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.
The article was published on . It was updated on 8 May 2024 to make it more relevant and comprehensive.
