The total cost of running a HGV over the last 12 months, net of fuel costs, has risen by 2% according to the
Road Haulage Association (RHA) in their 2014
Cost Movement Survey (RHA members can access the survey by clicking on the link.)
The RHA states that there are two main reasons for the increase in operating costs.
1) The introduction of the
Euro 6 tailpipe engine emissions standard resulting in a 10% increase in the cost of new HGV’s.
2) The increase in drivers wages in response to the shortage of HGV drivers in the UK.
The Cost Movement Survey detailed how the Euro 6 emissions standard, which was introduced in 2013, has caused operators to have to invest heavily in expensive new technology, the cost of which have been passed on directly to the customer wherever possible.
With regards to drivers wages, the average wage rose by 2% in 2013 and by a further 3% in 2014. This has been driven by the shortage of HGV drivers and makes the RHA’s call to the Chancellor to provide additional funding for vocational training even more essential.
It must be noted that these increases in operating costs do not take in to account fuel costs.
Nick Deal, the RHA’s manager for logistics development, said: “These figures give an accurate snapshot of the UK haulage industry's position within the EU marketplace.
“The Chancellor, in the last Autumn Statement, once again froze fuel duty. However, with a General Election in May, the RHA, together with campaign partners
FairFuelUK, will continue to push for a 3p per litre duty cut.”
In response to the current controversy on fuel costs, Nick Deal added: Regarding the current controversy on fuel prices, Nick Deal added: “Following six years of intense pressure on rates, costs are now building in all areas other than fuel and we wonder how long the current low prices will be maintained”.
