Heavy vehicle operators travelling to and from Melbourne Market in Epping are being urged to review their loading practices ahead of an upcoming NHVR compliance operation.
The regulator has announced another Operation Melbourne Market, following persistent safety issues at the precinct. Loading and mass-related offences made up 90 per cent of breaches detected across the previous three operations, placing these areas firmly in the spotlight.
Previous Checks Highlight Ongoing Issues
The last operation, held in April 2025, recorded an overall non-compliance rate of 59 per cent. Across 61 vehicle intercepts, officers issued 25 infringement notices and 23 defect notices, alongside 25 education outcomes.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said the repeated findings showed that further education and enforcement were needed. With approximately 3,000 businesses operating within the market precinct, safe transport practices remain essential for drivers, workers and other road users.
Mass and Load Restraint Under Scrutiny
Fresh produce transport often involves tight delivery schedules, but the NHVR is reminding industry that efficiency cannot come at the expense of safety.
Overloaded vehicles can be more difficult to control and stop. Poorly positioned or inadequately restrained freight can also move or fall during transport, creating risks both on the road and around loading areas.
The regulator has warned that businesses continuing to disregard their responsibilities should expect enforcement action. Its message extends beyond drivers, with parties involved in the transport task reminded of their Chain of Responsibility obligations.
Free Information Hub Before the Operation
Drivers and operators will have an opportunity to ask questions and seek practical guidance before the blitz.
The NHVR will host an information hub at BP Northpoint, opposite Melbourne Market, on Wednesday 28 October 2026, from 6 am to 10 am AEDT.
Safety and Compliance Officers and stakeholder engagement representatives will be available to discuss mass limits, load restraint and vehicle standards, helping businesses identify and address potential issues before vehicles head onto the road.
A Timely Reminder for Fleets
For businesses servicing Melbourne Market, the announcement is a timely prompt to review how loads are planned, checked and secured. Making these checks part of everyday operations helps keep safety front of mind beyond any individual compliance blitz.
Further information is available in the NHVR’s official announcement.
You May Also Be Interested In
9 Practical Tips for Better Temperature Control During Transport
How Tegral Helps Transport Managers Hit Their Sustainability Goals
How to Prevent Container Rain: A Guide to Shipping Container Desiccants
Checklist for August 1 HVNL Changes
Check Out Our YouTube Channel
Products
100mm x 100mm x 2400mm E-Dunnage Timber
