EEC permits from the IRFO
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WE NOTED a letter from Mr A. Bogen in Commercial Motor, week ending March 20, 1982, referring to the fact that a number of small firms were reported to be closing down each day because of the fact that they were never given EEC Permits.
It may interest Mr Bogen and employers to note that there is a method of obtaining permits from the International Road Freight Office and that is the use of a reciprocal loading system. This, briefly, works by an individual company providing back-loads for French or German hauliers and in return for every back-load given, subject to certification, of course, a permit is obtainable.
Every new starter has the opportunity to use this system and after proving that they are able to make it work, there is a chance, following an increase in quota, that an allocation of permits is given.
Our own company began this way some four years ago and we still rely on the system to supply the bulk of our permit allocation.
What we would suggest that any individual does before considering any drastic measures is to speak to IRFO, who we have always found to be unfailingly helpful in their attitude to any company wishing to obtain permits.
There is absolutely no need to run illegally or to close your company if you have work available which would enable you to sub-contract a proportion to either a French or German haulier.
The last thing the industry needs at this particular time is a "free for all" throughout Europe, which would only lead to intense competition, the result of which would not benefit our „industry in any way.
We hope that our comments will be able to assist small companies in the same position as ourselves to obtain the necessary information to enable them to operate successfully in Europe.
P. BROWN Chairman Brown, Wharrier Transport Ltd Earlsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.