Smart Tachograph 2 for vans: The July 2026 EU requirements explained
From July 1, 2026, many businesses across Europe will need to follow new rules for international road transport. Under the EU Mobility Package, vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of more than 2.5 tonnes that are used for international goods transport will need to be fitted with a tachograph. For many companies that use vans and light commercial vehicles, this is a major change. Businesses that have never had to work with tachographs, driver cards, or driving and rest time regulations may soon have to meet these requirements.
In this guide, we’ll explain what is changing on July 1, 2026, which vehicles are affected, what the Smart Tachograph 2 is, and what you can do to get ready.
In this blog
What is changing on July 1, 2026?
Starting on July 1, 2026, vehicles with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of more than 2.5 tonnes will need to be fitted with a Smart Tachograph Version 2 when they are used for international transport within the European Union. This includes transporting goods across borders and carrying out transport activities in other EU countries.
The change is part of the EU Mobility Package, a set of measures designed to improve road safety, create fairer competition between transport companies, and make it easier to enforce driving and rest time rules.
Until now, tachograph requirements mainly applied to vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes. With the new rules, many vans and light commercial vehicles that were previously exempt will also need to comply.
Which vehicles are affected by the new tachograph rules?
The new regulations apply to vehicles and vehicle combinations with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 2.5 tonnes that are engaged in international goods transport.
Examples include:
- Delivery vans operating across borders
- Courier and parcel transport vehicles
- Service vans carrying materials to customers abroad
- Vans towing trailers
- Installation and maintenance vehicles traveling internationally
- Commercial vehicles transporting goods between EU countries
Many businesses assume the rules only apply to trucks. However, a standard commercial van traveling from the Netherlands to Germany, Belgium, France, or any other EU country may also fall within the scope of the legislation.
What is the Smart Tachograph 2?
The Smart Tachograph Version 2 (Smart Tachograph 2 or G2V2) is the latest generation of digital tachographs required under European legislation. The device automatically records driving time, rest periods, distance travelled, vehicle speed, location data, and border crossings between EU Member States. One of its key improvements is the automatic registration of border crossings. As a result, drivers no longer need to manually enter country codes when crossing international borders, reducing administrative burden and improving compliance with regulations. In addition, the Smart Tachograph 2 provides enforcement authorities with more accurate data during roadside inspections, making checks more efficient and effective.
Why is the EU introducing these rules?
The European Commission introduced these measures to make competition in the transport sector fairer. In the past, some transport companies could use lighter vehicles that were not required to have a tachograph, while larger vehicles doing similar work had to follow strict rules on driving and rest times.
By extending the tachograph requirement to vehicles over 2.5 tonnes involved in international transport, the EU wants to improve road safety, reduce driver fatigue, and make sure transport companies follow the same social and working time regulations. The new rules also help create a more level playing field between operators and make it easier for authorities to carry out checks and enforce the legislation across the EU.
Tachograph requirement means driving and rest time compliance
Installing a tachograph is only one part of the requirement. Once a vehicle is covered by the tachograph rules, drivers and transport companies also need to follow the European regulations on driving and rest times. This means that driving activities must be recorded, drivers must take the required breaks and rest periods, and a valid driver card must be used. Companies are also responsible for keeping tachograph records and providing the data when requested during inspections. For many businesses using light commercial vehicles, these rules may be new and could require some changes to the way they plan, manage, and document their daily operations.
Does the requirement apply to domestic transport?
In most cases, the new rules for vehicles over 2.5 tonnes apply to international transport and cabotage operations. Cabotage refers to transport carried out within a country by a transport company from another country. Companies that only operate within their own country will usually continue to follow the existing national rules. However, even an occasional trip across a border can mean that tachograph regulations apply. That’s why it’s important for businesses to take a close look at their transport activities and check whether any international journeys bring them under the new requirements.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes, there are several exemptions under EU transport rules. One of the most common exemptions may apply to businesses that use vehicles to carry the tools, equipment, or materials needed for their own work, as long as transport is not their main business activity. This could include companies such as plumbers, electricians, installers, service engineers, and construction contractors. However, these exemptions only apply under certain conditions. That’s why it’s important for businesses to check the rules carefully and make sure they qualify before assuming that tachograph requirements do not apply to them.
How businesses can prepare for the deadline
It’s a good idea to start preparing now. As the deadline approaches, more businesses will need tachographs installed, which could lead to longer waiting times and busy workshops. Companies that wait until the last moment may run into delays, have vehicles out of service for longer than expected, or risk not meeting the new requirements on time. In some cases, this could even lead to fines during inspections. By preparing early, businesses can avoid unnecessary stress and keep their operations running smoothly.
Practical checklist for fleet operators
To prepare for the new regulations:
1. Review Vehicle Weights
Identify all vehicles and vehicle combinations exceeding 2.5 tonnes maximum authorized mass.
2. Map International Operations
Determine which vehicles are involved in cross-border transport activities.
3. Assess Exemptions
Verify whether any operations qualify for exemptions under EU rules.
4. Plan Tachograph Installation
Schedule Smart Tachograph 2 retrofits where required.
5. Train Drivers
Ensure drivers understand tachograph operation and driving/rest time requirements.
6. Obtain Driver Cards
Confirm that affected drivers possess valid tachograph driver cards.
Prepare for the new requirements with Squarell Tachograph Solutions
Squarell’s tachograph solutions provide real-time tachograph data, automated remote downloads, and Remaining Driving Times insights, helping fleet operators stay compliant and optimise planning. Learn more about Squarell’s tachograph solutions here.
