HAULAGE firms have called on the government for help through the COVID-19 crisis as they gear up to drive economic recovery.
A survey of 600 operators has revealed that the vast majority of hauliers are still struggling after pandemic lockdown measures have seen volumes collapse.
16% of operators claim they could be insolvent within four weeks. More than half call for a weekly furlough model to service inconsistent workloads and many urge the Treasury for help with business rates and standing costs.
30% fear they will struggle to secure MOTs as testing is still suspended.
The RHA has urged the government to delegate the function to non-DVSA staff and reopen authorised testing facilities to start clearing a backlog that stands at around 100,000 trucks.
