Operational improvement outcomes through voluntary compliance in road transport operations

Abstract: This paper presents operational improvement outcomes of the Road Transport Management System (RTMS) in South Africa. The RTMS is a voluntary, self-regulation scheme that encourages consignees, consignors and road transport operators toward best practice in road transport. The views of consignors, consignees and road transport operators were surveyed to provide insights into perceptions and outcomes of the RTMS. Respondents indicate improved safety, operational efficiency, profitability, and reduced road crashes as outcomes of the RTMS. The main obstacles to increased certification are a lack of awareness of the RTMS and a poor understanding of the requirements for becoming certified