HGV costs rise 8.9%

The cost of running a typical 44 tonne articulated lorry rose by 2.9% before diesel and by 8.9% after diesel costs are included, in the 12 months to September 30 2008, according to the Road Haulage Association's annual Cost Movement Survey.

The Survey highlights diesel costs, as it did last year, due to the volatility and importance of this area of cost and the RHA notes that a large number of hauliers are now using fuel clauses in their contracts and pricing mechanisms with customers.

The 2008 survey also highlights the impact of the credit crunch, which started to impact towards the end of the survey period and remains a key concern for hauliers in terms of bank lending, credit from fuel and other suppliers and delays in receiving payment from customers.

The survey also highlights the need to take full account of the overhead costs in a professional hire or reward haulage operation.

"This clearly demonstrates that irrespective of diesel prices, other higher costs continue to impact upon the haulier," said RHA Chief Executive Roger King.