FTA report finds fuel prices damaging to hauliers
Wednesday 07 December 2011 | By Evolution InternetBack to Newsroom
Companies that use Isuzu Rodeo pickups in order to transport goods may agree with claims from the Freight Transport Association (FTA) about the negative effects of high fuel costs.
The body's Manager's Guide to Distribution Costs 2011 revealed the price hikes remain the biggest cause for concern among haulage operators.
This is due to them being squeezed by rising operating costs and pressure for earlier payment terms, alongside downward pressure on haulage rates.
FTA research analyst Bruce Goodhart stated: "This 'squeeze' has left balance sheets fragile and carriers vulnerable during a period of weak economic growth."
Vehicles operating costs for drawbar, rigid and articulated trucks have risen by 6.2 per cent in the year to October 1st 2011, which is an all-time high, according to the report.
The FTA recently welcomed the government's decision to cancel January's three pence fuel hike, as announced by the chancellor in the Autumn Statement.
