Do Restricted Operators Need a Transport Manager?
The best place to start when deciding whether you need to employ a Transport Manager on your restricted operator’s licence is to understand the specific undertakings of the Traffic Commissioner.
What is a Restricted Operator licence?
This licence allows you to carry your own goods, but not other people’s goods. Basically, you cannot charge money to deliver other people’s goods (there are slightly different rules for passenger operators)
The Traffic Commissioner will expect you:
Are of “good repute” and fit to hold an operator licence - They will look at your history such as your criminal record to assess your suitability.
Either have facilities or suitable arrangements to maintain your vehicles - Do you have a contract agreed with a maintenance provider or suitable facilities on site to keep your vehicle(s) roadworthy
To maintain a suitable level of financial standing - They want to see that you carry enough liquidity to maintain and run your vehicles
Have an operating centre where the vehicle can be stored when not in use - Have you got premises or agreed to rent land to park your vehicles
Be capable of ensuring licencing rules and regulations are adhered to - You have to show the Traffic Commissioner that you know and understand the rules
Do you need a Transport Manager on a Restricted Licence?
That last statement is the important one here, YOU the operator are responsible for keeping to the rules, and you do not have to employ (or be) a Transport Manager.
How do you keep to the rules?
This is where the water gets murky for restricted operators. You are expected to run and manage your vehicles just as DHL. You are solely responsible for creating and managing robust systems. How do you manage this if you don’t hold a Transport Manager CPC qualification?
The answer is building on your existing knowledge!
The DVSA publishes a blog called Moving On. There is a wealth of information for operators of all shapes and sizes. Sign up and make sure you get updates emailed to you whenever they happen.
The Traffic Commissioner will expect the directors and/or the person directly responsible for your transport to attend an Operator Licence Awareness Training course. This is a one-day course which will explain the key areas of compliance you must meet. The OLAT is a great way to get the knowledge you need to keep your operation compliant.
Another great course, which is arguably more beneficial, is our TM-Unlocked course. The TM-Unlocked is aimed at new Transport Managers, to give them the knowledge and skills to set up and manage a transport operation. As mentioned earlier, a restricted operator is expected to manage their vehicles in the same way as someone like DHL. The TM-Unlocked course will give you a step-by-step process to follow to set up, manage and keep your transport operation compliant.
Finally, holding the full Transport Manager CPC qualification would give you a full, broad understanding of the entire transport operation. Holding the CPC would also future-proof you, should you decide to transfer to a standard national or international licence.
If you have questions regarding your restricted operator licence, call the team on 01530 834 554.