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Same Job, 20% Dearer: Is Your Transport Manager a VAT Time Bomb?

by John | October 27, 2026 | Operator's Licence | 0 Comments

Are Transport Manager fees subject to VAT? The answer is in the contract, not the job title. By John Potgieter FCILT, Principal Consultant, BFT Consulting | 22/10/2026 | Law stated as at 22/10/2026 (Great Britain) The short answer: the job title does not decide it...

What Commissioners Look For – Blue Flag Transport Consulting Insight

by John | October 15, 2026 | Transportation | 0 Comments

Understanding the Commissioner’s Role When it comes to running a transport business in the UK, commissioners play a critical role in deciding whether your operator licence application is accepted. They ensure that companies and drivers follow strict rules to keep the...

The 2025 Financial Standing Rates for HGV Operators – Updated by Blue Flag Transport Consulting

by John | October 9, 2026 | Financial Standing | 0 Comments

For operators of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the UK, Financial standing is the requirement to show that your business has sufficient readily-available funds to run vehicles safely and compliantly. It forms one of the key tests when applying for or renewing a...

What Is FCILT? Why a Chartered Fellow of CILT Leads BFT Consulting

by John | October 1, 2026 | Operator's Licence, BFT Consulting | 0 Comments

What Is FCILT? Why a Chartered Fellow of CILT Leads BFT Consulting Running a haulage business takes more than keeping trucks on the road. You need sound plans, clear records and people who know their duties. When problems arise, you need advice you understand and...

Adding Categories to Your Driving Licence

by John | September 16, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Adding categories to your driving licence lets you drive larger or different types of vehicles. This step is often needed when moving into professional road transport. You may want to drive a lorry, bus, coach, minibus or vehicle with a trailer. Each category sets out...

Download and Order DVLA Forms: A Simple Guide for UK Drivers and Transport Operators

by John | September 15, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Drivers and transport operators often need official forms to update records, apply for a driving entitlement or report a change. Many DVLA forms are available online. You can download some forms, while others must come from a Post Office that offers DVLA services....

Driving Licence Fees for UK Transport Professionals

by John | September 14, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

Driving licence fees form a small but important part of running a transport business. Drivers need the right licence for the vehicle they drive. Operators must also check each driver’s entitlement before giving them work. A missed renewal, an expired photocard, or the...

Driving in Great Britain on a Non-GB Licence

by John | September 11, 2026 | Licence Application | 0 Comments

Drivers come to Great Britain from many parts of the world. Some visit for a short work trip. Others move here to join a haulage firm or start a transport business. If you hold a non-GB driving licence, you must check whether it allows you to drive in England,...

Reapply for Your Driving Licence If You’ve Been Disqualified

by John | September 10, 2026 | Driving Licence | 0 Comments

A driving disqualification can stop you from working and affect your income. This is a serious issue for HGV drivers, bus drivers, owner drivers and transport companies. When your ban ends, your old driving licence does not always become valid at once. You may need to...

Seven Steps to Ensure Drivers Are Managed for Willing, Demonstrable, and Active Compliance

by John | September 9, 2026 | Compliance management | 0 Comments

Prepared by: BFT Consulting Ltd Principal Consultant: John Potgieter Cambridge / Marlow Company Number: 14943001 Contact: +44 7513 379221 Version Control Version Date Author Description 1.0 10 Dec 2025 J. Potgieter Initial document creation Important Disclaimer This...

Common Compliance Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them as an Operator

Dec 24, 2024

Process of the compliance can be challenging for any transport operator. Understanding common pitfalls and knowing how to avoid them is crucial to maintaining your operator licence in good standing. This guide outlines frequent compliance issues and provides practical...

How to Pass Your Operator Licence Audit: Tips from Experts

Dec 23, 2024

Successfully passing an operator licence application audit is crucial for maintaining the legal status of your transport operations in the UK. This comprehensive guide provides actionable advice and expert tips to ensure you meet the regulatory requirements and...

The Role of Compliance Audits in Maintaining Your Operator Licence

Dec 23, 2024

Understanding the regulatory framework and compliance requirements is paramount for any transport business aiming to operate legally in the UK. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know to maintain compliance and ensure your business...

Operator Licence Compliance: What You Need to Know to Stay Legal

Dec 20, 2024

The Complete Checklist for a Successful Operator Licence Application

Dec 20, 2024

Securing an operator licence is a critical step for transportation businesses in the UK. Ensuring you have all the required documents and meet the necessary criteria can streamline your application process. Here’s your comprehensive checklist to prepare effectively:...

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Operator Licence

Dec 19, 2024

Applying for an operator licence is a crucial step for any transportation business in the UK. Avoiding common pitfalls can streamline the process and ensure your application is successful. Here's what to watch out for: 1. Incomplete Applications Overview Submitting an...

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