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Page 26
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ALTHOUGH EARLY-RETIRED from international or.indeed, any kind of commercial driving,1 am fascinated by the latest EU restrictions under the WorkingTime Directive.
About 10 years ago,1 worked on light express transport, often going to Hungary The firm was not renowned for throwing money around, especially in the direction of drivers who were regarded as "10 a penny". Long international journeys were paid at a fixed rate, plus some night-out money.
The formula seemed to be mileage divided by average speed of 45mph to give "x" number of hours plus time spent on cross-Channel ferries. So for the Hungary trip the payment was about £200 plus several overnight money — around £280 in total. Once an optimum route was found, it was amazing how quickly you could do this Leaving home Wednesday at 6pm.going Dover/ Calais through Belgium and Luxembourg, Germany and Austria you could get to Hungary very early on the Friday morning. You would tip at 6.30am,set off back home, and arrive home by lOpm Saturday. having done 2,250 miles, and crossed the Channel twice.All in just 76 hours!
The boss used to frown on such things, but his customers were happy with the service—so what could he do short of sacking us all?
It seemed like easy money at the time, but on reflection it was hard work. I don't think you could do that these days under the Workinglime Directive...or any other rules come to that.
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