Abnormal Loads – latest on our campaigning

We collectively convened a working group early last year after operators reported inconsistencies and challenges with abnormal loads enforcement.

The group consists of the Heavy Transport Association, National Highways, Backhouse Jones Solicitors, National Caravan Council, Park Dean Resorts, Construction & Plant Association, National Farmers Union, Hiab, Ainscough Crane Hire, along with ourselves and other key operators within the industry.

Hauliers have told us that inconsistency of enforcement increases bureaucracy and costs, and the knock-on effect can be felt in the wider economy, with projects getting delayed and potentially postponed.

As a result, we have established strong relationships with the police, including senior officers from the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), along with a number of forces.

We are all clear that safety is paramount on our roads, and our collective aim is to ensure that firms have the clarity and certainty they need to be able to move their customers’ goods efficiently and without additional bureaucracy.

We recognise that the forces have a difficult job to do, and we know that abnormal loads are a complex field requiring specialist knowledge, experience, and consideration.

Inconsistency can make it difficult for hauliers and their customers to find real-time, realistic solutions.

The NPCC is working with the industry on a project to update the national guidance to reinforce their efforts to increase knowledge of the rules and improve cross-force consistency. We will continue to work together to share ideas, understand concerns, and explore opportunities to benefit policing and operators.

Working together with other stakeholders has given this campaign different perspectives, inputs, and impetus than if any of us had tried to tackle this alone. It shows the value of collaboration and engagement as we strive to make sure operators have the confidence and clarity they need.

In the meantime, we’re conducting an economic impact assessment so that we can articulate the cumulative effect these issues are having on our industry and beyond.

We will continue to update on our progress; your comments and thoughts are welcome.

You can read about how West Midlands Police are reducing abnormal load bureaucracy thanks to RHA campaigning HERE.