Regulations Haulage Companies Must Follow in the UK
Running a haulage company in the United Kingdom comes with a hefty set of responsibilities—not only to clients and customers, but also to the government and public safety. The transport and logistics industry is the backbone of the UK economy, but it’s also one of the most highly regulated sectors. From vehicle safety standards and working time directives to licensing and environmental obligations, compliance is not optional. This article will explore the key regulations haulage companies in the UK must follow, helping businesses navigate the legal landscape while optimising operational efficiency. 1. Operator Licensing (O-Licence) All haulage companies operating vehicles over 3.5 tonnes for commercial use must have an Operator’s Licence (O-licence), issued by the Traffic Commissioner . There are three types: Standard National Licence – for operating in the UK. Standard International Licence – for working across UK and Europe. Restricted Licence – for companies using vehicl...