DMN Group said it is imperative businesses vet their logistics provider before any agreement to move their assets to ensure logistics providers do not overload transporters and are properly insured, have tachographs fitted and the correct operator licences if required.
Nick Chadaway, managing director at DMN Logistics said, “With the pressure to cuts costs, businesses may look for ways of reducing transport costs but employing unlicensed logistics companies or overloading vehicles is a false economy. Businesses must vet their provider of choice carefully, because if involved in an accident, it may void the insurance, leaving businesses out of pocket or in an expensive legal case.
“Reputable vehicle logistics providers must be employed to maintain road safety and reduce any risk to the client, especially as the number of EVs continues to rise, the likelihood of unregulated and unlicensed providers being legally able to transport a load greater than this safely becomes unlikely.”
Chadaway highlighted several examples:
With the lightest bodied 3.5t single-car transporters being restricted to a maximum carrying capacity of circa 1,650 kg, however, most EVs and ICE SUV’s are over this weight. 4x4 dual-purpose vehicles with a single-car trailer, require a tachograph as a minimum, however, if the towing vehicle has a manufactures kerb weight greater than 2,040 kg then it will also then require an operator’s licence. Few new dual-cab 4x4s achieve this minimum weight. With the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hi-Lux and SsangYong Musso Double cab all over this weight and with the Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi L200 no longer available to purchase new, the choice of vehicles is very limited if you do not run on an operator’s licence. If a vehicle transporter is over 3.5 GVW, or if towing a trailer that brings the train weight over 3.5t, the vehicle logistics provider needs a goods vehicle operator’s licence and tachograph, while the driver also requires a C1 driver’s licence and a vocational driver CPC.“Fleet managers must become aware of the requirements needed to obtain an operator’s license so that they are better equipped to make an informed decision when choosing a reputable logistics company.
“To qualify to have an operator’s licence, the provider must apply to the vehicle operator’s licence service and complete a very detailed application, including appointing a transport manager who holds a certificate in professional competency in national/international road haulage operations; have sound financial standing (proof required); have a suitable operating base, ongoing contracted or in-house maintenance and agreed periodic PMI checks. The transport manager and directors of the business must be of good repute.
“Vehicle logistics providers must prove that all of these factors are in place and that there is continual and effective management on both the fleet and drivers. The transport manager also needs to have documented ongoing personal continued development in goods vehicle operations and legislation.
“So, we highly recommend you ask your supplier to confirm the above, as a reputable operator will have all of them in place and the correct level of vehicle insurance.”