Regulation, responsibility and risk: key updates

Latest DVSA guidance, operator licence reminders, transport manager risks and digital contracting reshape compliance expectations across the removals sector. An update from Backhouse Jones.

Changes to regulations and contracts are taking place in the industry. Backhouse Jones provides details and analysis on some of the developments which have an impact on the removals and storage industry.

DVSA: updated guide to driving goods vehicles

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has released a new edition of The Official DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles, offering updated and essential guidance for HGV drivers and instructors across the UK. Published by The Stationery Office, the latest edition became available on 18 March 2026 and reflects current best practice, safety standards, and regulatory expectations.

The revised guide supports both new and experienced drivers with practical, accessible advice, including expanded information on the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence with 10 real-world case studies, updated first aid guidance including the use of defibrillators, and expert tips promoting long-term safe and responsible driving habits. It is available via the Safe Driving for Life platform for both individuals and fleet operators.

Operator licence reminder

The DVSA has issued an important reminder to all operator licence holders: ensure your contact details are accurate and current. If you hold an Operator’s Licence, your registered email, telephone number and postal address must be correct. Failure to update these details could result in missing critical communications from the Traffic Commissioner.

DVSA now issues key documents electronically, including prohibition notices, prohibition clearance notices, and regulatory correspondence. These are sent via email with secure download links — an outdated email address could mean missing time-sensitive or legally significant information. To update your details, log into your VOL account via GOV.UK, check your contact details under “Your account” and update where necessary. If you do not yet have a VOL account, you should create one without delay.

Transport manager: the “true role”

To those outside the sector, “Transport Manager” may sound like a straightforward operational role. In reality, under the Operator Licensing regime, it is a statutory position carrying significant legal responsibility. A transport manager must be UK resident, be of good repute, be professionally competent, exercise continuous and effective management, and not be prohibited by a Traffic Commissioner.

“Continuous and effective management” is the most critical, and often misunderstood, requirement. It demands active, demonstrable oversight – not a nominal or passive role. In larger or more complex organisations, particularly in the removals sector, responsibilities can become fragmented across roles such as Transport Coordinators or Workshop Managers. While operationally efficient, this can create regulatory risk. Even where responsibilities are shared, each named transport manager remains fully accountable.

External transport managers, while permitted, are frequently scrutinised. Warning signs include short-term or multiple appointments, limited involvement with operations, lack of familiarity with the business, and overextended commitments. Operators must ensure the transport manager has real authority, that reporting structures support their role, responsibilities are clearly defined, and contracts reflect statutory duties. A well-drafted transport manager contract is not optional — it is a key safeguard.

From WhatsApp to courtroom: when messages become contracts

In today’s digital-first environment, informal communication can carry formal consequences. In DAZN Limited v Coupang Corp, the English Court of Appeal confirmed that exchanges via WhatsApp and email can create a legally binding contract — even without a formal agreement. If there is no “subject to contract” wording, informal discussions may be enough to establish binding obligations.

Supporting case law reinforces this: in Immigration Storage Company Ltd v Clear plc, an informal agreement was upheld despite assurances that a formal contract would follow. In South West Terminal Ltd v Achter Land and Cattle, even a 👍 emoji was accepted as a valid electronic signature.

The risk is clear — you may be committing to legally binding terms before you intend to do so. To protect your business, clearly label negotiations as “subject to contract”, avoid agreeing key terms informally, and ensure internal messaging practices are controlled and understood. While “subject to contract” is not foolproof, it remains a strong indicator of intent.

Read the story in the Magazine.