Now that small vans are exempt from carriers licensing, I
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would like to start an owner/driver business carrying general goods using a 15 cwt van. Can you please tell me if there might be a call for such a service doing longdistance express deliveries, etc., and also can you give any ideas on how to find work initially?
AAlthough vehicles not exceeding 30cwt
unladen are now freed from carriers' licensing, annual testing of the private car variety is necessary, and Ministry roadside spot checks may be made. As well as the requirement for a high standard of maintenance, drivers of such vehicles are subject to the same hours provisions as heavy goods vehicle drivers which will eventually result in a general maximum of 9 hours per day at the wheel with one 24hour rest period per week. Drivers of light vehicles do not now have to keep statutory records of work done.
You ask whether there will be demand for a long-distance express delivery service. With the 30Cwt relaxation, there may be an influx of small one-man operators. More important, established hauliers will adapt their operations, using high capacity custombuilt, light vehicles and the small man will find it difficult to compete successfully. If a person has a number of local connections, and can be sure of obtaining realistic rates, a sound business might be developed. However, one must remember that most established hauliers, and the , parcels carriers in particular, can often guarantee next. day deliveries, and can also cope with wide fluctuations in traffic offered.
One may of course know of some new manufacturing concern and if this is the case one may grow with the firm. Also rush jobs may be offered by established firmssame-day delivery, 300 miles—which the larger operator is not geared to cover.
Total operating costs for a 15cwt diesel van or pick-up covering 1,000 miles per week approximate to £62. Taking into account establishment and profit margins a gross revenue of £85 would be required to show a satisfactory return on the stated mileage.
Before making a decision one must make sure that sufficient capital is available. A reliable vehicle is essential as it will be the sole source of income.