Give public the facts and they support us
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The public, often considered an enemy of the haulage industry, could in fact be its strongest ally, according to a Lex Transfleet survey. Once the benefits of some of the industry's key policy drives, such as higher weights and night-time driving, are explained, consumers tend to support them.
Lex asked more than 1,500 people for their views on the 44tonne general haulage limit. Initially 40% were against the move with 35% undecided. But when it was explained that the increase would lead to fewer trucks on the road, more than 6000 supported the idea.
Similarly, when price consequences were made clear, consumers opposed restrictions on HGV journeys. Nearly 80% of consumers would support an increase in night-time deliveries if it led to cheaper prices in the shops. This is in line with the 90% of consumers who support more night-time deliveries if it reduces congestion during the day.
The Freight Transport Association helped produce the report, which was designed to provide statistics for the Government's Industry Forum. FTA director-general David Green says: "The public have been largely unaware of the many operating restrictions and price penalties placed on our industry, which until this report had given rise to the erroneous view that Government policy is supported. People have a complete change of heart when they hear the real facts."