The UK’s National Police Chiefs'​ Council (“NPCC”) has today issued updated national guidance to support police forces in the management of abnormal load movements (“Abloads”) across the UK. 

This landmark guidance follows extensive consultation and collaboration with industry representatives including road policing units, National Highways, the Ministry of Defence, the Abnormal Loads Group (“ALG”), the Heavy Transport Association (“HTA”) and the RHA.

Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier said the updated guidance recognises “the “complexity surrounding the movement of abnormal loads” and “the impact the current inconsistency is having on all those involved”. The guidance therefore seeks to provide clarity, consistency and efficiency for both police forces and operators and aims to provide consistency in the policing of Abloads across the UK.

Key highlights of the new NPCC guidance include:

• 30-Day Window Acceptance
• Clarification on Embargoes
• Targeted Embargo Approach
• Police Escorts and Legal Authority

The updated guidance supersedes the previous 2010 Association of Chief Police Officers (“ACPO”) guidance (which should no longer be referred to) but should still be read in conjunction with the relevant legislation.

The NPCC has confirmed that the guidance will be the subject of ongoing review and amendment so that it remains fit for purpose.

You can access the updated guidance here.

JMW’s Commercial Road Transport team has a wealth of experience advising hauliers in relation to abnormal load movements.