Driver Shortage Resulting in Storage and Demurrage Fees 22/07/21

The UK driver shortage is resulting in import containers incurring storage and / or demurrage charges as they are not being collected in time.

Container transport costs have risen this month, with hauliers increasing prices or applying ‘driver retention surcharges’. What’s more, finding transport options is becoming increasingly challenging.

There is currently an estimated shortfall of over 100,000 drivers due to:

• The coronavirus pandemic
• A return of foreign nationals post-Brexit
• An ageing workforce
• Lack of incentives for younger drivers to enter the industry
• More stringent test requirements
• Backlogs in test bookings of six months or more

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) wrote to the prime minister last month outlining the issues caused by the shortage, requesting temporary worker visas for HGV drivers and an urgent multi-department task force to be set up.

Although the government has temporarily extended driver hours, many in the industry feel this falls short of a practical solution.

We are continuing to monitor the situation and will keep you updated. For any enquiries relating to specific bookings, please contact our Customer teams.