Figures released by the Freight Transport Association show that 72% of parking ticket appeals in London are successful. In other words, 72% of tickets issued to FTA members are issued incorrectly.

The FTA provides a PCN (Penalty Charge Notice) Administration Service, which helps FTA members (including many van operators) to administrate and if necessary appeal their PCNs.

According to the FCA, the most common reason for a PCN is ‘stopping where prohibited’. This typically means stopping on a red route or on single or double yellow lines to deliver to a high street business. Almost 36% of tickets included in the survey were issued for this reason, which a further 33% handed out for parking or loading where restrictions are in force.

However, Natalie Chapman, FTA’s Head of Policy for London, says that many of these tickets are issued incorrectly:

“Loading and unloading is an exemption to restricted street regulations – it’s allowed on single or double yellow lines for a maximum of 40 minutes. Often PCNs are issued incorrectly because the enforcement officer needs more training and doesn’t realise what’s permitted.

“Our PCN Administration Service can advise members when tickets have been issued incorrectly and should be challenged.”

The survey was based on data provided by fifteen companies covering about 32,633 parking fines they had received over a 12-month period.

PCN’s are a daily occurence for many companies delivering into London and other cities. However, drivers of hired vans delivering on business in the capital should take note — the hire company will forward the penalty notice on to the company or individual who hired the van, but it could be worth taking a closer look at the circumstances of the parking ticket to check that it is valid.

FTA members can of course use the association’s PCN Administration Service.