Longer semi-trailer licence allocation changes should improve take-up 18 September 2013

The government has changed the allocation process for operator permits to run longer semi-trailers under its 10-year freight haulage trial.

The permits allow operators to run articulated trucks-trailer combinations up to 2m longer than standard vehicles, giving an equivalent deck space to standard drawbar (rigid truck and trailer) combinations.

The changes now open-up the allocation process to all operators ahead of the 'use it or lose it' deadline of 31 December 2013. Apart from changing the proof of vehicle purchase timescale and requirements, they also allow existing trial operators to change the length of trailers between the 14.6m and 15.65m variants, while all operators are also free to apply for more trailers.

Making the announcement, transport minister Stephen Hammond said that the new process will offer operators who were unsuccessful first time round the opportunity to reapply – and existing longer semi-trailer permit holders to apply for additional permits without having to wait until the unused allocations are returned into the allocation pot.

As Andy Mair, FTA's head of engineering, broadly welcomes the outcome: "FTA is a supporter of the use of longer semi-trailers, as there are significant environmental and efficiency benefits from these vehicles," he says.

"But FTA has always stated that it is not a vehicle for all sectors and will only be viable on journeys where the goods carried are high volume, low weight, as vehicle fill can be improved," he continues.

Take up of longer semi-trailer permits has been relatively low, with the majority of trailers currently in service being of the longer 15.65m length. However, a recent survey of FTA members who have permits demonstrated that the appetite among operators for additional longer vehicles is very strong.

More than three quarters (78%) of respondents said they would reapply for permits should any surplus be reallocated; 82% would apply for additional allocations if the current 1,800 vehicle limit was extended; and of those operators who would apply for additional allocations, most would again go for the 15.65m variant.

"The revised re-allocation process will allow those operators who can put these trailers into use on work for which they are suitable, to obtain permits in a more timely manner than waiting for unused allocations to be made available," states Mair.

But he adds: "Comments from members suggest that in many cases there are practical issues that need addressing before longer semi-trailers can fulfil their potential

"Some of these issues are quite challenging – for example, customers may need to make changes to operating practices, or even premises, to accommodate the vehicles.

"Unless there are many such vehicles the business case of making such changes simply won't stack up."

Author
Brfian Tinham

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