Light work
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• Most HGV operators complain about cowboys cutting their rates. But does anyone stop to think about light haulage operators?
When we put in a tender for a job or contract, for example a night run for a few hours, Builder Stan will cut the rate knowing full well that his 35cwt vehicle has been paid for through his building trade work. Also if he has a few slack days he will sub-contract long-distance runs from haulage contractors and cut. the rate to ribbons — leaving us small, genuine operators to pick up the pieces.
We are a six-year-old family-run business operating four 35cwt vans, two with box trailers, which means that we have to use tachographs and comply with the drivers hours regulations.
Although we do not need to we service our vans monthly and inspect them every six weeks; some of our competitors only have their vehicles serviced when they are running rough.
So the next time HGV operators are having a moan, spare a thought for the many genuine light haulage contractors.
M Thornber
Heaton, Bolton, Lancs.
It is illegal for a builders' merchant to run for hire or reward unless it has a standard Operator's Licence Ed.