European Transport Regulations: Implications For Dangerous Goods And General Cargo
From July 1st, two regulatory developments are due to come into force in Europe, which may impact both dangerous goods movements and general cargo. One relates to international van transport, while the other concerns road charging for heavier goods vehicles in the Netherlands.
Smart tachographs for international van operations
Light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of more than 2.5 tonnes and up to 3.5 tonnes will be brought within the scope of tachograph requirements for certain international transport operations within the EU.
This change forms part of the EU Mobility Package and is intended to align some cross-border van activity more closely with the compliance obligations already familiar to operators of larger goods vehicles. Until now, tachograph rules have generally applied to vehicles above 3.5 tonnes, but from July 2026 the requirement will also extend to relevant international freight movements carried out by smaller commercial vehicles.
Operators affected by the change will need to make sure their vehicles are equipped with approved second-generation smart tachographs. Drivers will also be required to comply with the relevant recording, driving time and rest rules.
New distance-based truck charge in the Netherlands
On the same date, the Netherlands is also expected to introduce a kilometre-based road charge for goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes travelling on Dutch roads. The scheme will apply to both Dutch and foreign-registered vehicles.
The new charging model will replace the Eurovignette system and will calculate costs based on the number of kilometres driven on applicable roads in the Netherlands. Charges will also take account of factors such as vehicle weight and CO₂ emissions class. Vehicles subject to the charge will need to use approved onboard equipment.
Evolution Forwarding will continue to work closely with its transport partners to ensure its European logistics services, for both dangerous goods and general cargo, remain compliant, cost-effective and dependable.
