New EU Rules for LCV Operators Now in Force: Tachographs, Driving Hours and Posting of Drivers

Written by: Marie-Pascale FRIX
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1 July 2026

As of 1 July 2026, new EU regulations have extended tachograph requirements to light commercial vehicles (LCVs) used in international transport — a significant change that affects parts of the moving and relocation industry.

Previously, tachograph rules applied only to heavy goods vehicles above 3.5 tonnes. Under the EU Mobility Package I (Regulation EU 2020/1054), vans and LCVs with a maximum permissible mass exceeding 2.5 tonnes — including any trailer — are now subject to full EU driving time and rest period rules when operating across borders or performing cabotage for hire or reward.

What has changed

Affected vehicles must now be fitted with a second-generation smart tachograph (G2V2). Drivers are subject to the same limits that have long applied to HGV drivers: a maximum of 9 hours driving per day (extendable to 10 hours twice a week), no more than 56 hours per week, a maximum of 90 hours for 2 consecutive weeks driving and mandatory breaks and rest periods. Posting of driver rules also apply for cross-border operations.

Posting of drivers

Alongside the tachograph requirement, the posting of drivers rules now apply to LCV operators conducting international transport. A driver is considered a posted worker when sent to operate temporarily in a member state where their employer is not established — which is common in cross-border moving operations.

In practice, this means operators must submit a posting declaration through the EU's IMI (Internal Market Information) system before the operation begins, and ensure drivers receive at least the minimum pay and working conditions of the host country. Drivers must carry the posting declaration and supporting documents and be able to present them at roadside checks.

Who is affected

The rules apply across the EU, EEA and Switzerland to vehicles used for international carriage of goods or cabotage for remuneration. The scope also includes both EU and non-EU drivers, provided they are employed by transport undertakings established within the European Union.

Relevance to FIDI members

Moving companies operating vans or light trucks on cross-border routes — including groupage, pre-moves, and partial loads — should verify whether their vehicles fall within scope. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to €30,000 in some member states, vehicle immobilisation, and reputational risk.

Members are advised to consult their national transport authority and review fleet configurations accordingly.

 

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