Revised Road Transport Act

Yesterday, the revised Road Transport of Goods Act (Wwg) came into effect. This act sets out the requirements that freight carriers must meet when transporting goods. TLN (Netherlands Transport Authority) welcomes the amended act because enforcement of cabotage is now possible. Foreign carriers who transport more than legally permitted within the Netherlands can no longer operate with impunity.

Yesterday morning, it also became clear that a significant number of foreign carriers had committed violations during recent inspections by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT). This further underscores the need for strict enforcement of cabotage. TLN is also pleased that the permit limit for companies wishing to transport goods remains at 500 kg loading capacity. According to TLN, the Wwg thus makes a vital contribution to the professional structure of the industry, which is of great economic importance.

More enforcement possible

Cabotage is domestic transport (within the Netherlands) by a company established abroad. This transport is subject to a maximum limit within the European Union. Foreign carriers wishing to transport goods in another Member State are permitted to make a maximum of three domestic journeys per week. "It is crucial to rigorously enforce this law to ensure the fair functioning of the transport market," says TLN director Peter Sierat. This requires expanding the enforcement capacity of inspection services first and foremost. Due to a lack of funding and priorities, enforcement agencies throughout Europe are paying insufficient attention to illegal activities by foreign carriers. Illegal transport by foreigners distorts competition, forcing Dutch companies out of the market.

500kg payload

The new law also retains the 500kg payload permit limit. Professional carriers wishing to transport more than 500kg must meet permit requirements regarding reliability, creditworthiness, and professional competence. According to TLN, this lower limit is crucial for a professional transport sector. Therefore, the Netherlands has deliberately opted for a 500kg payload permit limit in the past.

Source: Paul Quaedvlieg TTM