|
Haulage contracts serve the express purpose of defining the voluntary obligation between contractors, transport firms and companies or people contracting their services. This often defines the scope and duration of freight or delivery and the exact liabilities either party may be responsible for. Top Tips to Know There are a few things you need to know before signing anything. First, make sure the firm you choose has a valid operating license. In the United Kingdom this means the firm must possess a Standard International Operator's License for Road Transport. This means that the firm is licensed not just in the UK, but also for international overland journeys to other parts of Europe. Not all licenses are created equal. For transportation of dangerous or hazardous goods, the firm must also hold a Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, for big bulk goods. Drivers must possess a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence as well as vocational driving licenses. This is the equivalent of the professional driving licenses in other countries. Other licenses may also be required, depending on the scope of the business. This includes a Community License for haulage within the EU and licenses applicable to member nations of the EU. So before signing any haulage contracts, make sure the firm meets not just your requirements, but the necessary requirements to ensure that your shipments are handled correctly and safely. And it goes without saying that you personally must have all the right licenses in place to take on the work. You can also ask firms for copies of their standard contracts so you can decide what the best offer is for you. Many customers are attracted to firms by word of mouth – so make sure you know the reputation of the one you intend doing business with. A good transport company not only has a good reputation but also maintains good customer service lines. The Devil is in the Details Make sure that you actually sign haulage contracts! Verbal agreements are hard to prove and by that virtue, worthless in court. Make sure you know what your responsibilities are as well. For example, some firms are responsible for restraining bulk goods but not for sealing the original containers. In the event of spillage, you may be held responsible. It is also always good to get a solicitor to look the documents over before you actually sign then. A solicitor will ensure that you enter the agreement on an equal footing and that your business is well protected. In many cases haulage contracts are standardised, but look for special legal stipulations that cover special cargo such as waste, minerals or produce. Different products require different handling. If you are freighting more than one type of load, you may require separate agreements. In most cases, the firm will provide you with these to cover themselves and ensure promptness of delivery, correct handling of the load and mutual satisfaction between both parties. Most important, read and understand any document before you affix your signature on to it. In the UK, contracts are often voluntary obligations for both parties and once your signature is on, it is as binding as binding gets. Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for haulage contracts in the express freight exchange industry. Over 2,500 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.
Related Articles -
haulage, contracts,
| 
