There is currently a shortage of heavy good vehicle (HGV) drivers effecting many industries within the UK.
Driver retention surcharge
As a short-term solution many industries, for example the food sector, are using financial incentives to keep drivers and entice those from other industries. This is now affecting the UK import & export freight forwarding haulage industry. As a result, a new surcharge has been created, described as the ‘driver retention surcharge’ to keep drivers within the industry.
Changes to the vehicle retention demurrage charging structure
Demurrage is a charge made by the transport operator for failure to load/unload at port within the agreed timeframe. The timeframe has now decreased to two hours due to the increased pressure on the transport industry. After the two-hour timeslot, an escalating tariff will be applied.
How this will affect your move
Additional surcharges are to be expected on moves into and out of the UK. Your move manager will keep you informed of any additional charges incurred as part of your upcoming move.
If you have any questions about how this will affect your move, please speak to a member of our team who will be happy to help. We will keep you updated on the latest developments as the situation progresses. The surcharges are expected to remain for the near future as the HGV shortage continues.