External Transport Manager Finder Service
Connecting Operators with External Transport Managers
What is the External Transport Manager Finder Service?
The External Transport Manager Finder Service from TMconsultant connects operator licence holders with qualified and vetted External Transport Managers across the UK.
We offer a simple premium service and handle the entire process, search, vetting, and introduction, helping operators stay compliant with the Office of the Traffic Commissioner’s requirements.
How does the ETM Finder Service work?
Complete the form: Fill in the enquiry form on this page.
Make payment: We’ll raise an invoice for the Placement Fee, which is equal to the first month’s rate based on your OCRS category.
We find your ETM: TMconsultant searches for a qualified External Transport Manager local to your operating centre.
Introduction: We connect you both so you can discuss the role and agree terms directly.
We remain available after placement for ongoing advice and after-sales support, ensuring a smooth and compliant working relationship.
How much does the External Transport Manager Finder Service cost?
Our External Transport Manager Finder Service offers simple, transparent, fixed pricing based on the number of vehicles on your Operator Licence.
| Number of Vehicles | One-Off Placement Fee |
|---|---|
| 1–5 vehicles | £449.00 |
| 6–10 vehicles | £649.00 |
| 11+ vehicles | £849.00 |
Our placement fee covers the time and administration involved in sourcing, vetting and introducing a suitably qualified External Transport Manager who meets your operational requirements.
The placement fee is payable before we begin the search.
What about the Transport Manager's monthly fee?
Your External Transport Manager's ongoing monthly fee is separate from our placement fee and is agreed directly between you and the Transport Manager.
The monthly fee will typically depend on the number of vehicles, the operator's compliance history and the level of work required.
Operators with an Amber or Red Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) may be charged a higher monthly fee to reflect the additional compliance monitoring and management required.
This means you know exactly what TMconsultant charges for finding your External Transport Manager, while the ongoing monthly fee reflects your individual operational requirements.
For more information about typical ongoing Transport Manager costs, visit our External Transport Manager Prices page.
How many hours should an External Transport Manager work?
The time a Transport Manager must devote depends on the size of your licence. The Senior Traffic Commissioner’s guidance recommends:
| Number of Vehicles Authorised | Recommended Minimum Hours per Week |
|---|---|
| 1 – 2 vehicles | 2 – 4 hours |
| 3 – 5 vehicles | 4 – 8 hours |
| 6 – 10 vehicles | 8 – 12 hours |
| 11 – 14 vehicles | 12 – 20 hours |
| 15 – 29 vehicles | 20 – 30 hours |
| 30 or more vehicles | Full time (around 36 hours or more) |
These figures are guidance only and may vary depending on your operation’s scale, compliance record, and the type of transport work undertaken.
Who are your External Transport Managers?
Our ETMs are dedicated, like-minded professionals who value compliance and road safety above all else. They are part of our growing ETM network, offering their expertise and consultancy services on a part-time basis.
Our database includes both highly experienced ETMs and newly qualified professionals who have recently achieved their Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) for Transport Managers. All ETMs are fully qualified, up to date on compliance rules and regulations, and vetted prior to placement.
Why use TMconsultant?
Choosing TMconsultant means working with a trusted, established compliance specialist. We have over 10 years of experience supporting operators with operator licence management, DVSA compliance, FORS Help and Transport Manager placement.
Proven expertise – We understand what Traffic Commissioners expect and match you with ETMs who meet those standards.
Nationwide coverage – We maintain a large network of qualified ETMs across the UK.
Vetted professionals – Every ETM is background-checked, qualified, and up to date on transport compliance.
Ongoing support – We don’t disappear after placement. Our team is on hand for continued guidance and practical advice whenever you need it.
Compliance confidence – Using TMconsultant gives you peace of mind that your operation remains fully compliant with DVSA and Traffic Commissioner requirements.
If you would like more information or would just like to chat, feel free to get in touch.