DfT clarifies speed limits for courier drivers in vans
Date: 21 February 2008
The Department for Transport (DfT) has clarified the speed limits relating to van drivers including couriers and owner drivers on Britain's roads.
Vans and other goods vehicles not exceeding 7.5 tonnes must adhere to a 50mph speed limit on single carriageway roads (as opposed to 60mph for cars), and to 60mph on dual carriageways (70mph for cars).
Of course, where lower speed limits are signed, for example in built-up areas, courier drivers must stick to these.
The DfT points out that the main reason for lower speed limits for courier drivers in vans and other van drivers is because goods vehicles are designed to carry heavy loads, and that they generally take longer to slow down than a car travelling at the same speed.
However, there is one group of vans that does have the same speed limits as cars. These vans are derived from a car chassis and have a maximum laden weight of no more than two tonnes.
Vans that fall into this category are those that are similar to a Ford Fiesta van, a Vauxhall Corsa van or a Renault Clio van - with loads of around 0.5 tonnes.
Couriers using vans such as Ford Transits and other larger panel vans are required to stick to the lower speed limits.
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User Comments
I think you have made a mistake it says courier vans can do 60 on dual carrageways and cars can only do 50 surely this should be 70
Posted By: Martin Overton on 26/02/2008 17:46:13
Whilest your figures are correct for vans on dual carriageways, can you check the limits for cars!!
Posted By: steve Morton on 26/02/2008 18:36:44
Beware, I remember some years ago in the EEC Germany in particular required drivers of such vehicles had to use Log books to record drivers hours and usage if tachos or digicards wernt fitted.
Posted By: dave anslow on 27/02/2008 10:04:08
Thank you for pointing this out. It is in fact a typo and has now been corrected.
Posted By: Luke Humble on 27/02/2008 13:58:49
WHat are the speed limits for a vauxhall combo van
Posted By: Alan Brooks on 27/02/2008 16:56:49