Following Britain’s departure from the EU, haulage owners around the UK have raised concerns about the effects of Brexit. Many are expecting more red tape for deliveries which head through Dover. New rules and regulations are likely to have quite a significant impact on hauliers, commercial fleets as well as individual truck drivers.
What to expect as a truck driver
After Brexit, the EU will no longer recognise UK driving licences. British truck drivers who wish to drive in Europe may end up requiring new licences and vehicle registration certificates. This is bound to be a problem especially for commercial vehicles that cross the border at Dover. If the UK and the EU don’t find a solution to ease the situation, the UK Government has suggested to the EU the concept of truck drivers acquiring a driving permit.
Lorry checks at Dover
The majority of the UK’s largest hauliers and self-employed truck drivers have called on the Government to minimise any red tape. Although the current Transport Secretary has stated there will be no hard border, there are fears from drivers that each lorry will have to undergo at least a two-minute check. Depending on how trade negotiations pan out with the EU, drivers expect to encounter even more delays having to deal with new permits, paperwork and registration required to travel.
Potential queues at Dover
According to recent statistics truck traffic at Dover has increased by 30% in the last five years. On average there are about 10,000 trucks driving in and out of the port every day. This makes the need for free-flowing traffic even more of a talking point in any Brexit negotiations. Without a compromise on both sides, transport experts have predicted there could be 30-mile long truck tailbacks back to London, a frightening thought. Only time will tell!
