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Updates to Roadside Checks, Vehicle Tests & Load Securing

Over the last few months, the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA hereafter) have been updating a number of online guidance and policy documents you can find online. In late April 2022, the DVSA revised it's guidance on how vehicle defects are categorises during roadside checks; with special attention given to load security. This guidance can be found on the Gov.uk website at the following [link]. In light of the current concern with load security; including such details as obligatory seatbelts, ESC…

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The Office of the Traffic Commissioner to stop accepting Paper Applications

In an email circular released today, the Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain & The Department for Infrastructure have stated that as of 1st August 2022, they will no longer process Operator License Applications/Major Variations submitted via paper. Stating that the current, most widely used paper application form is outdated and no longer compatible with their systems; stating that this has lead to a large number of delays in previous application processes. Moving forward, ALL applications will now be handled and processed…

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RHA wants your help calling for a Fuel Duty Rebate

With the three goals of aiding the Haulage Sector with rising operational costs, tackling inflation pressures whilst boosting the economy; the RHA are calling on Rishi Sunak to implement a 15ppl fuel duty rebate for hauliers & coach operators. And you can help, by contacting you local MP, and pushing them to apply pressure on the Treasury. The RHA have created a website to aid this process; following this [link] and input your postcode. It will provide you with your local MP…

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HGV Industry told “Get Your House In Order”

In a recent call, a cross-party group of MP's called for the logistics to "get its house in order", with such problems as suitable overnight facilities for drivers, new training routes & recruitment being the biggest areas called out. The Commons transport select committee has given the industry two years, or calls for the government to bring in new taxes for the more profitable sectors on the industry such as large supermarkets, oil companies and online service giants. Whilst the Road…

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APPG Inquiry on Fuel Duty

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Road Freight & Logistics have recently launched a new inquiry on the impact of fuel duty. As such, they have released a survey to the industry asking for input on such topics as fuel prices, inflation & the UK's current relationship with the EU. The survey is meant to take 5-minutes to be completed and can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/3YP58B2 Additionally, two evidence sessions will be held in May 2022: May 16: UK Hauliers focused …

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Do you operate Light Good Vehicles in Europe? Make sure you have an International Operator License by 21st May 22

From 21 May 2022, you’ll need a standard international goods vehicle operator licence to transport goods for hire or reward in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. This will apply to you if you’re based in England, Scotland or Wales and use: vans or other light goods vehicles (sometimes called ‘light commercial vehicles’) vans towing trailers cars towing trailers The new rules will apply to you if you use: vans with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) over 2,500kg (2.5 tonnes) and…

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The Office of the Traffic Commissioner asks “Are your contact details correct?”

The following is taken from an email circular released by the Office of the Traffic |Commissioner. If you hold an operator’s licence it is important that your email address, telephone number and postal address held by us is correct. If your contact details are not correct you may not receive important correspondence from the traffic commissioner that may affect your operator’s licence. You can read the email in full at this [link].

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National Highways Agency commits £20 Million to Improving Roadside Facilities

The funding, which constitutes part of the National Highways' existing £169 Million "Users & Communities Fund" will specifically target aspects which directly effect HGV drivers; such as security, lighting, shower and toilet facilities, and so on. This now brings the UK Government up to 33 actions to support the sector, as the country tries to address the ongoing HGV Driver shortage. You can read more about the new funding, it's goals and the Governments' plans regarding the HGV sector at this [link].

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Stricter laws concerning mobile phone when driving come into effect 25th Mar 22

As you are (hopefully) aware, it is already illegal to text or make a call (expect in an emergency situation) when using a hand-held device whilst driving. As of 25th March 2022, the law will change to also include taking photos or videos, scrolling through music playlists or play games. People caught doing so will face a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) & up to 6 points on their license. Drivers' will still be able to use 'hands-free' devices; such a phones…

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