Abnormal loads by nature are not standard cargo, and carry associated rules that both hauliers and pilot car drivers must follow, as a referance we have put some of these links below to assist you.
UK ETA - European nationals will need to apply for an ETA starting 5 March 2025. Cost £10 / Validity 2 years. The ETA is a digital pre-travel authorisation linked to the applicant’s passport : https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta#who-can-apply
London DVS - If you have an existing Direct Vision Standard (DVS) permit for a 0, 1 or 2 star rated HGV: it will expire midnight 27.10.24. The Progressive Safe System (PSS) must be fitted to operate in London from 28.10.24 : https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/deliveries-in-london/delivering-safely/direct-vision-in-heavy-goods-vehicles#progressive
UK HGV Levy – Pay before entering the UK if: vehicle is not registered in the UK, or weighs >12,000kg : https://www.gov.uk/hgv-levy
Abnormal Load Layby’s & Services
Map - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a750b1f40f0b6360e472e32/Lay-by_and_MSA_Map_-_1143.pdf
List - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a7f1b69ed915d74e33f45f7/Location_of_Abnormal_Load_Laybys_-_1143.pdf
Abnormal Load Code of Practice (For Hauliers & Pilot Cars)
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a801968e5274a2e8ab4e2db/Lighting_and_marking_COP_for_abnormal_load_self_escorting_vehicles_HE_rebranding_v1.pdf
Preventing Bridge Strikes | Roadworks – At all times, it is the haulier’s responsibility to check the route on their permit is suitable. This includes checking roadworks & bridge heights : How to prevent vehicles from hitting bridges - GOV.UK | www.one.network
HGV Walkaround Check - View the guidance in 22 different languages : essential walkaround check information
Keeping Commercial Vehicles safe to drive - UK Government Guide : Keeping commercial vehicles safe to drive.
Code of Practice on Securing Loads - UK Government Guide : https://www.gov.uk/guidance/securing-loads-on-hgvs-and-goods-vehicles
Code of Practice Lighting & Marking :Code of Practice: Lighting and marking for Special Order, VR1, STGO and C&U loads
London LEZ/ULEZ - The ULEZ expanded on 29.08.23 : https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/
FCDO Travel advice - Hauliers should : Check FCDO travel advice for any country you’re planning to enter
Green Zones / LEZ charges - and other regulations in cities across Europe : https://urbanaccessregulations.eu/