Fleet operators are being reminded to prepare for upcoming changes to tachograph regulations affecting vans and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) used on international journeys.
From 1 July 2026, new EU mobility package rules will require certain vans and light goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes travelling into Europe to be fitted with second-generation smart tachographs. The update extends the scope of EU drivers’ hours rules to these vehicles, meaning affected operators must comply with limits on driving time and mandatory rest periods for the first time. However, the requirements do not apply to vans operating solely within the UK.
Tasha Aloni, head of enforcement policy at the DVSA, said, “From July 2026, some LGV operators will be required to adhere to the assimilated drivers’ hours rules and make sure a tachograph is installed on the vehicle. Any LGV operator undertaking international journeys between the UK and the EU should familiarise themselves with the assimilated drivers’ hours and tachograph rules to make sure they remain compliant and avoid enforcement action being taken against them.”
The introduction of Smart Tachograph 2 represents a major expansion of EU monitoring requirements, bringing a new category of light commercial vehicles into the system for the first time. Industry bodies, including the Road Haulage Association (RHA), are advising fleets operating across borders to act early to ensure compliance. Operators are being urged to confirm whether their vehicles exceed the 2.5-tonne threshold, arrange installation slots with approved workshops ahead of expected demand, and ensure drivers are properly trained on the new systems.
Firms are also being advised to check that drivers hold valid tachograph cards and to review internal processes to ensure they meet updated recording obligations. Non-compliance could lead to penalties such as fines, vehicle immobilisation or limits on international operations.
The upgraded technology also introduces additional functionality, including automatic border crossing recording, improved loading and unloading tracking and enhanced remote enforcement capabilities for authorities. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) estimates that as many as three million vehicles operating between the UK and Europe could be affected by the change, and it has also suggested that many fleets are not yet fully prepared for the transition.
Technology provider Samsara has warned that the new requirements could create operational challenges for drivers already managing complex workloads. Ryan Yu, vice president of product at Samsara, said, “Professional drivers handle immense cognitive overload on the road, managing everything from severe weather to tight delivery windows. They shouldn't be penalised by complex compliance math. As new regulations bring tens of thousands of international LGVs into scope, drivers unfamiliar with strict hours logging face potential roadside fines of £300 per offence, which can snowball up to £1,500 due to the 28-day historical audit window.
This will meaningfully increase road safety, but it might discourage new drivers and even prompt early retirement for some at a time when the UK is already struggling with a logistics talent shortage.”