first new multi vehicle order took the shape of six Classic Volvo FH tractor units in 1999.
Since then Volvo trucks have become the backbone of Dyce Carriers operation, which now includes depots in Fife and Dorset. Nowadays second generation Jason Moir and his wife Candie manage the company, with Volvo trucks accounting for around 80 per cent of the fleet, which numbers just under 70 vehicles.
FH-500 Globetrotter XL tractor units in 6×2 pusher axle format are the preferred specification for its general haulage operations and these are complemented by two FH16-750 prime movers, bought to mark the firm’s 40th anniversary in 2013. The latter duo are also deployed on heavy haulage work.
Dyce Carriers has used Volvo Financial Services’ Operating Lease to procure its new trucks since 2011. “The first five Volvo trucks we leased were literally a ‘toe in the water’ to see how it would work from a costing perspective, but now six years down the line, 80 per cent of our fleet is leased,” Jason Moir reported. “Initially we selected a two-year lease period from Volvo, but the norm now is three years, with a few trucks on four years. Volvo has been very fair with us and we’ve found the whole leasing process straightforward. There is also a much-appreciated clarity regarding return vehicle condition,” Jason added.
Despite being located at the opposite side of Aberdeen city, Volvo Trucks’ depot provides Dyce Carriers an excellent, flexible service with the attendant repair and maintenance contracts. “Volvo Aberdeen listens to us and always work with us to resolve issues. We always see both sides of the coin and expect our suppliers to do the same. That equals an effective working partnership,” Jason declared.
One of the new FH-500 tractor units supplied carries special graphics for Scottish professional Motocross racer, Shaun Simpson, a rider who Dyce Carriers have an established sponsorship agreement with. Named ‘Gauldry #24,’ after Shaun’s home town in Fife and racing number, the truck also carries special graphics on each cab side. The Moir family’s long standing connection with Motocross racing, saw Jason win two Scottish championships in the early 1990s, whilst his son Seth is current Scottish Big Wheel 85cc champion, and Tyla his younger son, was third in the Small Wheel 85cc class.
