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.
💨 Hydrogen who? Stellantis scraps H2O plans
Stellantis, which makes commercial vehicles under the Citroen, FIAT Professional, Opel, Peugeot, Ram and Vauxhall brands, is scrapping its hydrogen programme to focus on EVs and hybrids — a move that signals which way the wind is blowing for van fleets.
Expect more electric choice, faster development, and fewer distractions.
→ See why hydrogen’s on pause and what comes next.
📄 What’s a waybill? (And why it matters)
A waybill is more than just a bit of paper — it’s a legal document that keeps your goods moving and protects your business.
If you’ve ever mixed up a Bill of Lading with a POD, this one’s for you.
→ Read the plain-English guide to what a waybill is and how it works.
🚐 Vans too heavy? Your wallet’s going to feel it
DVSA says van overloading fines hit £390,000 last year — and it’s getting stricter. Many operators don’t even realise they’re overloaded until it’s too late.
Learn what to check, what’s legal, and how to avoid fines and safety risks.
→ Find out how to stay on the right side of the weight limit.
❄️ Frozen, not frazzled: your cold chain playbook
Cold chain logistics is about more than temperature — it’s about timing, tracking and control.
From sensors to SOPs, this complete guide breaks down how to keep food, pharma and other perishable goods safe, compliant and profitable.
→ Get the complete guide to cold chain logistics.
🛠️ Maintenance plans gathering dust? Fix that.
Plenty of fleets have a preventive maintenance (PM) plan. But if it’s not used, it’s useless.
This US-based article breaks down how to build a calendar that’s clear, collaborative and actually gets followed — not ignored. With lessons UK fleets can steal too.
→ Learn how to make PM plans that stick.
🔌 Switching to e-vans? Avoid these rookie errors
Switching from diesel to electric vans isn’t just about plugging in and hoping for the best.
From charging setup to payload planning and driver training, this guide walks through the key steps for a smooth, stress-free transition.