What are the essential legal documents and obligations for starting a logistics or transportation business in the UK?

To start a logistics or transportation business in the UK, you will need to prepare and register a variety of legal documents. Key requirements include:

• Registering your business name with Companies House (https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/companies-house).
• Obtaining Employers' Liability Insurance and business insurance (e.g. public liability, vehicle insurance).
• Securing Local authority approval (if operating from a commercial premise) and a lease agreement (if renting premises).
• Having Health and safety policies and procedures in place, in compliance with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines (https://www.hse.gov.uk/).
• Complying with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018 for privacy and data protection policies and procedures (https://ico.org.uk/).
• Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits (e.g. Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence, International Road Haulage Permit).