A simple guide to the UK Government’s new “Check an HGV” service

Hauliers and commercial drivers are now able to log on to the Uk Government’s “Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border” service.

The free service, also known simply as “Check an HGV”, has been created by the UK Government to help hauliers and HGV drivers understand if they are carrying the right documentation.

All lorry drivers (British citizens and EU residents too) must use the system if they carry out Europe-bound transportation after January 1st 2021. Lorry drivers are ultimately responsible for using the system. However, their manager may go through the registration process on their behalf.

The Check an HVG service serves two aims:

– it is the app that drivers muse use to check the paperwork they need to cross the border between Great Britain and the EU via the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel

– it is the means by which one can apply for a Kent Access Permit

>>> Go to the “Check an HGV” service here  <<<

Applying for the Kent Access Permit

The Kent Access Permit (KAP) is a certificate for drivers carrying out international transportation tasks from the UK to Europe.

It aims to make sure drivers will already have completed the required documentation for crossing into the EU before even entering Kent. The permit will be digitally issued to drivers who receive a ‘green’ or ‘amber’ result from the aforementioned  “Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border” service.

Each KAP will be valid for 24 hours to cover a single trip.

Here is what you need to have to be able to receive a permit:

• the expected date and time of arrival of the HGV in Kent
• the registration number (front number plate) of the HGV
• the following customs-ready documents:
  – an EU import document with a barcode (for example from an import declaration or Transit Accompanying Document)
  AND
  – Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission (ATA) or Transport Internationaux Routiers (TIR) carnets

Drivers can be fined £300 if they do not use the service when travelling through Kent or if they provide a fraudulent declaration.

>>> Check out our Kent Access Permit guide HERE <<<

Traffic management system in Kent

Besides the obligation to use the “Check yout HGV” service and the get a Kent Access Permit, drivers must take into account that lorries heading to Dover or to the Eurotunnel must follow new traffic management rules in Kent, as well. This will be regulated by the Operation Brock traffic management system.

Again, drivers who don’t follow the regulations of Operation Brock will be turned around and risk a fine of £300.

>>> Learn what Operation Brock means for EU-bond lorry drivers <<<

Parking in Kent

In addition to the above, lorry drivers should take into account the fact that Kent County Council are clamping down on illegal parking in the region.

In a statement published last week, the council warned that drivers could be fined 150 pounds for parking infringements. You can learn more on the rules here.