Higher entry standards for haulage
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• Every new entrant into the road haulage industry intending to use only one vehicle will need to convince his local Traffic Commissioners that he has at least 9,000 Euros (£6,390) before being granted an Operator's Licence.
The European Commission has announced its long awaited decision on minimum panEuropean entry levels to the industry. Until now operators needed about £2,000 to show good financial standing.
From 1 October 1999 a would-be haulier will have to demonstrate capital and reserves of £6,390 and at least a further £3,550 for each additional vehicle in his intended fleet. These rates will be fixed for a period of five years.
Member states will have to ensure that licensing authorities check hauliers' status every five years, with regard to good repute, financial standing and professional competence.
New entrants to the industry will also have to meet more stringent environmental requirements.
The directive came into force on 14 October 1998. Member states are expected to issue laws and regulations to comply with this directive no later than 1 October 1999.