Episode 293: When is a delivery contractor not a contractor?
Ian Kerr
When is a contractor not a contractor? Roel Gevaers, Professor in Last Mile Logistics and Supply Chain, University of Antwerp, discusses proposed legislation that will directly impact postal and delivery contractors:
Background to proposed Belgian legislation targeting sham contracting / false self-employment
Legislation only focuses on postal and parcel delivery drivers
BIPT (postal regulator) will administer the legislation, meaning gig economy platforms are exempt
Obligations on every postal or parcel company to monitor contractors / sub contractors
Delivery sector needs to crack down on illicit behaviour
Workload on BIPT
Should existing legislation be better enforced rather than introducing new legislation?
Different contracting models, including vehicle ownership, and work for other carriers
How the legislation could change the contractor relationship
Broad-based opposition to the legislation
Impact on last mile costs
Will delivery companies base themselves in The Netherlands to avoid compliance with Belgian legislation?
Will the legislation in its current form protect workers from exploitation?
Heightened interest in electrifying delivery fleets
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