What has a No-Deal Brexit Meant for Fleets? Logistics Experts Advise

Since the UK exited the EU earlier this year, there has been much speculation around what impact this will have on fleets and the logistics industry. The implications of Brexit are changing so fast and could spin off in so many different directions at any time, that it is almost impossible to know the short- and long-term implications.

However, for those working in logistics, it is important to be aware of the areas that have changed since our departure from the EU, and how this may impact day to day work.

Here, logistics experts, Driver Hire, provide pointers to some of the key considerations for hauliers and commercial drivers when moving goods from Great Britain to Europe.

Driver Documents, Licences and Permit Rules

Despite travel restrictions for the general public, UK operators can still undertake unlimited journeys to, from and through the EU, providing they have the correct licence, insurance and documentation.

Depending on the destination and reasoning, different documents will be required, and many requirements have changed since the pandemic, so it is important for drivers and companies to enquire beforehand. Some of the key documents to be aware of are Motor Insurance Green Card, ECMT Permit, Operator Licence, Vehicle Registration and Insurance Documents, GB Sticker and all relevant licences.

If the nature of your operation means you need an ECMT permit, note that these are only available in limited numbers each year and it is no longer possible to apply for an annual ECMT permit for 2021. However short term (30-day) permits may be available, by contacting DVSA.

For many fleets, the changes in documentation and not providing the correct information is causing huge delays, and in some cases, can lead to penalties from customs which in turn affects businesses directly.

Increased Queues and Waiting Time at European Boarders

The implications of Brexit on customs and the control of lorry movements could mean increased delays at European borders like Dover. If customs checks are put in place for each vehicle crossing the border, the repercussions will be noticeable. Around 10,000 trucks pass through the Dover Strait every day and with each check taking an average of about 45 minutes to process on either side of the channel, it will cause both delays and queues. Logistics companies and their drivers should work potential delays into travel times so as to not fall behind schedule.

Driver CPC Training

Although the Driver CPC was introduced in response to an EU Directive whilst the UK was an EU member, the Government and DVSA have made it clear that Driver CPC is here to stay. Its objectives – for example, raising standards, supporting road safety and delivering ongoing professional development for drivers – remain just as important outside the EU as they were inside.

In general, post-Brexit, the aim is to maintain equal or higher standards under UK law as existed in EU law. And of course, any driver who drives professionally in the EU will still need the Driver CPC. Over time it is possible that the exact implementation of Driver CPC could change, but for now, it is very much business as usual.

Covid Testing for Hauliers

Hauliers and drivers arriving in England from abroad will need to take a Covid-19 test, providing they are staying for longer than two days. Depending how long drivers are required to stay, a further test will need to be taken three days later and for every three days following arrival. These rules apply to both drivers and crews of HGVs, vans, and other light goods vehicles, whether they are UK-based or non-UK-based. Exemptions are made if you are staying in England for less than two days or if you are traveling from a Common Travel Area (CTA) country, such as UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

It is crucial to follow these guidelines as, if a driver doesn’t have proof of a negative test, there is a fine up to £2,000.

There are no current requirements for drivers entering the EU from the UK to show proof they have tested negative for Covid-19, but again this situation is constantly changing so you should check the latest Government advice online before travelling.

Shift in Staffing Levels

Leaving the EU has impacted the staffing levels of most logistics companies, one way or another. New guidelines mean there is less access to European staff with 15% stating they have already had to make redundancies1. Both European and UK workers will be required to assess their documentation and where necessary, apply for updated or Brexit-friendly versions. This will have a knock on effect of staffing levels for businesses, meaning they may have to adjust their staffing levels accordingly, and consider working with a quality recruitment agency to deliver the staffing flexibility they need.

Monitor Government Guidance

Because the situation is still extremely fluid, the key piece of advice is to check back regularly to the Government’s own official guidance, which can be found on the Government website.