Collaboration saves businesses money – RHA to Scottish Stakeholders

"The benefits of collaboration between haulage firms and government are monumental" Policy Director for Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland Martin Reid told Cold Comfort Scotland attendees.

Speaking in Polmont, Falkirk, Martin stated that "Proper care must be taken when planning diversionary routes", citing that 50 miles of diversion equates to £134 extra cost each way, eating into the £100-£150 per day profit of trucks.

Martin also noted to attendees that drivers often fall prey to criminal gangs due to having to park in unsafe locations because of diversions. He reminded stakeholders that freight crime costs the UK economy an estimated £250 million each year, furthering the financial need for collaboration between government and operators.

He used the Scottish Government's Winter Resilience, where up to date information is given to the haulage industry during harsh winter conditions, as a positive example of collaboration.

Scotland Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has previously said, "The more we inform the RHA and be informed by the RHA means we can work with key partners efficiently."

Improved road networks and better facilities are key RHA campaigning priorities. You can read more on the work we are doing for facilities HEREand infrastructure HERE.