Avoiding PCNs

Taking simple steps can help you reduce the risk of receiving Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs).

Working with your customers

Keep a record of delivery restrictions at regular customers' sites
Where there is a persistent problem with PCNs, find out if there is an off-street or legal loading area nearby
Ask new customers what access there is for deliveries and find out when and where legal loading can take place
Consider revising delivery times to avoid delivery restrictions
Ask customers if it is possible to spread deliveries out to prevent vehicles from delivering at the same time

Where there are stripes on a kerb, a loading ban applies at certain times

Make sure drivers are familiar with road markings and signs
Ensure drivers are aware that loading and unloading should be done in a bay identified for this purpose, or from an appropriate side road or off-street area
Ask drivers to pass on PCNs as soon as possible as fines paid within 14 days are reduced by 50 per cent
Be aware that stopping on yellow lines is only permitted for vehicles engaged in the continuous loading or unloading of heavy goods.
Where there are stripes on the kerb it means there is a loading ban during times shown on adjacent white time plates. Drivers should not stop here for any reason during these times
Under certain circumstances, you may apply for a parking dispensation to allow you to load and unload on yellow lines or red routes. These are normally issued at a charge for exceptional deliveries, and restrictions will apply. If you need to park on a yellow line for more than 20 minutes, you must apply in advance to the local borough. If you need a dispensation for loading on a red route, you must apply in advance to TfL by calling 0845 603 4545.
Make sure drivers don't cause an obstruction by parking in bus lanes, on double red lines, at entrances or near pedestrian crossings
Encourage drivers to report changes in delivery restrictions and Controlled Parking Zones

Record the delivery details, location, driver, time, traffic conditions and relevant signs. If possible, take photographs that record both date and time. A Driver Penalty Charge Notice Report has been produced by TfL and the Freight Transport Association FTA. To order a pack, which is available for a charge, contact the FTA on 08717 112 222