Hi Everybody,
After a few weeks with my new firm on days, I’ve now moved-onto tramping, which is what I wanted to do.
I specifically asked at interview whether they paid parking, and they confirmed that they did, and I asked again at the main office when I dropped-in, and again, they confirmed that they did, so no worries about that. They said to pay it myself, retain the receipt, fill-out a weekly expenses sheet, and hand it in with my paperwork at the end of the week, after which I will be compensated. Fairly standard stuff. They didn’t specify that the parking MUST be secure, but they still said they’d pay it.
My question is whether there is some ettiquette to using paid parking, such as only using it when you absolutely need to, and going into lay-bys, etc, as much as possible? Or do you think; If they pay it, use it, and have a decent meal and a shower every night?
I’m a bit dubious as to whether my gaffer will tell me to tone down my parking expenses, after I put in my first weekly claim. There could be some unwritten rules I’m not aware of! 
When I used to tramp before, my trailer was robbed once in a lay-by, so I’m not a fan. I carry fresh produce and meat, some of it very expensive and top-end, particularly the meat. I’m pretty sure that even if the seal gets broken, the load may be considered to be contaminated, so it would be within their interest that their truck and trailer be safe.
It’s a big firm, not as big as the red and green one, but still a massive fleet, 1000s of vehicles, so you could say it’s a faceless corporate job. You’re not exactly taking food from your boss’ kid’s mouths when you ask for £22 to park their truck and trailer in a safe place, so that’s my way of thinking.
Any tips?
