/ am considering buying a lorry, prob
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ably of 16-ton g.v.w. to start in general haulage as an owner-driver. Could you give me some advice on how to obtain a contract and also the type of licence required? Do I first obtain a contract and then a licence or vice-versa?
AAs the law stands at present you will find it extremely difficult to enter general haulage unless you are in a position to purchase the business of an existing haulier. If existing vehicles are purchased it must be understood that the A licence cannot be transferred or assigned (R.T.A. section 179) (1). The new owner must apply for the issue of the licences in his own name, the normal application procedure being followed. However, the fact that existing licences have been
surrendered will greatly assist a grant.
You mention obtaining a contract. General hauliers rarely rely on long-term agreement with their customers, the relationship normally depending on service, rates. etc. However, if a firm guarantees you work, you might consider entering into a contract for a minimum of one year. the vehicle(s) being placed at the customer's exclusive disposal. Providing that you can satisfy the Licensing Authority as to the existence, and required terms, of the contract, and providing that you can also satisfy him as to your previous haulage conduct and the rate level quoted the licence will be granted as of right.
The Transport Bill proposes modification of the existing licensing system, a revised form of quantity licensing being introduced for vehicles over 16-ton gross. and quality licensing covering vehicles up to that gross weight, which will enable operators to carry for anyone, over any distance. No fixed time has been given for the introduction of the new system but to obtain a licence you will have to satisfy the Authority: (a) as to your maintenance and supervisory arrangements, lb) as to your financial resources. You will also need a "manager's licence" issued by the Licensing Authority, the terms of which, and qualifications for, are still being thrashed out.
A few words of warning. Even if you wait until the present licensing arrangements are changed, haulage will still be a difficult business if you commence without adequate financial reserves. Under the Ministry's Testing and Plating Regulations vehicles will have to be maintained to increasingly higher standards. Furthermore working over the odds will jeopardize your manager's licence. Operating costs will doubtless continue to rise, and remember: if your single vehicle proves unreliable your income will be unreliable also.