The road freight sector is governed primarily through European legislation, which is aimed at ensuring the free movement of goods and fair competition across Europe. EU rules govern drivers’ hours and working time regulations; common rules on international movement of goods across member states; vehicle standards; vehicle weights and dimensions; initial driver training and drivers Certificate of Professional Competence; the operator licensing regime; health and safety requirements; and a range of regulations aimed at improving road safety including rules governing the carriage of dangerous goods.

As an independent Member State of the EU, Scotland will continue to comply with European regulations. Implementation of EU legislation into UK law (and exercise of any aspects where there is a degree of discretion) is currently a reserved matter, however, and so this responsibility would transfer to the Scottish Parliament as a result of independence. Given the extent of EU regulation, the scope for significant change to the rules is limited but the current Scottish Government plans to achieve a healthy and sustainable freight industry in Scotland that would be able to compete effectively in the European single market.

Source: Scotland's Future, Scottish Government, November 2013.