Local haulier permit scheme
Information for East Kent based hauliers only
What is the local haulier permit scheme?
Kent County Council (KCC) has developed a permit system to allow local, East Kent based hauliers to travel directly from their operating centres in East Kent to the Channel Ports, without having to join the Operation Brock queues.
Why has the permit scheme been introduced?
During Operation Stack in 2015 local haulage companies wanting to cross the Channel were made to divert to the back of the Operation Stack queue resulting in increased mileage and cost. KCC has been working with the Road Haulage Association and Logistics UK to create a local haulier permit system to prevent this from happening.
Who is eligible for permits?
Haulage companies holding a ‘Standard International’ O-Licence based in the following administrative district boundaries of Dover, Folkestone and Hythe, Ashford, Canterbury, Thanet and Faversham.
Where can the permits be used?
The permits will allow vehicles to travel from their operating centres in East Kent directly to the Port of Dover.
When will the permits be needed?
When Operation Brock is active. Compliance checks will start in Summer 2024.
How should the permits be used?
Permits should be made visible in the cabs of HGVs planning to cross the Channel. Kent Police and the DVSA will be spot checking freight vehicles at a number of locations in Kent on the approach to the Port of Dover. Permits should be presented to these officers to allow onward travel.
What vehicles can the permits be used in?
Permits should only be used in vehicles registered at a haulier’s East Kent operating centre listed on their O-licence. It is therefore encouraged that hauliers keep their Vehicle Operating Licencing (VOL) data up to date online.
What happens if hauliers are found to misuse or abuse the permit system?
Kent Police and the DVSA will be monitoring the use of permits. Operators are reminded that the permit is for their sole use in connection with vehicles based at their operating centres in East Kent. Evidence of manipulation, fraud or abuse of the permit system will be referred to the Traffic Commissioner for London and the South East by the police or DVSA to consider an operators good repute/fitness to hold a Licence. See Stat Doc 1 - good repute and fitness & Stat Doc 10 - principles of decision making and proportionality for further information.
Frequently asked questions
How can I become eligible to receive permits?
To be eligible to receive permits you must be a haulier/transport operator holding a ‘Standard International’ O-Licence based in East Kent.
Do I require a permit if I am a domestic haulier based in East Kent?
No. Domestic hauliers holding a ‘Standard National’ or ‘Restricted’ O-Licence based in East Kent can travel on the county road network as usual. This includes the use of the contraflow on the M20 coastbound. It is advised that drivers carry proof of operating address or a delivery note in case they are stopped by compliance officers from Kent Police or the DVSA.
Do I require a permit if I am delivering/collecting goods in East Kent?
No. For vehicles undertaking deliveries/collections in East Kent vehicles can travel on the county road network as usual. This includes the use of the contraflow on the M20 coastbound. It is advised that drivers carry proof of a delivery note in case they are stopped by compliance officers from Kent Police or the DVSA.
If I am a haulier holding a ‘Standard International’ O-Licence based outside of East Kent, can I obtain a haulier permit?
No. The permit scheme is only available to hauliers holding a ‘Standard International’ O-Licence based in East Kent. The scheme has been developed to prevent hauliers based close the ports having to undertake unnecessary mileage to travel to the back of the Operation Brock queues.
Who can I contact if I have questions or want to know more about the scheme?
Please email your enquiry to ees@kent.gov.uk