Before You Apply

Requirements &
Compliance Checklist

FreightOps works exclusively with articulated HGV owner-operators across the UK. Before you apply as a subcontractor, check that you meet the vehicle, licence, and business compliance requirements below.

FreightOps only accepts Articulated HGV (Class 1) owner-operators with a valid Goods Vehicle Operator Licence. Applications without these will not be progressed.

Vehicle Requirements

  • Articulated HGV (Class 1) only
  • Vehicle must be roadworthy and in good working condition
  • Valid MOT certificate — strong pass rate expected
  • Tachograph fitted and calibrated
  • Maximum vehicle age of 15 years (fleet average assessed)
  • Trailer available or access to one
  • Forward-facing camera fitted (recording preferred)
  • In-cab camera strongly recommended
  • Professional sat nav fitted in all vehicles
  • GPS tracker fitted — must be shareable with FreightOps
  • DVSA-equipped vehicles preferred

Licence & Driver Requirements

  • Valid UK Class 1 (CE) HGV licence
  • No more than 6 penalty points on licence
  • Valid Driver CPC qualification card
  • Digital tachograph card (driver card)
  • Minimum 1 year of HGV driving experience
  • All drivers must have the right to work in the UK
  • DBS checks carried out on all staff (preferred)

Business & Compliance

  • Registered UK limited company or sole trader
  • Valid company number (Companies House registered)
  • Goods Vehicle Operator Licence (O-Licence) — OCRS Green or Amber
  • Goods in Transit Insurance
  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Employer's Liability Insurance (if employing staff)
  • VAT registered (if applicable)
  • EORI number (if applicable)
  • IR35 compliant
  • Recovery arrangements in place
  • Maintenance provider in place
  • Up-to-date vehicle maintenance records

Operational Standards

  • Drivers use a walkaround check app before every shift
  • Driving assessment carried out for all new drivers
  • Coupling and uncoupling training provided to new drivers
  • Bridge strike awareness training provided
  • Load securing training provided to all drivers
  • Gate checks or on-road checks for drugs, alcohol, and security
  • Operating centre address provided (where truck starts and finishes)
  • Out-of-hours contact available 24/7

Documents You'll Need

Have these ready before you start your application. Multiple files can be uploaded per category.

Goods in Transit Insurance
Required
Public Liability Insurance
Required
Employer's Liability Insurance
Required
Goods Vehicle Operator Licence
Required
Valid MOT Certificate
Required
Driver CPC Card
Required
Digital Tachograph Card
Required
Certificate of Incorporation
Recommended
VAT Certificate
Recommended
OCRS Report / Proof
Recommended
MOT Pass Rate Proof
Recommended

Automatic Disqualifiers

Applications will not be progressed if any of the following apply.

Company, director, or driver previously banned by a major logistics operator
OCRS rating of Red with no improvement plan
No valid Goods Vehicle Operator Licence
Driving bans within the last 3 years
More than 6 points on licence
Expired or invalid CPC card
Staff without the right to work in the UK
Vehicles not meeting roadworthiness standards
No out-of-hours contact capability

Not sure if you qualify? Get in touch before applying and we'll let you know.

Contact us →

Everything in Order?

If you meet the requirements above, you're ready to apply. The form takes less than 5 minutes and our team will be in touch within 24 hours.