Rumour abounded last week that FedEx (UK) were requiring all transport documents submitted from consignors and freight forwarders  to fully comply with ADR 5.4.1.1.(f) Note 1 and provide details of the load as it relates to the transport category and single or mixed load calculations. BADGP have sought clarification from both FedEx(UK) and the competent authority as it has been understood that ‘Notes’ within ADR are provided for information and clarification but do not form part of the direction of the law. The HSE have confirmed that FedEx(UK) must comply with CDGTPE (ADR) and if they wish to add additional arrangements within the scope of ADR then that is their right to do so. 

BADGP therefore notifies all of its members and readers of this news alert that all future dealings with FedEx(UK) will require transport documents that fully comply with Note 1 of ADR 5.4.1.1.(f). This information should be added as part of the supplementary information to the required DG identifiers as stated at ADR 5.4.1.1. a,b,c,d,k. To date we know of no other carrier that is requiring full implementation of this particular ADR note. 

Company interpretations of ADR are not new - for example many carriers chose not to transport Class 1 and Class 7 goods owing to business insurance restrictions. BADGP are aware of another carrier that requires a signed transport document for UK mainland DG movements as part of the company DG policy.

All DG competent persons are reminded that full compliance of CDGTPE(ADR) is the required status - anything additional is accepted provided that it does not contradict the instructions within the aforementioned law not compromise the required safe transport risk controls.