External Transport Manager

Compliant. Professional. Cost-Effective.

If your business holds or is applying for a Standard National or International Operator’s Licence but does not have an in-house qualified Transport Manager, our External Transport Manager (ETM) service can help you meet your statutory requirements.

Under the terms of the O-Licence, all operators must either employ a suitably qualified internal Transport Manager or appoint an external one with a formal written contract and access to all relevant systems and records. We offer a dependable, DVSA-compliant solution that ensures your operation runs legally and efficiently.

What we offer

✅ Ongoing Compliance Oversight

We ensure your transport operation continuously meets the requirements of the licence undertakings, including vehicle maintenance, record-keeping, and driver management.

✅ Documented Systems and Procedures

We help implement and maintain robust systems for defect reporting, driver hours, tachograph analysis, record retention, and vehicle inspections.

✅ Regular Audits and Reviews

We carry out regular audits of your compliance systems and maintenance records, identifying issues before they become problems.

✅ Access to Expertise

You get direct access to a qualified CPC holder who understands the realities of running a haulage operation and will help you stay ahead of regulatory expectations.

✅ Proactive Communication

We work with you and your staff, providing clear guidance and constructive feedback to ensure your team understands and fulfils its responsibilities.

✅ Representation and Liaison

Should issues arise, we can liaise with enforcement agencies or attend Public Inquiries, helping you to demonstrate proactive management and a commitment to compliance.

Why appoint an External Transport Manager?

Using an ETM can be a cost-effective way for small or growing transport companies to meet their legal obligations without employing a full-time Transport Manager. You’ll benefit from professional oversight and peace of mind, while focusing on running your business. Our involvement is tailored to the size and complexity of your fleet.

What's included?

Initial compliance review and systems check
Ongoing support
Maintenance scheduling and oversight
Tachograph and working time compliance
Driver licence and CPC checks
Advice and guidance on record-keeping, planning and best practice
Digital tools and document templates
Liaison with maintenance providers, drivers and directors as required
Site visits and compliance audits

Ready to comply with confidence?

If you're applying for a new Operator’s Licence or need to replace a departing Transport Manager, get in touch today to discuss how our External Transport Manager service can support your business.

Your O-Licence is only as strong as the systems behind it. Make sure yours is in safe hands.

About our External Transport Manager

My name is Mark Sales

I hold a valid Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and am fully qualified to act as an External Transport Manager under the terms of a Standard National or International Operator’s Licence.

I bring several years of hands-on experience as a qualified HGV driver, giving me a practical understanding of the day-to-day challenges faced by drivers and operators alike. My background also includes over nine years of service as a police officer, where I developed a strong understanding of road safety, enforcement, and compliance. More recently, I’ve worked as a legal assistant in local government, gaining valuable experience with regulatory frameworks, detailed documentation, and statutory responsibilities.

This blend of frontline experience, legal insight, and transport knowledge allows me to offer a professional, thorough, and practical approach to managing compliance on behalf of operator licence holders.