Susie Jones
Nieuws en updates • 2 min lezen

Vrachtwagenchauffeurs vechten de term "chauffeurstekort" aan

Gemaakt: 15-08-2024

Bijgewerkt: 16-08-2024

Op 11 april 2024 opende de [DfT] (https://www.fleetpoint.org/fleet-management-2/driver-shortage/consultation-opened-of-how-to-address-the-driver-shortage-for-hgv-and-coach/) een raadpleging over maatregelen om het chauffeurstekort op te lossen. Ze willen voorstellen om iemand de kans te geven zijn theorie- en terreinmanoeuvre-examen af te leggen voordat hij een voorlopig rijbewijs voor vrachtwagens krijgt.

Sinds Covid-19 en Brexit heeft de sector een daling van het aantal vrachtwagenchauffeurs gezien. De pandemie heeft 30.000 tests voor nieuwe chauffeurs uitgesteld en Brexit heeft vlootbedrijven hard getroffen - veel Europese vrachtwagenchauffeurs hebben het VK verlaten.

Een rapport van SNAP uit 2023 suggereert dat de sector in de komende 10-15 jaar een '[omslagpunt] (https://snapacc.com/tipping-point/)' zou kunnen bereiken. In combinatie met een vergrijzende beroepsbevolking zullen de behoeften van de sector het tekort aan gekwalificeerde chauffeurs overtreffen.

Wat vinden vrachtwagenchauffeurs?

Op sociale media vroeg SNAP chauffeurs om hun mening te geven over het voorstel van het DfT. Veel chauffeurs gaven geen commentaar op de regeling, maar 72,5% betwistte de term 'chauffeurstekort' en noemde het bangmakerij.

In plaats daarvan verklaarden ze dat de volgende zaken ervoor zorgden dat ervaren chauffeurs de sector verlieten en, in combinatie daarmee, nieuwe sollicitanten afschrikten:

Lonen

Van de 72,5% gaf 28% aan dat het lage loon een afschrikmiddel was. Bestuurders op de sociale mediapagina's van SNAP suggereerden dat ze meer konden verdienen in andere beroepen:

"Ik heb een vrachtwagenrijbewijs, maar geen zin om het te gebruiken. Ik verdien momenteel meer per uur als rijinstructeur. Het is helemaal geen chauffeurstekort."

*"Betaal de chauffeurs meer geld en geef ze betere faciliteiten.

Er bestaan misvattingen over de lonen van vrachtwagenchauffeurs in het Verenigd Koninkrijk - de opvatting is dat vrachtwagenchauffeurs meer verdienen dan de gemiddelde werknemer. Volgens [National Careers] (https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/large-goods-vehicle-driver) bedraagt het gemiddelde salaris voor een vrachtwagenchauffeur in het Verenigd Koninkrijk £22.000 tot £40.000 - met ervaren chauffeurs die het hoogste salaris verdienen.

Faciliteiten

Ook de faciliteiten werden door velen onder de loep genomen - 20% gaf slechte normen de schuld voor het wegduwen van gekwalificeerde chauffeurs. De standaard van de faciliteiten bij truckstops in het Verenigd Koninkrijk is door mensen uit de branche kritisch onder de loep genomen en velen zeggen dat ze het geld niet waard zijn.

De DfT heeft belangrijke actie ondernomen met hun subsidieregeling van £6 miljoen [HGV Parking and Driver Welfare grant scheme] (https://www.smmt.co.uk/2024/05/first-class-facilities-truckstops-to-be-upgraded-with-16-5m-funding/#:~:text=Under%20the%20plans%2C%2038%20truckstops,significantly%20upgrade%20facilities%20for%20drivers.) - gesteund door nog eens 10,5 miljoen pond van de industrie. Het programma zal investeren in 38 truckstops in heel Engeland om de faciliteiten voor chauffeurs te verbeteren, waaronder nieuwe douches en restaurants en betere beveiliging.

Naast de verbeterde faciliteiten zal het project hopelijk ongeveer 430 nieuwe parkeerplaatsen voor vrachtwagens creëren, waardoor er minder parkeerplekken zullen zijn en de locaties aan het begin van de avond vol zullen zijn.

Gebrek aan werk

Ook verklaarde 20% van de chauffeurs dat ze wel een rijbewijs hadden, maar geen werk konden vinden. Volgens het Office for National Statistics (ONS) zijn er meer dan 183.000 banen voor vrachtwagenchauffeurs in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Desondanks heeft elke regio andere kansen op werk, wat resulteert in een ongelijke vraag in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Meerdere chauffeurs deelden hun ervaringen met het vinden van werk:

"Ik ben al zeven maanden in de klas en kan geen baan krijgen. Ik zou graag willen weten waar het tekort is."

"Welk tekort? Er ligt niet veel werk voor het grijpen."

Vakbekwaamheidscertificaat bestuurder

10% van de respondenten die het noch eens noch oneens waren met de term 'chauffeurstekort', verklaarden dat het [getuigschrift van vakbekwaamheid bestuurder (CPC)] (https://www.gov.uk/driver-cpc-training/getting-your-driver-cpc-card) een cruciale rol had gespeeld in het teruglopende aantal vrachtwagenchauffeurs.

Het in 2009 geïntroduceerde CPC heeft als doel de verkeersveiligheid, professionaliteit en het milieubewustzijn te verbeteren - het zorgt er ook voor dat chauffeurs op de hoogte zijn van alle gezondheids-, veiligheids- en wettelijke vereisten. Uit de resultaten van een raadpleging over een beleidsherziening van het getuigschrift bleek dat [47%] (https://www.hgvtraining.co.uk/hgv-training/what-is-cpc/#:~:text=It%20was%20brought%20in%20to,1000%20for%20driving%20without%20it) van de vrachtwagenchauffeurs het getuigschrift ineffectief of zeer ineffectief vond. Op de sociale media van SNAP gaf een chauffeur het volgende commentaar:

*"Schaf de CPC af en ik ga diensten draaien. Ik ga niet betalen om 35 uur te werken, om te leren wat ik al jaren elke dag doe.

De regering heeft een reeks wijzigingen aan het getuigschrift van vakbekwaamheid geschetst om de flexibiliteit bij het verlengen en opnieuw behalen van de kwalificatie te vergroten. Naast veranderingen in de lengte van de cursus zal de regering samen met het Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency meer kerninhoud voor de cursus ontwikkelen.

Externe factoren, zoals Brexit en COVID-19, in combinatie met industriegerelateerde kwesties, hebben de werkgelegenheidscijfers in de transportsector aanzienlijk beïnvloed. In een steeds veranderende omgeving moet de sector waar nodig veranderingen blijven doorvoeren om meer chauffeurs aan te trekken en te behouden.

Deel naar

Anderen lezen ook...

Header Image

vrijdag 08 november 2024 • Nieuws en updates

DART CHARGE ACCOUNT - VEREENVOUDIG UW BETALINGEN

Miranda Blake

Understanding the intricacies of the Dart Charge system is essential to ensure a seamless and cost-effective experience when using the Dartford Crossing. Familiarising yourself with the payment options, account management, and potential pitfalls can save you from unnecessary fines and headaches. The Dartford Crossing, a vital aspect for commercial traffic, is managed by a sophisticated electronic payment system known as the Dart Charge. This innovative system was introduced to enhance the efficiency of toll collection, eliminating the need for traditional toll booths and enabling drivers to pre-pay or pay online by the end of the day.Wondering what exactly the Dart Charge is? It refers to the payment method used for the Dartford Crossing. The system was implemented to improve traffic flow and provide a more convenient payment experience for users.Drivers have three primary options when it comes to paying the Dart Charge:1. Customers can set up a pre-pay account, which offers automated billing and a discounted crossing rate. Such a hassle-free approach ensures that payments are made seamlessly, with the account being automatically debited for each crossing. For those who don't have a pre-pay account, the option to pay online, by phone, or at Payzone retail outlets is available. Payments can be made in advance or by midnight the following day. The Dartford Crossing is free to use between the hours of 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, providing a cost-effective option for nighttime journeys.Curious as to what the Dart Charge rates are? These vary depending on the vehicle class and whether the customer has a pre-pay account or is making a one-off payment. Here’s a breakdown of the current charges:You can also .Maintaining your Dart Charge account is crucial for avoiding fines and streamlining your crossings. Let’s explore the key aspects of account management.Establishing a Dart Charge account is a straightforward process. Customers can visit the , click "Start now," and select the "Sign in or set up a Dart Charge account" option. Alternatively, they can open a pre-pay account by downloading and submitting an application form.Accessing your Dart Charge account requires the email address registered on the account. If you've forgotten your password, the link on the sign-in page will guide you through the process of creating a new one.Changing your name, address, or the vehicle registration numbers associated with your account can be done by logging into your Dart Charge account, navigating to the "Account management" and "Profile" or "Vehicle management" sections, and making the necessary updates.Customers can review their crossing history and account statements by logging into their Dart Charge account. This feature allows you to track your usage and ensure that all payments have been properly recorded.If your Dart Charge account becomes inactive due to a lack of vehicle registration, valid payment method, or recent crossings, you can reactivate it by addressing the underlying issue. Similarly, a suspended account can be unsuspended by topping up the balance or making payments for any outstanding crossings.When it’s time to close your Dart Charge account, you can do so by logging in, navigating to the "Account management" section, and selecting the "Close account" option. Any remaining balance will be refunded using the same payment method.SNAP Account offers a convenient solution, providing several benefits for drivers and .The system automatically handles the payment for each crossing, eliminating the need to remember to pay or deal with Dart Charge directly.You’ll never receive a charge for late payment. This helps avoid potential fines or penalties associated with missed or late payments, providing peace of mind.We simplify your financial management by including the Dartford Crossing transactions on the same invoice as your other SNAP Account activities. Such consolidation makes it easier to track and manage your expenses.By automating the payment process, we save drivers valuable time. There’s no need to stop and make individual payments or remember to pay by midnight the following day, as is required when paying directly through the government's Dart Charge system.Our Dartford Crossing service is part of a broader ecosystem of road transport services. This integration allows users to manage multiple aspects of their journey, including parking, washing, and fueling, through a single platform.For businesses managing multiple vehicles, we provide an efficient way to control and monitor the Dartford Crossing expenses. The consolidated billing and automated payment system helps streamline accounting processes and reduce the administrative burden associated with managing individual crossings. By leveraging SNAP Account for the Dartford Crossing payments, drivers and fleet operators can enjoy a more efficient, reliable, and stress-free experience when using this crucial transport link.Want to learn more about how to save money on the road? Check out our article on along with our .

Header Image

vrijdag 01 november 2024 • Nieuws en updates

CASESTUDY: TWV PARK

Miranda Blake

Situated just 60 minutes from Calais is TWV Park, a haven for truckers looking for a restful night’s sleep. With an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google, TWV has been described by its customers as an oasis and a great place to park. The site offers a range of services including, showers, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 video surveillance. Emilie, from TWV Park, tells us a bit more. "We offer our customers all the comforts for drivers to rest peacefully. Bicycles are available to rent, and we host entertainment such as football match broadcasts, competitions, and music concerts. Nearby is a shopping centre, and a water sports centre for extra activities outside of TWV." Providing drivers with a wide range of facilities and entertainment is not the only thing the truck park does incredibly well. The safety and security of TWV is something the team has made great progress on throughout the years. "TWV is a secure car park with ESPORG Gold certification. The site has 24/7 security guards, fences, and 80 on-site cameras. All of which are monitored." Emilie explains. Back in June 2023, the site announced its Secure Truck Park project – a project supported by the European Co-Funding programme. This has enabled TWV Park to take further security measures to ensure truck drivers and their cargo safe. Truck stops play a pivotal role in providing a space for truck drivers who have spent long hours on the road something Emilie and the team are conscious of, when making decisions about the truck park. "To improve well-being, truck drivers need safety and comfort from a truck park," states Emilie. TWV does this particularly well when you look at the amount of choice and variety for drivers at the site. Emilie explains the truck park offers "kitchens with all the appliances, food trucks, and brasserie-style on-site meals." She states that other comforts, such as "sanitary facilities, phone charging access, and air-conditioning," are also available. TWV was one of the stops on our Truckpark Tour in 2023 a ten-stop tour throughout the UK and Europe to give back to the tireless truck-driving community. Emilie explained why they wanted to be a part of it. "When SNAP came to us about the tour, we thought it was a great idea to offer the drivers an extra activity in the park." The teams at SNAP and TWV were kept busy throughout the day, handing out free merchandise and having crucial conversations with drivers. "The event went really well, and the drivers were happy to see SNAP and the team at TWV. The drivers enjoyed the entertainment and goodies on offer and appreciated getting to have a chat," states Emilie. By joining SNAP, you'll put your location in front of 190,000 drivers and over 9,000 fleets. For truck stops like TWV, who are constantly striving to grow their business, SNAP provides the opportunity to do so. "We had no hesitations about joining SNAP and found the setup process easy. Since joining, we have had good communication with the SNAP team," says Emilie. To improve your profitability and optimise your site operations, head to .

Header Image

vrijdag 25 oktober 2024 • Nieuws en updates

RICHTLIJN ARBEIDSTIJDEN CHAUFFEURS: EEN GIDS VOOR VRACHTWAGENCHAUFFEURS

Miranda Blake

As a lorry driver in the UK, it’s crucial to have a firm grasp of the complex regulations surrounding driver working hours and rest periods. The Drivers’ Working Time Directive (WTD), also known as the Road Transport Directive, is a set of rules that governs the maximum hours a driver can work, the mandatory breaks they must take, and the required rest periods they must observe. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and even the immobilisation of your vehicle.The Drivers’ Working Time Directive is a European Union legislation that aims to ensure the safety of all road users by preventing fatigue-related accidents. apply to those driving vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, regardless of whether the individual operates within the UK or across the EU.Under the WTD, truck drivers in the UK are subject to a daily driving cap of 9 hours, which can be increased to 10 hours a maximum of twice per week. After 4.5 hours of continuous or intermittent driving, drivers must take a break of at least 45 minutes. Alternatively, they can opt for a split break, where the first is at least 15 minutes, followed by a second of at least 30 minutes.There’s a weekly driving limit for UK lorry drivers, which is 56 hours, while the fortnightly cap is 90 hours. This means that if a driver clocks 56 hours in 1 week, they can only work for 34 hours the following week to ensure they do not go over the 90-hour fortnightly limit.In addition to the driving time restrictions, the WTD also imposes limits on the total number of hours a driver can work per week. Average weekly working time, including both driving and non-driving tasks, must not surpass 48 hours, calculated over a 17-week or 26-week reference period. Maximum working time in a single week is 60 hours, provided the 48-hour average is not exceeded.The WTD requires to take a daily rest period of at least 11 consecutive hours, which can be split into 2 periods with the first being at least 3 hours long. Drivers can also opt for a reduced daily rest period of nine hours, but this can only be done up to three times per week. Additionally, a weekly rest period of at least 45 hours is mandatory, although this can be lowered to 24 hours once in a 2-week period.While the WTD applies to the majority of UK lorry drivers, there are certain exceptions that may apply in specific circumstances. For example, those who do not drive more than 10 times within a 26-week period or 15 times within a timeframe exceeding 26 weeks may not be required to monitor their working time directive.Failing to adhere to the WTD can have serious consequences for both drivers and . Drivers caught in breach of the regulations can face fines of up to £1,500, and if they break the rules more than 5 times in 28 days, they may be taken to court and have their vehicle immobilised.For fleet operators, the onus is on maintaining compliance throughout the entire fleet. Neglecting to implement sufficient measures to monitor and enforce the WTD can result in the DVSA issuing a notice to improve, and in extreme cases, a requirement to cease operations until the issues are resolved.To effectively manage driver working hours and ensure compliance with the WTD, fleet operators should consider investing in tachograph-integrated fleet management solutions. These purpose-built technologies allow for efficient monitoring of driver behaviour and automatic logging of driving and working time data, making it virtually impossible for non-compliance to go unnoticed.By partnering with a trusted provider like , fleet operators can leverage cutting-edge fleet management tools and gain access to a comprehensive network of service partners, making sure that their drivers have the support they need to stay compliant and safe on the road.There’s also the in the UK to consider. It’s proving to be a big problem within the industry. The industry has seen a drop in HGV drivers – the pandemic delayed 30,000 tests for new drivers, and Brexit hit fleet companies hard – with many European truck drivers leaving the UK. A 2023 report from SNAP suggests the sector could reach a 'tipping point' in the next 10-15 years. It may prove that the Drivers’ Working Time Directive is just what the industry needs to make the profession desirable again and provide better balance for drivers. Learn more about what can be done to tackle the driver shortage by .