What is your role in the industry? What does your organisation do?
RHA Insurance Services (RHAIS) offer expert insurance, risk management and claims handling services to haulage, logistics and transport businesses across the UK. Utilising our extensive experience and expertise within both the insurance and road transport sectors, we create bespoke solutions for operators, distributors and associated professional service providers of all sizes, from owner operators to fleets of 500+ vehicles.
Why are you and / or your organisation getting involved in National Lorry Week 2024?
Working alongside such a vast and hugely varied mix of operators in different areas of transport gives us a true reflection of the issues that each organisation faces on a day-to-day basis. Although the businesses they run can be very different, the hurdles they face often have common themes and trends with similar frustrations. RHAIS want to play their part to get the support, recognition and assistance the industry rightly deserves.
Why is it important to celebrate the road transport industry?
Many underestimate the importance of the road transport sector. Not only does it play a crucial role in the supply chain of pretty much all goods in the UK, it’s also the backbone of our economy whilst providing careers and employment for a significant number of the population.
Are there any misconceptions about road transport that you would like to put right?
Some think the transport sector is just trucks, diesel, oil and overalls but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Although these elements are a factor, it’s less widely known the sector is built on innovation, technology and expert people achieving increasingly complex things.
What issues must we raise awareness about in road transport and why are they important?
The skills shortage is a key issue. Far more support is owed to the industry to increase numbers and assist progression for individuals within the sector. There are so many great career opportunities in several different areas and these need to be shouted about to bring in new blood.
On the 10th anniversary of National Lorry Week, what excites you about the future of road transport?
I’m excited to see the future advancements in technology for vehicle safety and alternative fuels. Electrification of HGV fleets will be a significant step forward in reducing the carbon footprint of the industry and whilst there remain difficult challenges to overcome, including costs and maintenance, infrastructure and industry buy-in, RHAIS are excited to help operators on their journey.