Don’t panic: EasyTacho helps you easily comply with this duty
From July 1, 2026, a lot will change for entrepreneurs with vans in international road transport. What until now only applied to trucks will then also start to apply to vans with a permissible maximum mass (TMM) over 2.5 tons: the obligation to use a smart tachograph.
The measure stems from European Regulation 561/2006 and is part of the Mobility Package. The goal? A fairer playing field, better working conditions for drivers and more road safety on European roads.
What exactly is changing?
As of July 1, 2026, vans carrying goods internationally or performing cabotage must:
- are equipped with a second-generation smart tachograph (G2V2);
- be driven by drivers with valid tachograph cards;
- and companies must download tachograph data, keep it and make it available for inspection.
For vans that exclusively transport their own goods, an exception applies in some cases. For example, when driving is not the driver’s main activity (a maximum of 12 driving hours per week). Still, it’s wise to check early on whether your organization is fully covered by the new rules.
Why is the EU introducing this?
The new regulations stem from Brussels’ desire to make competition fairer. In practice, entrepreneurs with vans could work long hours without being bound by driving and rest periods; something that has been strictly controlled for truck drivers for years. The tachograph requirement not only ensures that everyone works according to the same rules, but also increases safety on the road.
What does this mean to you?
For many business owners, the new tachograph requirement is a big deal. The installation of a smart tachograph must be done by a
Companies must set up their processes and software to manage data correctly and comply with legislation. It is also important that drivers know how to use the tachograph properly and record their driving and rest periods correctly.
In short, compliance is becoming more important than ever.
Moving forward together sustainably with EasyTacho
At Rietveld, we believe that you can only make sustainable progress if you manage it well together. That is why we are already helping you to be fully compliant before the obligation takes effect.
With EasyTacho, you automatically download the tachograph data per vehicle and per driver, in full compliance with European legislation. This allows you to easily comply with all rules, without any extra administrative burden, and keep a grip on your planning and compliance.
Our advice: start preparing in time
The July 1, 2026 deadline seems a long way off, but experience shows that starting on time is essential. Have the digital tachograph installed by a licensed tacho installer on time, before schedules fill up. Take out an EasyTacho subscription early and make sure your drivers are trained on how to use the tachograph.
Want to learn more about EasyTacho or the tachograph requirement?
Contact us or check out EasyTacho for an efficient, future-proof solution.
You can read more info from the Dutch government’s entrepreneur square here.
