ALG: Abnormal Loads Group Update

ALG: Abnormal Loads Group – Update

We continue to hold our monthly ALG: Abnormal Loads Group calls and we're making progress on multiple issues operators are experiencing with police forces handling abnormal load movements inconsistently.

Firms report that some police forces are insisting that officers escort abnormal loads – with operators charged – even if they don’t need them. We’re also hearing that some forces are imposing blanket embargoes on moving abnormal loads, or setting their own timeframes for firms to notify officers of a movement.

Independent economic research by the CEBR has found that delays in the transport of loads pose significant financial implications for industries reliant on timely deliveries with estimated annual impacts of up to £1.2 billion over a 10-year period.

We have built good relationships with the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and we are working with them on updating outdated police guidance on how forces should support abnormal loads movements. This is to ensure that forces apply rules consistently so that operators have the certainty they need to move loads efficiently and reduce unnecessary costs and bureaucracy.

We’re hopeful the NPCC will publish this guidance to police forces by the end of the year.

In the meantime we will shortly issue industry guidance for operators to help them in their conversations with police on moving abnormal loads.