Overloaded vans can be one of the most unsuspecting yet damaging factors to affect fleets. A van over its weight limit, is a safety risk for the driver and other road users, as well as a legal issue for the employer. Contributor Alison Bell, Marketing Director for Venson Automotive Solutions.

Businesses may take the time to ensure their vans are fit for purpose, with regular servicing and maintenance, but overloading won’t only add to wear and tear, it could see driver and employer face prosecution.

DVSA figures^[1] show that as many as eight in 10 vehicles they stop are because they are overloaded, resulting in on-the-spot fines of up to £300^[2].  Businesses and drivers of vans that are found in breach of other safety regulations, including mechanical defects, could result in a court appearance and larger fines.

Alison Bell, Marketing Director for Venson Automotive Solutions, comments “With the success of many businesses reliant upon keeping their drivers on the move, having a van taken off the road due it being damaged as a result of overloading could cost dear, not to mention facing a fine and the loss of reputation. This is just one of the issues fleet managers face on a day to day basis.

Mark Cartwright, Head of Vans for the Freight Transport Association, comments, “Any organisation operating vehicles as part of its business activity has a responsibility to consider the safety of drivers and the public. The FTA Van Excellence Scheme and our courses are designed to empower van operators with the knowledge they need to demonstrate best practice.

Venson is gearing up to deliver a series of training sessions  with the Freight Transport Association (FTA) providing best practice and a qualification for fleet managers with the Certificate of Excellence.