Understanding Haulage Rules and Regulations

Those drivers who've been working in the haulage industry for any length of time will undoubtedly appreciate the viability of finding work via online freight exchange networks. Securing these types of haulage contracts may entail the delivery of everything from industrial items to fresh produce, and enable drivers to earn substantial amounts of money. However, there is a good deal of legislation regarding the transportation of items to different countries and any driver this concerns should be aware of it.

Specific Legal Requirements

Lorry drivers thinking of undertaking international contracts via a freight exchange might be deterred by the necessity of compliance with stringent laws. However, they may be encouraged to hear that the license applications take little time to process. That legal documentation can also be provided as evidence of the right to travel through various European countries. Drivers keen to earn good money should also consider registering for a certificate for the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road. They will then be able to acquire jobs involving the transportation of fireworks, heavy-duty machinery and hazardous chemicals, which are often very lucrative.

Registering For a Community License

Professional delivery workers who undertake specialist work in the EU must also possess a community license. This essential piece of documentation may be acquired free of charge from the Central Licensing Office. Drivers must keep the license to hand at all times in case they need to verify the right to enter different European countries. They are also required to register for an updated version of the license every five years. Those who fail to comply with this rule may have difficulty completing delivery duties in Europe.

Important Driving Qualifications

Those drivers who want to take on making deliveries of goods weighing more than 3.5 tonnes must file applications for certain authorisations and permits. It is necessary to acquire a Standard International Operator's License before carrying out this kind of work in the EU and EEA that may be acquired via a freight exchange. However, be warned: the motoring authorities will refuse to grant this license to drivers who aren't in possession of the Certificate of Professional Competence, which is awarded to hauliers who've been granted acquired rights or passed the mandatory motoring tests. Hauliers must undertake a driving course every five years in order to retain their Certificate of Professional Competence.

Delivering To Countries Outside The EU

Drivers who acquire contracts involving journeys to countries outside the EU must comply with other strict rules too. It is necessary to obtain a "bilateral contract", as verification of the right to visit two different countries. However, drivers who plan on undertaking extensive Continental trips must apply for "multi-lateral permits". These agreements act as proof of the right to enter countries such as Georgia, Belarus and Turkey. However, some foreign authorities set their own rules regarding border control. Drivers who are in any doubt are advised to carry out comprehensive research and find out their rights before agreeing to any international contracts via a freight exchange.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for haulage work in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.