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 vehicles to transport their own goods, not for hire.

Operators must meet criteria relating to:

  • Financial standing

  • Professional competence

  • Good repute

  • Vehicle maintenance

Failure to comply can lead to suspension or revocation of the licence.

2. Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)

Introduced by the EU and retained in UK law post-Brexit, the Driver CPC is essential for anyone driving professionally. Drivers must:

  • Complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.

  • Carry their CPC card when working.

This ensures drivers are up to date with road safety, fuel efficiency, and legal responsibilities. Companies must maintain records of all driver training to avoid penalties.

3. Tachograph and Drivers’ Hours Rules

The UK enforces strict rules on how many hours a driver can operate without rest. These laws are essential to prevent driver fatigue and ensure road safety.

Key limits include:

  • Maximum daily driving time: 9 hours (can be extended to 10 hours twice a week).

  • Weekly driving limit: 56 hours.

  • Bi-weekly limit: 90 hours over any two consecutive weeks.

  • Rest periods: At least 11 hours daily, which can be reduced to 9 hours three times per week.

Digital tachographs record driving times and rest periods, and companies must regularly download, review, and store this data for a minimum of 12 months.

4. Vehicle Safety and Maintenance

Ensuring vehicles are roadworthy is a core responsibility. Vehicles must pass an annual MOT (for those over 3.5 tonnes, this is known as a Goods Vehicle Test). Additionally:

  • Regular inspections should be scheduled.

  • Daily walkaround checks must be performed by drivers before journeys.

  • Records of all maintenance must be retained and made available upon request.

Neglecting vehicle upkeep not only endangers drivers and others but also risks severe legal and financial penalties.

5. Goods and Load Securing Regulations

Proper loading and securing of goods are legally required under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Unsafe loads can cause accidents and carry serious consequences.

Haulage firms must:

  • Train drivers in safe loading and unloading.

  • Use appropriate securing equipment.

  • Ensure the load does not exceed legal weight limits for the vehicle.

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) routinely inspects vehicles for load compliance.

6. Emissions and Environmental Compliance

Environmental standards have become stricter, especially with Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) being introduced in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Operators must:

  • Ensure vehicles meet Euro 6 emissions standards or pay daily charges.

  • Consider transitioning fleets to alternative fuels like HVO or electric to meet sustainability goals.

  • Comply with the UK’s Road to Zero Strategy.

Fines for non-compliance with emissions zones can be steep and apply per vehicle, per day.

7. Health and Safety Regulations

Haulage companies must also comply with general UK health and safety law under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Employers have a legal obligation to:

  • Conduct risk assessments.

  • Provide personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Train staff in manual handling and other safety procedures.

  • Maintain a written health and safety policy (for companies with 5+ employees).

Workplace safety extends to depots, loading areas, and workshops.

8. Insurance Requirements

Legally, all commercial hauliers must have:

  • Motor insurance for each vehicle.

  • Goods in transit insurance to protect client cargo.

  • Employer’s liability insurance (minimum £5 million cover if hiring staff).

  • Public liability insurance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended.

Maintaining valid and adequate insurance is not just good practice—it’s a legal and commercial necessity.

9. Brexit and International Haulage

Since Brexit, UK hauliers operating in the EU must now:

  • Hold a UK Licence for the Community.

  • Register journeys using the EU portal.

  • Carry a goods movement reference (GMR) and other customs documentation.

Cabotage rules (how many deliveries UK firms can make in the EU) are now stricter, and staying compliant means staying competitive.

Summary

Operating a haulage company in the UK is no small feat. The legal framework is extensive, covering everything from vehicle condition and emissions to driver welfare and international documentation. Staying compliant isn't just about avoiding penalties—it’s about running a professional, responsible, and successful operation.

Here’s a quick recap of key regulations:

  • Operator’s Licence (O-licence)

  • Driver CPC and periodic training

  • Tachograph and drivers’ hours rules

  • Vehicle safety inspections and MOT

  • Load securing and road safety compliance

  • Emissions and environmental requirements

  • Workplace health and safety laws

  • Mandatory insurance coverage

  • International haulage compliance post-Brexit

By staying up to date and maintaining rigorous internal systems, UK haulage companies can meet their regulatory responsibilities while building trust with clients and ensuring long-term success.

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