Arrow Transport has successfully completed a trial of an A-triple road train operating in and around the Port of Brisbane, marking a first for container movements at the port.
The trial focused on transporting both full and empty containers between key port partners in a single movement, with the A-triple combination capable of moving six 20-foot containers, or three 40-foot containers, at a time. According to Arrow Transport, the configuration reduces the number of prime movers required for the task while improving overall efficiency.
The A-triple was powered by a road-train-rated Mercedes-Benz Actros 2653, equipped with a high-efficiency 13-litre engine producing 530hp and a 12-speed automated manual transmission, towing Vawdrey skel trailers. The combination was used to demonstrate how higher-productivity vehicles can operate safely within a port environment while delivering tangible productivity benefits.
Arrow Transport Queensland State Manager Jason Gadd said the trial highlighted the potential for innovative vehicle combinations to support the port supply chain.
“This is a groundbreaking initiative we’ve developed to revolutionise efficiency across the port supply chain,” Gadd said. “It’s an amazing project.”
He added that the use of an A-triple configuration helped reduce congestion while supporting safer and more reliable operations.
“The trial showed how innovative high-productivity solutions can benefit the supply chain and the community,” Gadd said.
Arrow Transport acknowledged the support of the Port of Brisbane, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and York Engineering in enabling the trial to proceed. The company said the project aligns with its broader goal of “moving more with less” by improving productivity while reducing its operational footprint.
