Frequently asked questions
Q - What is different about the new ESDAL system?
A - The National Highways Abnormal Loads team and systems contractors are delivering a major update to ESDAL. This is a new look and feel to the system, with improved useability across all portals, including an enhanced notification workflow and many other features.
Q - When was the new ESDAL system launched?
A -The new system was launched on July 30th 2024.
Q - Will I need a new log in or URL?
A - No, log in details will remain the same, however you may need to change your password to align with the new ESDAL “strong” password policy. The URL will remain as esdal.nationalhighways.co.uk
Q - Do I need special hardware or technology to use ESDAL?
A -The ESDAL service continues to be a web-based service. Other than a PC or laptop device with a recent web browser, no dedicated hardware or specific software is required.
Q - What training is there for the new system?
A - Available support includes onscreen help and quick start guides, user guides and videos which are available from this website. You can also get email and telephone support from the helpdesk. Please bear with us if call volumes are high around the time of the launch of the new update.
Q - Will there be a charge to use ESDAL, either now or in the future?
A - ESDAL will continue to be a free to use service. There are no plans to charge for it in the future.
Q - Do users need to re-enter data into the new system?
A - The majority of users’ data has been transferred into the new system, however users have access to historical movement data from April 1st 2022 only. If you need access to the details of an older movement, please contact the helpdesk.
Q - Is my information secure?
A - National Highways continues to ensure that all data is held securely and is password protected.
Q - Is the legislation changing?
A - No, there are no current plans for a change in legislation relating to the movement of abnormal indivisible loads.
Q - Will the notification process change?
A - The legislative requirements in the new service remain the same; hauliers are still required to notify the movement of abnormal indivisible loads. However the functionality to support this process has been enhanced, and further enhancements are planned.
Q - We delegate structures/roads, will these remain in place?
A - Yes, these delegations will remain in place. If you need to change delegations, please contact the ESDAL helpdesk (contact details below).
Q - Do I still need to provide structure updates?
A -Structure owners will continue to be able to make updates to the structures they own or are responsible for in ESDAL. Structures owners will be contacted on a regular basis to provide any updates that they have not made themselves in ESDAL.
Q - Where is the interactive PDF notification template for notifying National Highways without using the ESDAL system?
A - The interactive PDF notification is still available, click here to download a copy before editing and submitting it. We are phasing out use of PDF, if you need support in accessing and using the ESDAL system please contact the Helpdesk (contact details below).
Q - Can I set up a system to system link to send and export ESDAL data from my own system?
A - Yes, the ESDAL API External Interface Design Description is available, please contact the helpdesk if you would like to set up a more detailed discussion.
Q - Who is the service provider?
A - Arcadis are the service provider, supported by ARS T&TT.
Q - Will we get an opportunity to shape future functionality?
A - All ESDAL users can provide feedback via the helpdesk, via the forms on the system itself, or via user surveys. All feedback is welcome and we will use it to prioritise future enhancements.
Q - How can I find out more, or get answers to other questions?
A - The helpdesk continues to provide help and advice to all ESDAL stakeholders.
Please contact us with any questions at esdalenquiries@nationalhighways.co.uk or 0300 470 3733. We are open from 8am - 6pm Monday - Friday (excluding bank holidays).