Haulage bosses are calling for urgent government action as a record number of businesses go to the wall.

The industry has seen 463 operators go bust in the past year - twice the number in 2021-22,  the Road Haulage Association (RHA) says.

RHA vice chairman and managing director of Multimodal Logistics in Felixstowe Tim Wray and Steve Collins, managing director of haulage software company Fargo Systems in Ipswich are calling for action.

The industry is facing challenges on many fronts, they say - and are concerned for its future as National Lorry Week marks its tenth anniversary.

A driver shortage, rising fuel costs, and escalating operational expenses are pushing many businesses to the brink, warned Mr Wray.

Inflation, volatile fuel prices, stiff competition and post-Brexit trade complexities have hit small and medium-sized operators operating on tight margins particularly hard, he added.

The sector had an ageing workforce with many older drivers nearing retirement - and a shortage of new recruits.

High fuel prices and the push toward greener technologies like electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles need significant investment.

Hauliers needed to adopt new technologies to survive, such as Transport Management Systems (TMS) and real-time tracking - but the cost was putting a strain on smaller operators, he said.

They also faced mounting red tape on issues such as emissions, safety, and driver hours, while coping with ageing road networks, rising insurance premiums, and maintenance costs.

At the same time their working conditions were poor with a lack of welfare facilities.

“Drivers must be recognised as professionals. They are the backbone of our economy, yet we are failing to provide even basic welfare facilities at rest stops. The government needs to take action to improve conditions for drivers on the road,” he said.

“We urgently need a government minister responsible for the haulage sector—someone who understands our challenges and can push for better infrastructure, affordable green technologies, and fairer regulations."

Mr Collins said 2023 and 2024 have been tough years in the logistics industry - and they needed help to adopt new technology to make them efficient and compliant.

“In today’s climate, adopting technology isn’t just a choice - it’s a necessity. Fargo Systems is doing all it can to support our customers, but government backing is essential to ease this transition,” he said.

"Without support, smaller operators may struggle to keep up with the pace of technological advancements."

Steve believes haulage operators can adapt and thrive in the future with the proper support, including stronger collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders. "It's not just about survival - it's about enabling growth through the right tools and investment," he said.

Mr Wray said: "It's time for the government to recognise the haulage industry's importance to the UK economy and provide the necessary support to ensure it survives and thrives in the years to come."

(Image: Multimodal Logistics) Tim Wray  (Image: Multimodal Logistics) (Image: Fargo Systems)