The latest regulations affecting the UK haulage industry
As of late 2024, several key regulatory updates are impacting the UK haulage industry:
Longer Semi-Trailers (LSTs) on UK Roads
The Department for Transport (DfT) has allowed longer semi-trailers up to 18.55 metres on UK roads to reduce emissions and congestion by optimising load capacity. LSTs, which add 2.05 metres over the standard trailer length, can carry more goods per journey, reducing the number of trips required. While this shift promises efficiency gains, operators must ensure these trailers meet specific turning radius and safety requirements to mitigate risks, especially in urban and narrow spaces.
Companies using LSTs must train drivers accordingly and consider route planning adjustments to comply with the increased length regulations.
Enhanced Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) Requirements
Changes to the Driver CPC, mandatory for all HGV drivers, are being introduced through 2024 and 2025. The updates require drivers to complete more rigorous, continuous professional development (CPD) modules, focusing on new safety protocols, environmental practices, and advanced vehicle technologies. The training curriculum will include updated practices for handling electric and hybrid vehicles and modules on digital safety, such as managing driver assistance systems and automation technologies.
This shift reflects the evolving skillset necessary for drivers as the industry modernises. Operators must ensure drivers complete the required hours, as non-compliance could lead to penalties and operational disruptions.
Clean Air Zones (CAZs) and Emission Regulations
With Clean Air Zones now in effect in cities such as Sheffield, HGVs and other commercial vehicles entering these areas are subject to daily charges unless exempt. For example, HGVs face fees of around GBP50 per day in some zones, while light goods vehicles (LGVs) may pay GBP10 daily.
The initiative is part of the UK's plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Certain exemptions exist for vehicles under long-term finance agreements, and some local authorities offer temporary exemptions or discounts for compliant vehicles. Operators are encouraged to check each city's CAZ rules and keep up-to-date on exemptions to avoid unexpected fees.
Affected companies may consider upgrading their fleet to cleaner models to bypass fees altogether.
Scotland's Pavement Parking Ban
As of early 2024, Scotland has prohibited pavement parking across major urban areas, including Edinburgh. This regulation under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 was enacted to protect pedestrians, particularly those with mobility challenges or using prams. The law now prohibits all vehicles from parking on pavements, with non-compliance resulting in fixed penalties issued by local authorities.
Haulage companies operating in Scotland must be vigilant, especially in residential or high-traffic areas. Parking and unloading strategies may need adjustment in response to this ban, requiring greater coordination with delivery locations that lack dedicated loading bays.
Updated Safety and Vision Standards for Drivers
New considerations for driver vision requirements are underway following a DfT public consultation. The proposed updates, which are still in discussion, focus on expanding vision tests to assess drivers' capabilities under low-light conditions.
Currently, drivers are only required to pass vision tests under "good daylight" conditions. The proposed tests for night vision and low-light performance aim to improve safety, mainly as winter brings darker driving conditions. These changes could affect many HGV drivers, especially older drivers with night vision difficulties.
Should these standards become mandatory, some drivers may need further testing or vision correction to maintain their certifications.
Each of these updates represents a step towards increased safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility in UK haulage.
Staying informed on these regulatory changes is essential for operators, who must often balance compliance with operational demands and potential costs associated with new requirements.