The Netherlands is experiencing a substantial increase in the costs associated with renewing heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driving licenses, specifically those requiring Code 95 certification. According to the Verenigde Eigen Rijders Nederland (VERN), an association representing independent drivers, these escalating expenses are becoming unmanageable for numerous self-employed transport operators and professional drivers.
This situation poses a direct challenge for freight forwarders and their operational managers who rely on a stable pool of qualified truck drivers. Increased costs for drivers can lead to higher operational expenses for carriers, potentially translating into elevated road freight rates or a further exacerbation of the existing driver shortage as some drivers may leave the profession due to financial strain. This could impact inland transport capacity and lead to longer transit times for road freight within the Netherlands and potentially across Europe.
VERN is appealing to political bodies, the Central Bureau for Driving Certificates (CBR), and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to intervene and find solutions to mitigate these rising financial burdens on the trucking sector.
