If you operate HGVs or run a transport company in PSV, a few things strike more fear into your business than receiving a letter from the Traffic Commissioner calling you to a Public Inquiry. It usually means one thing: something has gone wrong — and your licence, your livelihood, and your reputation are on the line.
Public inquiries are legal hearings, run like a courtroom, where the Traffic Commissioner assesses whether you deserve to continue holding an operator licence and are not routine meetings or informal chats.
Going to a Public Inquiry unprepared can be the difference between:
-
Keeping your licence, or
-
Suspension, curtailment, or in the worst case, revocation of your Operator’s Licence and essentially, your livlihood.
Here’s why working with The Transport Consultancy can make all the difference.
1. The Transport Consultancy knows what the Traffic Commissioner expects.
Operators often assume that showing improvement or promising to do better is enough. Well, in a nutshell, It isn’t and you do not want to be in a position to find that out at a Public Inquiry.
The Traffic Commissioner needs evidence — real, tangible proof that you understand the issues, have taken corrective action, and have systems in place to prevent repeat failures.
The Transport Consultancy will:
-
Review your compliance systems
-
Identify gaps and risks
-
Ensure you bring the right evidence and documentation to the Public Inquiry
They know what the Commissioner wants to see… and what they absolutely do not want to hear.
2. The Transport Consultancy can help you build a strong case
Many operators unknowingly walk into a Public Inquiry on the defensive. They explain what went wrong, blame others, or talk about being short-staffed or too busy.
The Commissioner has heard it all before and they want to see resolutions to the problems not blame on others.
The Transport Consultancy will help you:
-
Present facts, not feelings
-
Accept accountability without accepting blame that isn’t yours
-
Demonstrate improvement clearly and confidently
This shifts the Inquiry from being a punishment to a positive demonstration of change.
3. The Transport Consultancy ensures your compliance systems are genuinely fit for purpose
You’ll be asked to show real operational controls in your HGV or PSV Operations, such as:
-
Maintenance planner and PMI records
-
Driver defect reporting
-
Tachograph analysis and working time management
-
Internal audits and corrective actions
The Transport Consultancy doesn’t just tidy your paperwork — they make sure the systems actually work.
Because if you tell the Commissioner you have a process, they will test your knowledge.
4. Representation — you don’t have to face the Inquiry alone
Public Inquiries are formal and can be intimidating for Operators. The Transport Consultancy will:
-
Prepare you for the questions you’ll be asked
-
Attend the hearing with you
-
Help you articulate answers confidently
More importantly, they stop you from saying the wrong thing.
One poorly worded sentence — even if said innocently — can change an entire outcome. Having someone experienced beside you keeps the hearing calm, professional, and focused on your improvements.
5. Having The Transport Consultancy by your side, protects your business and your operator licence
Losing your licence doesn’t just end transport operations — it can shut down your entire business. now and in the future.
Working with The Transport Consultancy reduces the risk of:
-
Revocation of your operator licence
-
Having vehicles or authorisation reduced
-
Losing your repute as a Transport Manager
-
Personal liability issues
The Transport Consultancy’s goal is to safeguard your compliance and keep you operating.
The Bottom Line
A Public Inquiry isn’t the time to “see how it goes.” It’s far from that…
It’s the time to prepare, demonstrate control, and show the Traffc Commissioner that you’re serious about compliance.
Working with The Transport Consultancy isn’t a cost — it’s a business protection strategy.
If you’re facing:
-
Enforcement action
-
A DVSA investigation
-
A call to Public Inquiry
…get expert help immediately and contact The Transport Consultancy.
🚚 Need experienced guidance – Call The Transport Consultancy –
If you want support preparing for a Public Inquiry, reviewing compliance systems, or strengthening your O-licence management, we can help.
📍 Visit: www.thetc.co.uk
✔️ Public Inquiry support
✔️ Compliance audits
✔️ Transport Manager support
Don’t wait until it’s too late — take action now and protect your licence. Call us now on 01788 891 608
Nationwide Consultants available to cover all areas in the UK including (but not limited to) Rugby, Northampton, Milton Keynes, London, Nottingham, Luton, Leeds, Lutterworth and beyond!