The widespread failure of many trucks to register under the new National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has forced several states to step in and try to aid compliance.

The situation is being reported as “Labor permits chaos” in News Corp publications, which say that hundreds or possibly thousands of operators have not received the necessary permits, accreditation and permission to run their services.

The governments of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria have stepped in to help transport operators become compliant as soon as possible, with warnings that vehicles have already been grounded.

The NHVR is intended to streamline the permit system with a nationwide model for vehicles weighing more than 4.5 tonnes, but according to reports it has been nothing but disruptive for those left behind.

“We’re all grounded,” Victorian transporter Craig Membrey has told reporters.

“We’ve got 20 [NHVR applications] in and we’ve only had two back. The stress on me and everyone else is just disgusting.”

In Victoria, VicRoads has agreed to take over the processing of oversize heavy vehicle permits to try and get the state in line with the new system.

Victorian Roads Minister Terry Mulder said that Queensland and NSW have done the same.

The three states have also allowed some operators to apply to their state transit authority directly, if only travelling within state borders.

A spokesperson for the regulator said it was stuck on communications with local councils, which will be required to approve heavy vehicles as well.

“The NHVR is putting all efforts into working closely with the states and councils to streamline the process for assessing permit applications,” the NHVR representative said.

The Australian Trucking Association says transport ministers should be reviewing the NHVR’s budget.

ATA chief executive Stuart St Clair has reportedly said the requirement for special permits and local council consent each time large load is moved may slow the system down.