The UK haulage industry is dealing with several ongoing challenges. The driver shortage that made headlines in 2021 continues, Brexit creates difficulties for cross-border operations, and rising costs are putting pressure on operators.
The Road Haulage Association reported a shortfall of over 100,000 qualified drivers at the peak of the crisis. While conditions have improved slightly, the underlying issues remain.
Driver Shortage Continues
Finding qualified drivers remains difficult for many operators. The main concern is the changing workforce demographics and fewer people entering the profession.
55% of HGV drivers in the UK are aged between 50 and 65, with an average age of 51. This means a significant portion of the workforce will retire within the next decade. The Office for National Statistics shows there were 6,000 fewer delivery and courier drivers from April 2022 to March 2023 compared to the previous year.
Less than 1% of HGV drivers are under 25. Young people are not entering the profession in sufficient numbers to replace those retiring.
Working Conditions Deter New Entrants
Current working conditions make the profession less attractive to potential new drivers. According to the Road Haulage Association, there’s an estimated shortfall of 11,000 HGV parking spaces across the UK. This means drivers often have to take rest breaks in unsuitable locations without proper facilities.
The government classification of HGV driving as unskilled work doesn’t help with recruitment. Combined with long hours, time away from home, and irregular schedules, these factors make it difficult to attract people with other employment options.
Brexit Reduced The Available Workforce
Brexit had a direct impact on driver numbers. The number of EU citizens working in UK trucking dropped from 39,000 to 24,000. These were experienced drivers who understood routes and operations.
Many EU drivers who had been living and working in the UK chose to return to continental Europe, where opportunities were better and immigration requirements less complex.
Brexit’s Ongoing Impact
More than five years after Brexit took effect, haulage companies continue to face operational challenges.
Increased Administrative Requirements
Brexit introduced new customs procedures and documentation requirements. Every cross-border shipment now requires additional paperwork and compliance checks. According to the Environmental Systems Research Institute, trade volumes between the UK and the EU decreased by one-fifth as a result of these changes.
Companies have needed to hire additional administrative staff or outsource compliance work. Delivery schedules have become less predictable due to potential border delays.
Reduced Cross-Border Trade
With trade volumes down significantly between the UK and Europe, there is less work available for haulage companies, particularly those that specialise in cross-border transport.
Border processing times remain inconsistent. Different EU countries interpret regulations differently, creating uncertainty for route planning and scheduling.
More than half of UK haulage firms have considered relocating operations to the EU, with approximately half of those having already moved some operations to European locations.
Rising Operating Costs
The industry faces cost increases across multiple areas.
Operating costs for a typical 44-tonne HGV have increased by almost 10% (excluding fuel costs), according to RHA surveys. This follows a 20% increase in 2022, creating significant pressure on profit margins.
Over 450 haulage businesses closed in the last 12 months, more than double the previous year. These closures reduce market capacity while increasing demand on remaining operators.
Regulatory compliance continues to add costs. The Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) requirement, while improving standards, has added training expenses that some drivers found burdensome.
Read: The Impact of Fuel Prices on the Haulage Industry
Environmental Requirements
Sustainability requirements are creating both challenges and opportunities for the industry.
The UK government’s net-zero emissions target for 2050 requires significant changes in transport operations. HGVs account for 4.3% of overall UK greenhouse gas emissions according to the Road Haulage Association, making the sector a focus for emission reductions.
Consumer research shows 30% avoid brands over environmental concerns, while 37% actively choose environmentally responsible options. This influences businesses to seek logistics providers that can demonstrate environmental responsibility.
Transitioning to electric or hydrogen vehicles requires substantial capital investment. The supporting infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles is still developing, creating operational limitations for many applications.
Industry Adaptation
Despite these challenges, the haulage industry remains essential to the UK economy. Companies that adapt effectively are better positioned for continued operation.
Focus on Service Quality
Operators that maintain strong customer relationships and consistent service delivery are managing the current challenges more effectively. This requires continued investment in equipment maintenance, staff training, and service standards.
Technology Implementation
Companies are increasingly using technology to improve operational efficiency and meet customer expectations for tracking and communication. This includes route optimisation systems, vehicle monitoring, and digital documentation.
Building on Experience
Companies with established track records continue to find opportunities by focusing on their core strengths.
J.T.Few has operated for 35 years, establishing a solid reputation as East Anglia’s preferred provider of plant hire and recycled aggregates. Our continued success comes from understanding customer requirements, maintaining quality equipment, and delivering reliable service consistently.
For reliable plant hire and haulage services backed by 35 years of industry experience, contact J.T.Few today. We provide dependable solutions for building and construction projects throughout East Anglia.
