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…
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 Stating that the current, most widely used paper application form is outdated and no longer compatible with their systems; stating that this has lead to a large number of delays in previous application processes.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…
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…
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].
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].
The following is taken from a letter circular we at TMC Assist will shortly be sending out to our clients, concerning a growing enforcement trend within both the DVSA and Uk Tarrfic Police:
We at TMC Assist have become aware of a growing and shifting trend within both DVSA and Police enforcement regarding manual records and periods of ‘Other Work’, which we feel you should be made aware of.
At a number of recent public inquiries to which TMC Assist have been…
On Saturday, 29th January 2022 the Department for Transport (DfT) updated an existing guidance entitled "Carry out international road haulage". This is ahead of new rules which will effect the transporting of goods through or to Europe that come into effect this year.
This guidance can be read in full at this [link] and covers topics like:
Covid Testing
Applying for licenses and permits
CMR notes
Customs & Document check at port
And many more...
If you are…
The following is taken from an email circular released by the Office of the Traffic Commissioner:
The Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain would like to draw your attention to the information shared by the Department for Transport and the DVSA yesterday.
The EU postings declarations portal (previously referred to as EU posting of drivers portal) is now available to use.
From 2 February, new EU rules mean if you operate loaded goods journeys in and between European Member States (cabotage or cross-trade), you…
As of 29th January 2022, there will be new additions and/or changes to the Highway Code centred around three main points:
A Hierarchy of Road Users is being introduced
A change in priorities regarding pedestrians
Drivers will be required to give priority to cyclists in certain situations
Each other these points is covered in greater detail at this [link].
Under the UK Skill bootcamp system, there are a number of free courses aimed at the haulage industry. The course fall into three categories:
Those new to HGV driving
Those looking to upgrade their existing HGV driver's license
Those returning to the HGV industry
Most courses are flexible, held over 16 weeks and are free to anyone aged 19 and over who lives in England; and is either employed or seeking employment.
The current course centres and their contact…