Government launches Brexit handbook for hauliers

The RHA has welcomed the publication of a handbook for hauliers to help prepare them for the end of the transition period in just 31 days’ time.

The government has faced criticism from the haulage industry for a lack of clarity and information about the systems required to ensure trade flows smoothly in January when the UK leaves the European Union.

Information and advice sites have now been set up across the country, which provide assistance on how to apply for the documents needed to travel to and from the EU.

Richard Burnett, RHA chief executive, said international hauliers needed all the help and advice they could get: “The five pilot sites were launched just two weeks ago and they have already helped almost 7000 visiting hauliers with 100s taking part in one-to-one training on the new processes,” he said.

“Long before the prospect of Brexit became a reality, we said that it would work as long as every detail was clearly communicated at each stage of the negotiations.

“That didn’t happen and as an industry there is still not enough clarity as regards the future. However, these information sites are an excellent opportunity for the industry and we will do all we can to maximise their use.”

Last week, Logistics UK told MPs there had been significant delays in the publication of the hauliers' handbook, which was intended to give clear, vital guidance to drivers of all relevant nationalities and hence minimise the length of queues at ports.