We provide trusted, proactive oversight to protect your business and reputation
Choosing the right Transport Manager for your London HGV or PSV operation is critical—don’t leave your Operator Licence to chance. At The Transport Consultancy London, we provide trusted, proactive Transport Manager support that safeguards your business and reputation, ensuring full compliance with DVSA and London-specific regulations.
What is a PSV or HGV Transport Manager and Why is the Role Essential?
A PSV (Public Service Vehicle) or HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) Transport Manager is a qualified professional responsible for overseeing the legal, safe, and efficient operation of your transport business. This role is central to protecting your Operator Licence, managing compliance with vehicle maintenance, driver hours, tachograph rules, and road safety standards.
According to the DVSA’s Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness (GTMR), Transport Managers must implement effective and continuous management control systems to ensure fleets remain compliant, safe, and operational. Their key duties include managing drivers and vehicles, supervising record-keeping, and ensuring regular inspections and servicing are conducted to maintain roadworthiness.
Internal vs External Transport Manager for London Operations – What’s the Difference?
Every HGV or PSV Operator Licence holder must appoint a qualified Transport Manager demonstrating continuous, effective control as required by the Traffic Commissioner, represented in the GTMR.
Advantages of an Internal Transport Manager for HGV or PSV:
- Full-time presence in the business.
- Direct access to drivers, records, and vehicles.
- Strong involvement in daily transport operations.
Things to consider when taking in an Internal Transport Manager:
- Higher employment costs (salary, benefits, and ongoing training).
- May lack exposure to wider industry best practices.
- Most suitable for larger operators running multiple vehicles.
External Transport Manager for HGV or PSV:
An External Transport Manager is an independent professional, contracted to provide compliance management services for HGV or PSV operators. They normally work with several businesses, offering specialist consultancy support on a part-time basis.
Advantages of an External Transport Manager for HGV or PSV:
- Cost-effective solution for smaller fleets or new operators.
- Brings specialist compliance expertise across multiple industries.
- Flexible – services can be tailored to the operator’s needs.
Things to consider when taking on an External Transport Manager:
- Less day-to-day presence compared to an internal manager.
- Must still evidence “continuous and effective” control to the Traffic Commissioner.
- Strong communication with the operator is vital.
Struggling to decide between hiring or outsourcing your Transport Manager?”
Our expert guidance ensures you get reliable, DVSA-compliant support without the guesswork.
Which Transport Manager is Right for Your London Fleet?
The choice depends on fleet size, budget, and in-house skills. Both internal and external Managers bear the same legal responsibility for compliance, roadworthiness, and driver management. Appointing the right Transport Manager is crucial to protect your Operator Licence and keep your transport operation legal, safe, and efficient in London’s demanding environment.
Is Your Transport Manager Keeping You Compliant?
Compliance depends not only on the Transport Manager but also on operator support. Poor record-keeping or processes can expose even the best Transport Managers to risk. Regular compliance audits help verify your Transport Manager’s effectiveness and keep your business fully compliant.
Book an audit today to protect your Transport Manager, your licence, and your business.
Why Choose The Transport Consultancy London?
Our expert support empowers operators to:
- ✅ Conduct independent compliance audits to identify and mitigate risks early.
- ✅ Access ongoing Transport Manager support, internal or external, for London’s HGV and PSV sectors.
- ✅ Receive training and consultancy to keep teams updated on DVSA and London transport regulations.
- ✅ Implement comprehensive compliance systems for vehicle maintenance, driver hours, and record-keeping.
We help London operators maintain full compliance and secure their Operator Licence with confidence.