Important information for operators of light goods vehicles that travel to the EU

20 December 2021

The DfT has issued a circular setting our important information for operators of light goods vehicles that travel to the EU.

From 21 May 2022, operators or users of vans or other light goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes and up to 3.5 tonnes in weight for hire and reward will need to obtain an International Operator’s Licence.

This includes a requirement to appoint a designated transport manager with a valid Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (TM CPC) qualification.

This new requirement is part of the UK/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

A temporary exemption may be available from the TM CPC requirement for those with appropriate experience of managing light goods vehicles in the form of temporary transport manager status.

You will need to list the name of a qualified transport manager in your application for an operator licence. Applications for operator licences will be taken from March 2022.

From 14 December 2021, people who can demonstrate they have been continuously managing light goods vehicles for at least 10 years prior to 20 August 2020 can apply to be a temporary transport manager, allowing them to continue to manage light goods vehicles until 21 May 2025.  You can apply now on GOV.UK.

You can find more information on how to apply and what you need on GOV.UK. This will help businesses ensure that experienced existing fleet managers have time to achieve the necessary TM CPC qualification.

From 2 February 2022, if you operate loaded goods journeys in and between European member states, you may also need to share information digitally about your journeys in the EU.

This includes details of the operator, driver, driver employment, dates of travel, and the vehicle used.

Please contact a member of our regulatory team on 01254 828300 if you need advice.