ASTIC calls for higher professional diesel limit and warns of hidden costs

In recent years, the transportation sector has faced numerous challenges, particularly concerning fuel regulations and operational costs. As the industry evolves, associations like ASTIC play a crucial role in advocating for changes that can significantly impact logistics and efficiency. This article delves into ASTIC's recent demands regarding professional diesel limits and the implications for the entire transportation sector.

ASTIC calls for an increase in the professional diesel limit and highlights hidden costs

ASTIC has expressed its approval of the recent official changes to the General Vehicle Regulations, which had been negotiated over two years ago with industry representatives. This adjustment, which allows trucks to carry up to 44 tons, is expected to have a positive effect on the operational costs for transport companies.

The association emphasizes that the increase in weight capacity will require a thorough reassessment of contractual relationships across the transportation chain, as it directly correlates with operational expenses. They also celebrate the unimpeded authorization of duotrailers, advocating for further harmonization of weights and dimensions across Europe. A crucial aspect of their demand is the elevation of the annual professional diesel limit from 50,000 liters per vehicle.

Ramón Valdivia, the executive vice president of ASTIC and a member of the IRU's Presidency Committee, stated, “This measure, long known and discussed, has been in the works with the government for many years, although the reasons for the delays have not always been clear.”

Transitioning from 40 to 44 tons allows for an additional 4,000 kg of payload per trip, resulting in substantial operational cost implications. Estimates suggest that this could lead to increases between 14% and 18% in areas such as:

• Fuel consumption
• Tire wear
• Brake wear
• Loading and unloading times
• Average speed reductions

These factors will inevitably necessitate adjustments in the contractual agreements between transporters and their clients once the new regulations come into force.

Who is entitled to professional diesel benefits?

The professional diesel allowance is intended for specific categories of transport operators. These include:

• Freight transport companies
• Logistics providers
• Self-employed truck drivers engaged in professional transportation

To qualify for these benefits, operators must demonstrate that the diesel fuel is used strictly for professional activities, thus ensuring that the tax exemptions associated with this fuel are not exploited for non-commercial purposes. The implementation of strict regulatory frameworks helps maintain the integrity of this system.

Understanding professional diesel

Professional diesel refers to the specific type of fuel that transportation companies can purchase at a reduced tax rate. This tax benefit is designed to alleviate some of the financial burdens that come with operating fuel-intensive vehicles. The fuel is often marked and monitored to prevent misuse.

Key aspects of professional diesel include:

• Lower tax rates than regular diesel
• Eligibility based on the nature of the transportation business
• Strict regulations to monitor usage

By understanding these parameters, companies can better navigate the complexities associated with fuel management and cost control within their operations.

Current diesel limit and its implications

The current limit of 50,000 liters per vehicle per year poses challenges for many transport companies. This restriction is anticipated to be exceeded by an increasing number of vehicles as the new weight regulations take effect on October 23.

Ignoring the need for an adjustment in this limit could lead to significant financial disadvantages for numerous firms, particularly those that routinely exceed this threshold due to higher cargo volumes. This concern has been voiced by ASTIC, which argues that revising the limit is essential to accommodate the evolving landscape of the transportation sector.

Impact of euromodular combinations on the transport industry

ASTIC has welcomed the formal approval for the unrestricted movement of euromodular combinations, particularly duotrailers, which can operate without prior authorization. This development, allowing extensions up to 72 tons and 32 meters, represents a significant leap forward for the industry.

This configuration has been widely utilized by ASTIC member companies, providing advantages such as:

• Enhanced legal security for transport operations
• Reduction of administrative burdens
• Facilitation of more sustainable and efficient transport solutions

Moreover, statistics from ASTIC indicate that only about 10% of articulated trips currently utilize full load capacity (40 tons). Many vehicles may not reach 44 tons due to various constraints, including:

• Technical specifications of the vehicle (e.g., tankers)
• Limitations at unloading points (e.g., silos or tanks)
• Commercial integrity issues or stacking constraints of cargo

Recognizing these limitations is critical for transport companies as they navigate the revised regulations while striving for operational efficiency.

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