Trade associations are professional bodies which represent the interests of those within a specific sector or industry. Their benefits include representation on social, commercial and legislative matters; joint procurement; higher member status through codes of practice; and commercial and legal advice. Some of the key trade associations in road transport are listed below.
Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK is a part of CILT International and therefore enjoys links with sister organisations across the world. CILT is aimed at supporting the ongoing professional development and performance of individuals within logistics. It offers a range of qualifications, mentoring and training, along with research and reading resources, a vacancy board and forums for directors and young transport professionals.
Institute of Transport Administration
Member services offered by the Institute of Transport Administration (IoTA) include professional recognition, networking, and ongoing professional development to individuals involved in logistics.
Road Haulage Association
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has 9,500 members, all within the road transport sector. Its chief executive Roger King is often quoted on road transport matters. Its aims include promoting the best interest of members; political lobbying on behalf of road transport; and the provision of services to members. These include:
For more information on the Road Haulage Association, see RT.com's dedicated RHA page.
Freight Transport Association
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has a broad brief in representing the interests of all freight providers and customers in the UK. As well as political lobbying on behalf of the sector, it has an extensive portfolio of services for members, including:
For more information on the Freight Transport Association see RT.com's dedicated FTA page.
Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers
The Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers (ALLMI) is the UK’s only trade association devoted exclusively to the lorry loader industry. It serves, represents and promotes the interests of its members and the industry at large. It is an authority on all issues involving the design, manufacture, application and use of lorry loaders. Its members includes manufacturers, service providers and fleet operators. Its purpose is to promote safety and compliance with legislation through training and to participate in the formulation of legislation which affects the sector.
Transport Association
The Transport Association is a group of 60 UK haulage companies, each regionally based. Some procurement is done centrally, enabling members to achieve economies of scale in pricing. Members also offer support and help to one another, whether in sharing workload or assisting in local breakdown.
UK Warehousing Association
The UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) originated as a government-inspired trade body overseeing the handling of stored goods in wartime Britain. Now it has nearly 700 member companies who, between them, operate around 100 million sq ft of warehouse and distribution centre space from some 2,000 locations across the UK. Many members are not primarily warehouse providers but use them within broader logistics operations. It also offers international membership. Services include lobbying, information, legal guidance and recognised standards. It also runs an award scheme.
British Association of Removers
The British Association of Removers (BAR) represents removals companies throughout the UK. BAR members conform to a code of practice and are encouraged to achieve relevant British Standards certification. As the removals industry is unregulated, the assurance of quality is a major benefit for members (who deal with the general public more than firms in many other sectors of road transport). BAR offers two specialist groups, the Commercial Moving Group and the Overseas Group. It offers assorted member benefits including training.
British International Freight Association
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) represents the interests of international freight companies based in the UK. Its mission statement is: "To provide effective representation and support for the UK international freight services industry; to promote good practice and total quality in the provision of freight services by all members; and to encourage the membership to observe the highest standards of professional competence". As such it offers training including a professional qualification structure for logistics. It is also known for the BIFA freight services awards.
