The European Road Hauliers Association (UETR) has weighed in on the draft directive on combined transport. The UETR, representing 18 national organisations of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe, has referred to the proposal to amend the current Directive 92/106/EEC on combined transport.
The proposed revisions to Directive 92/106/EEC on combined transport aim to encourage cooperation between different transport modes and create an efficient, sustainable, and integrated transport network. However, the UETR objects to any mandated shift of freight from road to other modes. They emphasize the need for fair competition, which cannot be achieved by policies favouring one mode at the expense of another.
The association believes the proposed directive needs improvement. This includes clarifying the definition of “combined transport” itself, as the reference to external cost calculation methodology is confusing. Additionally, the association notes the lack of incentives for road transport and the need for fair competition across all modes. This includes limiting support measures for one mode over another, subject to proper justification.