As a van driver, you need to stay within the weight limits when you're driving and not overload it.

Did you know? A driver can be fined up to £300 or get a court summons if their van exceeds its maximum permitted axle weight. Exceeding the manufacturer’s load limit can put serious strain on the vehicle and may invalidate insurance cover. Overloaded vans are a common issue in the UK...

Metworks has no depots, only offices and so its operatives carry everything they need in the back of the van. It was initially a challenge to impress upon drivers that the respon-sibility for staying within proscribed weight limits was their personal responsibility. However, on-board scales, which...

Did you know? Towing with a van could: Mean you need different driving licence categories. Require use of EU drivers’ hours rules and tachographs (although there may be exemptions you can use). Overload the towing vehicle beyond its legal and / or physical capabilities. Vans with a...

Trust vehicles carry aggregates, tools and equipment and so loading requirements can vary. The organisation has two sets of mobile scales and visits two depots, unannounced every month to check the weights of vehicles. This is both educational for the drivers and gives an immediate insight into...

Did you know? With more than 4 million vans registered in the UK, it is a common misconception that there is no legislation governing van drivers and van operations. Due to their size and weight, vans can be driven and used for anything – right? Wrong, in fact very wrong. With an increase...

Did you know? 56% of van drivers consider themselves overweight. 70% of van drivers say work pressures severely impact their ability to drink enough water and have a healthy diet. Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK, with 1 man dying every two...

As well as the Driver Metrics modules, Reka looks for ways to keep drivers engaged with ongoing communication about road safety. She says not all safety messaging should come from the designated safety officers. “It is important to involve others. For us, involving those who are well respected...

Did you know? The use of vehicles as a weapon to injure and kill people has become a real threat. This is referred to as a ‘vehicle as a weapon (VAW) attack’. Vans pose an increased risk if used in VAW attacks because of their size, profile and weight. Crowded public spaces are...

Who can drive a van, the speed limits and weight limits that apply, and rules on loading, drivers' hours and maintenance.

Did you know? Weight, driving style and maintenance all affect a van’s fuel economy. An unnecessary 45kg in the vehicle reduces mpg by 1%. Engine idling can have a significant impact on vehicle’s fuel economy. Excessive speed is the biggest fuel-guzzling factor. The heavier a...

The fleet telematics data was instrumental in allowing Speedy Services to know which vehicles were suitable for transitioning to electric. It has now invested in Fuso eCanters, Electra Econic 27t, and 3.5 tonne Ford eTransits and has 50 eTransit panel van and 100 eTransit chassis cabs on...

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and safety permit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) requires operators of lorries over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight to obtain a safety permit before entering and operating in most of Greater London. Otherwise, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).