Agricultural Convoys: Safe Movement of Farm Machinery

Moving multiple agricultural vehicles in convoy is sometimes necessary during busy farming periods like harvest time, but it requires careful planning and coordination to ensure safety for all road users. This guide outlines key considerations and best practices for agricultural convoy operations in the UK.

Planning Your Journey

Before setting out in convoy, plan your route carefully, considering road widths, bridges, and potential pinch points. According to the Department for Transport guidance, tractors must not exceed 2.55 m in width for normal road use. If any vehicle is between 3-3.5m wide and the journey is over 5 miles or involves travelling through a 40mph zone, you must notify the police two days in advance.

Vehicle Spacing and Formation

When travelling in convoy, maintain appropriate spacing between vehicles to allow other road users to safely overtake one at a time. The agriculture guidance from the Ulster Farmers’ Union recommends avoiding travelling in tight convoys, as these make it difficult for other drivers to pass. Instead, leave reasonable distances between each vehicle to create safe passing opportunities.

Managing Traffic Build-up

According to UK road regulations, you should not allow a queue of more than eight vehicles to build up behind your convoy, as this can lead to dangerous overtaking attempts by frustrated drivers. Regularly check your mirrors and pull over where safe and appropriate to allow faster vehicles to pass.

Take care with bicycles as you may be travelling at a similar speed; it might be difficult for a cyclist to overtake you, or for you to overtake a cyclist. I spent a fair few weekends as a kid slipstreaming tractors and combine harvesters on my BMX in the Lincolnshire Fens (good to avoid that prevailing westerly).

Communication Between Vehicles

Establish clear communication protocols between convoy vehicles before departure. While mobile phones should never be used while driving, agree on basic hand signals or use working two-way radios if available. The lead vehicle should warn following vehicles of upcoming hazards or planned stops.

Visibility and Lighting

All vehicles in the convoy must comply with standard agricultural vehicle lighting requirements. During hours of darkness or poor visibility, ensure all required lights are functioning, including:

• Front and rear position lamps
• Direction indicators
• Hazard warning lights

Consider using amber warning beacons, which are mandatory on unrestricted dual carriageways for vehicles not exceeding 25 mph.

Supporting Road Safety

Remember that you share the road with other users who may be unfamiliar with agricultural operations. Consider using escort vehicles for exceptionally large convoys or when moving unusually wide equipment. Keep the public roads clear of mud and debris, as you have a legal responsibility to clean up any deposits that could create hazards for other road users.

Conclusion

While moving agricultural vehicles in convoy can be necessary, it must be done with careful consideration for all road users. By following these guidelines and maintaining professional courtesy, we can ensure safe and efficient movement of agricultural equipment while minimising disruption to other traffic.