Waste carrier licence UK: who needs one
Who needs to register as a waste carrier, the upper/lower tier difference, and how it relates to DWTS.
If you transport waste — including collecting IT for disposal — you almost certainly need to be a registered waste carrier. Here’s who needs one and how it works.
Who needs to register
Anyone who transports controlled waste in the course of business, or who arranges or deals in waste, needs to register as a waste carrier with the Environment Agency (or the relevant national regulator).
Upper vs lower tier
Lower-tier registration is for those who only carry their own waste or certain limited categories; upper-tier (which requires renewal and a fee) is for those who carry others’ waste — which covers most ITAD collection activity.
How it relates to DWTS
A carrier licence and DWTS are separate requirements. From October 2027 registered carriers must also log movements in DWTS. You need both.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a waste carrier licence?
Yes, if you transport controlled waste in the course of business — most ITAD collection activity requires upper-tier registration.
What’s the difference between upper and lower tier?
Lower tier is for carrying your own or limited waste; upper tier (with a fee and renewal) is for carrying others’ waste.
Does a carrier licence cover DWTS?
No — from October 2027 carriers must also log movements in DWTS in addition to being registered.
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