Logistics UK has announced a partnership with Avail - a driver hire technology platform - to offer its members an alternative to traditional agencies.

The new partnership aims to overcome the “common frustrations” experienced by commercial vehicle drivers and operators as they seek to fill vacancies.

Al Richardson, head of membership and affinities at Logistics UK, said: “Avail is modernising the driver hire experience by connecting HGV and van drivers with operators directly through its platform.

“By erasing the need for an intermediary, operators save on agency fees while drivers benefit from pay more befitting to the skills and importance of their work – this is vital to attracting more workers to the role and overcoming the deteriorating driver shortage.

“Logistics UK is thrilled to announce this affiliate partnership and offer its members a new way to recruit temporary drivers.”

Avail is an online booking app that puts operators in contact with temporary drivers.

Erin Short, founder and CEO of Avail, said: “We have been working with Logistics UK for over a year to bring us to this point and I am delighted to see it finally launch. I believe our affiliation will be a game changer for the industry.

“When I left the army six years ago, I became a temporary HGV driver for a period, and I saw how frustrating it was for all involved.

“I came up with the idea of Avail, a solution to the issues I saw, and began work on the platform on my days off.”

Members of Logistics UK can access the new platform on the Logistics UK website.