Legal Documents for Transport Companies in Ireland
Irish transport and logistics companies navigate complex employment status issues (particularly for owner-drivers), commercial haulage contracts, and regulatory requirements. The Karshan decision has significant implications for the transport sector, where many owner-drivers may be reclassified as employees. Service agreements for haulage and warehousing define the commercial terms that keep supply chains moving. Employment contracts must address driving hours, tachograph requirements, and sector-specific safety obligations.
Documents You Need
Common Legal Mistakes in Transport & Logistics
Owner-driver arrangements that fail the Karshan test
Many owner-driver arrangements in Irish logistics are vulnerable to Karshan reclassification. If the owner-driver works exclusively for one company, uses company branding, follows company schedules, and has no genuine opportunity to profit from their own initiative, they may be reclassified as employees - triggering backdated PAYE, PRSI, and USC for the company.
Inadequate haulage contracts
Haulage and logistics service agreements should address liability for goods in transit, insurance requirements, delivery timeframes, damage claims, and compliance with transport regulations. Without proper contracts, disputes over damaged or lost goods become extremely difficult to resolve.
Employment contracts not addressing driving regulations
Transport employment contracts should address driving hours under the EU Drivers' Hours Regulations, tachograph requirements, CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) maintenance, drug and alcohol testing policies, and the consequences of losing a driving licence.