Longer Lorries Set To Boost Economy

From the 31st May 2023 legislation will permit longer semi-trailers combinations from 16.5 meters  up to 18.55 meters (60.85 feet) adding an extra 2.05 meters longer than the standard size.

18.55m semi trailer

The 10-year trial of longer articulated semi-trailers(LSTs) began in February 2012. The trial revealed the important environmental benefits including a considerable reduction in CO2 and N0x.

Although the maximum gross weight is unchanged, the longer trailers will be particularly suitable for carrying lighter-weight products where the loading constraint is volume rather than weight which will help reduce the number of journeys.

The government believes that longer vehicles will cause less wear on the roads than conventional lorries because of the rear steering axle used.

Operators will be legally required to ensure appropriate route plans and risk assessments are made to take the unique specifications of LSTs into account. 

In addition to these new legal requirements, operators will also be expected to put in place extra safety checks including driver training and scheduling, record keeping, training for transport managers and key staff, and loading of LSTs.

The move is part of the government’s comprehensive 33 actions to address the shortage of HGV drivers and boost recruitment and retention.

The longer lorries are expected to bring £1.4 Billion boost to the UK’s economy- supporting productivity and saving around 70,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

Sources from Gov.uk