Precair werk op de weg

Precarious work on the road. About the consequences of working based on a transnational bogus construction for intra-EU truckdrivers’ remuneration In this research we focused on the consequences of working based on a transnational bogus construction for the remuneration of intra-EU truckdrivers. We interviewed 32 intra-EU truckdrivers and asked them about their (perceptions on) remuneration and other working conditions and circumstances. Based on these qualitative data we were able to analyze the differences in remuneration between four different categories of truckdrivers. One striking finding was that these differences in remuneration could not be linked to the use of a transnational bogus construction. For truckdrivers the use of bogus constructions does not seem to be the most significant factor that influences their remuneration negatively. These workers are more bothered by other (illegal) practices regarding their payment such as cash payments or payment per route or kilometer. The perspective of the drivers themselves on the use of bogus constructions differs from the legal perspective that condemns the use of these constructions at all times. We, of course, do not argue that the fight against employers using bogus constructions should stop. However, we definitely want to emphasize that governments and legal practitioners should also be aware of these other practices used by employers to save money at the cost of the truckdrivers’ remuneration.