NFU secures continued exemptions for agriculture on transporting fuel and fertilisers

17 February 2026

Bags of fertiliser

The NFU has worked with the Department for Transport and the Carriage of Dangerous Goods Practitioners Forum to successfully maintain agriculture’s exemptions from the Carriage of Dangerous Goods regulations. 

These regulations outline the steps transporters must take when moving dangerous goods, such as fuel and certain fertilisers. It includes the quantities that can be transported and the procedures that should be in place in case of a spillage or other incident. 

The NFU has held regular meetings with the Department for Transport and the police to stress the importance of retaining the exemptions for agricultural businesses. 

The exemptions mean that farmers and growers can continue to carry these essential goods with fewer restrictions.

Nothing is more important than working safely, and this guidance will help farmers and growers work safely and efficiently.”

NFU Deputy President David Exwood

NFU Deputy President David Exwood said he was “pleased the Department for Transport has taken our feedback on board and maintained these exemptions”.

“This means farmers and growers can continue the safe, efficient and cost-effective transportation of goods which are vital to the day-to-day business of producing food”.

Download and share our resources

To support best practice and compliance, the NFU has also partnered with the Department for Transport and CDGPF (Carriage of Dangerous Goods Practitioners Forum) to produce agriculture-specific guidance for moving these products.

This includes outlining driver and vehicle requirements, load security and specific advice on fuel, bowsers and intermediate bulk containers. 

“While the exemptions remove a barrier, they still require careful movement,” David added. “Nothing is more important than working safely, and this guidance will help farmers and growers work safely and efficiently.”


Ask us a question about this page

Once you have submitted your query someone from NFU CallFirst will contact you. If needed, your query will then be passed to the appropriate NFU policy team.

You have 0 characters remaining.

By completing the form with your details on this page, you are agreeing to have this information sent to the NFU for the purposes of contacting you regarding your enquiry. Please take time to read the NFU’s Privacy Notice if you require further information.