Normans Transport Volvo FH16 Crane Truck.

Built for the long haul

Based in the Waikato, Normans Transport operates a fleet of 45 vehicles supporting transport operations across New Zealand. As part of an ongoing fleet replacement programme, the company has taken delivery of a new Volvo FH16 600hp 8×4 Globetrotter, complete with an HMF 5020 K6 crane, installed and integrated by MIMICO.

The project brings together the expertise of MIMICO and Volvo Trucks New Zealand to deliver a complete truck and crane package tailored to the demands of heavy transport operations.

Combining heavy transport with lifting capability

At the centre of the build is a Volvo FH16 600hp 8×4 Globetrotter, equipped with Volvo’s I-Shift transmission and a single-reduction tandem drive axle configuration featuring 23-tonne differentials.

With a gross combination weight (GCW) rating of 70 tonnes and paired with a four-axle Domett flat-deck trailer, the truck provides the heavy transport capability required for Normans Transport’s nationwide operations.

Mounted behind the cab is an HMF 5020 K6 crane, offering a maximum lifting capacity of 9,510kg and a hydraulic reach of up to 16.7 metres.

The crane allows the truck to support both the transportation and lifting of loads, providing greater flexibility when working across sites where loading, unloading or positioning equipment is required.

A variable-flow hydraulic system supports crane operation, while the 6,150mm deck provides space for transporting materials and equipment.

A complete turnkey build by MIMICO

Rather than treating the truck body, crane and hydraulic systems as separate components, the project was delivered as a complete turnkey build through MIMICO’s in-house team.

The work covered truck and body integration, installation of the HMF 5020 K6 crane, hydraulic system setup, controls integration and final finishing.

Bringing these elements together under one build process allows the truck, crane and associated systems to be configured as an integrated package, with consideration given to the practical requirements of the operator and the work the vehicle will undertake.

The completed unit demonstrates MIMICO’s capability beyond crane supply, providing customers with a fully integrated truck and crane build ready to enter service.

Designed for life on the road

With the new truck set to operate throughout New Zealand, driver comfort was another consideration.

Experienced Normans Transport driver Wayne will take the wheel of the new FH16, which features Volvo’s Globetrotter cab with leather trim, LED headlights, a 33-litre fridge, television and microwave.

For a driver spending extended periods travelling between jobs, these features provide a more comfortable working environment and practical facilities while away from base.

Supporting the next chapter of the Normans Transport fleet

Replacing an older vehicle in the company’s 45-strong fleet, the new Volvo and HMF combination brings together modern heavy transport capability, hydraulic lifting functionality and the practical requirements of nationwide operations.

The completed build reflects the importance of matching the right truck, crane and body configuration to the work it needs to perform, backed by the technical expertise required to bring the package together.

Build specifications

MIMICO thanks Normans Transport for the opportunity to deliver this build and Volvo Trucks New Zealand for its involvement in the project.