TWIF: EU tacho updates, better tyres and £100m in freight crime

Welcome to This Week in Freight, your go-to source for the latest haulage and road freight news and advice in the UK.

Every Friday, we gather the week’s top stories affecting fleet managers, operators, and drivers, keeping you informed on industry trends, updates, and key developments.

🛞 Why better tyres are the key to successful fleets

While EVs have tackled tailpipe emissions, tyre pollution remains a growing issue, contributing more microplastics and particulate matter than exhausts.

In his latest op-ed, Gunnlaugur Erlendsson, CEO of Enso, argues that without urgent regulation and innovation, tyres will continue to be the missing link in sustainable transport.

For fleets, choosing better tyres could not only cut costs but help EVs truly fulfil their environmental promise.

Find out why tyres might be holding back the green revolution.

🤔 Freight broker or freight forwarder?

Is that next shipment from a freight broker, a freight forwarder, or a direct customer?

Knowing the difference can help you spot opportunities and manage expectations.

If you rely on subcontracted work, here’s why understanding your customer’s role matters more than you think.

Find out how brokers and forwarders operate—and what it means for your fleet.

👮 Europe ramps up tacho fines

Hauliers operating in Europe could now face hefty fines for failing to install Smart Tachograph 2.0 devices in their international fleets.

As of March, the grace period is over—penalties include steep fines, vehicle immobilisation, and even licence suspensions depending on the country. France, Spain, and Italy are leading the crackdown, with fines reaching up to €70,000 in some key freight corridors.

Check out TransInfo’s compliance guide by country, and find out why urgent action is needed before the next round of replacement deadlines.

🚛 8 ways to cut your HGV emissions

Think cutting emissions is out of reach for your fleet?

Simple steps like route optimisation and eco-driving training can make a big impact.

Start lowering your HGV carbon emissions today with these practical and affordable strategies.

🥷 Freight crime cost hauliers over £100m in 2024

The total value of goods stolen from lorries in the UK increased by nearly two-thirds in 2024, reaching £111.5 million, according to data from the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service.

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has warned that criminals are increasingly targeting lorries parked in isolated locations such as laybys and industrial estates, where security is often limited.

Read the full report here.

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