Recently, everything we read has been focused on the pandemic and transport-related issues such as driver shortages and supply issues. Changes to COVID testing requirements, critical supply topics, alterations to documentation – our beleaguered industry has been assailed by a storm of challenges that have added extra demands to already difficult working conditions.

Just when you thought it might be safe to go back in the water, 2022 brings a whole raft of new regulations that the transport industry has to get its collective head around.

February’s new challenge

From 2 February 2022, there are yet more new rules about transporting goods to or through Europe. As part of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, these don’t just impact HGV traffic – they affect cars, trailers and vans too.

The new rules mean that from 2 February, you might need to pre-register some journeys within Europe using an online service – take a look at:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/register-road-haulage-journeys-within-europe-from-2-february-2022

and another for May…

And there’s even more, with effect from 21st May 2022 – affecting transport companies and couriers using vans and trailers over 2.5 tonnes to transport goods in and out of the UK. More succinct advice is available here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/carry-out-international-road-haulage

While we’re still reeling, consulting the internet and getting everything in place for the new regulations, we have to think about making sure our drivers are eligible to drive abroad and that they always carry the right documentation.

Alongside all the things you’d expect – a valid UK driving licence, passport and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card, we have to make sure our drivers carry international driving permits (IDP) for certain countries, as well as healthcare documents.

Cabotage too

And don’t even get us started on cabotage! ‘To help alleviate pressures in the supply chain associated with the current shortage of HGV drivers, from 28 October 2021 until 30 April 2022 the Government temporarily extended limits on road haulage cabotage, which our industry – alongside leading UK trade unions –  always believed could affect the safety of all road users.

The challenges keep coming – but we’re managing to keep goods on the move, too. Next time you’re on the motorway and bemoaning the amount of freight on the roads, remember we might just be carrying something you really need!