This Week in Freight - 8th November
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Welcome to This Week in Freight, your go-to source for the latest haulage and road freight news and advice in the UK.
Every Friday, the team at Haulage Exchange curate the week's top stories affecting fleet managers, operators, and drivers, keeping you informed on industry trends, updates, and key developments.
To view previous editions, check out our Freight Focus blog on Haulage Exchange.
?? Fuel prices dropped, but so did transport prices
TEG - Logistics Technology 's October Road Transport Index report is out:
What might the Budget mean for transportation? What’s “Vibecession” and why does it matter? What does transport expert Kirsten Tisdale think?
?? Lorry drivers aren't happy with motorway services
A Transport Focus survey of 7,000 UK lorry drivers has found that they're still struggling with poor rest facilities, with fewer than 40% satisfied with stopping options.
Many end up in laybys or industrial estates, lacking basics like toilets and security—a tough reality in a sector facing a 24% driver vacancy gap.
Thankfully, industry leaders and government officials are rallying for improvements. With ￡43.5 million already pledged to upgrade truck stops, the goal is to make lorry drivers feel more welcome (and well-rested) on the road!
?? Should you get FORS-accredited?
Keeping your fleet safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly isn’t just good practice—it’s becoming a growing demand from customers and industry regulators.
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This is where the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) accreditation can make all the difference.
?? Electric vans might be losing their spark
Demand for fully electric vans made a surprising comeback in October, jumping by 61.8%—the first boost in five months.
However, new registrations of zero-emission vans are down 7.1% compared to last year. Heavier electric vans are feeling the pinch even more, with sales down 38.7% year-to-date.
The biggest roadblock is charging infrastructure tailored to vans - there just aren't enough public chargers available along major freight lanes.
Meanwhile, SMMT is urging the Government to rethink new tax policies on double-cab pick-ups, warning it could weigh heavily on key industries.
?? Are you prepared for a roadside inspection?
A DVSA roadside inspection can happen at any time, and could mean costly fines and delays if your fleet isn’t ready.
From vehicle maintenance to driver documentation, we’ve broken down the key steps to prepare for DVSA roadside inspections.
Enjoyed this update? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
And if you found it useful, share it with your logistics colleagues and connections to keep everyone in the loop.
For fleets still on the fence about EVs, what’s holding you back? Is it cost, range, or the availability of charging points?
Lower fuel prices are a welcome relief - but do you think it’s enough to combat other rising costs? How are you managing costs in your fleet?