RHA Business Finance strengthens membership offering with strategic appointments

Rising fuel costs, regulatory pressures and the push towards net zero are stretching margins and testing resilience. At the same time, operators are being asked to invest in cleaner vehicles, better tech and more efficient systems. It’s safe to say that having access to the capital needed for growth, expansion and adaptation is more important than ever. 

That’s why the Road Haulage Association, in partnership with PMD Business Finance, has made two strategic appointments to strengthen its support for members. Joel Moffat joins as Business Development Director and Ian Jones takes on a consultancy role, using his knowledge and network to support RHA members on their journey to net zero. Together, they bring decades of experience and a shared passion for helping hauliers access the support needed to stay competitive, compliant and future-proof in a sector that is constantly on the move. 

Pete Short, Head of Business Development for the RHA, said “We’re very happy to have the hires in post for RHA Business Finance driven by PMD, having a dedicated resource (Joel) for members to be able to utilise and help will be fantastic. Ian coming in as an ambassador will be ideal for this partnership, bringing with him a wealth of industry knowledge and being one of the haulage and logistics sectors most well-known personalities.” 

Meet Joel Moffat

Joel Moffat joins RHA Business Finance with a proven track record of helping SMEs, especially hauliers, secure funding for vehicles, equipment and growth. He understands the pressures operators face – the tight margins, the rising costs and the need to invest without depleting cashflow reserves. 

Now, Joel’s focus is on helping RHA members make confident financial decisions. Whether that’s upgrading existing fleets, expanding depots or simply just keeping cashflow steady. Joel’s here to help haulage operators find funding that fits their business, not just their balance sheet. 

With Joel on board, members gain direct access to someone who knows the sector and speaks their language. 

“It’s an honour to be part of such a respected and vital organisation, one that tirelessly champions the needs of its members.” Joel says. “I’m very excited to get going and get stuck into helping members with all of their financial needs, dealing not only with simple enquiries, but complex issues and ultimately, helping businesses strive towards their goals.” 

Ian Jones: A trusted voice for the industry

Ian Jones is a familiar name in the haulage world. As co-founder of Backhouse Jones, he’s spent over two decades advising transport operators. His reputation as a trusted advisor is well-earned, and now, he brings that experience to the finance side of the industry. 

But Ian’s value goes beyond legal expertise. He’s built a vast network across transport and logistics, from operators and suppliers to regulators and funders. That network is now available to RHA members and PMD clients. In his new role, Ian will act as an advocate, helping members tap into funding opportunities, navigate challenges and access the right people at the right time. Whether it’s introducing a specialist lender, exploring green finance options or advising on strategic investment, Ian is here to help. 

Commenting on his recent appointment, Ian says, “My interest in decarbonisation of the haulage industry and relationship with PMD are both longstanding. When I was offered the opportunity to combine the two, I did not need asking twice! I’m delighted to work with PMD and the RHA for the benefit of operators and the planet. It’s not just the principle.  It’s also the money. Operators of the future will need to decarbonise whilst maintaining a profit and PMD are here for that very investment purpose.” 

Ian’s presence also strengthens RHA Business Finance’s ability to engage with policymakers, industry bodies and sustainability leaders. His involvement with the RHA Net Zero Forum and editorship of Destination Net Zero Magazine demonstrates his commitment to supporting the sector’s transition to net zero. For members looking to inve

Fuelling more than just fleets

The haulage sector contributes over £13.5 billion to the UK economy and moves 98% of all food and agricultural products. Yet, it’s under growing pressure. Recent reports show 38% of haulage businesses are at serious risk of insolvency, and 13% have negative working capital, totalling a shortfall of £834 million. Traditional bank lending isn’t always accessible, especially for smaller operators or those with complex needs. 

One increasingly popular option is asset refinance. Many operators own vehicles outright, and by refinancing trucks, trailers or equipment, they can release equity to fund operations, invest in new technology or even support acquisitions. 

This isn’t just about short-term relief, it’s about long-term growth and stability. Hauliers are refinancing parts of their fleet to raise capital for new sites, allowing them to expand their geographic reach and win new contracts. Others use released equity to invest in driver training, compliance systems, or digital tools that improve efficiency and reduce risk. 

Finance is also key to the sector’s push toward net zero. With decarbonisation costs rising, operators can use finance options to support the transition. One standout example is the growing demand for HVO tanks, a cleaner fuel alternative that helps reduce emissions. These tanks aren’t cheap, but with the right finance in place, operators can spread the cost and start making a measurable impact on their carbon footprint. 

Technology is another area where finance is making a difference. Modern haulage businesses rely on software and digital infrastructure to stay compliant, plan routes, manage fleets, and monitor fuel usage. From tachograph systems to transport management software, these tools are essential, but costly. RHA Business Finance helps members fund these upgrades, ensuring they stay competitive and compliant without draining reserves. 

How we’re helping hauliers grow

RHA Business Finance, powered by PMD, supports over 3,000 haulage operators and gives members access to over 160 funders. That means more choice, competitive rates and funding that’s built around their business, not the other way around.

Here are just a few ways finance is making a difference:

• £250,000 Asset Finance Facility: A new-start haulage operator needed funding for three used DAF trucks. RHA Business Finance secured three separate finance agreements within 24 hours, enabling immediate deployment and contract fulfilment.
• £800,000 Invoice Finance Solution: A growing Essex-based operator faced cashflow challenges due to long payment terms. RHA Business Finance helped them unlock 90% of their sales ledger, releasing £800k, with funding covering fuel, maintenance, wages and fleet upgrade.
• £100,000+ Saved Through Benchmarking: One member suspected their asset finance agreements weren’t competitive. RHA Business Finance reviewed 10 agreements, identifying over £100k in savings, plus £30k more by switching invoice finance providers.

What can finance be used for?

RHA Business Finance supports a wide range of needs, including:

• Fleet upgrades: replace older vehicles with more efficient models
• HVO tanks: switch to cleaner fuels and reduce emissions
• Warehouse acquisition: expand your operational footprint
• Software and compliance tech: stay ahead of regulations
• Cashflow support: manage seasonal dips or unexpected costs
• Green finance: invest in sustainability and net zero goals

Having multiple credit lines in place for trucks, trailers, workshop equipment, IT, and property gives operators the freedom to grow at their own pace.

The “F” Word

Finance can feel like a taboo word in a lot of industries, but it doesn’t need to be. At RHA Business Finance, we firmly believe finance should be a tool in every operator’s arsenal, a sign of tactical cashflow management and not a cry for help.

From sole traders to national fleets, the right funding can help members:

• Stay compliant with changing regulations
• Invest in efficiency and reduce operating costs
• Expand your services and win new contracts
• Protect your cashflow and avoid disruptions

With RHA Business Finance’s benchmarking service, members can make sure their current finance agreements are providing the best value. Even if they are, we’ll check the documents to give peace of mind.

Built around members

The RHA is a member-led organisation. That means we listen, and we act. These appointments are part of a wider push to give members the tools, advice and support they need to succeed.

Whether you’re running a single truck or a national fleet, RHA Business Finance is here to help you move forward, with expert guidance, flexible funding and a deep understanding of the sector.

To find out more, visit rha.uk.net/business-finance or speak to Joel Moffat, your Business Development Director.