Operational compliance
Know which rules apply before planning the work
DVSA guidance explains that drivers' hours rules depend on the vehicle, its use and the journey. For most goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes used for carriage of goods, assimilated drivers' hours rules apply on UK journeys and journeys between the UK and EU. When those rules apply, drivers use an approved tachograph to record driving, breaks, rest, other work and periods of availability.
Check the regime
Do not assume every goods-vehicle journey follows the same hours rules. Vehicle weight, exemptions and journey type matter.
Record correctly
Where tachograph rules apply, accurate records support both driver and operator compliance.
Plan realistically
Collection and delivery planning should account for lawful driving, break and rest requirements rather than treating ETA as the only constraint.
Use current official guidance
Rules can change and individual operations can fall under different regimes. Houlvek does not replace DVSA guidance or professional compliance advice. Check the current GOV.UK drivers' hours and tachograph guidance for your operation.
Read DVSA drivers' hours guidance →Finding suitable HGV work?
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