Moving heavy freight - new NPCC guidance published

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), in collaboration with the Abnormal Loads Group (ALG), has today released new national guidance to support police forces in the management of abnormal load movements across the UK. The new guidance marks a significant step forward in improving coordination, transparency, and efficiency for both law enforcement and the transport industry.

This landmark document reflects extensive consultation with the transport and logistics sectors and is designed to ensure a safer and more predictable operating environment for the movement of abnormal loads, while also supporting the operational requirements of police forces.

Key highlights of the new NPCC guidance include:

• 30-Day Window Acceptance
• Clarification on Embargoes
• Targeted Embargo Approach
• Police Escorts and Legal Authority

Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier is part of the NPCC portfolio for Roads Policing. He said:

“This new guidance is a testament to what can be achieved through close collaboration between law enforcement and industry. I’d like to thank all of our partners for their support and engagement which has enabled us to develop a practical document benefitting everyone. 

"It brings greater clarity to both police forces and operators, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and focusing resources where they are truly needed.”

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

“We’re delighted that the NPCC has listened and understand that this guidance is an economic enabler and we look forward to continuing to work with them collaboratively going forward.

“We recognise that police have an incredibly challenging job to do and abnormal loads movements are a specialism. It’s only right that officers across all forces have the most up-to-date guidance that will help them support operators moving abnormal loads.

“This will also give infrastructure project leaders and hauliers the certainty that they will have a consistent service from officers when they require their support.”

The NPCC has agreed that the guidance will be subject of ongoing review and amendment, so it remains fit for purpose.

A formal review will take place twelve months after publication.