W W W . I S T R A I L . P L PRODUCTS Truck Market in 2024 – report Mine dump truck bodies INDUSTRY PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE Rotating-bogie timber trailer type PL–03 02/2025 (02)
02 Publisher: ISTRAIL Sp. z o.o. ul. PTTK 56 87-400 Golub-Dobrzyń kontakt@istrail.pl Edition and typesetting: Feniks Media Group ul. Balicka 136, 30-149 Kraków Authors: Ewa Koczwara, Piotr Kołaczek, Agnieszka Szmuc, Radosław Urban The magazine uses images from the Getty Images library and from the archives of ISTRAIL sp. z o.o. INDUSTRY 04 Truck Market in 2024 – report 08 Financing the purchase of tractor units and other heavy-duty vehicles 08 04 14 Table of contents PRODUCTS 10 Tipper truck bodies 11 Mine dump truck bodies 12 Semi-Trailer SA-28 PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE 14 Rotating-bogie timber trailer type PL-03
03 Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Readers! Welcome to the second edition of ISTRAIL News – a magazine dedicated to professionals in the transport industry. Following the warm reception of our first quarterly issue, we are confident that our readership will continue to grow with each edition. We are committed to providing you with valuable content that supports your daily work and inspires the development of transport enterprises. Each year, the Polish Automotive Industry Association (PZPM) publishes a report on vehicle sales, including heavy-duty vehicles. The latest data from PZPM has served as a foundation for analyzing the current state of the heavy vehicle market in the past year and outlining future prospects. You can find the details in our article „The Heavy Vehicle Market in 2024.” Regardless of the direction in which the transport industry evolves, its foundation will always be tractor units, trailers, semi-trailers, truck bodies, and other heavy vehicles. Expanding or upgrading a transport fleet is a significant investment that requires thorough analysis and substantial financial resources. In this issue, we present an informative guide outlining the most popular financing methods for such investments. One of the most widely used truck body types is the tipper body. Tippers are essential for transporting materials such as sand, gravel, debris, stones, rocks, and aggregates, making them a must-have for companies involved in construction and infrastructure projects. This edition features a detailed presentation of tipper bodies manufactured at ISTRAIL’s production facility in Golub-Dobrzyń. A specialized version of the tipper body is the mining tipper, designed for extreme working conditions and exceptional durability. These tippers are ideal for transporting excavated material, stone, and other heavy loads in mines and quarries. More details can be found on page 11. Another highly versatile vehicle is the SA-28 semi-trailer, available in both two- and three-axle versions. With extensive equipment options, broad customization possibilities, and two specialized variants, this semi-trailer stands out and enjoys great popularity in the industry. In ISTRAIL News, we also highlight our Product of the Issue. This time, it is the PL-03 turntable trailer for timber transport. Further details about this vehicle can be found on pages 14–15. Best regards Dariusz Gębarowski Chief Executive Officer ISTRAIL sp. z o.o. Regardless of the direction in which the transport industry evolves, its foundation will always be tractor units, trailers, semi-trailers, truck bodies, and other heavy vehicles. Expanding or upgrading a transport fleet is a significant investment that requires thorough analysis and substantial financial resources. In this issue, we present an informative guide outlining the most popular financing methods for such investments.
The sale of heavy-duty trucks always reflects the state of the economy. Entrepreneurs are willing to invest when they can be certain that demand for their services remains stable and that the balance between revenue and costs remains at a reasonable level. In dynamic times, when economies respond to geopolitical events, priorities shift dramatically. For many companies, survival in the market becomes the top priority, leading to cost reductions and postponement of crucial investment decisions. For several years, Polish transport companies have found themselves in such a situation. This also applies to entrepreneurs in the construction sector— developers and companies engaged in infrastructure investments. This is reflected in the sales performance of truck manufacturers (both tractor units and chassis for custom bodies), as a large portion of truck bodies are specifically designed for construction applications: dump trucks, trailers for transporting construction machinery, and tipper bodies with compartments for asphalt transport. What does the future hold? A future increase in truck sales can be anticipated due to several factors, including the mandatory Truck Market in 2024 – report 04 INDUSTRY
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting. Regulatory changes aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are moving towards precise identification of all emission sources related to goods and services at every stage—from raw material extraction to final product distribution in retail. Incentives for businesses are embedded within the evaluation system. Companies aiming to improve their ESG reports must make rational choices. For example, when selecting between multiple freight transport offers, a company is likely to choose a provider whose vehicles generate lower emissions. This approach helps improve the company’s ESG score and may enhance its ability to secure attractive financing for investments. The new Euro 7 standard, adopted in the European Union in 2024, regulates not only CO2 emissions but also particulate matter generated by tire wear, brake discs, and pads during braking. Meanwhile, Polish roads still accommodate numerous heavyduty trucks registered before 1993, when the Euro 1 standard was first introduced. The future of electric trucks Regulatory changes in the European Union dictate the timeline for transition. If no modifications occur, by 2035, only electric passenger and light commercial vehicles will be allowed for registration. It is likely that similar restrictions will eventually extend to heavyduty trucks. The Euro 7 standard already mandates a minimum durability for traction batteries, implying that battery-powered trucks are the envisioned longterm solution for transport operators. While these sweeping changes may seem distant, the transformation process is already underway, and its pace is expected to accelerate. Electric trucks will gradually appear on our roads, necessitating new bodywork solutions. In many designs, batteries are installed in ”towers” behind the driver’s cab and in front of the cargo area, altering the spatial arrangement of the vehicle. Acknowledging these evolving needs, legal regulations are being revised to allow an increase in GVW to 44 tons. Vehicle length may 05 INDUSTRY At ISTRAIL, we incorporate advanced design solutions in our trailers and semi- -trailers to optimize fuel consumption, reduce operational costs, and lower carbon footprints. This is made possible through our extensive experience, high- -quality components from reputable manufacturers, and premium-grade materials.
06 INDUSTRY also be extended to ensure battery installation does not compromise the chassis or tractor’s functionality. Market prospects Another (hopefully imminent) factor that could stimulate road transport growth is the conclusion of the war in Ukraine. The country’s transition into a reconstruction phase will drive a sharp rise in demand for goods transportation across its borders. If at least some of this activity is supported by international agreements and guarantees, it A future increase in truck sales can be anticipated due to several factors, including the mandatory ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting. Regulatory changes aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are moving towards precise identification of all emission sources related to goods and services at every stage — from raw material extraction to final product distribution in retail. Incentives for businesses are embedded within the evaluation system. Companies aiming to improve their ESG reports must make rational choices. For example, when selecting between multiple freight transport offers, a company is likely to choose a provider whose vehicles generate lower emissions. This approach helps improve the company’s ESG score and may enhance its ability to secure attractive financing for investments.
07 INDUSTRY could encourage transport companies to invest in fleet expansion. Trucks are not replaced frequently, and when they are, fleet operators hope that by equipped with durable, functional and safe bodywork. At ISTRAIL, we manufacture precisely such truck bodies. Each year, the Polish Automotive Industry Association (PZPM) publishes a report containing sales data for commercial vehicles. The report is based on new vehicle registration statistics obtained from the Central Register of Vehicles and Drivers. In 2024, 30,385 new commercial vehicles with a GVW above 3.5 tons were registered. This included 28,084 heavy-duty trucks, 2,301 buses, 19,220 tractor unitsand 1,391 specialpurpose vehicles. While sales figures are slightly lower than in 2023, they align with pre-pandemic levels, potentially signaling market stabilization following fluctuations caused first by COVID-19 and then by a postpandemic surge in demand. Industries sought to compensate for delays caused by lockdowns and heightened sanitary regulations. Production resumed in factories that had experienced mandatory shutdowns. Large volumes of semifinished goods, which had been stored in local warehouses awaiting further processing or final assembly, needed to be transported between facilities. The PZPM report does not account for the reregistration of vehicles by subsequent owners, meaning it does not fully capture the dynamics of the market for vehicles over 3.5 tons GVW. Additional insights emerge when analyzing trailer and semi-trailer sales statistics. In 2024, a total of 82,555 trailers and semi-trailers of all types were registered, including 66,853 trailers and 15,702 semi-trailers. A decline in semi-trailer sales provides insights into the condition of long-haul transport companies, for whom semi-trailers are the primary transport asset. An intriguing observation is the inverse relationship between tractor unit and semi-trailer sales: more tractor units were registered than other heavy-duty trucks, while fewer semitrailers were sold compared to other trailers. This trend may indicate a greater willingness to purchase used semi-trailers but a reluctance to invest in used tractor units. It could also be attributed to the fact that tractor units must meet stringent emissions regulations, making ownership of a newer, higher-standard tractor unit beneficial in terms of lower road toll costs. For trailers and semitrailers, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are less directly impacted, but they still play a role. Factors such as rolling resistance (which can be minimized by liftable axles) and structural details like curb weight — dependent on axle types, longitudinal beam construction and reinforcements — affect operational efficiency. At ISTRAIL, we incorporate advanced design solutions in our trailers and semi-trailers to optimize fuel consumption, reduce operational costs and lower carbon footprints. This is made possible through our extensive experience, high-quality components from reputable manufacturers and premium-grade materials. the end of their service life, the vehicles will retain enough residual value to be resold, offsetting part of the cost of acquiring new units. This goal is easier to achieve when vehicles are Heavy-Duty Vehicles in 2024 – PZPM Report
08 newly established transport companies, often offering operating leases. When evaluating potential financing options, it is essential to consider the total cost of financing and the type of security required. For new businesses, leasing costs may be slightly higher than for companies with a long-standing positive credit history, but they should not jeopardize the financial stability of a young enterprise. Leasing Leasing is the most common method of financing the purchase of heavy-duty vehicles and is generally available in two main forms: operating lease and finance lease. Lease agreements typically range from two to five years. An operating lease offers several advantages for both parties to the contract. The vehicle remains the property of the leasing fund until all payments are completed, providing solid collateral for the leasing company and facilitating the approval process. For the lessee, one key benefit is that lease payments are fully deductible as business expenses (without the need to record the vehicle as a fixed asset or make depreciation deductions). At the end of the lease term, INDUSTRY Financing the purchase of tractor units and other heavy-duty vehicles Purchasing tractor units or other heavy-duty vehicles is a significant expense for transport companies, making it a decision that should be well thought out and thoroughly analyzed. There are multiple financing options available for such investments, and selecting the optimal one is not always straightforward. It is therefore worth reviewing the most common methods of fleet investment financing in the transport industry. The choice of financing depends on various factors, including: the company’s financial performance, the adopted business model, the planned direction of the company’s development, the tax strategy, the risk management approach, the current and target fleet size, brand preference. Making financing decisions is particularly challenging at the start of a company’s operations, when acquiring the first vehicle is necessary—especially if the business is newly established, has no prior financial history, and cannot demonstrate revenue sufficient to cover lease payments or loan installments. There are financing institutions that specialize in leasing for
the vehicle can either be purchased for a pre-agreed residual value or returned to the leasing company in exchange for a new one. In a finance lease, the vehicle also remains the property of the lessor until the final payment is made, at which point ownership is transferred to the lessee. The lease installment consists of two components: principal and interest. The lessee is responsible for depreciation and can deduct interest as a business expense. VAT on both the principal and interest is settled in full at the beginning of the lease, upon vehicle handover. In certain cases, this upfront VAT settlement may influence the financial attractiveness of this leasing type. Leasing loan A leasing loan is a compelling option for companies that prefer to own the vehicle from the outset. This financing method covers the net purchase value of the vehicle as per the invoice, with the accrued interest classified as a tax-deductible expense. The lessee (borrower) is responsible for the asset’s depreciation. Alternative financing methods A bank loan is another viable financing method, typically secured by the vehicle itself or other company assets. Loan terms vary based on the borrower’s financial standing and creditworthiness. Long-term rental is an attractive option for companies that prefer a fixed monthly payment while avoiding expenses related to repairs, routine maintenance, and administrative tasks. In this arrangement, the vehicle remains the property of the rental company, which handles all formalities, including insurance. The transport company effectively pays for continuous access to a fully operational and insured vehicle. Many rental agreements include comprehensive fleet management services, as well as access to additional vehicles during peak operational periods. This setup allows transport companies to focus on driver employment, work-hour management, securing contracts, and ensuring contract execution. Manufacturer financing Another option is financing provided by a vehicle manufacturer’s affiliated financial institution or bank. This solution is particularly attractive for transport operators looking to build a fleet based on a specific brand. Manufacturer financing programs are often tailored to the operating characteristics of the vehicles and typical usage scenarios. Many manufacturers also offer trade-in options, allowing businesses to exchange used vehicles for new ones as part of the financing deal. From the manufacturer’s perspective, financial services are a core part of their business model. These services not only generate additional revenue but also drive vehicle sales, often resulting in highly competitive financing offers with low interest rates. It is crucial to evaluate these offers holistically, considering not only the financing terms but also the vehicle’s total cost in the desired configuration. Well-structured negotiations can be mutually beneficial for both parties. Additional financial safeguards Any financing method works well when the company operates smoothly, contracts are secured consistently and cash flow remains stable. However, a secure financing structure should also account for unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, breakdowns, or economic downturns. When selecting a financing offer, it is essential to review contractual terms regarding: • payment deferrals, • lease transfer options (enabling another business to assume the vehicle and lease obligations), • early termination terms, including additional fees, vehicle return conditions, residual value assessments, and outstanding debt settlements. Legal considerations The purchase or leasing contract for tractor units (especially when acquiring multiple vehicles) can be standardized across all clients or individually negotiated. In the latter case, the agreement may include customized terms tailored to the needs of both parties. Proper due diligence and contract analysis are crucial to ensuring a favorable financing arrangement aligned with the company’s operational and financial strategy. 09 INDUSTRY
10 Our tipper truck bodies, available on three- and four-axle chassis, are the ideal solution for transporting sand, gravel, rubble, stones, rocks, and aggregates. Thanks to the use of highstrength wear-resistant steel HB 450 or HB 500, our cargo boxes are exceptionally durable and optimally adapted to the vehicle’s weight. bodies Tipper truck OUR PRODUCTS Key features of ISTRAIL tipper bodies High-quality steel The cargo box structure is made of HB 450 or HB 500 wear-resistant steel, ensuring exceptional durability and high abrasion resistance. Rear tailgate options Our tipper bodies can be equipped with an upper rear tailgate, available in hinged or hydraulically lifted versions, as well as a 400 mm automatic lower flap, operated hydraulically. Hydraulic system The tipping system, based on NUMMI PRO cylinders (option for underbody or front-mounted cylinder), is designed to minimize the tipping cycle time for maximum efficiency. Customizable oil tank and pump parameters The oil tank capacity and pump specifications are precisely selected according to the customer’s individual requirements. SVBG coupling system Each body is equipped with a VBG coupling, enabling a safe and reliable connection with various types of trailers. This feature enhances the versatility and operational flexibility of ISTRAIL vehicles. Chassis equipment options We offer a wide range of chassis customization options, allowing each vehicle to be tailored to the specific needs of the customer. Available chassis equipment options: • parlok-type plastic fenders, made of aluminum or stainless steel, • open chain boxes and lockable toolboxes, mounted on the chassis frame, • load securing points inside the cargo box and external lashing hooks, • pneumatic axle load compensation, • pneumatic coupling operation (Luftservo), • cargo box heating system, • dual exhaust pipes, • metalized floor or full cargo box metalization, • chain hooks and many more.
11 truck bodies Our mine dump truck bodies are designed for operation in harsh conditions. They are available on three-, four-, and five-axle chassis, allowing customization to meet diverse transport requirements and the specific challenges of different terrains. Mine dump OUR PRODUCTS Key features of mine dump truck bodies Robust construction Structures made of wear-resistant steel with a thickness ranging from 10 to 16 mm (HB 450), ensuring high resistance to damage and intensive use. Functional rear gate Choice of opening systems: • hydraulically controlled tailgate enabling fast and precise unloading, • dual-hinged tailgate with a chain opening system – ideal for transporting large and irregular loads. Powerful tipping system A dual tipping cylinder with a 50-ton capacity ensures reliability and smooth operation even under maximum loads. Customizable hydraulic system A hydraulic system tailored to the specific requirements of the customer and the type of work performed, ensuring maximum efficiency. Applications • transport of heavy materials in open-pit mines, • transport of stone, aggregates, and other materials in quarries, • operation in demanding terrain conditions such as mud, snow, or rocky surfaces. These specialized bodies are distinguished by exceptional durability. They are ideally suited for transporting extracted material, stone, and other heavy loads in mines and quarries.
The half-pipe-type cargo body is constructed from wear-resistant HB 450 or HB 500 steel, ensuring high durability while maintaining an optimized tare weight. This, in turn, directly contributes to increased payload capacity. The trailer is designed to operate with three-axle tractor units. The SA-28 semi-trailer is a widely used solution with a broad range of applications. It is available in two versions: a two-axle and a three-axle configuration, suitable for transporting materials such as sand, gravel, debris, stones, rocks, and aggregates. SA-28 Semi-Trailer 12 Specialized variants of the SA-28 semi-trailer • Asphalt transport trailer Equipped with a thermally insulated half-pipe cargo body. • Heavy-duty semi-trailer designed for extreme applications, such as road construction in challenging terrains (e.g., mountainous regions) and tunnel excavation in rock formations. The maximum permissible gross weight (GVW) of this three-axle trailer is 64 tons. Standard equipment of the two-axle semi-trailer • twin wheels, size 295/80 R22.5, with steel or aluminum rims, • mechanical steering system for the second axle (Tridec), ensuring optimal maneuverability. Popular optional equipment • aluminum rims, • underbody vibrator. OUR PRODUCTS
13 Standard equipment of the three-axle semi-trailer • 2-inch kingpin (option to upgrade to a 3.5-inch kingpin), • pneumatic suspension, • SAF axles, • single wheels, size 385/65 R22.5, with steel or aluminum rims, • Wabco braking system with disc brakes, • PVC fenders, • hydraulic system with a front-mounted NUMMI PRO tipping cylinder, optimized to reduce the tipping cycle time, • extendable rear axle assembly, which ensures optimal load distribution on the tractor unit when loaded (while retraction facilitates optimal maneuverability when driving empty). Maximum permissible gross weight of the SA-28 semi-trailer two-axle version 38 tons three-axle version 45 tons OUR PRODUCTS
The PL-03 trailer is available in three-, four-, and five-axle versions and is intended for use with three- and four-axle trucks equipped with timber transport bodies. Available versions This trailer is specifically designed for timber transportation, often carried out in challenging conditions — on uneven and demanding forest terrain. A crucial aspect of its design is achieving the lowest possible unladen weight while maintaining high durability. There is no room for compromise, as each of these characteristics is equally important. type PL-03 Rotating-bogie timber trailer 14 PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE adjustable-length drawbar BPW or ROR axles Permissible Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the PL-03 trailer four-axle version 38 tons three-axle version 30 tons five-axle version 42 tons
15 PRODUCT OF THE ISSUE Popular optional equipment • aluminum rims • hydraulic actuator for stake adjustment • pneumatic belt/chain tensioners for securing cargo • adjustable-length drawbar with pneumatic lock • aluminum air tanks Twin wheels in 265/70 R19.5 size with steel or aluminum rims Wabco braking system with disc brakes PVC mudguards ExTe or Laxo stakes pneumatic suspension
www.istrail.pl www.facebook.com/Istrail.Polska www.linkedin.com/company/istrail Nordre Kullerød 17 3241 Sandefjord tel. +47 35 94 87 50 istrail@istrail.com ISTRAIL AS
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