The trade deal struck between the UK and the EU has been cautiously welcomed by truckers and operators.
For many people, any sort of agreement was better than the ‘no deal’ option. But there will still be new processes and procedures for drivers to adhere to.
The two sides will recognise the validity of licences and permits and transit rights are included in the document. As such, Irish trucks can use the UK as a ‘landbridge’ to deliver goods to the EU nations.
But British drivers will be limited to a single drop-off and pick-up when travelling to the EU. Compared to three previously, it’s a big change. It also risks the likes of the concert haulage industry, which relies on multiple deliveries.
“There are, of course, many details to be finalised and confirmed,” admitted the RHA’s head, Richard Burnett. “But UK traders and hauliers, dependent upon trouble-free access to the Irish Republic and continental Europe will still be hit by vast amounts of new paperwork processes and of course border checks.
“We do know there will be no 10% tariff on new lorries, which is a relief,” he added.
Burnett called for a six-month implementation period, as the deal comes close to the end of the year. “The British economy cannot afford for UK and EU hauliers and traders to begin 2021 with an ill-prepared journey into the unknown.”
Logistics UK’s policy director, Elizabeth de Jong, believed the deal was “great news” for the UK economy. “It removes the risk of tariffs being placed on almost every item imported from the EU,” she said.
“We’re still absorbing all the details, but it looks like HGVs will continue to have access to the EU market.”
