BrowseConsultations
CONSULT.Outcome publishedConsultation · gov.uk

Temporary extension to road haulage cabotage

Proposes implementing a temporary legislative extension of road haulage cabotage to alleviate pressures with the supply chain due to lorry driver shortages.

Last fetched 03 May 2026 · gov.uk
Detail

We are proposing a possible temporary unilateral legislative extension of road haulage cabotage in order to alleviate pressures in the supply chain associated with the current shortage in lorry drivers.

Cabotage, the transport of goods or passengers between 2 places in the same country by a transport operator from another country for the purposes of hire and reward, is heavily restricted in the UK and abroad.

We are seeking evidence and views about allowing non-UK operators temporary extra cabotage rights within Great Britain for a short period of time, to support supply chains within the UK.

The proposal is to allow unlimited cabotage movements of heavy goods vehicles for up to 14 days after arriving on a laden international journey into the UK compared to the current rights of 2 cabotage journeys within 7 days of entry.

It is proposed that the extension this will apply until for 3 or 6 months, subject to ongoing review and that it would not be transport sector specific.

Documents