Explained: The new rules for transporting goods from the UK

What’s happening?

Drivers moving goods from the UK to the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland will soon need a  ‘standard international goods vehicle operator licence’ to transport goods commercially.

When do the rules begin?

The new rules begin on Saturday 21st May 2022.

Who’s affected?

You’re affected if you 

  • Transport goods commercially from the UK to the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland using either:
    • A van with a maximum authorised mass of over 2500kg and up to and including 3500kg, or;
    • A car/van towing a trailer with a gross train weight of over 2500kg and up to and including 3500kg

What’s a ‘maximum authorised mass’?

A maximum authorised mass is the weight of a vehicle or trailer plus the maximum load it can safely carry.

What’s a ‘gross train weight’?

A gross train weight is similar to a maximum authorised mass. It’s the total weight of a tractor unit, plus its trailer, plus the trailer’s maximum safe load.

How do I see affected loads in Courier Exchange?

Just look for a ‘Euro Load’ link on the Quotes screen.

This affects me. How do I comply?

You can either:

  • apply for a standard international goods vehicle operator licence for the first time
  • add vehicles to your standard international goods vehicle operator licence (if you already have one)
  • apply to upgrade your standard national goods vehicle operator licence (if you have one) to a standard international goods vehicle operator licence
  • apply to upgrade your restricted goods vehicle operator licence (if you have one) to a standard international goods vehicle operator licence

How do I apply for a new licence?

You can apply for a new licence here.

How long before my licence is granted?

It can take ​​up to 9 weeks to issue a licence following an application. If you need a licence sooner, you can apply for an interim licence when you apply for a full licence.

(Please note: application success is not guaranteed.)

How much do licences cost?

Licence applications cost £257 and, if successful, licences cost a further £401. A continuation fee of £401 applies every five years thereafter.

Where can I find out more?

You can find out more via the UK government’s website.

Newsletter

Stay ‘in-the-loop’ with the latest news, products and services from Courier Exchange.

Similar stories

Staying healthy on the road is about balancing your physical needs with your mental well-being. Check out our top tips to keep you fighting fit.

Read the full article

Starting a courier business in the UK is exciting, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your success. In this article, we will discuss key pitfalls to avoid when launching your courier business in the UK. Not doing proper market research: Failing to research the market can hurt your courier business. Understand...

Read the full article
CX Tax Digital

If you’re a VAT-registered business, the word ‘tax’ might have a bit of a negative connotation, but if you’re a member of Courier Exchange, the platform’s very handy (not to mention user-friendly) ‘Accounting’ feature goes a long way to helping you stay in control.

Read the full article

Here to help

Talk to us! On the phone, online or in person… we’re here to help.

Get In Touch